Popular JavaScript frameworks in 2018
In the recent article on JavaScript Front End frameworks' popularity on Stack Overflow it was noted how fast the turnaround for frameworks is. Developers need to maintain an active mindset on learning to keep up with the trends of the dynamic job market. What are the most popular options in 2018?
Popularity of technologies can be measured in many ways, but in the current age GitHub stars are a clear indication of the relative popularity of JavaScript projects. Together with the count and general trends in the technology industry, for 2018 the JavaScript frameworks to spend time learning are:
- Vue.js - The framework has gained popularity after the major version 2.0 released back in 2018. This UI library comes with a great ecosystem for SSR, state management and routing components.
- React.js - The original declarative JavaScript UI library made great strides with React 16 release. In addition there are now interesting options like the popular Universal JavaScript Framework Next.js
- Angular - Angular has made the transition from the older AngularJS project with a technically sound platform. Fully featured, the framework comes with batteries included.
- Preact - Preact is a lightweight JavaScript UI library. It comes with a compatible API to that of React, but at a lower size and only in ES6 syntax. Preact can be a drop-in replacement in many React.js projects.
- HyperApp - HyperApp is a drop-dead simple UI library to create applications with.
- Svelte - Svelte is a compiling JavaScript framework that entered the market in early 2017. It is clearly an underdog, but implements some unique concepts. It comes with the complimentary Sapper framework for a complete universal app building toolkit.
- Stencil - Stencil is a JavaScript framework authored in TypeScript. It compiles down to standards compliant Web Components. It comes from the Ionic team who have a strong track record in creating tools for hybrid mobile development.
The JavaScript world keeps evolving rapidly, but the core requirements remain the same. Throughout 2018 it is expected that Web Components, TypeScript and Universal JavaScript rendering continue to gain momentum.
React.js from stays top-of-mind for JavaScript savy developers. Vue.js is a worthy alternative with projects like GitLab and Laravel adopting it at scale. Angular remains a solid option if you're looking for an opinionated Full Stack JavaScript framework for complex web applications.
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