βοΈ React vs Vanilla JS / Angular / Vue
Choosing the right tool is crucial. Here's how React compares to Vanilla JS, Angular, and Vue β the most common front-end approaches developers face.
πͺΆ React vs Vanilla JavaScript
- Vanilla JS offers full control, but lacks structure and requires manual DOM manipulation.
- React introduces reusable components, JSX, and a virtual DOM for faster updates and cleaner logic.
- React is more scalable, especially for medium to large projects.
π§± React vs Angular
- Angular is a full-fledged MVC framework with everything built-in (routing, state, forms, etc.).
- React is a library focused on the view layer, offering flexibility and a smaller bundle size.
- Angular uses TypeScript by default. React supports both JS and TS.
- React has a gentler learning curve and is easier to integrate into existing projects.
π§© React vs Vue
- Vue is a progressive framework thatβs beginner-friendly and great for small-to-medium apps.
- React has a larger ecosystem and more enterprise adoption.
- Vueβs templating syntax is HTML-based, while React uses JSX.
- Both offer great performance and component-based structure.
π Comparison Table
Feature | React | Angular | Vue |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Library | Framework | Framework |
Size (Core) | ~42 KB | ~500 KB | ~33 KB |
Learning Curve | Medium | Steep | Easy |
Language | JSX / JavaScript | TypeScript | HTML + JS |
Use Cases | SPAs, Web Apps | Enterprise Apps | Progressive Sites |
All three are capable tools. Your choice depends on project size, team familiarity, and tooling preferences. React gives you flexibility, control, and performance β making it a top pick for modern web apps.