🆚 Vanilla JavaScript vs Frameworks

As you dive deeper into web development, you'll encounter terms like Vanilla JavaScript and popular frameworks such as React, Vue, and Angular. Let's compare them to help you understand when and why to choose one over the other.

🍦 What is Vanilla JavaScript?

"Vanilla JS" refers to using plain JavaScript — without any libraries or frameworks. It gives you direct control over the DOM, browser APIs, and your code structure.

✅ Pros:

• Lightweight – no external dependencies
• Faster load times
• Better understanding of core JS fundamentals
• No build step or tooling required

⚠️ Cons:

• More boilerplate code for complex apps
• No built-in components or reactive data binding
• Difficult to manage large-scale UI interactions

⚙️ What Are Frameworks?

Frameworks like React, Vue, and Angular are tools that simplify building modern web apps. They provide components, state management, routing, and more — reducing the amount of manual DOM manipulation you need to do.

✅ Pros:

• Faster development with reusable components
• Built-in routing and state management
• More maintainable code for large apps
• Active ecosystems and community support

⚠️ Cons:

• Steeper learning curve
• Often requires a build step (Webpack, Vite, etc.)
• Larger bundle sizes
• Can become opinionated or complex

🧠 When to Use Vanilla JS

• Small projects or static websites
• Learning the fundamentals of JavaScript
• Performance-critical tasks (e.g., games, animations)
• No need for reactive UIs or client-side routing

🚀 When to Use Frameworks

• Medium to large-scale applications
• Projects requiring reusable UI components
• Apps with complex state, routing, or logic
• Team-based development and collaboration