JavaScript vs. Typescript : What’s The Difference? Software Development
Looking to bring your app or web idea to life with an experienced JavaScript team? JavaScript has been the preferred scripting language for front and backend development with frameworks like React, TezJS, Node.js, and Deno, making it significant for web apps and pages. However, as web applications grow in complexity, TypeScript, an improved version of JavaScript developed by Microsoft, has evolved to manage large-scale projects more effectively. TypeScript’s popularity, driven by its robust typing and scalability features, has made it a top choice for projects requiring more structure and manageability.
Both JavaScript and TypeScript are now highly in demand by developers, each bringing distinct advantages. While JavaScript remains ideal for flexible, rapid scripting, TypeScript supports building complex, error-free applications at scale, employed by frameworks like Angular. If you’re ready to lessen costs and accelerate development, our JavaScript experts are here to help you begin!
TypeScript vs JavaScript: The Real Differences
If we look at both TypeScript and JavaScript, then every JavaScript code is usable in TypeScript, proving it is a superset of JavaScript.
In another way, we can say,
JavaScript + more features = TypeScript
So, if you save your JavaScript programming file (.js) with a TypeScript (.ts) extension, it will be finished perfectly fine. But that doesn’t make both languages – TypeScript and JavaScript similar.
Let’s comprehend the basics of both languages. But before going into detail, have a look at this:
As per Popularity of Programming Language (PYPL), JavaScript is ranked 3rd most widespread programming language, while TypeScript ranks 8th.
Popularity of Programming Language (PYPL)
Why was TypeScript Developed despite Having JavaScript?
JavaScript language was initiated as a client-side programming language. However, when using JavaScript for web development, developers discovered that it could also be deemed a server-side programming language.
The creation of TypeScript happened to bridge the gap of JavaScript’s complexity, which restricted its growth as an object-oriented, server-side language.
What’s TypeScript?
TypeScript, an object-oriented, open-source and statically compiled programming language, has been developed and maintained by Microsoft. It’s a superset of JavaScript, comprising optional typing. Besides, it compiles plain JavaScript. Used for writing clear and brief JavaScript code, it fulfills the same function as JavaScript and can be utilized for both client-side and server-side applications. Additionally, the JavaScript libraries are conformable to TypeScript. Simply put, TypeScript is JavaScript with some extra features.
TypeScript supports dynamic as well as static typing, providing classes, visibility scopes, namespaces, inheritance, unions, interfaces, and several other features. It also provides comments, variables, statements, expressions, modules, and functions.
TypeScript can be executed on Node.Js or any other browser that supports ECMAScript 3 or its newest versions.
Why Should We Use TypeScript?
TypeScript is an enhanced version of JavaScript. Therefore, comparing it with other languages such as CoffeeScript (which adds syntactic sugar) or PureScript (which is not identical to JavaScript at all) requires learning several things to write TypeScript code. In TypeScript, types are optional, and any JavaScript file is considered a valid TypeScript file. While the compiler will inform you if any initial files have type concerns, it will still offer a JavaScript file that works. TypeScript will fulfill your expectations while allowing you to improve your skills easily.
Is TypeScript Suitable for Frontend or Backend?
Since TypeScript is compiled into JavaScript, it applies to both the front and back end of app development.
JavaScript is also a chosen programming language for the front end of web pages and apps. TypeScript might be used for the same reason, but it also works well on the server side for complex and large-scale enterprise projects. TypeScript serves as a JavaScript superset with optional static type-checking and the latest ECMAScript features.
React, Angular, and Vue, are some other top frontend frameworks that can also be employed to build next-gen apps.
Types of TypeScript
TypeScript has various basic types, including Number, Array, Tuple, Boolean, String, and many more. Though a few of these types are not accessible in JavaScript, you can learn more about them in TypeScript documentation.
Additionally, below are some other types which are fluent in TypeScript:
Any & Unknown
Any type in TypeScript enables developers to evade strict type-checking, making it an adaptable type that can hold any value, whether a string, number, array, or object. It’s valuable when managing data from external sources, such as third-party APIs, where the precise data type is unknown or invalid. By allocating any to a variable, TypeScript will treat it as an “anything goes” type, efficiently disabling type-checking for that variable and executing any operations. It is supportive when escaping the time system only for a brief time is required. However, it’s crucial to use it carefully, as it decreases TypeScript’s ability to detect errors.
Unknown is a more type-safe version of any as it encourages you to validate the type before working with the variable, decreasing potential errors.
Void
Void is utilized when no value is reimbursed. However, it’s usually used for the return function, which returns nothing.
Never
Never is the return type for something that should never occur, such as an exception-throwing purpose.
Intersection & Union Types
These types allow you to create custom types following the logic.
