" JavaScript was a Mistake "
Yes, you read that right. those were the words of my mentor Ndubueze nwoko. CEO Deep Technologys.
" Before you start to debunk and dismantle this thought, let me explain.
JavaScript was a side project created in just 10 days. while it is a very important part of modern web development, it comes with a lot of issues especially when you plan on building large projects.
when you begin to learn Typescript, you will see why (with a grin 🧐). "
So, as a diligent student, I did my own research comparing JS and TS.
Let's run through it together:
-
Typing:
JavaScript: Dynamically typed (types are determined at runtime).
TypeScript: Statically typed (types are defined at compile time, making code more predictable). -
Error Checking:
JavaScript: Errors are often caught during runtime, which can lead to bugs in production.
TypeScript: Errors are caught during development (compile-time), reducing runtime issues. -
Syntax:
JavaScript: No additional syntax for types, making it simpler but less strict.
TypeScript: Adds type annotations and interfaces, which improve code clarity and maintainability. -
Tooling & IDE Support:
JavaScript: Basic support in most editors.
TypeScript: Enhanced support with features like autocompletion, refactoring, and better debugging. -
Learning Curve:
JavaScript: Easier to learn for beginners due to its simplicity.
TypeScript: Requires understanding of types and additional syntax, making it slightly more complex. -
Use Cases:
JavaScript: Ideal for small projects or quick prototyping.
TypeScript: Best for large-scale applications where maintainability and scalability are priorities.
After going through the above, this is my take:
TypeScript is essentially JavaScript with added features for type safety and better development tools. If you're working on a large or complex project, TypeScript can save you time and headaches in the long run. However, for smaller or simpler tasks, JavaScript might be sufficient.
His advice, LEARN TYPESCRIPT and save yourself future troubles.
So right now, I am upskilling with tears 😪
I would love to hear your own thoughts.