What is the Best Framework for Web Development in 2022
Are you planning to build a stunning site or web app? Popular frameworks help giants like Netflix and YouTube drive revenues through impeccable UX. They play a crucial role in building powerful interactive applications. We have analyzed top frontend and backend solutions to come up with the ultimate list for 2022.
Each of these frameworks is a set of tools and resources for building and managing websites, web services, web applications, and related APIs. Their primary purpose is to “automate the overhead associated with common activities performed in web development”. Most frameworks have MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture, which modularizes code and promotes its reuse.
Most Popular Frameworks
According to Statista, the top three most popular frameworks are React (40.14{9e1092f14ba6fb5e5828e71a37989679682a8e79c29e42c680b9bf7679171e6e}), jQuery (34.43{9e1092f14ba6fb5e5828e71a37989679682a8e79c29e42c680b9bf7679171e6e}), and Express (23.82{9e1092f14ba6fb5e5828e71a37989679682a8e79c29e42c680b9bf7679171e6e}). The winner is the top-performing tech stack for web apps. Like Vue and Angular, it is also the best JavaScript framework for complex and highly powerful apps.
Other contenders on our list also accelerate development, boost performance, and enhance flexibility. Whether you are a business owner seeking a long-term solution or a developer looking for in-demand jobs, our guide will come in handy. Without further ado, let’s start!
React
Facebook’s React.js is not the first JavaScript-based front-end framework, but it is probably the most disruptive one. It was released in 2013 as an open-source library for web app building with less coding and an emphasis on interactive UI. Combined with other React libraries, it forms a complete environment for end-to-end app development.
The most popular framework in the world is also the second most starred web framework on GitHub. The website itself was built on this library. It is also used by giants like Facebook, Instagram, BBC, and Salesforce. It powers almost 4.9 million live websites.
Key features of React Framework
Reusable UI. React is based on JavaScript and has a modular architecture. Developers can break down the UI into components and reuse them in other parts of the app.
Faster Development. Reading and writing code is faster thanks to the JSX class and JSX editor. Debugging is simple and straightforward. Thanks to visual aid with JSX, changes are reflected in real-time.
Virtual DOM. Instead of changing the DOM directly, developers modify its replica based on JavaScript. Then, the structures are compared, and the edits are updated to the real version. This optimizes the process and speeds it up.
SEO-friendly. Websites have server-side rendering features. React offers the best rendering of this type and superb support for SEO. Sites are more likely to rank higher compared to those with rendering on the client-side.
One-way data binding. Information flows in one direction. This boosts efficiency, facilitates debugging, and makes errors less likely.
Learn Once, Write Anywhere. The library’s slogan reflects its versatility. Developers that master React can build apps for any kind of UI — mobile, desktop, and even smart TV. Developing new features does not require the rewriting of existing code.
Massive Support. The tech giant devotes a lot of attention to the framework. Its features are tested with the Facebook audience — almost 2.9 billion monthly active users! It is a time test of technology that is here to stay.
When to use React
React is particularly attractive to companies whose development teams are proficient in JavaScript or consider moving to it. The framework is best for:
- Highly interactive apps
- Enterprise-level apps
- Cross-platform development.
Angular
This brainchild of two Google engineers (Misko Hevery and Adam Abrons) appeared in 2010. Upon release, its key advantage was turning HTML into dynamic content. Before the advent of this open-source framework, interface interactions were impossible due to static HTML. The innovative architecture enabled the creation of dynamic elements with less time and effort.
In 2016, the framework was rewritten, and it became Angular 2+. It is classified as a fully-fledged MVC framework based on TypeScript. Angular powers web solutions for such giants as Forbes, General Motors, Nike, and Paypal. Almost 22,500 live websites are powered by it.
Key Features of Angular Framework
Cross-Platform. Angular is used for PWAs, but apps can also be deployed as native via the Ionic SDK. Developers can also build desktop apps (Mac, Windows, and Linux).
Performance. By turning templates into code, Angular boosts productivity on JavaScript virtual machines. The benefits of hand-written coding are combined with enhanced performance. CSS and HTML are used for rendering, while apps can be previewed on other platforms (NodeJS, .Net, PHP, etc.).
