When npm install/ci honors package-lock.json, is there any purpose of using tilde(~) and caret(^) in package.json?

Question

In case an application has a package-lock.json or shripkwrap.json, both npm install/npm ci command would honor the dependencies versions (in package-lock.json or shripkwrap.json), what purpose would tilde(~) and caret(^) serve in package.json?

Answer 1

Tilde ~ and caret ^ are used in package.json to say that your software is compatible with new patch or minor versions of a specific dependency.

But as you've identified, npm install ignores new patch or minor versions when a package-lock.json file is present.

Instead, run npm update.

This installs the latest version of any dependencies, based on how you've defined the version in package.json. It also updates package-lock.json accordingly.