9 Jan, 2023 | React Native App Development
Which is better for mobile app development, React or Angular?
React Native: Introduction and its features
The React Native framework is versatile, allowing it to be used equally well for developing React Native mobile apps and web apps. As an open-source community for developers, the framework has offered a JavaScript library for user interface development since 2013. In addition, with the hybrid JavaScript framework, React Native can render iOS and Android mobile applications independently. Additionally, developers favor it for its simplicity and for the fact that it helps them deliver optimal app performance. A further advantage of React Native is its ease of learning. Therefore, React Native app development is simplified with coding and launching. Below are some of the key features of React Native software. Have a look!React Native’s Key Features
In React Native, there are a few key features that make it stand out. Here are some of them:- First, this framework is highly secure and prevents XSS attacks.
- It is easy for even novice developers to learn React Native.
- Developers can use various components and add various functionality immediately from the start.
- React Native app development structure accelerates app development without compromising performance.
Till now, we have seen React Native and its features. Now let’s understand what Angular is.
Angular: Introduction and its features
Angular is a JavaScript framework, just like React Native. Google's Angular team directly supports and manages this TypeScript-based framework for mobile app development. Due to its open-source nature and backing by a global tech giant, the framework has a substantial developer community. As a mobile app development framework, Angular is highly compatible with various code editors. Thus, Angular developers can develop more dynamic and dazzling mobile applications through this structure since HTML is the basis of the template languages. Because of this, it is relatively easier to create more complicated mobile apps using Angular. Let’s explore some of Angular's key features.Angular's Key Features
Additionally, Angular has other superior features that set it apart from other JS frameworks. Learn more about mobile app development frameworks.- The framework provides better error handling to assist coders during app development.
- Because it uses the Angular CLI, developers can perform updates seamlessly.
- With Angular, you get powerful AJAX, HTML, and other built-in support.
- User Interfaces and Business Logic Functions are organized to avoid overlapping.
Popularity Growth: Angular vs. React
To measure popularity, we will look at the number of stars they receive on their GitHub repositories. According to GitHub, React had 175k stars, and Angular had 76.6k stars.
Source: Angular Framework
The Angular framework is a full-featured framework that can create mobile and desktop apps, while React is a JS library that can create complex interactive UIs. In addition, due to its more straightforward structure and small package size, React has a shorter learning curve than Angular.
Therefore, React is a go-to option for mobile app development teams requiring a slight learning curve. In contrast, Angular is an excellent choice for enterprise-grade apps that require extensive development, since steeper learning curves won't prevent these teams from using it.
Source: React
The popularity of React is increasing - it is constantly evolving and remains in style. This framework has many easy ways to reuse UI components, making it easy to work with. Due to its virtual DOM, rendering optimizations, and ease of migration, React is superior to Angular.
Because Angular can handle multiple things independently, it may appear challenging initially. This framework, however, provides the most extensive concept and is worth investing your time in.
Check out the Google trends analysis below if you want to see some recent analysis. The graph shows the past 12 months' search trends.
Source: Google Trends
Above-mentioned information states that React Native app development covers most of the Mobile app development market as compared to Angular. Now let's see the difference between Angular vs React.
