match-sorter is a sorting utility that ranks array items by relevance to a search query.
The tool solves the problem of presenting search results in an order that matches user expectations. Rather than returning matches in arbitrary order, match-sorter applies a ranking algorithm that prioritizes exact matches, then case-insensitive matches, then substring matches at the beginning of fields, and finally substring matches anywhere in the content. This deterministic approach means the same query always produces the same result order, making the behavior predictable for both developers and end users.
The project suits applications that need search functionality without the complexity of full-text search engines or external services. It works well for filtering lists, autocomplete fields, and command palettes where the dataset is small enough to fit in memory. Developers should choose this tool when they want simple, fast client-side ranking without configuration overhead. The README does not name alternative libraries for comparison.
The project shows consistent maintenance with regular updates addressing edge cases and improving the matching algorithm. Pull requests receive timely review and feedback. Issues are actively triaged and resolved, indicating sustained attention to user-reported problems. The codebase maintains high test coverage, reflecting a commitment to reliability as new features and fixes are added.
