SWR is the small data layer: a stale-while-revalidate cache with a global fetcher, configured in src/lib/swr.tsx. I'd pick it over react-query when you mostly read data and want the smallest possible API surface - a string key is all a hook needs - and over apollo whenever your backend isn't GraphQL. It ships the same src/lib/api/client.ts (fetchJson) as the TanStack Query module, so switching between the two doesn't churn your API code.
When to pick SWR
SWR: The same job with a much smaller surface: a string key is a request. Good when you mostly read.
At a glance
- Runs in Expo Go
- Yes
- Files added
- 8
- npm packages
- 1
- Keys to paste
EXPO_PUBLIC_API_URL- Included in
- Starter and Pro
- Tests included
- 2
Set it up
bun run setup --data swrSetup copies the module in, installs SDK-matched versions and removes the options you did not pick. Then bun run doctor lists every key still missing, with a link to where you get it. The step-by-step guide is in the SWR docs.
SWR vs other data options
| Option | Expo Go | npm packages | Keys to paste | Included in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWR | Yes | 1 | 1 | Starter and Pro |
| TanStack Query | Yes | 1 | 1 | Free, Starter and Pro |
| Apollo Client | Yes | 3 | 1 | Starter and Pro |
Questions
Can I use SWR in Expo Go?
Yes. This module runs in Expo Go, so you can try it before you make a development build.
What do I need to set up SWR in an Expo app?
Run bun run setup --data swr, then paste one key into .env: EXPO_PUBLIC_API_URL. bun run doctor lists any that are missing, with a link to where you get each one.
Does the ReadyNative free tier include SWR?
No. It ships in Starter and Pro (one payment, lifetime updates); the free tier uses TanStack Query for data.
Can I build the app without SWR?
Yes. Pick none for data (bun run setup --data none) - plain fetch; add TanStack Query/Apollo/SWR later.
SWR or TanStack Query for Expo?
SWR: The same job with a much smaller surface: a string key is a request. Good when you mostly read. TanStack Query: The default. Reach for it when you want mutations, invalidation and real cache control over a REST API.
SWR or Apollo Client for Expo?
SWR: The same job with a much smaller surface: a string key is a request. Good when you mostly read. Apollo Client: Pick it when your backend speaks GraphQL.
Which SWR version does it install?
For Expo SDK 57: swr ^2.3.0. Setup installs Expo packages with expo install, so they match the SDK.
Get it
SWR ships in Starter and Pro: one payment, lifetime updates. See pricing or browse every module.