JavaScript or Ruby on Rails A Comparison of Frameworks for Web Development in 2024

When building web applications, Ruby on Rails and JavaScript stand out as prominent frameworks & programming languages. Developers often need help with a decision between Ruby on Rails and JavaScript. Determining which offers greater convenience for creating and utilizing web applications can be a significant consideration.

This article will explore the differences between Ruby on Rails and JavaScript. We aim to showcase two advanced technologies that are valuable for creating web applications. We explore all details including advantages, disadvantages, and practical applications. We’ll also explore various comparative metrics to determine the best option.

What is Ruby on Rails?

Ruby on Rails, often abbreviated as RoR, is a framework built on the Ruby language specifically designed for creating online & desktop applications on the server side. Programmers can utilize the Ruby framework as a foundational structure for website development providing a basic framework with optional elements that can be added or removed as needed.

The Ruby on Rails framework aims to be customizable for users, emphasizing portability, flexibility, ease of use & productivity. Gems are collections of Ruby programs packaged in a standardized format for easy installation and seamless integration within the Ruby on Rails framework.

Ruby on Rails, built on the Ruby programming language, serves as a framework for creating web applications on the server side. Developers are drawn to Ruby on Rails mainly due to its rapid app development speed & unique functionalities like effortless database table creation, migrations and view scaffolding. Additional beneficial aspects of Ruby on Rails involve its adherence to the CoC (Convention over Configuration), emphasis on DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself) principles & utilization of the active record pattern. Rails prove particularly valuable in the creation of extensive applications.

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is a popular programming language. JavaScript is a foundational technology of the World Wide Web. It’s an essential element in web applications utilized for building websites on the client side. Furthermore, several web browsers execute JavaScript using a different JavaScript engine.

What drives the regular usage of JavaScript development services and what factors contribute to its widespread recognition among tech enthusiasts? This occurs because of characteristics like curly bracket syntax, dynamic typing, prototype-based object orientation and the inclusion of first-class functions.

JavaScript is a programming language that is dynamic, high-level and object-oriented. It is compiled and executed using interpreters, instantly executing JavaScript code without needing an extra language. JavaScript is a language interpreted by web browsers allowing it to run without relying on a server. Many of today’s web browsers have built-in support for JavaScript enabling developers to utilize it as a programming language for building applications or enhancing the interactivity of websites.

JavaScript finds its primary usage in web browsers and applications that are web-based. Yet, it is also used in web servers, software and embedded hardware controllers with a fairly easy learning curve. Many businesses utilize JavaScript in developing their website’s front end.

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What Advantages Does Ruby on Rails Offer?

  • Affordable Price

The Ruby on Rails framework is free to use and runs on Linux. It’s also simple to deal with from a developer standpoint. There are numerous accessible gems (plugins) in Ruby that can significantly save developers time and effort presenting a considerable advantage. Creating and maintaining a website with the best quality, performance and scalability doesn’t necessarily require an extra financial investment.

  • Enhance Productivity

One of the most outstanding things about RoR is its conciseness & expressiveness. When the RoR development company integrates it with many available third-party libraries it helps speed up the creation of features. Consequently, Ruby on Rails is one of the most efficient and simple programming languages for developers.

  • Secure

The framework comes equipped with specific security features that are automatically activated. Implementing the secure development lifecycle can pose challenges as a security assurance strategy when working with Ruby on Rails. The rails community identifies and resolves new vulnerabilities, ensuring the framework is officially and unofficially documented.

  • Simple Modification

The Ruby on Rails framework makes it easier to change existing code or introduce new features to a website. After your website goes live making future enhancements like significant updates to the data model becomes simple and speedy. This particular framework excels in handling long-term projects due to its stability & predictability.

Disadvantages of Ruby on Rails

Advantages and disadvantages of using Ruby on Rails
  • Runtime Performance & Speed

One frequent critique of RoR is its slow runtime speed, posing challenges when scaling your RoR applications. Although Node.js or Django might offer slightly faster performance compared to RoR, performance limitations are likely to arise if your application reaches a user base similar to that of Twitter.

Usually, when encountering performance issues in your RoR application, they often relate more to server or database architecture and the skill level of your engineering team rather than being inherent to RoR itself. Still, it’s important not to ignore performance issues. Twitter, for example, needed help in improving the performance of RoR as the social network gained more users & popularity.

  • Lack of Adaptability

Ruby on Rails (RoR) is a strongly stubborn framework bundled with numerous essential dependencies & modules. To kick off the project, your engineers must set up routing, handle database migrations and configure other framework modules. These pre-designed modules prove handy for creating an app with common features, yet they might hinder the development of something different and unique. In this example, adapting RoR to suit your product’s needs might pose greater challenges.