Speed. Angular-based apps load faster than those built on other front-end frameworks. The component router splits the code so users can see only the view they need.
Applications for Everyone. Building complex animations and choreographies is largely intuitive. Developers create enhanced UX using a built-in animation API. Apps can also be accessible to users with limited abilities.
Error-free Code. Over 11 testing modules are built into Angular. Developers can test units using the Karma framework where errors are shown instantly.
MVC With Less Code. Developers only need to split the code into presentation, data, and resource layers. They do not write additional portions for connection or manual view. Directives are also isolated.
Two-Way Data Binding. The View and Model layers remain perfectly synchronized. Any changes are instantly viewable.
When to use Angular
Due to its versatility, Angular suits different types of projects:
- Dynamic web apps
- Business-level web apps
- Single-page apps/progressive web apps (SPA/PWA)
- Native mobile apps (via Cordova, Ionic, or NativeScript)
- Desktop-installed apps (Mac, Windows, and Linux).
jQuery
This open-source framework is one of the oldest. It was initially released in 2006 to simplify JavaScript-based web development. jQuery facilitates document navigation, DOM element selection, animations, events, and Ajax calls. The modular architecture supports powerful dynamic web pages and apps. Developers need knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
The second most popular framework in 2021 powers web solutions for such corporations as Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Netflix. The websites of WordPress, Trello, and Fiverr are also based on it, as well as over 36 million others.
Key features of jQuery Framework
Cross-browser compatibility. The syntax is recognized by all popular browsers including Internet Explorer 6. Developers need not worry about the visibility of any elements created in jQuery and CSS.
Concise code. What requires entire functions in JavaScript is implemented via a few code lines. The code is harmonious, clear, and logically structured.
HTML (DOM) manipulation. Developers can choose DOM (Document Object Model) elements, traverse (move through) and modify the content easily. Selection is supported by the Sizzle engine.
Events and visual effects. Creating tooltips, starting animations on click, setting, and adding other effects is a breeze. Developers can set up focuses, key-ups, and more.
Rich plug-in library. Ready-to-apply elements are time savers, and jQuery boasts the most extendable JavaScript library. Thousands of plug-ins are available, and custom development is also supported.
CSS manipulation. The style of any HTML element can be manipulated using a predetermined method.
AJAX technology. Developers can build responsive asynchronous apps with rich functionality. They exchange data with the server in the background, so content is changed dynamically without a full page reload.
JSON parsing. Management of large datasets is streamlined as objects are automatically broken down into components for reference.
When to use jQuery
jQuery reduces the development time. It is particularly good for:
- Rapid prototyping
- Accelerated web building (better than vanilla JavaScript)
- Browser-compatible web apps
- AJAX-based apps
- Enterprise-level apps.
Ruby On Rails
This web kit released in 2004 is based on Ruby, a programming language invented by Yukihiro Matsumoto. Technically, it is a package library installed via the command-line interface. Today, it is the default choice for Ruby developers. They build web apps using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
RoR’s mission was acceleration. Like other popular frameworks, it is based on the MVC principle. It is also an ‘all-inclusive’ ecosystem with everything from ORM to security.
Lately, Ruby on Rails has lost some of its appeals. However, the GitHub community is still large and very active. RoR is used by Twitch, AirBnB, GitHub, and SlideShare. As of this writing, over 1 million live websites run on RoR.
Key features of Ruby On Rails Framework
Don’t Repeat Yourself (DRY). The founding principle eliminates repetitions via abstractions. Automation ensures the absence of duplicates.
Convention over Configuration (CoC). Developers focus on fundamental language features. Inherent functions, procedures, variables, and classes are prioritized over the complexities of configuration. Values are assigned automatically without user intervention. In comparison, JavaScript requires multiple config files with different settings.
MVC Architecture. Codes of different functions are separated (see above).
Active Record. This powerful library helps developers form database interaction queries. These are written in Ruby and are usually converted to SQL automatically.
RSpec. This unit testing tool is easy to learn as it is Ruby-based. Developers assess the performance of app functions by calling them one by one.
