Express is a fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework for Node.js. It provides a robust set of features for web and mobile applications. With a simple, flexible, and streamlined approach, Express simplifies server-side development, making it easy to handle routing, middleware, and templating. Its focus on essential web application features makes it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced developers. Express helps you quickly create APIs and web applications with minimal setup.
Express.js releases were frequent in 2011 and peaked in 2014, with numerous minor version updates, especially in mid-2014. Release frequency then declined significantly. Between 2016 and 2023 releases were sporadic. In 2024 and 2025, there were a few releases, including major version 5.0.0, but the overall trend indicates a move towards less frequent updates after the peak activity period.
Express npm package downloads show a general upward trend from February 2024 to July 2025, peaking at over 205 million. There was a significant jump between February and March 2024. August 2025 downloads are lower, but data is incomplete.
