For many years, software developers’ preferred programming language has been JavaScript (JS). It supports the robust development of various mobile applications and dynamic web pages. But recently, a new programming language called TypeScript (TS) has emerged. It’s seen by many as a JavaScript substitute that has been gaining a lot of traction.
As per the recent study by the PYPL Index, JavaScript stands at 3rd position as the most used programming language accompanied by TypeScript in the eighth rank. Now the question here arises is what’s the reason behind such performance comparison and how TypeScript vs JavaScript is defined.
So, in this write-up, we will highlight the key differences between TypeScript and JavaScript and which programming language is ideal for your web development needs.
What is JavaScript?
Also known as the “language of the web,” JavaScript is an interpreted, high-level programming language utilized for front-end web development. It is widely leveraged to build interactive and responsive web pages.
In addition, JavaScript language helps build modern, server-side apps using Node.js. However, JS is also compatible with other technologies such as REST APIs, XML, and more.
What is TypeScript?
TypeScript is an open-source, object-oriented programming language created and maintained by Microsoft. It is a superset of JavaScript combined with optional typing and is capable of compiling to standard JavaScript as well.
Simply put, TypeScript is a static programming language that helps you write precise and understandable JavaScript scripts. It serves the same function as JS and applies to both client-side and server-side applications.
Key Differences to Know: TypeScript vs JavaScript
There are several parameters to be taken into consideration when choosing between two robust programming languages. These are as below:
Learning Curve
As discussed before TypeScript comprises all the elements of JavaScript, only general knowledge and understanding of JS is required for TypeScript coding. Also, you need to have the OOPS concept clear in your mind.
On the contrary, JavaScript is already the widely used and preferred language by developers worldwide. This scripting language is well-known for its easy learning curve. When you hire JavaScript developers, they work with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to produce the best possible online solutions. However, the use of HTML includes event handling, animations, web behavior, and scripting which makes development with JS quite challenging.
Performance
Any programming language’s performance is an essential component that influences the app’s overall responsiveness and efficacy. TypeScript requires an extra compilation step due to which efficiency is frequently a concern when comparing it to JavaScript.
Also, the TypeScript compiler has little effect on runtime performance due to its high optimization levels.
But it’s important to realize that TypeScript eventually compiles to JavaScript, thus the two languages have similar performance.
Complexity
The learning curve, code maintenance, and project scalability are a few of the development factors influenced by a programming language’s complexity. Compared to JavaScript, TypeScript is more complex. The reason is its static typing feature we discussed above.
Static typing improves the quality and maintainability of code. However, it also necessitates that developers master interfaces, type annotations, and other language structures. As a result, developers switching from JavaScript to TypeScript face an initial learning curve.
Tools and Frameworks
TypeScript, supported by Microsoft, has to offer numerous industry-leading frameworks and specialized developers. It ensures trustworthy error handling while code compilation to prevent runtime hassles with the help of professional editors.
On the other hand, a significant number of JavaScript frameworks are available to meet the varying web development project needs. Such a popular JS ecosystem not only draws numerous programmers but also helps businesses hire front-end developers or back-end development experts of their choice who possess huge expertise in JS frameworks such as Angular, Vue, React, and more.
Developers Community
There is an online and offline development community for TypeScript and JavaScript. With time, these languages—particularly TypeScript—reached exceptional levels of popularity and became the choice of numerous businesses. While there are a lot of online resources available to help you learn TypeScript with an active community, there isn’t as big of a community for JS as for TypeScript.
While JavaScript provides various code practices, frameworks, and libraries, ensure developers you hire are well-versed in implementing the development tactics to achieve top-notch apps.
Comparison Table on TypeScript vs JavaScript
| Variables | TypeScriptt | JavaScript |
|---|---|---|
| Developed By | Microsoft in 2012 | Brendan Eich in 1995 |
| Meaning | TypeScript is an object-oriented language that has both general and JS capabilities to help overcome JS’s complexity. | JavaScript is a programming language that offers top-notch features for developing dynamic web pages. |
| Compilation | Compilation is necessary | No compilation is required |
| Learning Curve | Steep learning curve. Scripting expertise is required. | Versatile and simple to use to create web scripts. |
| Community | Limited community to access | A large community of software developers |
| Front-end and Back-end | It is used for client-side development. | Ideal for client-side and server-side web apps. |
| File Extensions | .tsx and .ts | .js |
Ideal Language Choice: TypeScript vs JavaScript
The decision between TypeScript and JavaScript ultimately comes down to the needs of your project and the preferences of the other development team members. TypeScript offers improved type safety and maintainability which is highly preferred to build large and complex web applications requiring scalability. JavaScript, on the other hand, offers simplicity of use and flexibility, making it ideal for quick dynamic developments.
If you are looking for front-end development, choose TypeScript and go for JavaScript if server-side web app development is your project need.
So, the answer completely lies in the project requirements and which language can fulfill the same.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, by reading this article, we get to know that both languages have both advantages and disadvantages to offer.
You can simply assess the benefits and cons of both programming languages and make an informed choice accordingly. Also, you can connect with us at Orion eSolutions if you need assistance with your web development project. Hire front-end developers from us who hold expertise in both TypeScript and JavaScript languages. Thus, ensuring the development of robust and efficient web applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are TypeScript and JavaScript similar?
Answer: There is no direct answer to this query. The reason is TypeScript provides classes and capabilities that enable developers to implement object-oriented programming concepts and methodologies.
On the other hand, Javascript is not a limited language. Hence, the app owners need not adhere to object-oriented concepts strictly.
2. Can TypeScript be replaced by JavaScript?
Answer: No, JavaScript won’t be replaced by TypeScript. TypeScript can be referred to as an extended version of JS with additional features and functionalities including static typing and more.
3. Why hire JavaScript developers from Orion eSolutions?
Answer: Hire JavaScript developers from Orion eSolutions as they possess the expertise and relevant experience in building web apps using both TypeScript and JavaScript programming languages.