  • Documentation

Finding reliable documentation can pose a challenge. Mixins become notably essential, especially in less recognized areas.  The test suite often acts as a form of documentation becoming essential for understanding the expected behavior. It’s not necessarily negative because the test suite should reflect the system’s latest version. Yet, the necessity of delving into code instead of relying on written documentation which would have been a quicker option, can be disagreeable.

What Advantages Does JavaScript Offer?

  • Reduced Server Load

JavaScript can run code on the client side within the web browser without the need to send data back to the server. JavaScript, being an interpreted language, checks data before processing it allowing for the potential execution of client-side code. This function reduces server load & enhances the scalability of the website or web application.

  • Versatile

Developers widely recognize JavaScript due to its universal interpretation enabling the creation of various client-side and server-side web applications. JavaScript’s famous flexibility arises from its seamless integration with various top frameworks, tools, and libraries granting programmers substantial leverage and versatility.

  • Popularity

JavaScript has gained popularity among developers because of its versatility in building cross-platform apps, desktop web apps, and handling server-side development via Node.js. Among developers, this solution stands out as a top choice for creating a wide array of online applications due to its widespread popularity & preference.

Advantages and disadvantages of using JavaScript.

Disadvantages of JavaScript

  • Security Constraint

Since web code is constantly available to the client side, it becomes vulnerable to malicious activities increasing the risks of data breaches and the potential for sensitive information to be leaked from the webpage.

  • Inconsistency in Browsers

It’s less about a specific problem and more about determining compatibility which requires assessment & time to address. In web development, browsers and different platforms like mobile phones or tablets might interpret JavaScript differently causing inconsistencies. The way customers perceive your company could be influenced by the user experience negatively.

  • Complex Debugging Process

Solving issues in JavaScript can pose challenges due to its integration into web browsers, making problem-solving more complex. Moreover, the availability of tools and software suites remains restricted. Although there’s some improvement happening, there’s still a considerable way to go to make substantial progress.

Comparing Ruby on Rails and JavaScript

1. Coding Speed

When comparing coding speeds in Ruby on Rails and JavaScript, it’s key to recognize that Ruby on Rails is predominantly utilized for backend development while JavaScript is commonly used for frontend development. Also, Ruby on Rails uses advanced IT tools while emphasizing rapid development & code simplicity. Ruby on Rails offers a vast library that streamlines development enhancing the overall development process. Ruby on Rails developers are equipped to tackle any issue using the most efficient techniques available.

Yet, the progress of JavaScript is limited by the additional functionalities within the language such as event queues, operators, grammar intricacies & managing HTTP queries which can affect its development speed. JavaScript’s asynchronous behavior allows code to run concurrently. JavaScript often exhibits slower performance in comparison to Ruby on Rails because it lacks straightforward solutions for developers. This frequently requires trying out different approaches to find the best possible solutions.

2. Threading Support

Ruby on Rails has a certain capacity to simultaneously manage multiple tasks. However, using the multi-threading feature can adversely affect the application’s performance leading to a decrease in the overall performance of complex programs.

However, JavaScript lacks support for multi-threading altogether. Therefore, we can infer that neither JavaScript nor Ruby on Rails explicitly supports multi-threading. There are several methods to incorporate multi-threading in JavaScript, yet they tend to be less efficient than approaches that possess genuine multi-threading capability.

3. Security

When evaluating security, Ruby on Rails is considered more secure than JavaScript. Ruby on Rails, an open-source framework, incorporates functionalities to safeguard web applications against cyber-attacks. JavaScript’s vulnerability lies in its susceptibility to cyber-attacks like XSS assaults making it less secure.

4. Learning Curve

JavaScript is known for its extensive documentation, but its learning curve might not be as immediately understandable for all developers when compared to Ruby on Rails. The Ruby on Rails framework is known for its user-friendly nature compared to JavaScript. Developers often find it easier to grasp the development process due to its extensive documentation.

5. Community

Before delving into the comparison of JavaScript and Ruby on Rails based on their communities, it’s essential to grasp the contexts in which each is employed. Typically, it could be inferred that JavaScript has a sizable community because it’s used in constructing nearly 95% of websites. The Ruby on Rails community is widely recognized and has a strong presence on GitHub. The larger community of JavaScript stems from its older age and greater efficiency compared to Ruby on Rails.

Use Cases of Ruby on Rails

The Ruby on Rails framework is admired by startups and established businesses alike for its ability to organize code effectively & handle a wide range of tasks. Countless websites utilize Ruby on Rails for their functionality. Here are just a handful of examples:

  • E-commerce Website Development

Ruby on Rails (RoR) involves various features ideal for online retailers seeking the best web development, accounting and security technologies. Shopify and Groupon utilize Ruby on Rails for building their e-commerce websites.

  • Development of Complex Software

The Convention over Configuration approach in RoR (Ruby on Rails) for web development streamlines the work by following established programming standards making the process simpler & minimizing errors. For example, GitHub & Zendesk. These companies use Ruby on Rails for developing software.

