ReactJS vs Plain JavaScript 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Last updated on July 26th, 2024

ReactJS and Plain JavaScript are two popular programming languages used for developing web applications. While both have their merits, there are distinct differences between the two that make them suitable for different types of projects. ReactJS, a library developed by Facebook, is widely known for its component-based architecture and virtual DOM, which enhances performance and facilitates the creation of dynamic user interfaces. On the other hand, Plain JavaScript offers a more traditional approach, providing developers with greater control and flexibility over the code without relying on external libraries.

In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the advantages and benefits offered by ReactJS and Plain JavaScript in 2024. We will explore how ReactJS’s declarative views and reusable components can streamline the development process, especially for large-scale applications. Additionally, we will discuss the simplicity and direct nature of Plain JavaScript, which can be a better fit for smaller projects or situations where minimal dependencies are desired. By examining use cases, performance metrics, and developer experiences, we aim to provide a clear understanding of when and why to choose ReactJS or Plain JavaScript for your next web development project.

ReactJS Vs Plain Javascript: Overview

To get a better understanding of the differences between ReactJS and Plain JavaScript, let’s first take a brief look at what each language has to offer. ReactJS is a powerful library developed by Facebook, designed specifically for building user interfaces and handling the view layer of web applications. It allows developers to create reusable UI components, making code more modular and easier to maintain. ReactJS also uses a virtual DOM (Document Object Model), which optimizes and updates only the parts of the web page that need changing, thereby enhancing performance and speed. Additionally, its unidirectional data flow ensures that data changes in the application state are predictable and easier to debug, resulting in more reliable applications.

On the other hand, Plain JavaScript is a versatile scripting language that forms the backbone of web development, enabling developers to create dynamic and interactive web pages. It is the core technology behind web browsers and is essential for tasks such as form validation, animations, and asynchronous requests. JavaScript can be used alone or in conjunction with various libraries and frameworks to add intricate functionalities to web applications. While JavaScript itself provides the fundamental building blocks for web development, ReactJS enhances these capabilities by providing a structured framework tailored for modern, complex applications. By leveraging ReactJS, developers can efficiently manage the state of components, streamline the development process, and ultimately build more robust and scalable applications.

What is Plain Javascript?

Plain JavaScript, also known as Vanilla JavaScript or pure JavaScript, refers to the core programming language used for building web applications. It is a lightweight and versatile scripting language that enables developers to add dynamic and interactive elements to web pages. Unlike other languages that require specific frameworks or libraries, Plain JavaScript can be used on its own or in conjunction with various libraries and frameworks to create powerful web applications.  With its extensive range of features and functionalities, Plain JavaScript forms the backbone of modern web development.  From form validation and animations to creating responsive layouts and making asynchronous requests, Plain JavaScript offers endless possibilities for building robust and dynamic websites.  It is also cross-platform compatible, making it easy to create web applications that work seamlessly across different browsers and devices.  One of the key advantages of using Plain JavaScript is its lightweight nature, which ensures faster load times and better performance on websites. Additionally, as it does not require any specific dependencies or external resources, it simplifies the development process and reduces the risk of compatibility issues. Overall, Plain JavaScript remains an essential tool for web developers and continues to evolve with new updates and features being released regularly.

What is React JS?

React JS is an open-source JavaScript library used for building dynamic and user-friendly front-end interfaces. Developed by Facebook, it has gained immense popularity among web developers due to its efficient and flexible approach to building complex user interfaces. React uses a component-based architecture, which means that the UI is broken down into individual components that can be reused and combined to create more complex elements. This makes development faster, easier, and more organized. Additionally, React’s use of a virtual DOM (Document Object Model) allows for efficient updates and rendering of changes made by the user without reloading the entire page. This results in a smoother and more seamless user experience.

Also Read: How Much Does it Cost to Hire ReactJS Developers For Your Project?

React Vs. Plain Javascript – A Fair Comparison

Both React and Plain JavaScript have their unique advantages and purposes, but it is important to understand the differences between them to make an informed decision on which one to use for a project. React, a popular library developed by Facebook, offers a component-based architecture that simplifies the development of complex user interfaces with efficient updates. On the other hand, Plain JavaScript provides a more fundamental and lightweight approach, giving developers complete control over their code without any abstractions. Let’s take a closer look at how these two stack up against each other, examining aspects such as ease of use, performance, scalability, and community support. Understanding these factors can help developers choose the right tool for their specific needs and project requirements.

How is the UI created?

In Plain JavaScript, the entire user interface is built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This involves writing code for each element and managing changes to the DOM manually. Developers need to keep track of the state of the application and update the DOM directly, which can become cumbersome and error-prone as the application grows in complexity.