Intersection types allow you to combine several basic types into one type. For instance, if we create a custom type Person that covers first_name: string and a last_name: string. You can say this: I want my type to be this and that.
Union types allow you to type to take one of the several basic types. For instance, if a question returns either a string or an undefined result, you can say this as I want my type to be this or that.
All of these types make sense when you think of them as spaces.
TypeScript supports both inherent and overt types. If you don’t write your types clearly, the compiler will allow type inference to recognize the types you’re using.
Instead, writing them provides advantages, such as helping other team members who read your code and validating that what you see is what the compiler sees.
Features of TypeScript
The advanced features of TypeScript support additional features of JavaScript, such as object-oriented programming concepts, JS libraries, platform independence, etc.
Compatibility
TypeScript supports both old and new surplus features as well. However, it’s compatible with all the versions of JavaScript, such as ES7 and ES12. It can compile the whole code in ES7 back to ES5 and vice versa, ensuring a smooth transition and language manageability.
Static Typing
Static typing in TypeScript means that developers must state the variable type before using it. For instance, if you create a variable known as `str`, the code won’t function until you identify what type of value it will have, like an integer, float, list, or another type. This necessity helps TypeScript spot bugs initially, allows for faster code completion, and enhances the overall code quality.
A few key benefits and features of TypeScript’s static typing are:
- Code maintenance becomes easier, and helps teams make the code more readable and predictable.
- With flexible type annotations, developers can efficiently identify and control the types employed in the code.
- TypeScript comprises object-oriented features, i.e., interfaces, inheritance, and classes, making it perfect for complex applications.
- Static typing enables TypeScript to detect errors early which simplify debugging and decrease runtime issues.
- TypeScript supports ES6 (ECMAScript 2015) features, counting simplified syntax for working with objects, classes, and inheritance.
Advantages of TypeScript
Type Safety
One of the most important advantages of TypeScript is its static typing system. By clearly stating variable types, you can spot type-related errors during compiling, reducing the runtime errors and improving the overall code quality.
Improved Tooling and IDE Support
TypeScript’s type details provide a better development experience by offering superior autocompletion, refactoring, and code navigation. With far-reaching IDE support, TypeScript can improve productivity and make coding more productive.
Scalability
Due to its static typing system, TypeScript is a preferred choice for large-scale projects, making code preservation and refactoring more controllable. Also, the ability to collaborate among team members allows developers to easily comprehend and work with each other’s code.
Strict Null Checking
TypeScript enables you to execute strict null checking which avoid potential bugs triggered by null or undefined values. It can save you time and enhance code reliability.
Interfaces and Generics
TypeScript leads interfaces and generics, which improve code reusability and modularity, making it easier to generate reusable components and write more easy-to-read type annotations.
Disadvantages of TypeScript
While TypeScript offers numerous advantages, a few potential disadvantages are associated with its usage.
Additional code
TypeScript introduces static typing, which means developers have to write type annotations. TypeScript can increase development time when working on smaller projects or during the early stages of development. However, it’s important to note that TypeScript will help reduce development time in the future for some reasons noted above.
Variations of use
TypeScript can sometimes be challenging, particularly when dealing with complex situations or when the correct types are undefined. In such cases, developers might ignore type declarations to meet deadlines or face challenges while finding the appropriate typing solution. However, avoiding types in difficult areas can reduce the benefits of TypeScript, doubting the practicality of using TypeScript.
Adding Optional Technology
TypeScript requires developers to know the language to work effectively on a project. However, TypeScript is just a superset of JavaScript, meaning JavaScript developers can quickly achieve it.
What’s JavaScript?
JavaScript is a programming language that brings interactivity and dynamic features to web pages. Whenever a webpage surpasses static content like providing live updates, interactive maps, animated graphics, or scrollable video galleries, it proves JavaScript is possibly at work. It forms the third layer in the base of web technologies, together with HTML and CSS, organizing and styling web content correspondingly. These technologies collectively provide a rich, engaging web experience.
Advantages of JavaScript
Client-Side Security
JavaScript frameworks, similar to React and Angular, offer built-in security features to protect the client’s side.
Less Overhead
JavaScript is lightweight and demands minimal software and hardware, which makes it ideal for web and mobile apps.
Inherently Fast
JavaScript works on the client side, lessening data transfer time and empowering high-performance applications.
Easy to Learn and Implement
JavaScript is handy for developers at all levels due to its simple syntax and dynamic nature.
Popularity
JavaScript is widely used, with a huge ecosystem of libraries and frameworks for effective app development.
Reduced Server Load
Running code on the client side reduces server load, optimizing server resources and user experience.
Versatility
JavaScript can be used for front and backend development with frameworks like Node.js, React, and Angular.
