TypeScript || JavaScript: Which Language Should You Learn for Web Development in 2024?

Are you at the start of your web development journey, eager to choose the right tools, or perhaps an experienced developer wondering if it’s time to switch things up?

With web technologies advancing rapidly in 2024, you’ve probably heard a lot about JavaScript and its companion, TypeScript.

But the question is which one should you focus on learning?

Well, JavaScript has been the heart and soul of web development for decades. It’s the language that runs almost every website you visit, from small blogs to massive platforms like YouTube. If you want to build anything for the web, JavaScript is essential.

However, with the rise of more complex applications, JavaScript’s flexibility can sometimes feel chaotic.

This is where TypeScript comes in. TypeScript builds on JavaScript by adding strict types and rules, giving developers more structure and reducing the chances of mistakes, making it easier to manage large projects.

In this article, we’ll explore together the key differences between JavaScript and TypeScript, helping you understand which one to choose for your web development journey.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started quickly or a professional seeking better tools for large-scale projects, we’ll break down what each language offers. You’ll learn about their strengths, ideal use cases, and how mastering either (or both) can boost your development skills and career prospects.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which language fits your goals and how to get the most out of it in 2024 and beyond.

Let’s get started

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is a lightweight, interpreted programming language that’s been at the heart of web development since the mid-1990s. It was originally created to make websites more interactive, allowing things like button clicks, pop-up messages, and dynamic content updates without needing to reload the page.

Over time, JavaScript has evolved and become even more powerful. Today, it’s not only used for building the frontend (the part of the website users see) but also for the backend (the server side) with the help of frameworks like Node.js. This versatility has made JavaScript one of the most important tools for modern web developers.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history and origins of JavaScript, I’ve written a separate article where I dive into the evolution of JavaScript. You can check it out to better understand how this language has shaped the web as we know it.

Here’s a simple example of JavaScript in action

// JavaScript example - Alert Box

alert("Hello! Welcome to my website.");

This code will display an alert message when someone visits your webpage. It’s a small but clear example of how JavaScript can bring interactivity to a website with just a few lines of code.

Why It’s Popular

1. Ubiquity — JavaScript runs everywhere on web browsers, servers, and even on devices like smart home gadgets. This means developers can use it to build a wide range of applications, from websites to IoT (Internet of Things) devices.

2. Flexibility — JavaScript can be used for both the front-end and the back-end of web development. In the past, developers often had to learn different languages for different parts of an application, but now with JavaScript, you can do it all using one language. This is why it’s popular among full-stack developers.

3. Massive Ecosystem — JavaScript has one of the largest ecosystems of libraries and frameworks, including popular ones like React, Vue, Angular, etc. These tools make it easier to build complex applications faster, allowing developers to tap into a wealth of resources and pre-built components.

It’s Good For?

JavaScript is great for anyone who wants to quickly create dynamic websites and web apps.

Whether you’re building a simple personal blog or a complex web app, JavaScript helps you get things up and running without much hassle.

It’s also perfect for learning programming basics since it doesn’t require the strict rules or types of other languages, which can sometimes slow down beginners.

If you’re just starting out, JavaScript allows you to experiment freely, get results quickly, and learn the essential programming concepts that can be applied to other languages later on.

So let’s move on to typescript.

What is TypeScript?

TypeScript is like JavaScript’s more organised cousin, who insists on keeping everything in order.

Developed by Microsoft and launched in 2012, TypeScript takes the familiar JavaScript and adds a layer of static typing. Think of it as JavaScript with a bit more structure and discipline.

Static typing means you can declare what kind of data (numbers, strings, etc.) your variables are supposed to hold. This little feature helps catch mistakes early before they have a chance to cause trouble.

It’s as if TypeScript has a built-in safety net, catching potential errors while you’re still in the editing room.

The best part?

TypeScript is fully compatible with JavaScript. This means you can slowly migrate your projects to TypeScript without needing to overhaul everything at once. It’s like being able to gradually introduce a new rule in a game without everyone having to learn it all at once.

Why TypeScript?

1. Static Typing

Imagine you’re baking a cake and accidentally mix up sugar with salt. Not fun, right?

In programming, mixing up the wrong types of data can be just as disastrous.

That’s where TypeScript’s static typing comes to the rescue. By defining the type of data a variable should hold, TypeScript helps you avoid such mix-ups.

For instance, if you tell TypeScript that a variable is supposed to be a number, and you try to assign it a string,

TypeScript will throw a fit (well, an error message) right away. This keeps your code tidy and bug-free.

Here’s a mini comparison

JavaScript

let score = 100;

// No error here, but it could cause problems later!

score = "one hundred";

TypeScript

let score: number = 100;

// Error! TypeScript catches it before it causes trouble.

score = "one hundred";

2. Better Tooling

Working with TypeScript feels like having a high-tech assistant in your coding environment.

With excellent integration in editors like Visual Studio Code, you get perks like autocompletion, code navigation, and refactoring support.

It’s like having a co-pilot who’s always ready to help, making sure you don’t get lost or make mistakes.

