You might be well-versed with the two most popular programming languages- TypeScript and JavaScript. But are you baffled which one is better? Do you know the difference between the two scripting languages? Which programming language should a developer select? JavaScript comes with high versatility and ease of use. Therefore, JavaScript has become one of the most popular languages among web developers around the globe.
TypeScript is a new addition to the scripting languages, and it is also gaining popularity. More importantly, it can be called a miniature version of JavaScript itself. However, it has some features that are extended from JavaScript. One of the primary attributes is that TypeScript is an object-oriented language, and JavaScript is a prototype-based programming language.
What is Javascript?
Typically, JavaScript becomes very useful for creating interactive web pages. If you are a developer, you might have noticed that JavaScript can completely transform the appearance and behavior of a website. Further, it handles user interactions. It is suitable for the front end of app development.
What is TypeScript?
Did you know that TypeScript is developed and maintained by Microsoft? It is an open-source programming language that is part of JavaScript. For instance, any valid JavaScript code is also a valid TypeScript code. TypeScript comes with additional features. It helps developers to identify errors in advance and arrange codes ideally. Furthermore, it promotes the overall development process. TypeScript is suitable for the front end and back end of app development.
What are the Major Differences Between TypeScript and JavaScript?
As mentioned above, TypeScript is an object-oriented programming language, while JavaScript is a prototype-based language. Apart from this, there are some differences between the two programming languages.
TypeScript comes with static typing feature, whereas JavaScript does not.
We can use the interface in TypeScript. On the other hand, JavaScript does not support an interface.
Language
JavaScript features dynamic typing, allowing variables to change type during its runtime. TypeScript is a superset of JavaScript. It implies that all JavaScript code is valid in TypeScript code as well. On the other hand, TypeScript comes with static typing features that help identify errors in coding in advance before the program runs.
IDE Support
Both programming languages feature outstanding integrated development environment(IDE). However, TypeScript has extended features such as type checking. It does not feature in JavaScript editors. It helps identify errors while coding and ensures better code quality.
Compilation Time
TypeScript code has to be compiled into JavaScript in the first place in advance before using it in a browser or any other environment. It adds to the development time. TypeScript has complex language features when converted to JavaScript. But if we take the case of JavaScript, it runs directly in the browser, eliminating the need for compilation before running.
Learning Curve
As JavaScript does not require any setup or additional configuration, it is a more intuitive programming language to learn. With the large community of developers, you can gain scripting knowledge quickly. TypeScript, on the other hand, needs additional setup and configuration. However, it uses a structured method for coding and development. Furthermore, it provides more scalability than JavaScript because of its typing abilities.
Performance
JavaScript programming runs in a runtime environment and may lead to slow performance—every time the code needs to be read and interpreted. As mentioned above, you can convert TypeScript into JavaScript before running. It leads to faster execution times much faster than JavaScript, as the entire work is done in advance.
Code Maintenance
Do you know what code maintenance implies? Let’s explain. Maintainability is a critical factor when choosing a programming language. So far, we have learned that JavaScript is rigid and complex. TypeScript maintains better code maintainability through static typing.
Debugging
Because of its static typing, debugging becomes the biggest problem for JavaScript. However, in TypeScript, web developers identify compilation errors very fast. In addition to this, they can find bugs effortlessly.
For your convenience, we have compiled a few differences. We shall look into each of them below:
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of TypeScript and JavaScript?
Now that you know the differences between both programming languages, you might have a vague idea about their benefits and drawbacks. We will discuss the pros and cons of both scripting languages.
Advantages of TypeScript
Static Typing
As you are already aware, TypeScript supports static typing, and therefore, it is easy to identify errors during the early software development process. Further, debugging takes only a little time, resulting in more productivity.
Enhanced Tooling
TypeScript offers better code navigation, auto-completion, changing the existing code, and so on.
Interfaces
While using TypeScript programming language, you can define the interface for custom types, which helps with code reusability and better code organization.
Disadvantages of TypeScript
Compilation Time
Before running TypeScript in the browser, you must compile to JavaScript. It adds a step to the software development process and consumes time.
Fewer Resources
Do you know that compared to JavaScript, TypeScript’s landscape is smaller? Yes, it indicates fewer tools, and resource availability would also be minimal.
Now, let’s move on to the benefits and pitfalls of JavaScript.
Advantages of JavaScript
Dynamic Typing
JavaScript supports dynamic typing. It is more adaptable, fast, and flexible for small projects, and software development services do not need static typing.
Vast Tools
JavaScript has been in place for quite some time and has vast libraries, resources, and tools.
Compilation
JavaScript runs directly in the browser, eliminating unnecessary compilation steps. Further, it helps speed up the software development process.
Disadvantages of JavaScript
Low Predictability
In the absence of static typing, the chances of runtime errors in JavaScript can be higher. It particularly becomes visible in large, complex applications.
Suitable for Small Projects
JavaScript is ideal for small software development projects and unsuitable for large applications.
Use cases of TypeScript
Knowing the use cases for both programming languages would help you understand which tool would help your software development. Let’s review a few use cases where your development team can use TypeScript.
When You Have a Large Codebase
The chances of error increase when so many developers work on a project at the same time. Therefore, if you work with a big development team, TypeScript can bring uniform typing, write a detailed codebase, and identify bugs before runtime.
If You Need Fast Development
As TypeScripting allows fast development using static typing, it helps web developers identify errors during development. It helps accelerate the coding process. Also, it integrates with common frameworks and tools. Above all, a supportive community helps with faster software development.
If You Focus on Angular 2 Development
Certain frameworks work better while using TypeScript than with JavaScript. Angular 2 is one among them. It works with enhanced efficiency when combined with TypeScriot’s static typing feature. Some frameworks use static typing. Under such cases, TypeScript is useful.
Top Use Cases of JavaScript
JavaScript becomes useful under several circumstances. Here are a few instances where JavaScript is used. Let’s explore!
If you want to use less code
When you need to craft a script quickly where your objective is to use minimal code, you can use JavaScript. Minimal coding takes only less development time. JavaScript becomes useful when you focus on completing a task without complex coding.
When flexibility is a priority
Dynamic typing features high flexibility, and JavaScript offers it. It allows developers to build new functionality without confining the same rules. The project requirements may change over some time, and having the flexibility to edit code becomes very useful. Mainly, if you work with a small software development services team, using JavaScript will help you go a long way rather than using traditional static typing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major differences between TypeScript and JavaScript?
TypeScript is more readable compared to JavaScript. TypeScript lets web developers annotate code, while JavaScript does not.
Is TypeScript harder than JS?
TypeScript has a more rigid learning curve than JavaScript. In contrast, JavaScript features simpler syntax, and beginners can learn it easily.
When do you use TypeScript mostly?
Angular developers more commonly use TypeScript, while other frameworks also support it.
Final Thoughts
Both TypeScript and JavaScript programming languages come with their pros and cons. Companies offering software development services in the UK use TypeScript or JavaScript language based on the specific needs a project has to fulfill.
If you are keen on finding out how to make the right choices and for all application development assistance, visit ThinkPalm’s software development services in the UK.
Access our UK software development teams’ support to meet your software development needs quickly and within a timeframe. Our team of web developers helps you select the best programming language based on the requirements of your project. So, what are you waiting for? Call us today to seal the deal!
Author Bio
Silpa Sasidharan is a content writer and social media copywriting expert working at ThinkPalm Technologies, who aspires to create marketing texts for topics spanning from technology, automation and digital business solutions.
