For some time now, a debate has been emerging between React and VueJS. This is because competition is fierce when it comes to JavaScript frameworks. It’s so intense that we’ve already created a comparison with another framework: React vs Angular.
React has undeniable advantages, just like VueJS: but in this case, which of these two frameworks should you choose for your project?
Let’s try to compare them one by one.
React
To begin with, React is not a framework, contrary to popular belief on the internet: it’s a library. This difference is crucial because it completely changes this comparison with VueJS.
A library is a large collection of JavaScript files containing reusable functions that developers can use optionally in their projects. It offers complete freedom.
A framework, on the other hand, requires a specific structure for building your project. It enforces a framework that cannot be ignored, making the code generally more maintainable but with the tradeoff of not being entirely free to use in your project.
This alone is the major difference between React and VueJS, which changes all the advantages and disadvantages of each technology.
Advantages
React has a huge community
And let’s not even mention its vast ecosystem with solutions to go further (for instance, you can create a mobile application with React Native, a technology based on React).
Every problem and almost every possible scenario has already been resolved online by other developers, making project development with React easier. 😊
React offers reusable components
This is one of React’s great strengths: building a project with this technology is like playing with LEGO bricks! You stack small blocks to build your website.
In developer jargon, this is called DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself).
The idea is to add as many blocks as needed to ensure excellent maintainability of the code. Any change made to a component is immediately reflected in all instances where that component is used.
React is highly performant thanks to the Virtual DOM
The Virtual DOM is simply an alternative version of the DOM (the HTML code) for a page. Its utility is that React understands your code more efficiently and only updates the part of your page that needs refreshing.
In short, user interfaces are dynamically updated with cutting-edge performance.
React is flexible
As mentioned at the beginning of this comparison, React is a library. It doesn’t impose a strict structure and allows developers to choose their own tools.
React is used by major companies
Finally, React is used by companies we all know, such as Facebook, Instagram, Airbnb, and Netflix.
Disadvantages
Of course, there are also some downsides. 😬
React has a steeper learning curve
As we often say: a good React developer is first and foremost a good JavaScript developer. React is easy to use, but some concepts require a solid understanding of JavaScript to grasp without difficulty.
Don’t worry: nothing is insurmountable, and an excellent course can make your learning process feel like child’s play! (Oh, by the way, we happen to offer a React course on the subject). ✨
React requires installing additional tools
Because React is a library, it offers the advantage of greater freedom but also the drawback of needing to choose your own dependencies (Redux, React Router, etc.), which can make development slightly more complex.
VueJS
VueJS is a JavaScript framework. It offers a set of tools and a strict structure to follow. It was created by Evan You, a former Google engineer, in 2014. The idea behind VueJS was born while he was working at Google on projects that used Angular. He appreciated certain aspects of Angular but found the framework too heavy and complex.
And voilà: VueJS was born!
Advantages
VueJS is easy to learn
Vue is designed to be easy to implement in existing projects, and that’s excellent news: this allows you to learn it gradually. Its learning curve is easier than React’s, but mastering it is just as challenging.
VueJS is very lightweight
With a base file size of around 20 to 30 KB, Vue allows for faster loading times compared to React. However, with the advent of server components in React, similar optimizations are now possible to achieve competitive loading speeds.
VueJS offers a complete solution
As a framework, Vue provides all the necessary tools for use without needing to install additional ones. For example, it includes Vue Router for routing and Vuex for state management.
Disadvantages
VueJS has a smaller community than React
Don’t get me wrong: Vue’s developer community is growing, but it’s still much smaller than React’s. This makes finding help on online forums and mastering VueJS resources less accessible!
VueJS is less adopted by major companies
Vue isn’t as widely adopted as React by companies, which could be a disadvantage for developers looking to offer services or find employment.
Fewer job opportunities can sometimes mean rarer profiles, potentially leading to higher salaries. However, this shouldn’t be your sole criterion when choosing between React and Vue.
VueJS has a smaller ecosystem of tools
Although Vue includes built-in tools, it offers fewer community-developed tools than React, which can be limiting for some complex projects.
Which to Choose: React or VueJS?
Ultimately, as you’ve gathered, the choice between React and Vue depends primarily on your needs:
- React is an excellent choice if you want a highly flexible library used by the world’s largest companies, with extensive tools and a massive community.
- VueJS is a perfect option if you want a simple, all-in-one solution to get started with a JavaScript framework.
Our advice: If you plan to develop mobile apps in the future, consider React, which easily transitions to mobile development via React Native for iOS and Android!
Related Questions
We’ve added the most frequently asked questions (and answers) we receive from our students. 😅
Does Reddit use React?
Yes, Reddit uses React on its website.
Can I combine React and VueJS in the same project?
It’s possible to mix React and VueJS in the same project! It might seem unusual, but this approach can sometimes provide the best of both worlds, leveraging the strengths of each.
For instance, you can manage specific sections of your page with Vue (such as a statistics chart) while the rest is built with React.
Which pays better: React or VueJS?
Both offer similar salaries. Of course, this depends on your geographic location. However, it’s unnecessary to choose a technology based on salary when comparing React and Vue.
How can I learn React?
React requires clear explanations and proper understanding. We strongly recommend choosing a comprehensive React course, like ours.