How can I implement offline caching in a Flutter app?

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How can I implement offline caching in a Flutter app?

Asked on Dec 01, 2025

Answer

Implementing offline caching in a Flutter app involves using local storage to save data that can be accessed without an internet connection. This is typically achieved using packages like `hive`, `sqflite`, or `shared_preferences` for storing data locally.

Example Concept: Offline caching in Flutter can be implemented by storing data locally using packages such as `hive` for lightweight key-value storage, `sqflite` for SQL-based storage, or `shared_preferences` for simple key-value pairs. The app should first check for network availability and fetch data from the network if available, otherwise, it should retrieve the data from the local cache. This ensures that users have access to data even when offline, enhancing the app's reliability and user experience.

Additional Comment:

Use `hive` for a lightweight, NoSQL database that is easy to use and fast.
`sqflite` is suitable for complex queries and relational data.
`shared_preferences` is best for storing simple key-value pairs.
Always handle data synchronization between local cache and server when the network is available.
Consider using `connectivity_plus` to detect network changes and update the cache accordingly.

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