Remove by value with filter()

const items = [1, 2, 3, 2];
const result = items.filter(x => x !== 2);
console.log(result);   // [1, 3]

filter keeps every element that passes the test, so it removes all matches and leaves the original array unchanged.

Remove by index with splice()

const items = ["a", "b", "c"];
items.splice(1, 1);
console.log(items);    // ["a", "c"]

splice(index, count) deletes count items starting at index. Note that it changes the array in place.

Find the index first, then remove it

const i = items.indexOf("c");
if (i !== -1) items.splice(i, 1);

Use indexOf to locate a value, check it is not -1, then splice it out.

Remove from the start or end

items.pop();     // removes the last item
items.shift();   // removes the first item

Which method should you use?

  • filter() — when you want a new array and to remove every match.
  • splice() — when you know the index and want to edit in place.
  • pop / shift — for the last or first element.

Frequently asked questions

Does filter change the original array?

No. filter always returns a brand-new array and leaves the original alone, which makes it safer for predictable code.

Why does delete leave a hole?

The delete operator removes the value but keeps the slot, leaving undefined behind. Use splice or filter to remove the element completely.

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