Choosing the Right Node.js Framework: Options and Comparisons

January 24, 2024

This might surprise you, but the truth is Node.js is 14 years old, introduced in 2009! Around 6.3 million websites used Node.js in 2023, being one of the most used web developments. The number is only about to increase in 2024.

To handle this growing demand, it’s better to use a Node.js framework, as it aids in building everything from scratch. However, the real challenge that businesses face while developing a website is choosing the right node.js framework.

In this blog, we will compare the 10 best Node.js frameworks and a guide to choosing the right one for your project. The tools are compared based on their use case, Github rating, language support, community support, built-in features, database support, and much more.

Let’s get started!

What are Node.js Frameworks?

In simple terms, a framework is a structure that serves as a support to build something. However, in the technical world, a framework is a tool used to develop well-structured solutions or software.

Like every framework, Node.js frameworks are tools that elevate the functions of Node.js, making building software using this framework way more efficient and quick.

Why Should You Opt for a Node.js Framework?

Netflix, LinkedIn, GoDaddy, and other big companies have witnessed significant growth in their performance after using Node.js owing to the tremendous benefits the framework brings to the table. Let’s have a look at these perks one by one.

Scalability

Businesses keep expanding with new products, features, etc now and then. When you scale your business, NodeJs will help you upgrade your website accordingly. It’s super easy to integrate new modules in an existing application using Node.js. Moreover, Node.js makes the system scalable, lightweight, and highly efficient.

Faster time to market

Time management is a challenge for business owners, particularly for those standing at the starting stage. Node.js is lightweight, which means developing an application can be done much faster. Its deployment process is also straightforward, and the production crew can examine it right away.

Quick to adapt

When Node.js frameworks started to gain momentum, a survey was put out where half of the respondents mentioned it’s super easy to learn and initiate migration towards node.js.

In fact, 62% of respondents even mentioned that they were very satisfied with the results node.js bought in the apps they developed.

Will it be the best framework in 2024? Yes! Node.js will help you cut through the chase and move the needle towards your industry. It is the best time for you to hire a Node.js developer for your business.

Let’s investigate the top 10 frameworks and it’s usage.

Top 10 Best Node.Js Frameworks and their Use Case:

Framework	Best Use Case
Express.js	Rapid server-side development Building Single and Multi-pages Hybrid web applications
Nest.js	Building efficient server-side applications Especially for enterprise-level applications Supports TypeScript and integrates with Express.js
Meteor.js	Rapid prototyping Cross-platform development Real-time applications Seamless data transfer between client and server
Koa.js	Creating web applications with increased personalization and lower complexity Compatible with Express ecosystem
Sails.js	Modern, data-oriented development High-end and complex web applications Auto-generates REST APIs Suitable for custom enterprise-scalable apps
Feathers.js	Simplistic real-time framework for designing advanced web applications Provides flexibility with Node and React Native
Hapi.js	Security-focused framework for building proxy servers REST APIs, and rich desktop applications Well-structured code with minimal overhead
LoopBack.js	Effortless connectivity with other Node frameworks Support for multiple databases Great for reducing development time and compatibility
MEAN.js	End-to-end development solution (MongoDB, Express, Angular, Node.js) Secure Robust Maintainable Dynamic applications
Total.js	Versatile use Includes real-time applications REST services, e-commerce platforms, and IoT projects. Focus on integration with various services

Quick Comparison Between the Top 10 Best Node.Js Frameworks:

Framework	Popularity (GitHub Stars)	Language Support	Community Support	Learning Curve	Built-in Features	Database Support
Express.js	High	JavaScript	Large and active community.	Moderate	Multiple template engines, content negotiation, and middleware support.	SQL and NoSQL databases
Nest.js	Moderate	TypeScript, JavaScript	Large and growing community.	Moderate	Extensive collection of libraries, modular structure, and TypeScript support.	SQL and NoSQL databases
Meteor.js	Moderate	JavaScript	Large and supportive community.	Low to Moderate	Isomorphic framework, automatic front-end updates, rapid prototyping.	MongoDB, with option for others
Koa.js	Moderate	JavaScript	Growing community.	Low	Cascading middleware, increased personalization, and error handling.	No built-in support, can use any
Sails.js	Low	JavaScript	Active, smaller community.	Moderate	Reusable security policies, object-relational mapping, Angular support.	SQL and NoSQL databases
Feathers.js	Low	JavaScript	Growing community.	Low to Moderate	Lightweight codebase, reusability, automatic RESTful APIs.	SQL and NoSQL databases
Hapi.js	Moderate	JavaScript	Strong community support.	Moderate	Support for secure defaults, rich ecosystem, minimal overhead.	SQL and NoSQL databases
LoopBack.js	Moderate	JavaScript	Growing community.	Moderate	High extensibility, built-in modules, and compatibility with various devices.	SQL and NoSQL databases
MEAN.js	Low	JavaScript	Sizeable community support.	Low to Moderate	Huge collection of libraries, low memory overhead, and isomorphic code.	MongoDB (Others can be integratedtoo)
Total.js	Low	JavaScript	Active open source community.	Moderate	Real-time tracking, and compatibility with multiple databases.	SQL and NoSQL databases

Only knowing the frameworks shall be of no use if which to choose when is not understood. Let’s peep into that now.

How to Choose the Best Node.js Framework for 2024?

Choosing the best Node.js framework for your project is an important decision. Hence, you have to set clear criteria early on to simplify the process. Define the key features and approaches essential for your project and then choose a tool that can achieve these features.

For example, if your project has to be adaptable to multiple audiences and you need to avoid rigid structures, steer clear of frameworks like LoopBack. Use frameworks like Express, Koa, or Meteor with which businesses have achieved tremendous results in terms of flexibility and adaptability.

If flexibility alone isn’t enough, you have to build a lightweight architecture and need built-in support for auto-generating REST APIs use Sails or Feathers. These frameworks cater to projects that have a specific deadline or launch date.

Once you are thorough with the Node.js framework you should use, the next big challenge will be putting things into motion. You will need a skilled team of Node.js developers, who not only are experts in their domain but also have a deep understanding of your target audience.

There are two ways to go from here. Either, hire a developer from your internal technical team, train them, and then start working on your project. Or simply hire a freelance Node.js expert who already has extensive knowledge of the field and outsource your work to them.

Final Thoughts:

Several Node.js frameworks help developers develop web apps easily. These frameworks are helpful at various stages of making an app. As technology is always changing, it’s important to understand your project needs first and then pick the right Node.js framework for your project. You can get in touch with Anblik to help you build Node.js framework-based web application.

Author

Shivaji Mitra

WordPress and Website Usability / Accessibility / Section 508 / AAA Compliance Consultant; having more than 20 years of experience and contributed many well-known plugins to the WordPress community.