Angular vs. React.js: Tech Difference
Here are the essential mobile app development areas and how the two frameworks compare.#1. Performance & DOM
Angular and React are both excellent front-end development frameworks. When it comes to building large-scale applications, they do equally well. However, Angular and React have one significant difference. As part of its implementation, React uses DOM (Document Object Model - which can help you access and modify document contents, layouts, and even structure). In contrast, Angular 2 uses real DOM. Consider updating a user profile detail, such as the last name. Instead of updating just one bit of information, real DOM updates the entire tree structure of HTML tables until the desired information gets reached. In our example, it's the user's last name. read about Why is React Native the future of mobile app development? Virtual DOM allows us to update the HTML without rewriting the entire document. Because of this, apps have much faster performance, regardless of how large they are.#2. Data Binding
Data binding aims to synchronize data between business logic and the user interface. Compared with React, Angular 2 utilizes both one and two-way data binding: a change in data affects the view, and a change in view triggers a change in data. On the other hand, the React app uses one-way binding: nested child components are commonly used within higher-order parent components when developing React Native mobile apps. The one-way data binding in React makes the code more stable and easier to debug, while the two-way data binding in Angular makes code development more flexible.#3. Architecture
React is a JavaScript library, whereas Angular is a development framework. As a descendant of AngularJS, Angular is a fully-fledged MVC framework, while React is more of a UX library. It is only the V component of MVC. M and C components require other libraries. In some developers’ opinion, it can be a positive or a negative factor. Due to React's minimalist approach, adding your own components/libraries is easier if you like things your own way. However, if you use Angular, you must adapt to pre-existing libraries. An Angular app makes sense if you need libraries that are already available in Angular. If, however, the libraries you require are unavailable in Angular or React, you cannot use this criterion to make a decision. The Angular framework includes many components that a standard application might need, such as routing, AJAX requests, forms, and XSS protection. In contrast, React has only a few built-in features.Also Read: Which Mobile App Development Framework Is Right For You?
#4. Speed
Since Angular has more components than React, it takes longer to load, especially on mobile devices. React has always been sleek, so it loads faster. As a result, development is easier with Angular's CLI, which allows developers to create workspaces and design functional applications quickly. In Angular, there are built-in process tools allowing developers to debug errors. Developers can also develop custom components and services just by writing a few lines of code. Nevertheless, React depends on the third-party library for development speed and productivity. So, developers need to choose the appropriate tools and architecture patterns for development. In addition, each project requires a different toolkit in React. Thus, updating an existing app requires more time and effort if the developer is new to the project. also read about Hybrid Mobile App Framework: The Future of App Development.#5. Developer Community and Support
One of the largest JS communities in the world supports and develops React framework. It's essential to stay up to date with all the changes when working with React. Even though the community tries to keep up with all the latest documentation as quickly as possible, keeping up with all the changes takes work. In some cases, applications might lack documentation, but community support on thematic forums usually resolves the issue. On the other hand, Angular is less preferred than React, partially because Angular 1.0 was unpopular. In addition, developers dismissed it as an overly time-consuming framework due to its complexity. However, the fact that Google develops Angular lends credibility to the framework. As part of its long-term support strategy, Google continuously improves the framework. However, the documentation often falls behind due to the rapid pace of updates. As a result, React wins here with major community support. Also Read: Best React Native Font Family for Mobile App Development#6. Complete Mobile App Development: App Structure
Regarding the entire mobile app development structure, neither React Native nor Angular is a clear winner. This is because Angular and React both miss a few features. However, as discussed earlier, Angular is a set of built-in tools that become the best choice if an organization wants to develop an app with all the tools. However, if a company wishes to enhance the front end without continuous reloading in the development process, React Native is the best choice. This is because the React framework breaks down UIs into components. It works like this: you create components that manage their own state and connect them to more complex user interfaces. Multiple integrations and supporting tools are necessary if you use React for your project architecture. Some of them are- Redux (a state container that speeds up React's work in large apps)
- Babel (translates JSX into JavaScript so that browsers can understand the app)
- Webpack (a library for bundling modules)
- RxJS (implements reactive programming in JS)
- Angular CLI (a powerful command-line tool)
- Angular Universal (for server-side rendering)
Angular vs. React – The Comparison Table
| Parameter | Angular | React |
| Performance | High | High |
| Data Binding | Two way | One way |
| DOM | Real DOM | Virtual DOM |
| Dynamic UI Binding | Plain object UI binding | Linking states directly to the UI |
| Installation Duration | Installation is easy; apps and projects are delivered quickly | Setup takes time, resulting in delays in coding |
| Library Uses | The Angular framework provides a complete solution | React several libraries. |
Top Reasons to Use Angular
The framework provides developers with an incredible combination of technology and practical features. Therefore, Angular is a no-brainer for you if you fall into this category. We've now discussed some of Angular's essential features, so let's discuss why Angular is a great choice. Angular is the best framework for developing mobile apps for the following reasons:- The server-side rendering speeds up, and the browser-side rendering is also supported.