Imagine typing code and having your editor suggest possible completions, or being able to jump directly to where a variable is used across your project. This makes coding not only faster but also less prone to errors.

3. Scalability

Think of TypeScript as the ultimate organisational tool for large-scale projects.

If you’re working on a massive application or in a team with multiple developers, TypeScript’s type safety helps keep everything organised and manageable.

It’s like having a detailed project plan that keeps everyone on track and reduces confusion.

When dealing with a big codebase, it’s easy to lose track of how different pieces of code interact. TypeScript’s type system helps ensure that everyone’s code plays nice together, making maintenance and collaboration smoother.

It’s Good For?

TypeScript shines in complex, large-scale applications where having a reliable, maintainable codebase is critical.

It’s especially useful for professional projects, where you need to ensure that the code is robust and less prone to bugs. If you’re working on a significant project or with a team, TypeScript can be a game-changer, providing the tools to manage complexity with ease.

For smaller projects or if you’re just starting out, JavaScript might be more straightforward.

But for those venturing into more complex territory, TypeScript offers the extra layer of safety and structure that can make a world of difference.

So let’s talk about their key difference.

Key Difference — JavaScript * TypeScript

1. Typing

JavaScript — Think of JavaScript as a very relaxed friend who says, “Don’t worry, I’ll handle whatever you throw at me!” It uses dynamic typing, meaning variables can hold any type of data (numbers, strings, objects) and can change type at any time.

This flexibility is great for quick development but can sometimes lead to unexpected issues.

TypeScript — Now, imagine TypeScript as a more organised and meticulous friend who insists on knowing exactly what you’re working with. It uses static typing, which means you must declare the type of data a variable will hold or let TypeScript infer it before you run your code. This extra layer of clarity helps catch mistakes early in the development process.

Let’s consider an example.

JavaScript

function greet(name) {
  return "Hello, " + name;
}

console.log(greet(42));
// Outputs: "Hello, 42" 
// (not what you intended)

TypeScript

function greet(name: string): string {
  return "Hello, " + name;
}
console.log(greet(42));
// Error: Argument of type '42'  
// is not assignable 
// to parameter of type 'string'.

Here, TypeScript catches that you’re passing a number where a string is expected, preventing potential bugs.

2. Error Handling

JavaScript — In JavaScript, errors usually show up while your code is running. These runtime errors can be tricky to debug because they appear after the fact, making it harder to trace the source of the problem.

TypeScript — TypeScript is like having a built-in spellcheck for your code. It catches errors during compile time before your code even runs. This pre-emptive error-catching means you’ll fix issues earlier, leading to fewer runtime bugs and a smoother development experience.

Think of TypeScript as a spellcheck for your code; it stops you from making obvious errors before you hit ‘save’.

3. Learning Curve

JavaScript — JavaScript is like a welcoming, easy-going tutor for beginners. It’s lightweight and requires minimal setup, which makes it a great starting point for new developers. You can quickly jump into coding without a lot of overhead.

TypeScript — On the other hand, TypeScript is a bit more like a detailed, well-organised instructor. While it offers powerful features, it also comes with a steeper learning curve due to its static typing and additional tooling.

If you’re just starting out, JavaScript will let you dive in quicker. But TypeScript is worth considering if you want to future-proof your skills and handle larger projects with greater ease.

4. Tooling and Ecosystem

JavaScript — With JavaScript, you’re stepping into a vast playground with a multitude of libraries and frameworks ready to use. The setup is minimal, and you can get started with a huge number of tools available right out of the box.

TypeScript — TypeScript adds a bit more setup initially but offers enhanced development tools, especially for larger projects. It provides code refactoring, auto-completion, and better type checking, which can be incredibly valuable for maintaining code quality in complex applications.

JavaScript is like catching a quick ride on a keke napep, it’s fast and convenient for short trips. TypeScript is like taking a well-maintained bus on a long journey, it requires more preparation, but it’s more comfortable and reliable for the long journey.

When Should You Choose JavaScript?

1. As a beginner

If you’re new to coding, JavaScript is a great starting point. It’s straightforward and forgiving, meaning you can learn and experiment without too many hurdles.

Why It’s Great for Beginners

Easy to Learn — JavaScript has a simple syntax that’s easier to understand for newcomers. You don’t need to deal with complex rules right away.

Immediate Results — When you write JavaScript code, you can quickly see what happens on your web page. This instant feedback helps you learn faster and fix mistakes easily.

Use Cases

Small Projects — JavaScript is perfect for small, personal projects where you want to test ideas or build something simple.

Dynamic Websites — Use JavaScript to make websites interactive. For example, you can create buttons that do things when clicked or forms that validate user input.

Quick Experiments — If you have a new idea you want to try out quickly, JavaScript lets you prototype and see results fast.

Example

Personal Websites — Build a simple blog or portfolio to showcase your work.

Simple Forms — Create forms that collect user information and validate it in real time.

Interactive Elements — Add features like image sliders, pop-up messages, or tabs to make your website more engaging.

2. Flexibility & Speed

JavaScript is perfect when you need to get something done quickly. It’s flexible, which means you don’t have to follow strict rules or set up complicated structures.

