Matter.js vs Cannon.js
A technical comparison with interactive examples showing the real differences.
Matter.js
Make objects fall, bounce, and collide with real physics in the browser.
Cannon.js
Add realistic 3D physics — gravity, collisions, and constraints — to your web projects.
⚡ Quick Verdict
Matter.js is the go-to for 2D physics: browser games, interactive UI elements, and quick prototypes with a built-in renderer. Cannon.js is the choice for 3D physics: WebGL games, Three.js scenes, and immersive 3D experiences. The key trade-off: 2D vs 3D—choose based on your project's dimensional requirements.
Bundle Size Comparison
What ships to your users' browsers (gzipped)
Matter.js is heavier but includes a built-in renderer. Cannon.js is lighter but requires Three.js (~500kb) for 3D visualization.
Physics Stress Test: 2D vs 3D
Compare how each engine handles increasing numbers of physics bodies
Result: Matter.js (2D) maintained FPS vs Cannon.js at FPS. 2D physics is computationally simpler than 3D. Both performed similarly at vs FPS. Try increasing body count to see differences. Cannon.js maintained FPS vs Matter.js at FPS.
Key Insight: Matter.js handles 2D physics with a built-in canvas renderer—great for quick prototypes. Cannon.js does 3D physics but requires Three.js for visualization, adding complexity but enabling immersive 3D experiences.
Technical Capabilities
| Capability | Cannon.js | Matter.js |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Full 3D physics | 2D physics only |
| Built-in Renderer | No (requires Three.js) | Yes (canvas renderer) |
| Body Shapes | Box, Sphere, Cylinder, Plane, Convex | Rectangle, Circle, Polygon, Trapezoid |
| Constraints | Hinge, PointToPoint, Lock, Distance | Constraint, Spring, MouseConstraint |
| Collision Detection | AABB + GJK narrowphase | SAT (Separating Axis Theorem) |
| Sleep Support | Yes (body.allowSleep) | Yes (body.isSleeping) |
| Compound Bodies | Yes (multiple shapes per body) | Yes (Body.create with parts) |
| Forces/Impulses | applyForce(), applyImpulse() | Body.applyForce() |
| Bundle Size | ~45kb (+ Three.js ~500kb) | ~85kb (includes renderer) |
| Maintenance | cannon-es fork (active) | Actively maintained |
Which Library Fits Your Project?
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Bottom Line
Matter.js is perfect for 2D browser games, interactive UI physics, and quick prototypes with its built-in canvas renderer and simpler mental model. Cannon.js is the choice for 3D physics—WebGL games, Three.js scenes, and immersive 3D product visualizations.
Choose Matter.js for 2D projects where you want fast setup. Choose Cannon.js when you're building 3D experiences with Three.js or need physics in WebGL.