Automated Deployment. Deployment of any change requires one line on the command interface. Sending code to production is fast and convenient.
Simple Programming Language. Ruby has a simple, concise, and intuitive syntax as it resembles English. It is object-oriented and flexible. Developers can write basic commands in CSS, HTML, and JavaScript documents.
When to use Ruby On Rails
This mature framework provides an all-inclusive framework. It is particularly useful for :
- Prototype creation and MVPs
- Small or medium-sized websites
- Rapid Application development.
Express.js
This open-source framework for web apps was released in 2010 to help Node.js developers. It speeds up web design, app building, and API creation. Only JavaScript and HTML skills are required and most of the code is pre-written. Express.js follows the MVC model and streamlines server-side organization. It provides the backend for the JavaScript MEAN stack (MongoDB, ExpressJS, AngularJS, and Node.js).
According to StackShare, over 1,700 companies have built their tech stacks on this framework, including Twitter, Accenture, Stack, and BlaBlaCar. It powers almost 240,500 live websites.
Key features of Express.js Framework
Server-side acceleration. Developers spend less time and effort coding the server-side. They can use common functions from Node.js and implement them flexibly.
Middleware. This part of the program provides access to data and client requests. It keeps various components of the framework in order.
Routing. Express.js is responsible for routing in MEAN. It uses a sophisticated mechanism based on URLs to keep the webpage state intact.
Templating. Developers can build HTML templates for dynamic content on the server-side.
Debugging. Express.js’s own debugging mechanism identifies buggy parts of a web app.
Minimalist coding. Using simple syntax, the framework makes Node.js models for enterprise-level apps more powerful. This approach saves time and facilitates scalability.
Compatibility with Angular. Express works well with other JavaScript-based kits like Angular. Thanks to the common script, developers can get the best of both worlds by combining a robust back-end with a strong front-end.
When to use Express.js
The framework is particularly attractive to companies with existing Node.js teams. It can be used for:
- Single page, multi-page, or hybrid web applications relatively quickly
- I/O intensive apps
- Apps for which back-end rendering is crucial for loading and SEO
- Eerverless (cloud-based) computing.
Vue.js
This open-source JavaScript framework focuses on interactive web UI. Vue.js was unveiled by Evan You, an ex-Google employee, in 2014. His invention has become one of the biggest progressive systems for simplification and SPAs. The framework is easy to install and integrate into large front-end projects. The emphasis is on the View layer of MVC.
The biggest strengths of Vue.js are capabilities for intuitive interfaces, flexible design, and Typescript support. It is trusted by tech giants like Google, Apple, and Nintendo. Currently, over 386,000 live websites run on it.
Key features of Vue.js Framework
Virtual DOM. Like React, Vue uses virtual architecture. It makes websites lighter and improves their DOM version. Nodes are updated whenever changes are required. This contributes to user satisfaction, app performance, and speed.
Two-directional data binding. In Vue.js, data binding works both ways. Any changes in the UI are reflected in the data, and vice versa. This helps developers with the manipulation of HTML attributes, style changes, assignment of classes, etc.
Animation/Transition. The in-built transition component wraps around HTML elements. Developers can apply transitions in different ways when they add, update or remove items from the DOM. For example, adding interactivity or third-party animation libraries is more convenient.
CLI. This framework can be installed via the command line. It comes with an npm package providing the interface in the developers’ terminal. This accelerates the scaffolding of projects and makes prototyping new ideas instant. Developers can also manage their work via a graphical user interface.
Strong Community. The development of Vue.js is entirely driven by its community, as it is not owned by any organization. Thousands of members contribute to growth by solving bottlenecks and releasing updates.
When to use Vue.js
This framework provides a lower barrier to entry to front-end development. It is particularly useful for:
- Progressive web apps
- Regular modernization of enterprise-level apps
- Reliable performance and enhanced SEO
- Faster development in general.
ASP.NET Core
This framework developed by Microsoft is modular and open-source. It was released in 2016 as an enhancement of the ASP.NET stack. Unlike the predecessor, version 3 works only on NET.Core. It is used for building modern, cloud-enabled apps, including web apps, IoT apps, and mobile back-ends. It is perfectly compatible with modern JavaScript frameworks for the front end.