Why It’s Useful for Fast Development

Quick Start — You can start coding right away without needing to configure a lot of tools or libraries.

Rapid Prototyping — You can quickly build and test new features or ideas, which is great for trying things out or making changes on the fly.

JavaScript’s magic lies in its simplicity. It’s like having a toolbox that’s ready to go whenever you need it. If you want to build something quickly and see results fast, JavaScript is your friend!

When Should You Choose TypeScript?

1. For Larger, Complex Projects

If you’re working on big, complex projects, TypeScript is a great choice.

Its static typing helps keep your code clean and organised, especially as the project gets bigger.

Why TypeScript Works Well for Big Projects

Static Typing — TypeScript requires you to define the types of variables and functions. This means you can catch mistakes while you’re writing code, rather than finding bugs later. This helps prevent errors that are harder to fix once the project is running.

Easier to Scale — As your project grows, TypeScript makes it easier to manage and update your code. This is especially useful if multiple people are working on the same project.

Use Cases

Professional Projects — Ideal for building business applications where reliability and maintainability are important.

Team Work — In a team setting, TypeScript’s clear type definitions help everyone understand and work with the code more easily.

Long-Term Maintenance — TypeScript helps keep your code organised and easier to update over time, which is important for projects that will be around for a long time.

Example

E-Commerce Websites — When developing an online store with many features, TypeScript helps keep your code clean and error-free.

Large-Scale Apps — For applications with lots of different functions and components, TypeScript makes it easier to manage everything.

Backend Services Using Node.js — When building server-side applications, TypeScript’s features make your code more robust and reliable.

2. Professional Growth

TypeScript is becoming a popular choice among big companies like Microsoft, Slack, and Airbnb. Learning TypeScript can give your career a boost and make you stand out to employers.

Why Learning TypeScript is Good for Your Career

Industry Trend — Many companies are using TypeScript for their projects, so knowing it can make you more attractive to potential employers.

Job Market Advantage — Skills in TypeScript are increasingly in demand, especially for roles that involve working on large and complex applications.

In today’s job market, knowing TypeScript can be a big plus. It’s like having a special skill that many employers are looking for, especially for bigger projects.

Real-World Examples

✴️ JavaScript Success Stories

JavaScript is not just a language, it’s the foundation of many popular tools and websites.

Here’s how it’s used in the real world

React.js, Angular, and Vue.js — These are powerful frameworks built with JavaScript. They help developers create dynamic and interactive websites.

Example — JavaScript is the magic behind the scenes at Facebook. It makes the site interactive and engaging, from your news feed to the comments section.

Node.js — This is a server-side platform that also uses JavaScript. It helps build fast and scalable web servers and applications.

Example — Node.js, powered by JavaScript, is used to run many high-traffic websites. It’s like the engine that keeps large websites running smoothly.

✴️ TypeScript in Action

TypeScript adds extra features to JavaScript, which makes it popular with big companies

Microsoft, Slack, and Airbnb — These companies use TypeScript to handle their complex code. The type safety in TypeScript helps prevent errors and makes the code easier to manage.

Example — At Slack, TypeScript helps keep their communication platform running smoothly. It ensures their code is reliable and easy to maintain as they add new features.

Why Not Both?

You don’t have to choose between JavaScript and TypeScript.

Here’s why learning both can be a great idea

Compatibility

TypeScript code gets converted into JavaScript, so you can start with JavaScript and later learn TypeScript to enhance your skills.

Starting with JavaScript is a great way to begin your coding journey. Once you’re comfortable, learning TypeScript can boost your career and make you more competitive in the job market.

Learning Path

Begin with JavaScript to understand the basics of web development. Once you’re confident, you can learn TypeScript to handle more complex projects and benefit from its additional features.

Think of JavaScript as the starting point of your coding journey. Once you’re familiar with it, TypeScript is like adding a high tech tool to your tech toolbox, making you even better at handling complex projects.

Conclusion

Let me quickly wrap up what we’ve covered so far

JavaScript — This language is fantastic for beginners. It’s easy to start with, incredibly flexible and forms the backbone of web development. Whether you’re building a small project or just learning the ropes, JavaScript is your go-to language.

TypeScript — Once you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, TypeScript comes into play. It offers type safety, which helps prevent errors and makes your code more maintainable. This is especially useful for larger projects and professional development.

Maybe you’re just starting out or looking to up your game, remember this my motivational quote…

Whether you’re riding the fast bike (JavaScript) or driving the more reliable car (TypeScript),

you’re on the right path to becoming a top-notch web developer!

Starting with JavaScript gives you a solid foundation in web development. As you grow and take on more complex projects, TypeScript can help you manage and scale your code more effectively.

Ready to dive in? Here’s a challenge for you

Try out both! Build a small project in JavaScript and then convert it to TypeScript. You’ll see first hand how TypeScript’s features can enhance your coding experience and improve your projects!

Experimenting with both languages will not only boost your skills but also help you choose the right tool for each task.

Keep learning and coding.

Article originally copied from here