TypeScript vs JavaScript: Which is better for your project?

The debate between TypeScript and JavaScript has been around for quite some time. But when it comes down to which language is the best for your project, it depends on your individual needs. Ever wonder what is the difference between TypeScript and JavaScript? Many people confuse the two, but they’re quite different. While both are scripting languages used to write code for web pages, TypeScript provides additional features that can’t be found in regular JavaScript.

When deciding which technology to use between Typescript and JavaScript framework, there is no one-size fits all solution; it comes down to your organization’s unique needs. It might be helpful to enlist the help of the best JavaScript Developers, who can give you advice mixed with best practices from professional experience. Javascript Developers For Hire have a wealth of knowledge on the subject and will assist you in making an educated decision based on your project’s requirements.

If you are leading a web development project, you probably use JavaScript or Typescript. While JavaScript is ideal for various websites and apps, it is not an advisable language for developing large-scale applications. TypeScript works perfectly for creating small and large-scale sites & apps.

Read on to understand the differences between these two powerful programming languages and their respective advantages and disadvantages.

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is a programming language that helps developers to make the specific web page dynamic. It followed client-side programming standards, meaning it operates in the user’s web browser without requiring resources from the web server. Javascript can also be used with other technologies such as REST APIs, XML, and others.

The purpose of developing this script is to make it an additional scripting language in the same way that Visual Basic was to C++ in Microsoft’s language families. JavaScript, on the other hand, is not intended for complex applications. 

It is the most used programming language among developers worldwide and beats popular languages like Python and TypeScript by a significant margin. 

The infographic below offers insights:

Source

What is TypeScript?

TypeScript is an open-source high level-programming language and is a syntactical superset of JavaScript. It offers optional static typing, classes, and interface and can run on browsers that support ECMAScript 3 or newer versions and Node.js. The programming language helps in developing robust code that is easier to maintain for even large-scale sites and apps.

In a Nutshell, TypeScript is a statically compiled programming language used for writing clear and concise JavaScript code. Fulfilling the same purpose as JavaScript, it can be used for both client-side and server-side applications. Furthermore, the JavaScript libraries are even compatible with TypeScript. 

Why was TypeScript Developed? 

The TypeScript programming language has been designed and developed to overcome the shortcomings of the JavaScript programming language. JavaScript was initially meant for frontend or client-side development but, with time, became a popular full-stack solution covering both frontend and backend development. 

On the downside, JavaScript in server-side development produces complex and heavy code. It fails to deliver the true potential of the Object-Oriented Programming language. TypeScript leverages the concepts of static typing, classes, and interfaces. The powerful type system in TypeScript helps create concise and manageable code that is optimum for creating enterprise-level apps.

TypeScript vs JavaScript – Key Differences

• JavaScript is a scripting language, whereas Typescript is a superset of JavaScript.
• JavaScript code is free from compilation, while TypeScript code requires compilation.
• Typescript comes with the prototyping feature, while JavaScript lacks this feature.
• Typescript leverages concepts like types and interfaces, which are missing from the JavaScript language.
• Typescript is ideal for large-size projects, whereas JavaScript is a compelling choice for small-size projects.

TypeScript vs JavaScript – Comparison Table

Feature	TypeScript	JavaScript
Date of Release	December 4, 1995	1 October 2012
Syntax	JavaScript-based syntax with additional features	Standard JavaScript syntax
Data Binding	Uses concepts like types and interfaces for data description	No such features are available
Prototyping	Has prototyping-based features	Not available
Learning Curve	Steep learning curve	Gentle learning curve
Community Support	Has a decent community support	Has a wide and mature community support
Compilation	The compilation is necessary for the TypeScript code	The compilation is not needed for the JavaScript code
Apps Built Using it	Slack, Medium, Asana, etc.	Netflix, Facebook, Uber, etc.

TypeScript Features

• Easy code maintenance
• High productivity for developers
• Easy code navigation
• Optional static typing
• Supports ES6
• Compatible with interfaces, sub-interfaces, classes, and subclasses
• Robust and scalable code
• Power of OOP

JavaScript Features

• Lightweight scripting language 
• Platform independent
• Applicable for client-side & server side
• Dynamic typing
• Easier to learn
• Flexible development approach
• Added dependencies
• Event handling

Advantages of TypeScript over JavaScript

1. Optional Static Typing

The TypeScript language provides an optional static typing option for code development, which reduces the chances of bugs hitting the production phase. It also makes the code more readable & improves the code structure.

2. High Productivity

Common bugs are easier to detect in the compilation stage. The early detection of bugs allows developers to focus on the code logic, which boosts code quality significantly.

3. Code Reliability

Variables in TypeScript function precisely the way they are defined, which paves the way for code to work according to your intentions.

4. Power of OOP

You can use concepts from class-based object-oriented programming (OOP) like classes, interfaces, and others for creating code that is secure and scalable.

5. High Readability

TypeScripts leverages syntactic sugar to make the code more expressive and easier to understand. 

Advantages of JavaScript over TypeScript

1. Easier to Master

JavaScript is among the easiest programming languages to master for anyone. People find it easier to learn, which is missing in the TypeScript programming language. 

2. Does Not Require Compilation

JavaScript code does not require compilation when running in a browser. In contrast, TypeScript code requires compilation when running in a browser.

3. Massive Talent Pool

JavaScript is a more than three decades old Scripting language and has a simple learning curve. Globally, it was the most used programming language in the last year. You can easily hire JavaScript developers with several years of expertise in the programming language.

When Should I Choose TypeScript Development

• Projects involving various developers will work better with TypeScript as the code has high readability. Developers won’t have to indulge in several meetings, which saves development time and effort.
• Enterprise-level or large-scale projects are best suited to TypeScript developers.

When Should I Choose JavaScript Development

• It’s best to use JavaScript development services when you have either small-scale or mid-level development projects.

Which programming language You Should learn?  

Both TypeScript and JavaScript are viable programming languages to learn. JavaScript is easier to master and offers maximum opportunities for employment. In contrast, TypeScript requires more time and effort as it has a steep learning curve. Notably, both languages have similar syntax and run-time behavior. So, it’s easier for you to master TypeScript if you are a JavaScript expert. 

Wrapping Up

While both are excellent choices for developing functional sites and apps, TypeScript triumphs over JavaScript in various aspects. It is best to weigh your requirements when choosing one technology over the other. A web app development company can help you choose the best one for your needs by weighing the number of lines of code necessary to develop the app. 

JavaScript is the perfect choice for developing a few hundred lines of code. More than that, you should use TypeScript programming for developing the project.