Webpack Module Federation vs Iframe Based Micro Frontends

Developers should use Webpack Module Federation when building micro-frontend architectures, as it allows multiple teams to work on independent applications that can share code and dependencies seamlessly meets developers should use iframe based micro frontends when they need to integrate legacy systems or third-party applications without refactoring, as iframes provide strong isolation that avoids style and script collisions. Here's our take.

Webpack Module Federation

Nice Pick

Developers should use Webpack Module Federation when building micro-frontend architectures, as it allows multiple teams to work on independent applications that can share code and dependencies seamlessly

Pros

• It is particularly useful for large-scale applications where different parts need to be developed, deployed, and updated independently, such as in enterprise software or complex web platforms
• Related to: webpack, micro-frontends

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Iframe Based Micro Frontends

Developers should use Iframe Based Micro Frontends when they need to integrate legacy systems or third-party applications without refactoring, as iframes provide strong isolation that avoids style and script collisions

Pros

• It is particularly useful in large organizations where multiple teams work on distinct parts of a web app, allowing for independent development cycles and technology choices
• Related to: micro-frontends, web-components

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Webpack Module Federation is a tool while Iframe Based Micro Frontends is a methodology. We picked Webpack Module Federation based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Webpack Module Federation wins

Based on overall popularity. Webpack Module Federation is more widely used, but Iframe Based Micro Frontends excels in its own space.