TypeScriptTypeScript18 min read

TypeScript Readonly and Immutability

Learn how readonly helps prevent accidental changes and write safer, predictable TypeScript code.

David Miller
January 6, 2026
0.6k16

Readonly prevents modification after creation.

  ## Readonly property
  
  ```ts
  interface User {
    readonly id: number;
    name: string;
  }
  ```
  
  ## Readonly array
  
  ```ts
  let nums: readonly number[] = [1, 2, 3];
  // nums.push(4); ❌
  ```
  
  ## Readonly utility
  
  ```ts
  type User = { id: number; name: string };
  type ReadUser = Readonly<User>;
  ```
  
  ## Why important?
  - Prevents bugs
  - Makes intent clear
  
  ## Graph
  
  ```mermaid
  flowchart LR
    A[Mutable] --> B[Can change]
    C[Readonly] --> D[Safe state]
  ```
  
  ## Remember
  - Use readonly for safety
  - Especially for configs and state
  
#TypeScript#Beginner#Immutability