Can you implement debounce without setTimeout in JavaScript?
No. Debounce relies on setTimeout (or setInterval) to delay execution. Without a timer mechanism, there is no way to wait for the user to stop typing. setTimeout is the standard way to implement debounce.
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More FAQs in Autocomplete Debounce Implementation
function debounce(fn, delay) { let timer; return function(...args) { clearTimeout(timer); timer = setTimeout(() => fn.apply(this, args), delay); }; }. Each call clears the previous timer and sets a new one. Only the last call within the delay period executes.
Without debounce, every keystroke triggers an API call. Typing 'hello' makes 5 calls. With debounce (300ms), only 1 call is made after the user stops typing. This reduces server load, improves performance, and provides a better user experience.
300ms is a good default. It is fast enough to feel responsive and slow enough to skip intermediate keystrokes. Use 200ms for faster response or 500ms for slower. The exact value depends on the use case and API speed.
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