- That’s the number of front-end frameworks JavaScript offers.
Thus, before you hire front-end developers, you must choose a specific front-end framework to build your website.
But how to know which is the best front-end framework when the competition is this tough:
That’s what this article will help you with. In the next five minutes, learn about:
- The top 5 best front-end frameworks for web development
- The benefits and limitations of each framework
- When should you choose or shouldn’t choose each framework
Note: the information is true at the time of writing. That’s March 2022.
5 best front-end frameworks for web development
1. React
The Stack Overflow Developer’s Survey 2021 confirmed React topped the chart of the most used web framework.
Khan Academy, Nextflix, and New York Times — these are some of the giants that use React.
The front-end framework runs on the virtual Document Object Model (DOM). The model is perfect for handling high traffic.
Pros
- Support for reusable components speeds up the development process.
- The cross-platform framework offers a low threshold. Thus, you can quickly jump to real projects.
- Each new version supports old code without much hassle. Furthermore, the front-end framework alerts users to update obsolete elements.
- The large community offers tons of tutorials, articles, and open-source readymade solutions as well. Thus, you can solve any issues in no time.
Cons
- Lack of documentation due to the significant pace of development.
- The steep learning curve can be intimidating for beginners.
When to use
Opt for React when you want to build single-page apps with a rich user interface. Furthermore, if you want to build an interactive interface in a short time, React is the best front-end framework as the framework supports reusable components.
When not to use
Avoid using React if you’re an inexperienced developer or don’t have hands-on knowledge of JavaScript.
2. Vue.js
Xiaomi. Reuters. Alibaba. The trust of these giants alone can make Vue.js one of the top front-end frameworks. The front-end framework manages both simple and dynamic developments including Progressive Web Apps (PWA) with simplicity.
Vue.js is entirely written on TypeScript. Thus, the framework offers more benefits in agile developments than frameworks not written on TypeScript.
Pros
- Virtual DOM optimizes the app performance.
- Offers two-way data binding.
- The lightweight (33.5 KB) framework offers speed and scalability.
- Supports Server-Side Rendering (SSR).
Cons
- Most Vue.js components are written in Chinese. Thus, the language can be a barrier for developers from other regions.
- Doesn’t have a large community. Thus, you won’t find much help in solving issues you encounter.
When to use
Vue.js is best suited for dynamic web apps and complex projects with an efficient and scalable architecture.
Furthermore, if you’re searching for flexibility and simplicity, Vue.js is the ideal framework.
When not to use
If you want the help of a support community to solve issues, Vue.js isn’t for you. Furthermore, if the web app needs steady components, avoid Vue.js.
3. Angular
Forbes. BMW. Xbox. These are some of the names that make up the client list of Angular.
Angular offers an exclusive two-way data binding trait. The feature leads to real-time synchronization between view and model. Thus, if you alter anything in the model, the change instantly replicates to view.
Add to that the fact that Angular is based on TypeScript and you’ll know why Angular is one of the top front-end frameworks for web development.
Pros
- The compiler converts TypeScript and HTML code into efficient JavaScript code during development. The process leads to better security and faster load time.
- The cross-platform framework allows you to compile and execute apps on the server side. Furthermore, you can perform the same across different environments with the help of third-party libraries such as NativeScript as well.
- Angular allows you to customize and reuse components in other Angular projects or even projects developed with another framework.
- The large community ensures you get answers to all your queries.
Cons
- Angular is a heavy framework. Thus, the size can affect dynamic apps.
- The CLI documentation isn’t sufficient.
When to use
Choose Angular if you want to build an active and enterprise-based website. Furthermore, if you want two-way data binding or enlarging the execution of browser-based apps, go for Angular.
When not to use
If you must develop apps with inadequate scopes, never choose Angular. Furthermore, if you have a trivial sized group, go for a minor framework with simple syntax.
4. Ember.js
Ember.js is a component-based framework that offers two-way data binding. The front-end framework allows you to develop multifaceted web and mobile apps.
However, Ember.js comes with a steep learning curve. Thus, the framework can be challenging for developers, especially if the developer is starting out.
Pros
- The Command Line Interface offers convenient code generators. The code generators allow you to create new entities and integrate the same into the development process.
- The ember inspector debugs apps.
- The in-built router handles URL management. The process is essential for web apps.
- Apps you create with Ember.js are reusable.
Cons
- js comes with slow updates and challenging syntax.
- The small community means you can’t find answers to your queries 24X7.
When to use
Want to develop contemporary apps such as LinkedIn with a responsive user interface? Ember.js is the best front-end framework for the purpose.
The framework is ideal for extensive projects as well since Ember.js offers an equipped configuration, custom properties, and good data binding.
When not to use
Developers need business logic and experience to solve issues with Ember.js. Thus, avoid the framework if you have a smaller development team.
Furthermore, Ember.js isn’t an ideal option when it comes to building user interfaces and scripting simple Ajax functionalities.
5. Semantic UI
Semantic UI authorizes developers and designers by creating a language for sharing UI. The front-end framework comes with natural language; thereby making the entire code self-explanatory.
The front-end framework is supported by jQuery and LESS.
Pros
- Semantic UI offers rich UI modules and receptiveness.
- The concise syntax is based on natural language patterns.
- The front-end framework offers over 50 components and over 3,000 theming variables.
- Performance bugging ensures easy debugging.
Cons
- The steep learning curve can make the framework intimidating for beginners.
- The low popularity means you won’t find expert help whenever you get stuck in an issue.
When to use
Go for Semantic UI when you’re searching for a smooth design and a lightweight practice of interactive user interfaces.
When not to use
Semantic UI needs the aptitude to create customizations in the app without depending on the handy functions. Thus, avoid the front-end framework if you don’t have much knowledge of JavaScript or have a team of beginner developers.
Best front-end frameworks — which one should you choose?
The answer will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
React is one of the best front-end frameworks if you want to develop websites with a rich user interface. Furthermore, if you’re searching for top front-end frameworks for enterprise based and active websites, go for Angular.
