When developing scripts, it's often better to use a library instead of coding everything yourself. A library offers tested and ready-to-use tools. It saves time, makes your code more stable and secure, and simplifies maintenance.
If there's a bug or a game update, you only need to update the library once. All your scripts using it will be updated too.
In CFX field, two popular and free libraries are available: Ox Lib and JO Libs.
Ox Lib: a strong library, but made for FiveM
Ox Lib is a community-made library developed for FiveM by the overextended team, offering a wide range of tools and ready-to-use components to simplify Lua script development. It includes user interfaces (menus, notifications, dialogs), utility functions (logging, vector math, simplified RPC), and seamless integration with other overextended resources like ox_inventory and ox_target. While it's primarily designed for the ESX/QBCore ecosystem on FiveM, it can be used on RedM with some adjustments, though not all features are fully compatible out of the box.
Read more about Ox Lib: documentation
JO Libs: the new library built for RedM
JO Libs is a custom-made library developed by Jump ON Studio, specifically designed for RedM. It provides a collection of optimized Lua modules to help developers build immersive, efficient, and multi-framework compatible scripts. It includes tools for managing menus, game events, server/client data, player interactions, and dynamic script configuration. Unlike other libraries like Ox Lib (which was built for FiveM), JO Libs was designed from the ground up to meet RedM, offering high compatibility, flexibility, and zero external dependencies. It is available for free on GitHub.
Read more about JO Libs: documentation
Why choose JO Libs for your RedM scripts?
JO Libs was created specifically for RedM developers. It understands the unique needs of RedM and helps you build better scripts faster. It works with many frameworks, includes smart modules, and offers clear documentation. If you're working on RedM, JO Libs gives you the right tools without extra complexity.
All the UI modules are based on the original Red Dead Redemtion II design to perfect match with the game.
The multi-framework module
JO Libs is the first RedM library with native multi-framework support:
- VORP
- RSG (V1 & V2)
- RedEM:RP
- QBR
- RPX
- ...
You write your script once, then deploy it on many servers with different frameworks. No need to rewrite anything.
If a framework updates or if you want add a new one, you just have to update JO Libs to create compatibility.
Clear documentation made for RedM
Unlike Ox Lib, which is focused on FiveM, JO Libs has:
- RedM-specific documentation,
- Module-based structure,
- Real code examples.
It’s free and updated regularly.
Distribution rules
JO Libs is available on GitHub and our official site. It must not be encrypted or bundled inside encrypted scripts. Clients must download it separately. This ensures:
- Code transparency,
- Easy updates,
- Respect for license terms.
When to use Ox Lib or JO Libs?
| Use Case | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| FiveM-focused development | Ox Lib |
| Cross-compatible project (RedM + FiveM) | Ox Lib (with changes) |
| Native RedM server | JO Libs |
| Multi-framework RedM deployment | JO Libs |
| Simple menu needs | Both |
| Active RedM support needed | JO Libs |
Comparison table
| Feature | Ox Lib | JO Libs |
|---|---|---|
| Made for RedM | No | Yes |
| Multi-framework RedM support | No | Yes |
| Customizable menus | Yes | Yes |
| Game Events support | No | Yes |
| RedM documentation | General | RedM specific |
| Large community | Yes | Growing |
| Clear license and distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Still updated | No | Yes |
Conclusion
Ox Lib is a great library, especially for developers used to FiveM. But for 100% RedM projects, where compatibility, clarity, and modularity are key, JO Libs is the better choice.
It’s free, well documented, and constantly improved with feedback from the RedM community.
Download JO Libs from GitHub and try it on your next project!