What is the role of the JavaScript thread vs UI thread in React Native performance issues?

Updated May 6, 2026

Short answer

JS thread handles logic, UI thread handles rendering; blocking either causes performance issues.

Deep explanation

React Native separates execution into multiple threads: JS thread for logic and business operations, UI thread for rendering native views, and native modules running platform APIs. If JS thread is blocked by heavy computation, UI updates are delayed, causing jank. Communication between threads happens via JSI or legacy bridge.

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