  • Platforms for Entertainment

The swift growth of the business and increased demand call for fast, top-notch coding and RoR presents an ideal solution for this need. Businesses are attracted to this framework because it offers microservices & the capacity to integrate internal security systems. Ruby on Rails proves invaluable in the development of numerous entertainment platforms like Netflix, Hulu and others.

Use Cases of JavaScript

Its unique ability to serve as both the backend and frontend in application development grants developers access to a diverse array of language-related applications. Let’s explore some of the purposes it can fulfill:

  • Mobile Application Development

JavaScript is used in smartphone mobile apps to execute essential functions on the client side. A lot of individuals opt for this language due to its strong front-end platform and ability to work offline. Several companies such as Tinder, QRReader, Google Earth and Uber employ JavaScript in their operations.

  • Web-based Applications

React is a popular JavaScript toolkit for front-end development that is open-source & widely employed in creating webpages and various user interface components. Netflix and PayPal use the development application.

  • Game Development

JavaScript and HTML5 assist developers in easily creating web-based games. The Easel package in JavaScript includes the advanced graphics needed for creating the best games.

JavaScript is utilized by Minecraft, HexGL and several other companies.

Compression between JavaScript and Ruby on Rails:

FeatureJavaScriptRuby on Rails
TypeLanguageFramework
Primary UseFront-end and back-end developmentBack-end development
SyntaxC-like, curly bracesRuby-like, English-like syntax with minimal punctuation
Learning CurveSteeper for beginners, due to asynchronous natureEasier to learn, known for readability and developer-friendliness
PerformanceExceptionally high, event-driven, single-threadedMedium-level, slower for CPU-intensive tasks
ScalabilityHighly scalable, efficient for large applicationsCan become complex to scale, but manageable with careful planning
Community and SupportVast community, extensive resources and librariesStrong community, but smaller than JavaScript’s
SecurityRequires careful attention to security practicesPrioritizes security through built-in features and conventions
Ideal forInteractive web apps, real-time features, SPAsComplex web apps with rich functionality, e-commerce, CMS, APIs
Popular FrameworksReact, Angular, Vue.js, Node.jsRuby on Rails itself (full-stack framework)
Database IntegrationFlexible, works with various databasesStrong integration with PostgreSQL by default
TestingWide range of testing tools and frameworksBuilt-in testing tools and emphasis on test-driven development (TDD)

Price of Hiring JavaScript vs. Ruby on Rails Developers

The development cost for both these languages is significant. Therefore, the expense of hiring employees automatically goes up. According to research and standards within the industry, the usual expense for hiring a Ruby on Rails developer falls in the range of $25 to $80 per hour.  At present, the cost of employing a JavaScript Developer typically ranges from $25 to $100 per hour. It’s crucial to understand that these numbers aren’t set in stone and could go up depending on the developer’s experience and the particular skills they possess.

Conclusion

This article has helped in clarifying the differences between the two technologies for you. You can build robust and high-performing software by utilizing Ruby on Rails for the backend and JavaScript.

Ruby on Rails excels in back-end development while JavaScript shines in front-end development for web applications. If you require a backend web application, hire skilled Ruby on Rails developers who can create a fully operational web project for you.

Consider hiring a proficient RoR development team or skilled RoR developers well-versed in frameworks and programming languages. If you seek a leading Ruby on Rails development company, HashStudioz is your answer! Our team of experienced Ruby on Rails developers excels in delivering outstanding solutions that propel business expansion. Also, our JavaScript developers boast considerable expertise in creating engaging web applications.

At HashStudioz Technologies, a leading web application development company, our dedication lies in delivering the best solutions for Ruby on Rails and JavaScript development. Feel free to reach out to us anytime with your questions. If you’re looking to hire Ruby on Rails or JavaScript web developers, get in touch with HashStudioz Technologies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some popular platforms or services used in cloud application development?

Major cloud platforms include AWS (Amazon Web Services), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform and IBM Cloud. Additionally, there are various PaaS (Platform as a Service) and SaaS (Software as a Service) offerings tailored for app development.

2. What are the benefits of hiring a top web app development company?

Hiring a leading web app development company offers many benefits for your business. These companies possess a skilled and committed team of expert developers well-versed in various frameworks & technologies. & demonstrate exceptional skills in project management ultimately conserving valuable time and resources.

3. What makes HashStudioz Technologies best for RoR and JavaScript development?

Top web application development companies often own a proficient and dedicated team of developers well-versed in diverse frameworks and technologies. They typically follow a streamlined development process. For example, HashStudioz Technologies strongly advocates for open communication with its clients. They frequently share updates on progress, maintain regular communication about the project & quickly respond to any client queries.

By Shivam Rathore

A tech mind, who loves to craft content that may popup on the SERPs. RPA, engineering, travel industry, and the various management system topic comes under my belt. In spare time like to read & make friends. A believer in thought power. Ted talks lightens me up. Wish to share the stage someday!