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Rete: JavaScript framework for visual programming and creating node editor

github.com Software & code Software projects Software engineering Candidate
Screenshot of github.com captured 2026-07-20
Page preview · captured 2026-07-20

Resurfaced independently across 3 calendar years, with breakout response in 2 of them.

submissions
3
submitters
3
observed span
2018–2023
peak thread · 59 comments
294 pts
latest 20+ return · 2020-01-12
294 pts

Submission timeline

2007–2026

One slot for every year since HN launched. Height is that year's peak points; orange marks a 100+ point or 50+ comment breakout. Select a bar to open its strongest thread.

First comments on top threads

HN comment order

Oddly, I’ve been playing with this library just this week. I’ve also been looking at various alternatives (some of which have already been mentioned in the comments here). The only functionality I’m actually looking for is the ability to connect and disconnect elements using virtual cables (that flex and look good, just like those in rete). It’s for a software synth patchbay (like those used in the Reason digital audio workstation software). So, ultimately, even though this library is impressive…

The name reminds me on the Rete algorithm, which is pretty cool, but unrelated: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rete_algorithm

c-rack·134-point thread·

Rete.js is a TypeScript-first framework for creating visual programming interfaces. It provides out-of-the-box solutions for visualization using various libraries and frameworks, as well as solutions for processing graphs based on dataflow and control flow approaches

Ni55aN·2-point thread·

The first top-level comment from each of the four biggest threads, in HN’s own order. Excerpts are shortened; open a comment for full context.

Breakout years
2

100+ points or 50+ comments

Total points
430

reference only — not used in Hall rules or ranking

Total comments
86

reference only — not used in Hall rules or ranking

Every submission

DateTitle as submittedByPointsComments
2018-10-07Rete – JavaScript framework for node-based visual programmingFirst breakoutImmortalin13424
2020-01-12Rete: JavaScript framework for visual programming and creating node editorBest thread · Latest 20+ point returnthisisastopsign29459
2023-07-12Rete.js 2 stable is now availableNi55aN23