On the other hand, React offers a more modular approach where UI elements are broken down into components that can be reused and combined as needed. Each component manages its state and lifecycle, making it easier to reason about and maintain the code. React’s virtual DOM efficiently updates the real DOM, which enhances performance and user experience. This component-based structure makes development faster and more organized, especially when creating complex interfaces with multiple elements. Additionally, React’s ecosystem includes tools and libraries that further streamline development, such as Redux for state management and React Router for navigation.

How is the app’s functionality distributed?

In Plain JavaScript, developers need to manually define and handle the flow of data and actions in their code. This becomes increasingly complex as the application grows, with numerous functions and variables scattered throughout the codebase. Developers must keep track of these various elements and ensure that they interact correctly, which can be both time-consuming and error-prone. Additionally, managing state changes and synchronizing the user interface becomes more challenging as the application scales.

React offers a more organized approach through its unidirectional data flow architecture. The app’s state is managed by a single source of truth, typically stored in a parent component. This centralization of state management simplifies the development process by reducing the likelihood of inconsistencies and bugs. Child components can access and modify this state through props, ensuring that the flow of data is predictable and easy to follow. This makes it easier to track changes and maintain consistency across the app, even as it grows in complexity.

Moreover, React’s component-based structure promotes reusability and modularity. Each component is self-contained and can be reused across different parts of the application or even in different projects. This modular approach not only speeds up the development process but also makes the codebase more maintainable in the long run.

Debugging is also significantly simpler in React, as developers can easily trace where a particular function or action originated from. The clear separation of concerns between components and the unidirectional flow of data allows for more straightforward identification and resolution of issues. Furthermore, tools like React DevTools provide powerful insights into the component hierarchy and state, making it even easier to diagnose and fix problems.

How is data saved in the browser?

Data is typically saved in the browser through the use of cookies or local storage, both of which serve distinct purposes in web development. Cookies are small text files that websites save on a user’s device to store information such as login credentials, preferences, and browsing history. These cookies are sent back and forth between the browser and web server each time the user interacts with the website. This ensures that the user’s session is maintained and personalized settings are consistently applied. Cookies can also be used for tracking user behavior across different web pages and can expire after a set period or be deleted by the user.

Local storage, on the other hand, allows developers to store larger amounts of data directly in the browser without needing to communicate with a server. This client-side storage mechanism can hold significant data, such as the entire state of an application, user-generated content, or other important information that needs to persist across sessions. Local storage is especially useful for single-page applications (SPAs) where it can enhance performance by reducing the need for continuous server requests. Unlike cookies, data stored in local storage persists indefinitely unless explicitly deleted by the application or the user, making it ideal for long-term storage needs within a web application.

How is the User Interface updated?

The user interface (UI) refers to the visual elements and interaction design of a website or application that users interact with. It includes everything from buttons and menus to colors, fonts, and layout. The UI is constantly evolving as new features are added, bugs are fixed, and user feedback is incorporated. There are several ways in which the UI can be updated, including manual updates by developers, automated updates through libraries or frameworks, and dynamic updates using technologies such as AJAX.

In manual updates, developers directly make changes to the codebase to improve the UI based on specific requirements or bug fixes. This approach allows for complete control over the UI, but can be time-consuming and requires specialized knowledge.

Automated updates involve using libraries or frameworks to handle common UI tasks such as form validation, data binding, and animation. These tools provide pre-built components and functionality that can be easily integrated into an application, reducing the amount of manual work required to update the UI.

Dynamic updates use technologies like AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript And XML) to dynamically load new data from a server without having to reload the entire page. This allows for real-time updates to the UI based on user actions or changes in data, providing a more seamless and responsive experience for users.

How is Output given?

Output is the result of user interaction with a web application, whether it be inputting data, making a selection, or clicking on a button. The output can take many forms depending on the purpose and functionality of the application. Some common ways in which output is given include displaying text, images, videos, tables, graphs, and charts.

In a web application, output is typically generated using HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) code that specifies how content should be displayed on a webpage. This includes elements such as headings, paragraphs, lists, images, links, and more. CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) is then used to style and format the HTML elements, giving the output a visually appealing design.

Aside from traditional static output, modern web applications also incorporate dynamic output. This includes features such as real-time updates, animations, and interactive elements that respond to user input. These types of outputs are made possible through JavaScript, which allows for client-side scripting and manipulation of the webpage without having to reload the entire page.

Popularity: Javascript vs React

JavaScript and React are two popular technologies used for building dynamic user interfaces in web development. JavaScript is a programming language that has been around since the early days of the internet, while React is a newer library developed by Facebook.

Plain Javascript

JavaScript is a versatile language that can be used for both front-end and back-end development. It is primarily used for creating interactive web elements and adding functionality to web applications. With the rise of modern frameworks and libraries, JavaScript has become an essential part of building dynamic user interfaces.

