In a previous article, we talked about combining Node.js with Flutter.
We also mentioned that, contrary to popular belief, Node.js it’s not a framework.
An "asynchronous event-driven JavaScript runtime,” it executes commands and processes code.
Nonetheless, Node.js also has many frameworks to work with.
Of course, the choice will depend on the process or the final result.
But, without further ado, let’s review some popular Node.js frameworks!
What is Node.js?
Node.js is a server-side JS environment that uses an asynchronous event-driven model.
This makes it ideal for real-time applications, like chatbots, online games and live video streaming services.
Likewise, Node is lightweight and efficient, making it perfect for resource-intensive applications.
Its products use JavaScript to builds scalable network applications.
These can run on various OS, such as Windows, Linux and MacOS X.
Benefits of Node include it being open-source, cross-platform, single-threaded, fast and scalable.
Is also helps improve productivity, and has both an easy learning curve and a large community.
However, there are a few key things to keep in mind when working with Node.js.
First, its Asynchronous Programming means code will work in an asynchronous manner to enhance event-driven model.
Likewise, Nodejs is Single-Threaded, so teams should be careful about blocking the event loop.
Blocking event loops can lead to poor performance and degraded User Experience.
What is NPM?
Node.js’ standard package manager, NPM goes beyond an online repository for publishing open-source Node.js models.
It's also a command-line utility, making it vital for package installation and version and dependency management.
In fact, there were over 3.1M packages available in the main NPM registry as of June, 2024!
This makes it one of the most extensive language code repository worldwide.
When to use Node?
Node.js is a versatile platform, yet, it's particularly well suited for building real-time applications.
It's also perfect for resource-intensive applications and applications that need high performance.
If you need to develop an application that fits into one of these categories, Node.js is an excellent choice!
Node for Real-Time Apps
Node.js can ensure great speed and performance, which makes it great for real-time messaging or chatting.
It supports heavy message or chatroom traffic, and it does wonders for when many users receive messages simultaneously.
Node for Resource-Intensive Apps
As it's capable of handling large data flows, Node is perfect for IoT development projects.
Teams can can also integrate Node.js with IoT protocols (e.g., MQTT and WebSocket integrations).
Big brands, such as Microsoft, already use Node.js for their IoT purposes.
Another perk of Node.js is its options for integrating C or C++ native libraries.
This feature receives the name Native Addon and allows writing Node.js modules in native C or C++.
It also allows to alternate interface coding between JavaScript and C++.
5 Top Frameworks for Node.js
Now that we’ve seen Node.js’ definition and benefits, let's check its popular frameworks.
You’ll see that different frameworks can help you with specific aspects of your project.
Nest for Node
The progressive Node.js framework Nest is a perfect example of a backend productivity booster.
This advantage makes it great for building dynamic and scalable enterprise-grade applications.
Nest follows an MVC Architecture Pattern to structure code and offers complete flexibility with extensive libraries.
Since it's written with Typescript, it aims for clean-code architecture.
Yet, Nest.JS also maintains the code complexity of large-scale applications.
It also has great integrations with frameworks like Express.JS.
As it combines object-oriented and functional reacting programming, it boosts productivity while improving application performance.
Adonis for Node
Adonis.JS allows to create scalable and reliable applications with a Model View Controller Architecture pattern.
It also offers features such as an ORM, templating engine, authentication and authorization.
The framework is one of the most popular among the Node.js family because it's attractive and straightforward.
Its primary use is for developing effective web apps from scratch and write stable server-side programs.
Adonis also provides a uniform ecosystem and allows easy work on existing projects.
Express for Node
Built to create dynamic web applications, Express.js offers several features not available in plain Node.js.
Examples of these features include template engines, databases and different request methods handling.
Besides being one of this list's most flexible and lightweight frameworks, it has a very minimalistic approach.
That's why Express' uses include web-based, mobile-based, browser-based and enterprise-level applications.
It's also ideal for simple apps that handle many requests concurrently, as its template engines fosters user-friendly views.
Express.JS offers integration with third-party database platforms like MongoDB and MySQL.
As a result, Express became a key edge of tech stacks such as the MERN Stack.
Koa for Node
From the same creators of Express, KOA assists teams in easily creating APIs.
The framework handles the HTTP middleware with a stack-like method.
Its structure of objects containing middleware functions get composed and executed in a stacked manner upon request.
With this logic, Koa makes it easier to build fast and scalable applications with JavaScript.
The framework can be used for front-end, back-end, and hybrid systems when creating servers and routes.
Its modular approach gives Koa.JS a strong and secure foundation to manage errors and responses.
A thing about Koa.JS are its generators, which can pause and resume to make code more readable and easy to debug.
Thanks to this, Koa.JS can help you create powerful and easy-to-maintain applications.
This feature also improves operability and robustness, making middleware writing much more enjoyable.
Socket.IO
Socket.IO is a popular JavaScript library for real-time web applications.
Its focus lies on enabling real-time, bi-directional communication between web clients and servers.
That's why some uses include chat applications, collaborative editing and gaming.
With this library, teams can develop applications with requirements for WebSockets development.
Socket.IO's multiplexing and reconnection are ideal for products like video conferencing apps.
For instance, apps like WhatsApp continuously run for live updates and refresh in the background for messages.
Socket.IO permits sharing data in many forms and it's compatible with languages like Swift, Python, .NET and Java.
Its ability to enable bi-directional communication also makes it practical to create interactive apps.
Conclusion
As you can see, Node.js has plenty of uses and frameworks available for different specific needs.
We hope we’ve helped you find the right one!