- Since Angular optimizes its efforts and runs the components simultaneously, developers do not have to code much for similar functions.
- Angular makes it easier to create apps and add files.
Top Reasons to Use React Native: Why choose React over Angular?
As an open-source library and reusable UI component, React Developers prefer to React over any other framework for mobile app development. In addition, since Facebook supports the framework, leading organizations use it for large mobile applications since they do not have to reload entire pages. Here are some other top reasons to use React Native:- React Native simplifies converting JSX to JavaScript for browser understanding
- The React Native framework requires developers to add external entities to access all functions.
- In React Native, URL routers such as web pack and ReactRouter are necessary.
ANGULAR VS REACT – THE USE CASES
Here are a few top websites that use REACT during development. #1. Facebook – With over 1 billion mobile users, Facebook has used the React framework since its inception. #2. Tesla – 'Tesla Motors'' official site uses React as a foundation. #3. Dropbox – The popular online file storage service Dropbox, which synchronizes your data in the cloud seamlessly, also uses React. #4. Airbnb – Airbnb is another platform that uses React as its foundation to connect tenants and landlords globally. #5. Netflix – There are plenty of entertainment options on Netflix, including web series, movies, and shows. Netflix's seamless services rely on the React framework. Websites based on ANGULAR include #1. Google – It offers everything from search engines to software, hardware, cloud computing, and advertising technology, formerly known as 'BackRub.' #2. Adobe Fonts – Online service that offers high-quality font subscriptions Angular provides the foundation for the website. #3. Forbes – Forbes is one of the best magazine websites covering various categories, blogs, and topics and using Angular as a foundation. #4. PayPal – The Angular framework makes PayPal's online money transfers so fast and straightforward. With Angular, PayPal can do this. #5. JetBlue – JetBlue's website uses Angular. As a result, the design and booking options are seamless, and you can explore destinations and road maps.Companies of all types and sizes prefer Angular and React according to their product requirement in the market today.
So let's now examine which technology is most suitable for your requirement.Angular Vs. React: Which One To Choose And When?
Choosing the proper framework or library - such as React or Angular - can be challenging because each has unique features. However, since Angular and React can solve the same problem, choosing one is usually a personal preference. To summarize, here are some points to consider:Choosing Angular Framework
Angular is the best platform for developing dynamic apps in the following scenarios:- You will be more productive if you use already-prepared software.
- A large-scale framework and rich features are essential to you.
- If the development team has worked with Java, C#, and old versions of Angular.
- Maintain a low difficulty level for your app.
Choosing React framework
In the following scenario, React is the best platform for developing a dynamic app:- You want to create a multi-event application.
- The development team has expertise in CSS, HTML, and JavaScript.
- A customized approach is needed when developing an application.
- A web application requires shareable components.
The Future Scenario-Angular vs. React
Based on Angular vs. React analysis, and both platforms will remain in the game for quite some time. It is ideal for developers that both frameworks are being updated, improved, and changed at the right time. Before choosing a platform, whether it's React Native app development or Angular app development, it is crucial to identify the objective and requirements of the application. read more about ReactJS app development and its features.Frequently Asked Questions
To understand why React is more popular than Angular, we must first understand that Angular is a full-fledged framework, whereas React is only a highly mature JavaScript library. The use of Angular and React is equally widespread among start-ups and Fortune 500 companies. However, according to a StackOverflow survey, React is more popular than Angular.
Regarding data binding, React operates on virtual DOM & one-way data binding, whereas Angular uses real DOM and two-way data binding. Also, React has a smaller bundle size and works faster.
Using virtual DOM, developers can update a React mobile app’s DOM without having to rewrite the entire HTML file. As a result, it ensures more rapid performance and renders updates faster.
There are several factors where React outperforms Angular. Following are some of them.