One of the key benefits of using pure JavaScript is its widespread compatibility. As it is supported by all major browsers, developers can create cross-platform applications without any compatibility issues. Additionally, there are no third-party dependencies or overheads when using plain JavaScript, making it lightweight and efficient.

ReactJS

React is a popular JavaScript library used for building user interfaces. It was developed by Facebook and has gained traction in recent years due to its efficiency and simplicity. React uses a component-based architecture, where different parts of the interface are broken down into reusable components, making it easy to maintain and update.

One of the main advantages of using React is its Virtual DOM (Document Object Model). This allows developers to create dynamic interfaces without having to directly manipulate the HTML elements, resulting in faster rendering times and improved performance.

Advantages of React in 2024 over Javascript

As technology continues to evolve, so does the use of JavaScript and React. Although plain JavaScript is a versatile language, React has certain advantages that make it a preferred choice for building user interfaces in 2024.

• Component Reusability: React’s component-based architecture allows developers to reuse building blocks across different projects, significantly reducing development time and effort.
• Virtual DOM: React’s Virtual DOM ensures that updates are processed efficiently, leading to faster rendering and improved performance compared to direct DOM manipulation in plain JavaScript.
• Rich Ecosystem: With a plethora of libraries, tools, and community support, React provides a rich ecosystem that simplifies complex tasks and integration with other technologies.
• State Management: Advanced state management solutions like Redux and Context API in React make it easier to handle and propagate state across the application.
• Developer Experience: React’s extensive documentation, robust developer tools, and active community support enhance the overall developer experience, making it easier to debug, test, and optimize applications.
• React Hooks: Introduced in recent years, Hooks allow developers to use state and other React features in functional components, leading to cleaner and more concise code.
• Performance Optimization: React’s ability to optimize performance through mechanisms such as memoization and code-splitting leads to faster and more responsive user interfaces.
• Cross-Platform Development: With React Native, developers can use React to build mobile applications, allowing for a unified development experience across web and mobile platforms.

Read More: Top 15 Java IDEs and Code Editors

Why Use React Over JavaScript or Other JavaScript Frameworks?

React is often the preferred choice for building modern web applications, with its popularity continuously growing among developers. But why should you choose React over plain JavaScript or other popular JavaScript frameworks?

One of the biggest advantages of React is its component-based architecture, which allows for easy reuse of building blocks across different projects. This not only saves development time and effort but also ensures consistency and maintainability in code.

Moreover, React’s Virtual DOM efficiently handles updates, resulting in faster rendering and improved performance compared to direct DOM manipulation in plain JavaScript. This makes React an ideal choice for building complex and highly dynamic user interfaces.

Additionally, React’s comprehensive developer tools and active community support make it easier for developers to troubleshoot and optimize their applications. The availability of React Hooks also simplifies state management in functional components, leading to cleaner and more readable code.

The Benefits of React

1. Social Media Feeds: React’s ability to efficiently handle dynamic and frequently updating content makes it a popular choice for building social media feeds. With its Virtual DOM, React can selectively update only the necessary components, resulting in better performance and a smoother user experience.
2. E-Learning Platforms: React’s component-based approach allows for easy creation and reuse of interactive course modules, making it a suitable choice for e-learning platforms. The availability of various libraries and tools also adds to its appeal in this domain.
3. Dashboard Applications: React’s ability to handle complex and dynamic user interfaces makes it a favorite among developers for building dashboard applications. Its Virtual DOM helps in the efficient rendering of large datasets, making data visualization a breeze.

How can iTechnolabs help you build Reactjs-based web applications?

At iTechnolabs, we have a team of experienced developers who specialize in building modern and efficient web applications using ReactJS. With our expertise in front-end development and understanding of the latest industry trends, we can help you leverage the full potential of React to create dynamic and engaging user interfaces for your business.

Our services include custom React development, integration with other technologies, performance optimization, and ongoing maintenance and support. We follow best practices and adhere to coding standards to ensure high-quality code that is scalable, maintainable, and future-proof.

• Custom React Development: Our team provides tailored solutions that precisely meet your unique business requirements. We ensure that each component of your application is a perfect fit, offering a seamless and personalized user experience.
• Integration with Other Technologies: We specialize in the seamless integration of React with various technologies and platforms, creating comprehensive and robust systems that enhance the overall functionality and interoperability of your applications.
• Performance Optimization: Our experts employ specialized techniques to significantly enhance the performance of your React applications. This ensures fast load times, smooth user experiences, and improved efficiency, even under high traffic conditions.
• Ongoing Maintenance and Support: We offer continuous support and regular updates to keep your applications running smoothly and securely. Our proactive approach to maintenance ensures that potential issues are addressed before they become problems.
• Adherence to Best Practices: We are committed to following industry best practices and coding standards. This ensures that our code is of the highest quality, maintainable, scalable, and ready for future enhancements or changes.
• Expertise in Front-end Development: With in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in modern front-end development trends and tools, we keep your applications ahead of the curve, leveraging the latest advancements to provide superior functionality and aesthetics.
• Scalability and Future-Proofing: We design React applications with scalability in mind, ensuring they can handle growth and future updates with ease. Our future-proofing strategies guarantee that your applications remain relevant and robust as your business evolves.