ASP.NET Core currently powers almost 43,000 live websites. According to StackShare, 107 companies reportedly use it, including Alibaba Travels, Honeywell International, Wells Fargo, and GE Aviation.
Key features of ASP.NET Framework
Cross-platform. Developers can Core on Windows, the .NET framework, and across OS (Windows, Linux, and Mac). They can create, compile, build and publish applications on any OS using the command line tools. This framework stands out when it comes to Mac and Linux development.
Asynchronous patterns. Thanks to this type of APIs, a handful of threads handle thousands of requests simultaneously. This enhances responsiveness and performance.
Enterprise-grade. This framework is built for massive app development projects. It shows outstanding performance on the web.
Unified development models. The NET.Core system uses the same unified programming model for web API and web MVC. The models work with all the same base-class controller. The MVC model supports the creation of testable web APIs and web apps.
Razor pages. This feature simplifies the framework. Developers can build apps rendered on the server-side faster and more efficiently. They can implement independent views of controllers, create more fluid scenarios and clarify the architecture.
Broad arsenal and support. The framework comes with a full package of superb developer instruments. The range includes such tools as Visual Studio Code, Visual Studio, .NET Code Profiler, and Jetbrains Rider. IDE and CLI support speed up application development.
When to use ASP.NET
As the framework supports synchronous programming, it is most suitable for data-rich projects:
- Enterprise software supporting multiple run times
- Large and highly scalable apps that are a large burden on CPU or/and the I/O processor
- Projects that prioritize flexibility, maturity, and tools over the speed of development.
Laravel
This framework appeared in 2011 as a server-side solution based on the PHP language and MVC architecture. In terms of philosophy, it is close to Ruby on Rails. It also follows the “Convention over Configuration” principle and comes with a plethora of ready-to-apply functionalities for enterprise-grade apps.
Compared to other backend frameworks, Laravel has the most GitHub Stars. PHP is the most popular programming language in the web domain, and the framework offers high speed for enterprise applications. It is used by BBC, 9GAG, and Pfizer and over 320,000 live websites in total.
Key features of Laravel Framework
“The PHP framework for Web artisans”. The built-in Artisan tool automates programming via the command line, enabling Rapid Application development. It is used for structuring databases and writing the skeleton code. Developers also apply it to migration jobs and the generation of original MVC files. They can write and utilize commands efficiently.
Full package. Laravel covers the entire spectrum of development tasks with enterprise-grade quality and support for asynchronous programming.
Blade Template Engine. This innovative feature facilitates inheritance and section. Using built-in templates, engineers create superb layouts with dynamic content seeding. The templates support the development of straightforward and composite layouts with less effort.
Built-in Features for MVC. The architecture is supported by a variety of embedded functions. These boost app performance, scalability, and security. Passwords may not be saved as plain text thanks to hashed and salted password mechanisms.
IoC and DI. The framework uses Inversion of Control and Dependency Injection. IoC describes who is going to initiate the call to an object. DI describes how an object acquires dependency. This combination facilitates classic coupling, code reusability, maintainability, and testing.
Effortless testing. Developers can test units with little time and effort. Numerous reliable tests ensure that new changes are executed smoothly. Test writing is effortless, and releases are steady.
When to use Laravel
This framework is best for demanding large-scale projects. Consider it:
- For enterprise software development
- For any large and highly scalable applications
- If your team wants an all-inclusive framework with all the bells and whistles.
Conclusions
As our overview shows, JavaScript frameworks are the darling of the industry. They are packed with features and functionalities that accelerate development and boost the quality of interactions. On the client side, React, Vue, and Angular are leading the way. Express is a robust server-side solution.
The PHP-based Laravel also has a lot to offer, particularly to enterprises. Like Ruby on Rails, it is an all-inclusive framework that shortens time-to-market. .NET-based ASP.NET Core is also excellent for large-scale applications.
This list is not exhaustive, and each of the frameworks has strengths and weaknesses. Making a choice is not easy, but App Kong is here to help. Our team will leverage cross-platform expertise to find the ideal solution for your needs!
