Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

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

HTML5 Web Storage is the browser’s built-in Web Storage API: two simple, origin-scoped key/value stores named localStorage and sessionStorage. Values are strings, access is synchronous, and the feature is best for small conveniences such as preferences, draft text, or a temporary workflow—not for passwords, large datasets, or durable application records.

What HTML5 Web Storage provides

The term “HTML5 Web Storage” usually means the Web Storage interfaces defined in the HTML Living Standard. Each store maps string keys to string values and is exposed through the window object. The API consists primarily of setItem(), getItem(), removeItem(), clear(), and the length property.

Storage belongs to a document’s origin—its scheme, host, and port. Code running on a different origin cannot read the same store. Browsers can apply additional partitioning policies, particularly in privacy-focused or embedded contexts.

localStorage versus sessionStorage

Characteristic localStorage sessionStorage
Sharing scope Pages with the same origin normally share one store. Same-origin pages in the same top-level tab or window share a page-session store; another tab gets a separate store.
Lifetime Normally remains after navigation, browser restart, and reopening the site. Lasts for the tab or window’s page session and is cleared when that session ends.
Typical uses Theme choice, language preference, dismissed notices, or a small user setting. Multi-step form state, a one-tab workflow, or temporary navigation data.
Automatic synchronization Changes can be observed by other same-origin documents through the browser’s storage-event mechanism. Changes are confined to the relevant page session.

“Persistent” does not mean permanent. Users can clear site data, browser policies can block access, and browsers may evict best-effort data. Private-browsing sessions generally discard their storage when the private session ends, and some implementations expose little or no usable space.

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.

How to read and write values

Basic operations

// Save a string
localStorage.setItem("theme", "dark");

// Read it; getItem returns null when the key is absent
const theme = localStorage.getItem("theme");

// Delete one key
localStorage.removeItem("theme");

// Delete every key in this origin's local store
localStorage.clear();

// The equivalent temporary store
sessionStorage.setItem("checkoutStep", "shipping");

Use the methods rather than treating the storage object like an ordinary JavaScript object. Property-style access can collide with built-in names and does not express the API’s missing-key behavior clearly.

Store objects and arrays with JSON

Storage does not preserve JavaScript objects, numbers, booleans, dates, or arrays as their original types. Serialize structured data explicitly and handle malformed or outdated data when parsing.

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.
const settings = { theme: "dark", compact: true };
localStorage.setItem("settings", JSON.stringify(settings));

let savedSettings = null;
try {
  const raw = localStorage.getItem("settings");
  savedSettings = raw === null ? null : JSON.parse(raw);
} catch (error) {
  // The stored value may be corrupt or storage access may be blocked.
  savedSettings = null;
}

JSON is convenient but adds serialization cost and does not retain types such as functions or class instances. Keep records small and version them if the application’s format may change.

Capacity and quota errors

Current MDN guidance describes Web Storage as limited to 10 MiB total per origin, with up to 5 MiB for local storage and 5 MiB for session storage. These are guidance figures, not a universal guarantee: browser, device, profile, private mode, and policy can change the usable amount. A write that exceeds available space can throw QuotaExceededError.

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.
Situation What your code should do
Normal write Call setItem() inside error handling.
Quota exhausted Remove expendable entries, reduce the payload, or fall back to an in-memory/default value.
Storage blocked or unavailable Continue without persistence and tell the user only if the feature depends on saving.
function trySave(key, value) {
  try {
    localStorage.setItem(key, value);
    return true;
  } catch (error) {
    if (error instanceof DOMException &&
        (error.name === "QuotaExceededError" || error.name === "NS_ERROR_DOM_QUOTA_REACHED")) {
      // Quota policy: prune nonessential data or use a fallback.
    }
    return false;
  }
}

Do not infer available capacity by filling storage in production. Such tests can be disruptive and still cannot predict later eviction or policy changes.

Availability, privacy, and security

Access can fail

Reading window.localStorage or writing to it can fail when a browser setting, privacy extension, enterprise policy, sandboxed iframe, or private-browsing implementation denies storage. The behavior of file: URLs is not consistently specified across browsers. Feature code should test access and handle exceptions instead of assuming that the property always works.

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

Do not use it as a secret vault

Any script that executes in your origin can usually read the same Web Storage. A cross-site-scripting vulnerability can therefore expose tokens or personal data stored there. Web Storage has no equivalent to an HttpOnly cookie flag. Avoid placing passwords, long-lived authentication secrets, payment data, or other sensitive information in it; use an appropriate server-side session design and narrowly scoped credentials instead.

Clearing cookies may not clear storage

The HTML Standard warns that local storage and cookies can act as redundant tracking state. A user who deletes cookies may still have an identifier in local storage. Applications should provide a genuine “delete my data” path that removes their own storage entries and should respect browser privacy controls.

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

When Web Storage is the wrong tool

Need Better fit Why
Small scalar preferences or temporary state Web Storage Simple key/value API with minimal setup.
Many records, indexes, transactions, or offline application data IndexedDB Asynchronous structured storage designed for substantially larger datasets and queries.
Caching request and response objects Cache API Models HTTP resources rather than string values.
Large files or origin-private file workflows Origin Private File System Designed for file-like data and application-managed files.

Browser-managed storage is generally best-effort unless the site obtains persistent-storage permission. Even then, user deletion, profile removal, quota policy, or device management can remove data. Important information should have a server or export-based recovery path.

A practical implementation checklist

  1. Choose the lifetime first: use sessionStorage for one tab’s workflow and localStorage only when reopening the site should normally retain the value.
  2. Keep the payload small, string-based, and explicitly serialized.
  3. Namespace keys, for example app:v2:settings, so unrelated features do not collide.
  4. Wrap both access and writes in try...catch; provide defaults when storage is blocked or full.
  5. Validate and migrate parsed data rather than trusting old JSON indefinitely.
  6. Never store secrets that an injected script must not be able to read.
  7. Offer a clear reset or delete-data control for user-created entries.
  8. Move to IndexedDB, Cache API, or the Origin Private File System when records, files, queries, or durability requirements outgrow Web Storage.

Common misconceptions

“localStorage is permanent”

It normally survives browser restarts, but it remains subject to user deletion, browser policy, private-mode rules, and eviction.

“sessionStorage is shared by every tab”

Each top-level browsing context has its own page-session store. Two tabs at the same origin should not be treated as one shared session.

“Web Storage is a database”

It is a synchronous string map. There are no built-in indexes, transactions, relational queries, or binary-file semantics; those needs point to other storage APIs.

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

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.