Difference between a jQuery plugin and a jQuery widget?

Question

Can someone concisely explain the differences between jQuery plugins and jQuery UI widgets? What are the conceptual differences? Why would I choose one over the other and what pros and cons are there for each. What are the differences in the intention and concept for each?

I've written both, but I'm not clear on the nitty gritty differentiations. I want to make sure I'm choosing appropriately in each case.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Widgets are part of the jQuery UI library, where plugins aren't. Also, the Widgets have a visual component for the GUI, whereas plug-ins don't necessarily (although some do).