Are you planning to hire ReactJs Developers?

Choosing iTechnolabs for building your ReactJS framework comes with numerous benefits that position your applications for success. Our expert team ensures seamless integration, high performance, and a user-friendly interface, enabling your applications to stand out in a competitive market. With our comprehensive support and innovative solutions, iTechnolabs is dedicated to meeting all your development needs and driving your projects toward excellence.

• Expert Team: iTechnolabs boasts a team of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in ReactJS development. Their deep understanding of the framework and its ecosystem ensures that your projects are in capable hands.
• Tailored Solutions: We recognize that each business has unique requirements. Our approach centers around crafting customized solutions that align perfectly with your specific needs and objectives.
• Cross-Platform Integration: We excel in integrating React with a multitude of technologies and platforms. This holistic approach maximizes the functionality and interoperability of your systems, offering a seamless user experience.
• Performance Optimization: Our proficiency in performance tuning is unmatched. We implement advanced techniques to ensure your applications load quickly and operate smoothly, providing an exceptional user experience even under heavy traffic.
• Continuous Support and Updates: iTechnolabs emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance. Our proactive support team provides regular updates and addresses potential issues before they escalate, ensuring uninterrupted functionality.
• Commitment to Best Practices: Adherence to industry best practices and coding standards is a cornerstone of our development process. This commitment guarantees high-quality code that is maintainable and scalable, ready for future enhancements.
• Advanced Front-end Development: Stay ahead with our expertise in modern front-end development trends. We leverage cutting-edge tools and advancements to deliver applications that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

Important: Top Ten Java IDEs: A Guide to the Best Editors for Java Development

Conclusion: 

As the leading React development company, iTechnolabs offers comprehensive and innovative solutions to transform your business. Our team of skilled developers, combined with our commitment to tailored solutions and best practices, ensures that your projects are in capable hands. With a focus on cross-platform integration, performance optimization, continuous support and updates, and advanced front-end development techniques, we strive to deliver exceptional applications that drive success for your business.

FAQs about React vs Javascript

What is the difference between React and JavaScript?

React is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces, originally developed by Facebook. It allows developers to create large web applications that can update and render efficiently in response to data changes. JavaScript, on the other hand, is a versatile programming language used for creating dynamic and interactive web content, enabling a wide range of functionalities on the web.

React uses JavaScript as its main language to build reusable components that make up the user interface (UI) of an application. These components can manage their own state and be composed to create complex UIs. By using a virtual DOM, React ensures that updates are fast and efficient, providing a smooth user experience. Additionally, React’s component-based architecture promotes better code organization and reuse, making it a popular choice for modern web development.

Why choose React over plain JavaScript for web development in 2024?

React offers numerous benefits over plain JavaScript for web development, making it a top choice in 2024 and beyond. First, React simplifies the process of creating dynamic user interfaces by breaking them down into reusable components. This promotes efficient code organization and reduces the risk of errors. Additionally, React’s virtual DOM allows for efficient updates to render only the necessary changes on the page, resulting in faster performance.

Moreover, React has a large and active community that continuously provides support and updates, ensuring the library stays relevant and up-to-date with new trends in web development. It also has a vast ecosystem of tools and libraries that work seamlessly with React, making development easier and more efficient.

Is React suitable for web development projects in 2024?

Yes, React is highly suitable for web development projects in 2024 and beyond. Its component-based architecture, efficient rendering, and large community make it a reliable and popular choice for building modern web applications. With its ever-growing ecosystem of tools and libraries, React continues to evolve and stay relevant in the fast-paced world of web development.

Moreover, React’s popularity has resulted in a wide range of job opportunities for developers proficient in the library, making it a valuable skill to have in the competitive job market.

What are some real-world examples of websites or applications using React?

React is used by many popular websites and applications, including Facebook, Instagram, Netflix, Airbnb, Spotify, and more. These companies have chosen to use React for its performance, scalability, and ability to handle large amounts of data. Additionally, React’s flexibility allows for easy integration with existing codebases and the ability to work seamlessly with other technologies.

In recent years, many e-commerce sites have also adopted React to create user-friendly interfaces and improve site performance. Some notable examples include Amazon, Walmart, and Flipkart.

Is it possible to use React and JavaScript together in a project?

Yes, React is built with JavaScript and utilizes its syntax and functionalities. React components are written in JSX, which is a combination of HTML and JavaScript. This allows developers to seamlessly integrate their knowledge of JavaScript into React projects and leverage the extensive capabilities of the language.