DevKits

text/*

text/javascript

File extensions: .js, .mjs

JavaScript source — the modern canonical media type for JS files.

What is text/javascript?

text/javascript is the canonical media type recommended by the HTML Living Standard for JavaScript files. It replaces application/javascript in modern usage, though both still work in every browser.

Typical usage

External <script src> files, ES modules, service workers.

Common gotchas

ES modules require the correct MIME type. Serving a .mjs file as text/plain or application/octet-stream causes the browser to reject the module load.

HTTP header example

Response header

Content-Type: text/javascript; charset=utf-8

Reference

HTML Living Standard

Frequently asked questions

What is the text/javascript MIME type?

text/javascript is the canonical media type recommended by the HTML Living Standard for JavaScript files. It replaces application/javascript in modern usage, though both still work in every browser.

What file extension does text/javascript use?

Files served as text/javascript typically use the extensions .js, .mjs. The most common is .js.

How do I set the Content-Type for text/javascript?

Send the HTTP response header Content-Type: text/javascript; charset=utf-8. External <script src> files, ES modules, service workers.

Is text/javascript an official MIME type?

Yes. text/javascript is officially registered with IANA (HTML Living Standard), so standards-conformant clients recognize it.

What are common mistakes with text/javascript?

ES modules require the correct MIME type. Serving a .mjs file as text/plain or application/octet-stream causes the browser to reject the module load.

Related MIME types

Handle text/javascript with these tools