JavaScript vs TypeScript: Which one should you use?
The choice of programming language is critical to a project’s success in the fast-paced world of web development, where efficiency and innovation are highly valued. As you are aware, JavaScript has long served as the cornerstone of web development. It is now a widely used scripting language among developers. Every time an alternative option enters the market, it gives the leading one fierce competition.
When it comes to JavaScript, it is TypeScript, which is essentially an advanced version of JS with more features and functionalities. The JS language was purposefully designed to give web developers access to basic, essential features. However, Microsoft designed TS primarily in 2012 to handle complex and large-scale applications. And it is quickly gaining popularity due to its improved readability, scalability, and security.
It is also used in popular frameworks like Angular and React, making it an even more attractive option for developers. The study shows that the most popular languages for developers to work with are TypeScript and JS, in that order. In this article, you will explore the differences between both programming languages based on some factors. It will assist you in determining which is best suited to your project. Read more to learn more.
The factors we are about to consider are the following:
- Learning curve
- Tools and frameworks
- Complexity
- Readability
- Compatibility
- Performance
1. Learning curve
JavaScript has a lower initial learning curve than TypeScript because of its simplicity and dynamic typing, which make it easier for developers to learn and use. Without having to learn any new language features, developers can get started writing JS code and experimenting with web development concepts right away.
However, TypeScript’s static typing nature makes learning it more difficult, particularly for developers who are not familiar with static typing concepts. Still, many developers find that learning TS is well worth the investment due to its advantages, like better code quality and assistance from tools.
2. Tools and frameworks
The tools and frameworks available have a big impact on a programming language’s ecosystem maturity and development experience. TypeScript is supported by a large number of tools and frameworks, including well-known ones like Angular, React, and Vue.js. These frameworks offer TS specialised support, type definitions, project templates, and tooling integration to enhance development workflows.
The static typing of TS also improves build systems, testing frameworks, and code analysis tool compatibility, which increases developer productivity and code quality. Conversely, there are a tonne of JavaScript frameworks on the market that can be used for any web development project. It is a vast ecosystem that programmers highly favour. Expertise in frameworks like Angular, Vue, React, and others is highly sought after by developers.
3. Complexity
Programming language complexity affects the learning curve, code maintainability, and project scalability, among other aspects of the development process. TS has more complexity than JS due to its static typing feature. Although static typing makes code more readable and maintainable, it also necessitates that developers become proficient in type annotations, interfaces, and other linguistic constructions. Therefore, when switching from JavaScript to TypeScript, developers might encounter an initial learning curve while getting to know these ideas.
4. Readability
Debugging, code maintenance, and teamwork all depend on the readability of the code. Because TS has static typing, it is generally easier to read code written in TS than JavaScript. Variable types and function signatures are clarified by type annotations, which offer helpful documentation within the codebase. Even in larger projects, TypeScript’s support for interfaces encourages concise and clear code, which improves readability and understandability.
5. Compatibility
When choosing a new programming language, compatibility with current codebases and libraries is essential. Developers can easily integrate TS code into pre-existing JS projects due to TypeScript’s superior compatibility with JS. Because it compiles JavaScript, TS is compatible with a wide range of JS libraries, frameworks, and tools. This compatibility makes it easier for developers to make the switch and for TS to be incorporated gradually into ongoing projects.
6. Performance
Any programming language’s performance is an essential component that directly affects how responsive and efficient its applications are. Because TS requires an extra compilation step, performance is frequently a concern when compared to JS. It is important to realise that TypeScript eventually compiles to JavaScript, so the two languages perform similarly. Because of their high level of optimisation, modern TS compilers have little effect on runtime performance, even though the compilation step may add a small overhead.
So, you read about the differences between the two languages based on some factors, such as their learning curve, performance, availability of tools and frameworks and many others. However, a project’s unique requirements and context will determine whether TypeScript is “better” than JavaScript. Over JavaScript, TS has a number of benefits, including support for enums, interfaces, advanced tooling, and static typing.
Particularly in bigger projects with intricate codebases, these features can result in fewer bugs, better code quality, better IDE support, and increased developer productivity. But for developers who are not familiar with advanced language features or static typing, TS can be more complex to use and require additional compilation steps. Conversely, JS is easier to use, lighter, and more compatible with a wider range of platforms and browsers.
Adhering to JavaScript may be more sensible for smaller projects, fast prototyping, or when working in a team where all members are familiar with it. In the end, the choice between TypeScript and JavaScript depends on your personal preferences, the needs of your project, and the experience of your team. Making the effort to comprehend the differences between them will help you decide which language best fits their development preferences and project requirements.
Interesting Links:
What are the 7 Key differences between TypeScript and JavaScript?
Difference between TypeScript and JavaScript
Pictures: Canva
The author: Sascha Thattil works at Software-Developer-India.com which is a part of the YUHIRO Group. YUHIRO is a German-Indian enterprise which provides programmers to IT companies, agencies and IT departments.