Rich Interfaces
JavaScript enables developers to build interactive, dynamic interfaces for engaging user experiences.
Disadvantages of JavaScript
Security Risks
JavaScript runs on the client side and reveals it to security exposures if not executed safely.
Increased Server Load
Heavy client-side data processing can sometimes pressurize servers and influence performance.
Browser Inconsistencies
JavaScript behavior might vary across browsers, so cross-platform testing is needed.
Limited Debugging Tools
JavaScript debugging tools are less progressive, possibly slowing down development.
Lacks Multiple Inheritance
JavaScript only supports single inheritance, restricting complex object-oriented designs.
Slower Rendering
JavaScript is usually slower than compiled languages like C++ or Java due to its rendered nature.
Difference between TypeScript and JavaScript
The obvious difference between JavaScript and TypeScript’s code is that several other factors make them both distinct.
Learning Curve
TypeScript is a superset of JavaScript. Writing a TypeScript code requires a basic comprehension and awareness of JavaScript, along with clarity over the OOPS conception.
JavaScript is a well-known and easy-to-learn scripting language used by numerous developers with CSS and HTML to create web applications. However, HTML is difficult as it comprises event handling, web behaviour, animations, and scripting.
Developers Community
TypeScript gained its status quickly and was employed by several enterprises. Numerous tutorials and guides for learning TypeScript are accessible on the Internet. Also, it has a very active and supportive community.
However, JavaScript doesn’t have a huge community compared to TypeScript. JavaScript has many libraries, frameworks, and code practices. Therefore, it’s recommended that you know the web development team structure that best suits your business requirements for overall team performance.
Performance
TypeScript was created to exceed the challenges of JavaScript for large-level complex applications. Thus, it saves development time and enables developers to become more competent.
The only difference between TypeScript and JavaScript is that TypeScript code is compiled into JavaScript before implementation.
Syntax
Unlike JavaScript, TypeScript provides variable declaration, functional paradigm, and type system. It’s parallel to JScript and .Net in terms of syntax, with support for ECMAScript 2015 Standard features counting modules, an arrow function syntax, and classes.
JavaScript follows the ECMAScript definition as well. However, it’s not a typed language similar to TypeScript. It utilizes numerous structured programming terminologies from C, like if statements, switch statements, do-while loops, and several others. It provides an event-driven style and functional and imperative programming.
Tools and Frameworks
Since Microsoft supports TypeScript, it has several leading frameworks and editors. Having tight integration with editors, it offers error management during compilation to escape errors at runtime.
However, various JavaScript frameworks are accessible in the market for web development project needs. It’s a wide ecosystem that’s quite well-known among programmers. You can swiftly find developers who have expertise in ReactJS, VueJS, Angular, and other frameworks.
How does TypeScript Differ from JavaScript?
We know that TypeScript provides more features than JavaScript. TypeScript is a contemporary language, a syntactical superset of JavaScript, though JavaScript is a scripting language subset of TypeScript.
Concerning features, here are 10 major differences between JavaScript and TypeScript:
- TypeScript can be intensely typed, while JavaScript is vigorously typed only.
- TypeScript is more readable and sustainable than JavaScript.
- TypeScript supports abstraction via interfaces, while JavaScript does not.
- TypeScript enables developers to annotate code with decorators, while JavaScript does not.
- TypeScript supports the ability to modularize and establish components using namespaces, which is not supported in JavaScript.
- TypeScript is easier to read than JavaScript, using syntax elements such as optional and named parameters.
- TypeScript supports generics and a type inference feature that is inaccessible in JavaScript.
- TypeScript IDEs provide more features due to the ease of building plugins and tools with a statically typed language.
- TypeScript code is convenient to debug as the codebase develops because type errors can be revealed at compilation time rather than runtime.
- TypeScript carries out additional features past the limited ECMAScript specification to which JavaScript complies.
Why Migrate Your Project to TypeScript?
If you have a huge and complex codebase, there is a greater chance of errors. However, it would be good if some errors were resolved during the compilation process, which is possible by using TypeScript. The best part is that the whole Java codebase might be reused as-is.
When to Choose: Difference between JavaScript and TypeScript ?
TypeScript
- Compile Time Type Checking
With Vanilla JavaScript, type verification is executed at runtime. However, this improves the runtime overhead, which might be escaped by directing compile-time validation.
- Huge Projects or Multiple Developers
TypeScript works seamlessly for large projects or when several developers are functioning together.
- Easy to Work with New Libraries or Frameworks
Suppose you are working with React for development and are not accustomed to its APIs. You can get IntelliSense, which will help you recognize and lead new interfaces. However, they both offer type definitions.
JavaScript
- Small Projects
TypeScript may be overloaded for small projects with fewer codes.
