Advanced React Interview QuestionsAdvancedComparison
React · Question 74
What is the difference between useTransition and startTransition?
Direct answer
Both mark updates as Transitions, but useTransition also provides isPending and is available only inside React components or custom Hooks, while standalone startTransition can be called from other JavaScript modules.
| Concern | useTransition | startTransition |
|---|---|---|
| Where used | Components and custom Hooks | Components or non-component code |
| Marks updates as Transition | Yes | Yes |
| Pending indicator | Provides isPending | No built-in pending flag |
| Typical use | UI that needs pending feedback | Libraries or code that only needs to mark priority |
If a component needs to dim a tab, disable navigation controls, or show inline pending feedback, useTransition() is usually more convenient.