Although there are numerous programming languages and frameworks, neither of them managed to amass such a great number of users as JavaScript. The question we have is there really an alternative to JavaScript?
Some stats say that 69.8% of developers opt for JavaScript and for good reason – many of them believe that this programming language equals front-end development and client-side.
In other words, it’s pretty hard to imagine a better solution for creating web interfaces and adding dynamic and interactive elements to your web pages without JavaScript, which is why it’s considered unique and one of a kind. Additionally, it’s one of the only languages that can be used for full-stack development.
But, is it possible that there’s no other solution that could match the popularity, success, and benefits of a programming language that was conceived almost 25 years ago?
Why JavaScript?
Before We Introduce Other Options, It’s Important To Establish Why JavaScript Enjoys Its Current Status.
Here Are Some Of Its Most Important Benefits:
- JavaScript allows you to create all kinds of interactive online forms, such as registration forms and questionnaires that users can fill out.
- Enables animating web page elements such as fading, relocating, and resizing.
- Provides rich interfaces with the help of drop-down menus, sliders, rollover effects, etc.
- Allows you to track users’ actions such as scrolling, zooming, or clicking buttons.
Generally speaking, with JavaScript, you can create interactive and dynamic web pages that will engage your visitors. Its compatibility with most existing browsers is another factor that makes JS a preferred choice among programmers.
Let’s not forget that ever since Node.js has come into the picture, JS has started to take over the server-side too.
What JS Alternatives Are There?
Although JavaScript is constantly updated and polished to meet the new demands, there are attempts to overcome some of the challenges that JS developers face such as writing simple, scalable, and manageable code easily.
And Here Are The Top JS Alternatives Which Offer Decent Solutions To These Issues
1. Coffee Script
One of the main benefits of Coffee Script is that its code is clear which means that it makes JavaScript simpler and improves its readability. Another good thing is that It can also be used with Node.js which has seen a huge increase in popularity.
Even though CoffeeScript isn’t a modification of JS, developers who decide to code in it are required to be well-versed in JavaScript.
The fact that it comes with a limited set of features is a big disadvantage.
2. TypeScript
Created by Microsoft with the idea of enhancing JS capabilities, this language allows you to use the existing JS code, libraries, and framework in your TypeScript project.
An app written in TypeScript and compiled to JS can be viewed in most browsers. Other benefits include Node.js compatibility as well as static typing.
On the other hand, you still need to be proficient in JavaScript in order to use this language, while some users also say that coding in TypeScript is more complex and time-consuming.
3. Elm
One of the main benefits of the Elm Language, created for graphic interface development, is that it doesn’t generate run-time exceptions which means that developers get instant feedback about potential issues while they’re coding thus allowing them to prevent problems as their application grows.
Other pros include automating code formatting as well as excellent documentation.
Then again, versatility isn’t its strong side, so you can’t expect to use it on the server-side.
4. Clojure Script
ClojureScript is a simple and powerful development tool which is compatible with many browsers, as well as with mobile platforms and Node.js.
This functional language boasts rich sets of immutable data structures that ensure safety and is primarily used for interactive development.
Besides that, its simplicity means that developers will be more productive given that most things don’t require writing too much code like in other languages. This also reduces the number of potential bugs.
Among its disadvantages is its lack of real-time support and the fact that it’s not memory-efficient which is why it requires high-memory servers thus increasing the hardware costs.
Having said that, JavaScript is still unparalleled in terms of the feature abundance, browser support, new releases, and upgrades, as well as the widespread use of its scripts and plugins. Although these alternatives are pretty decent and come with a number of different benefits, JavaScript is still a staple when it comes to front-end development.
