These days there is a large choice of JavaScript frameworks that allow building business web applications. It can be really difficult to decide which one is better for your project. It’s a good idea to think wisely about your choice and take into consideration all the advantages and disadvantages of different JavaScript frameworks. You should also bear in mind your business needs and aims.
Let’s consider the three most popular JavaScript frameworks in 2019. They include Vue.js, Angular, and React.
Top 3 most popular JavaScript frameworks in 2019
- Vue.js
Vue.js is a versatile and performant JavaScript library that is aimed at simplifying user interface development. The framework is very adaptive due to integration into other projects. It has proven to be ideal for developing lightweight applications with two-way data binding. The library is often called a perfect blend of Angular and React. In fact, Vue.js has become popular due to the active use by Alibaba, Xiaomi, and some other world-famous companies.
Advantages
- Fast configuration due to the fact that the framework has built-in data binding and MVC model.
- Small learning curve. Vue.js is quite understandable and easy to learn.
- Smooth integration with different HTML elements.
Disadvantages
- Lack of resources on how to use the framework.
- Little community involvement.
- Angular
AngularJS is another popular JavaScript framework which allows creating front-end web applications. It is designed to solve many problems faced by developers when building single-page applications. Angular is widely supported by the development community. The framework simplifies application development and testing. It implements the Model-View-Controller (MVC) and Model-View-ViewModel (MVVM) approach. Moreover, it’s possible to perform two-way data binding with Angular JavaScript framework. All the components of the library can be re-used, easily tested and managed.
Advantages
- Mobile approach to web development.
- Two-way data binding.
- Support by Google.
- A universal MVVM module.
Disadvantages
- Quick battery discharge (as a rule, applications created with the help of AngularJS excessively discharge the battery of any device).
- Lack of optimization. Applications created on the basis of AngularJS need more optimization to solve problems with low performance.
- The framework is quite difficult to learn.
- React
It’s an open source JavaScript framework for building user interfaces, SPAs, and mobile applications. React.js uses the Virtual DOM that allows developers to work in the virtual browser. React is supported by Facebook, Instagram, and other famous companies. In the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern, it corresponds to the Representation (View).
Advantages
- A large number of online resources and documentation.
- Quick, lightweight, and efficient technology.
- The ability to switch between versions.
- A component architecture.
Disadvantages
- The complexity of the framework.
- Chaotic documentation.
Possible Alternatives
As you see, the three most popular JavaScript libraries have their own pros and cons. You can choose the one that suits you best keeping in mind your business needs. But alongside with these highly praised frameworks, there are also some undeservedly underestimated JavaScript libraries. In spite of being less popular, they have a number of innovative features and enjoy user recognition due to their outstanding performance.
One of the examples is Webix JavaScript library. It’s designed for cross-platform development of data-rich web applications. The framework contains about 100 UI widgets and feature-packed CSS / HTML5 JavaScript controls. Webix is probably not so popular as ‘The Big Three’ mentioned above but still, it’s very efficient. If your business is not very big and the working procedures are not too difficult, then it’s a good idea to try Webix UI framework.
Bottom line
Choosing a JavaScript library for the development of your business solution might be very hard. You should analyze your business needs carefully and consider all the advantages and disadvantages of different JS libraries. Making a choice, you can look at the most popular frameworks but try not to forget about some underestimated JavaScript libraries. Maybe one of them is an ideal alternative personally for you.
