Is it a Framework or a Library?
Javascript has a robust selection of frameworks and libraries, but how exactly can you tell frameworks from libraries? Let’s find out.
Differences
Javascript libraries consist of pre-written code snippets that can be called upon to perform certain tasks. These are developed for on-demand use. On the other hand, JavaScript frameworks are entire toolsets that define how a developer can organize an application or website. A framework can also be described as the structure of the website, and libraries may be used to add style and features to a developed application or site.
Trending JS Libraries
There are many trending JavaScript libraries. One of them is Jest, and it is used to test codes. The open-source project is maintained by Facebook or Meta. Its main focus is simplicity, and it is especially suited for large web applications.
Another popular JavaScript library is LitElement. This is a simple library that is used to build fast and lightweight web components. Components built with this library can work on any web page and with any framework.
Another library that is trending right now is RxJS or Reactive Extensions for JavaScript. This one is used to compose asynchronous programs using Observable sequences.
BullMQ is also trending as a JavaScript library, and it implements a fast and robust queue system that is built on top of Redis. BullMQ is used by many large and small organizations, including Microsoft and Vendure.
Top JS Frameworks to Follow in 2022
These are the frameworks you need to follow in 2022:
VueJS
This is an open-source and progressive framework that is used to build user interfaces and single-page apps. It was developed by Evan You in 2014 and uses a license from MIT. Evan still helps to maintain this framework, along with various core team members. VueJS differs from other monolithic frameworks in that it is fully developed to be incrementally adoptable. Some of the incrementally adoptable pieces Evan included in the framework are a routing solution, a build toolchain, the CLI, and a state management solution.
Given that it is incrementally adoptable, developers can enjoy higher levels of flexibility as they can start coding quickly and will add any features as required by the project. The design of the framework makes it easy to use as you don’t need to understand all its features and capabilities. You should also note that VueJS is a lightweight framework, weighing around 23 kb.
Angular
Angular is an open-source framework that is written in Microsoft’s Typescript language. The framework was created by the Angular Team at Google in 2016, and it is now also managed by a community of individuals and companies. It is mostly used to develop single-use applications. Since it is rapidly growing, there are many versions of Angular. This framework is great for developing enterprise-grade applications as it makes it easy to incorporate complex functionalities. It is worth noting that Angular is a little different from AngularJS, and the latter is written in JavaScript. Angular is also supported by all popular mobile browsers, while the JS version does not support any mobile browsers.
React
React is a free and open-source JavaScript framework that is maintained by Facebook (Meta), as well as various independent developers and companies. This declarative and flexible JavaScript framework is used for building user interfaces. You can use it to build fast and scalable applications, and it can be used for all platforms. Since React has a small package size, its learning curve isn’t very steep. You can use it to develop large web applications with frequently variable data. React was first used on Facebook and would later be used for the Instagram news feed. Also, it is great for big ecosystems and small teams.
NextJS
NextJS is an open-source framework that is built on top of Node.js. You can use it to develop server-side rendering and superfast static web applications with React. Some of the main benefits of NextJS are the improved user experience, the superior performance, and the quick feature development. This framework has grown in popularity rapidly, and that means it enjoys strong community support. Instead of solving a problem from scratch, you are likely to find an existing solution from other developers.
NextJS is great for businesses since it gives the owners full control over the final designs of the websites, applications, or digital products. You will not be limited by plugins or themes that are dedicated to specific platforms. Developers also appreciate the reusable React components that can help to cut development time and cost.
Gatsby
Gatsby is an open-source JavaScript that has been used to build hundreds of thousands of websites. Some big brands that use this framework include AirBnB and Nike. Gatsby has been around since 2015 and works as a static site generator. It combines the best functions of React, GraphQL, and Webpack, meaning you will get a fresh front-end building experience for your static websites and apps. Since Gatsby uses features like code splitting, it is used to create fast sites. That makes it great for search engine optimization.
Why should I use a JavaScript Framework?
JavaScript frameworks are essential parts of modern front-end web development. With them, developers can build scalable and interactive web applications easily. Let’s look at some key benefits of using a JavaScript framework.
Benefits
- Gives you access to community support: Since frameworks are used by multiple people, other developers may have already come up with solutions to certain problems. More popular frameworks will especially enjoy strong community support.
- Ease of use: Since they have pre-defined functions, you will find them easy to use when developing applications and websites.
- Saves time: Using a JavaScript framework allows you to launch your app or website quickly.
- Lowers costs: Lots of popular JavaScript frameworks are free to use, which makes them cost-effective. This is especially great for small businesses.
JS Frameworks also for your side project
As a programmer, you will find side projects quite important. These projects give you the skills to be self-sufficient in programming and will allow you to turn your ideas into tangible things. Side projects also have the potential to turn into successful businesses and will help you as you search for a job.
Since you may not have enough time and money to work on a side project, you should consider using frameworks. Most of the best frameworks are open-source and have strong community support, meaning you will not need to spend a lot of time finding solutions to certain issues. When you build your app or website, you should get feedback from your friends and family members. This way, you can use the side project to improve your programming skills.
Conclusion
JavaScript is a scripting language that is among the core technologies of the world wide web. When building apps and websites with this language, you will often need to use libraries and frameworks. While these two are similar, they have different purposes in programming. Frameworks are used to develop the skeleton of the application, while libraries are used to add features and style. When using frameworks, you will be able to save resources in the development of your applications. Some of the top trending JS frameworks today are VueJS, Angular, React, NextJS, and Gatsby.