---
title: "useUpdate – Effect Hook Usage & Examples"
description: "React utility hook that returns a function that forces component to re-render when called. for React dev"
canonical: https://reactuse.com/effect/useupdate/
---
# useUpdate
React utility hook that returns a function that forces component to re-render when called
`useUpdate` returns a stable function that forces the component to re-render when invoked. Internally it uses `useReducer` with an incrementing counter, so each call produces a new state value that triggers React's reconciliation. The returned function identity is stable across renders, making it safe to pass as a prop or store in a ref.
### When to Use
- Forcing a re-render after mutating a ref or external mutable value that React does not track
- Integrating with imperative APIs or third-party libraries that update state outside of React's awareness
- Refreshing displayed values (e.g., `Date.now()`) on demand without managing explicit state
### Notes
- **Stable identity**: The returned update function never changes between renders, so it can safely be used in dependency arrays or passed to child components.
- **Use sparingly**: Forcing re-renders bypasses React's declarative model. Prefer state or context updates when possible.
- See also `useRafFn` for continuous re-rendering on every animation frame.
## Usage
```tsx live
function Demo() {
const update = useUpdate();
return (
<>
{/* to avoid ssr error beacause date.now() will not be same in server and client */}