Bootstrap 5 vs Bootstrap 3 & 4

Bootstrap 5 vs Bootstrap 3 & 4

Bootstrap 5 is the newest version of Bootstrap, with new components, a faster stylesheet, and more responsiveness.

The main differences

• Bootstrap 5 switched to JavaScript instead of jQuery.
• Bootstrap 5 does not support Internet Explorer 11.
• Bootstrap 5 uses CSS custom properties (variables) for theming.
• Many components got an updated look and behavior.

Are 3 and 4 still usable?

Yes! Bootstrap 3 and 4 are still supported by the team for critical bugfixes and documentation changes, and it is perfectly safe to continue to use them. However, new features will not be added to them.

What got better in 5?

• Faster, lighter JavaScript
• Better forms with more layout options
• New components like Offcanvas
• Improved utility classes
• Easier theming with CSS variables

TL;DR

• Bootstrap 5 uses plain JS instead of jQuery.
• No IE11 support in version 5.
• Versions 3 and 4 still get bugfixes but no new features.
• Bootstrap 5 is faster and more modern.