- React allows the developer to switch between versions without hassle.
- As discussed earlier, React has a smaller bundle size than Angular, so React Native mobile apps are light in weight.
- React has continuously evolved since its inception, and it remains trendy to this day.
- The learning curve for React is much simpler than Angular, making beginners easy to get started.
React and Angular are both popular JavaScript frameworks for creating mobile apps, but they have some key differences. React is known for its simplicity and flexibility. It uses a virtual DOM, which means that updating the user interface is very fast. React components are also reusable, so you can save time by not having to rewrite code. Angular, on the other hand, is known for its structure and organization. It uses TypeScript for improved type checking and has a built-in dependency injection system. Angular also has a powerful command-line interface and supports progressive web apps. Overall, React is better for smaller projects or those that require a lot of customization, while Angular is better for larger, more complex projects with strict organization requirements. It really depends on the specific needs of your project.
Angular provides a platform for building native-like mobile apps through the use of NativeScript. NativeScript is an open-source framework that leverages Angular's web development expertise to allow developers to create native apps using JavaScript, TypeScript, Angular, and CSS. The platform allows developers to make use of the same codebase across multiple mobile platforms, including Android and iOS. With Angular and NativeScript, developers can build apps that have a native look and feel, access to native APIs, and high performance, making it an ideal choice for developing mobile apps that provide a seamless user experience.
React and Angular are both popular frameworks for mobile app development. React Native, the mobile version of React, is known for its speed and efficiency, allowing for a faster and smoother user experience. Angular, on the other hand, is highly customizable and great for building complex apps with interactivity. Both frameworks have their advantages and disadvantages. React Native has a steeper learning curve, but offers more flexibility and a wider range of libraries and tools. Angular is easier to learn, but can be less performant for large-scale apps. Ultimately, it depends on the specific needs and goals of your project. It's recommended to do some research and testing to determine which framework will work best for your mobile app development needs.
React and Angular are both excellent choices for mobile app development that offer unique benefits depending on your specific needs. React is a great choice for creating fast and responsive apps that require a lot of data input, such as social media or e-commerce apps. It's also great for building apps that need to be compatible with multiple platforms, as React Native allows for cross-platform development. Angular, on the other hand, is better suited for large-scale enterprise applications where robustness, scalability, and sophisticated data handling are a priority. Angular's two-way data binding and dependency injection capabilities make it perfect for creating complex mobile applications that handle large amounts of data. It's also ideal for creating interactive apps with real-time features, such as chat apps and media streaming platforms. Ultimately, the best use cases for React and Angular will depend on the specific requirements of your mobile app project.
React and Angular are both popular frameworks for developing web and mobile applications, and both can have a significant impact on the cost and time of app development. React is known for its simplicity and flexibility, making it easy to build complex user interfaces with reusable components. The learning curve is generally lower than other frameworks, which could result in lower development costs and shorter timeframes. Angular, on the other hand, is a more complex framework with a steeper learning curve. However, it is also more powerful and scalable, making it ideal for large, complex applications. While development costs may be higher with Angular, the end result could be a more robust and scalable application. Ultimately, the choice between React and Angular depends on your project's specific needs and requirements. You should evaluate both options carefully and consult with experienced developers to determine which framework will best suit your needs.
Both React and Angular have their advantages and disadvantages, so it ultimately boils down to the specific needs and goals of the business. React is great for applications that require complex UIs and a lot of interactivity, while Angular is better suited for larger, more complex applications with multiple developers working on the same codebase. The business should consider factors such as the size and scope of the project, the skillset and experience of their development team, how easily the framework integrates with their backend technology stack, and their budget and timeline. It may also be helpful to do a proof of concept in both frameworks to see which one works better for their particular use case. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what will result in the most efficient, effective, and sustainable solution for the business.
Milan is a co-founder of WEDOWEBAPPS LLC. He has been at the forefront of the business, expanding it globally with the latest technologies. He also has a passion for sharing his expertise with clients and other enthusiasts. He usually writes about technology, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship.