- Framework Support
Suppose TypeScript doesn’t support the framework you’re using, like EmberJS. In that case, you might not be able to take complete advantage of TypeScript’s features, possibly limiting type-checking, autocompletion, and early error detection in your code.
- Build Tools
To create the final JavaScript to be run, TypeScript needs a build step. However, developing JavaScript applications without any built tools is gradually becoming uncommon.
- Testing Workflow
If your talented JavaScript developers are already utilizing test-driven development, the benefits of switching to TypeScript might not be enough to justify the expenses.
Should I learn JavaScript or TypeScript?
Well, if you have knowledge of JavaScript, then it’s easy for you to understand TypeScript since both languages share similar syntax and runtime behavior.
Being the most popular language, JavaScript has many resources and a huge developer community. Since the execution of both languages is done in similar ways in most situations, TypeScript developers can also facilitate those resources.
Benefits of TypeScript over JavaScript
Using TypeScript in a project offers several advantages:
Code Maintainability
With type annotations, TypeScript brings structure to code, making it self-documenting and easy to maintain.
Enhanced Developer Productivity
IDE support enables TypeScript to provide autocompletion, navigation, and refactoring tools for rapid development.
Improved Collaboration
Type annotations make code more comprehensible, helping teams cooperate and employ new developers efficiently.
Scalability
TypeScript’s type system is perfect for large projects as it inhibits the possibility of errors and helps with confident refactoring.
Reduced Number of Bugs
Static type checks spot errors early, develops stable applications and allows less time to be spent on fixes.
Ecosystem and Community
TypeScript’s flourishing ecosystem offers tools, resources, and type definitions for common JavaScript libraries.
Will TypeScript Replace JavaScript?
It’s unlikely that TypeScript would entirely replace JavaScript. JavaScript is the central language of the web, backed by all browsers and a vast number of existing libraries and frameworks. On the other hand, TypeScript is built on JavaScript by adding static typing and additional features, which makes it ideal for large projects, but still, it’s dependent on JavaScript as its base.
Instead of replacing JavaScript, TypeScript pairs with it and provides advantages such as early error detection and enhanced maintainability for developers who require them. Various projects require the usage of both languages, with JavaScript in simpler parts and TypeScript for more complex, scalable code.
Head-to-Head Comparison: TypeScript vs JavaScript
TypeScript and JavaScript share numerous similarities in developing interactive web pages. When a head-to-head comparison of TypeScript vs JavaScript is concerned, we can say that JavaScript is a lightweight, interpreted and dynamic language employed for augmenting HTML web pages. Since TypeScript is known as an improved version of JavaScript, it combines JavaScript and some other qualities.
Look at the key differences both languages share:
Origins
TypeScript: Established by Microsoft in 2012 as a superset of JavaScript to manage JavaScript’s complexities.
JavaScript: Introduced by Brendan Eich in 1995 to develop dynamic, interactive web pages.
Typing
TypeScript: Strongly typed and supports both static and dynamic typing.
JavaScript: Loosely typed, supporting only dynamic typing.
Ecosystem
TypeScript: Ideal for complex projects due to its robust features for static typing.
JavaScript: A simpler language, emphasizing compatibility and ease of use.
Compilation
TypeScript: Need compilation to JavaScript.
JavaScript: Accessible directly in browsers without compilation.
Data Structuring
TypeScript: Supports interfaces and types for defining data clearly.
JavaScript: Doesn’t employ interfaces or explicit types.
Learning Curve
TypeScript: Ideal for developers who are experts in JavaScript owing to its sharper learning curve.
JavaScript: Easy to learn, right for quick scripting.
NPM Packages
TypeScript: For better compatibility, it offers npm packages with type definitions.
JavaScript: Provide access to npm packages with missing build steps.
Usage
TypeScript: Mainly client-side, perfect for large-scale apps.
JavaScript: Used on both client and server sides.
File Extensions
TypeScript: .ts or .tsx
JavaScript: .js
Community and Prototyping
TypeScript: Has a smaller community and supports object-oriented programming with prototyping.
JavaScript: Has a larger community and supports prototype-based inheritance.
Conclusion
TypeScript and JavaScript each offer unique strengths: JavaScript for its versatility in creating dynamic, lightweight web applications, and TypeScript for its structured, scalable approach suited to complex, large-scale projects. As web applications become complex, TypeScript’s robust typing and error-checking become essential, particularly in collaborative and enterprise environments. Whether your goal is a simple, dynamic site or a highly scalable app, selecting the right language is key to efficiently meeting your project’s requirements. At Progatix, our skilled developers are ready to bring your vision to life with web and app development solutions tailored to your business needs. Let’s build something significant together!
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