What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Use localStorage for small, non-sensitive values that should remain available across browser sessions on the same origin. Use sessionStorage for temporary values tied to one tab’s page session. Both are synchronous, string-based browser storage APIs, and neither is a safe place for secrets.

How localStorage and sessionStorage differ

The key differences are how long data lasts and which pages can access it. localStorage is shared by documents from the same origin, including across tabs, and has no API-defined expiration. sessionStorage is scoped to an origin and a top-level browsing context, usually a tab; its data lasts for that tab’s page session.

Decision localStorage sessionStorage
Lifetime Persists across browser sessions unless the user, browser, or application clears it. Ends when the tab’s page session ends. Reloading or restoring the page remains within the session.
Scope Origin; same-origin documents can access the same storage area across tabs. Origin plus top-level browsing context; same-origin embedded documents in that tab share the area.
Typical use Small, non-sensitive preferences or client-side state intended to persist. Temporary, tab-specific workflow state.
Execution Synchronous. Synchronous.

These behaviors are documented by MDN’s localStorage reference and MDN’s sessionStorage reference. In private browsing, stored data is cleared when the private session closes.

Which one should you choose?

Choose localStorage for persistent preferences

Use it when a value should be available on a later visit in the same browser profile, such as a non-sensitive display preference. Because same-origin tabs use the same local storage area, this is also suitable when tabs need to read a shared value.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Choose sessionStorage for tab-specific state

Use it for temporary state that should survive a reload in the current tab but should not be shared as a common value across other tabs—for example, progress through a tab-specific workflow. Closing the tab ends that page session.

Choose another mechanism for secrets or heavier data

Neither API is appropriate for session identifiers, authentication secrets, or other sensitive values. For larger datasets or performance-sensitive work, consider asynchronous storage such as IndexedDB rather than repeatedly performing synchronous reads and writes.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

How to read and write values

Access the separate storage objects through window.localStorage and window.sessionStorage. Each stores string values; convert structured data explicitly, commonly with JSON.

const key = "displayPreferences";

// Save an object as a string.
localStorage.setItem(key, JSON.stringify({ theme: "dark" }));

// Read and parse it, allowing for missing or malformed data.
let preferences = null;
try {
  const raw = localStorage.getItem(key);
  preferences = raw === null ? null : JSON.parse(raw);
} catch {
  preferences = null;
}

// Remove a value when it is no longer needed.
localStorage.removeItem(key);

Swap localStorage for sessionStorage when the value should be tab-session scoped. Use the storage methods—setItem(), getItem(), and removeItem()—rather than treating the storage object like an ordinary JavaScript object. The MDN Web Storage guide also documents operations such as key() and the length property.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Important behavior and limitations

Values are strings

Web Storage does not preserve JavaScript object types. Serialize objects before storing them and parse them after reading. Handle absent values and parsing failures; data may be missing, stale, or malformed.

Storage work is synchronous

Calls block JavaScript execution while they run. Keep operations small and avoid frequent or large reads and writes on performance-sensitive paths. MDN recommends considering asynchronous alternatives such as IndexedDB for workloads where synchronous access is a concern.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Storage events notify other documents

The storage event is sent to other documents that share the changed storage area; it does not fire in the document that made the change. This can help same-origin pages respond to a change, but it is not a substitute for handling the writing page’s own state update.

Access and capacity can vary

Same-origin JavaScript can read Web Storage, so a script-injection vulnerability can expose its contents. Storage access may also be denied in some contexts; MDN notes that third-party iframe storage may be unavailable when third-party cookies are disabled. There is no single quota figure that applies to every browser: consult the relevant browser documentation if capacity is important.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Web Storage is not authentication storage

Do not treat either API as a secure vault. OWASP advises against storing session identifiers in localStorage because JavaScript can access it; the same underlying concern applies to values placed in sessionStorage. Authentication design should account for the security properties of the chosen mechanism, including server-managed options where appropriate. Cookies have different server-request and security properties, so Web Storage is not a drop-in replacement for them.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.