Best Node.JS Frameworks that makes Web App Development effortless

The latest pandemic has mandated the need to establish an online presence. The demand for having a web application is increased to the personalized solution that delivers the best experiences. Hire a team of proficient web developers catering the best web development services that you can consider for next-gen web development. The need for high-performing, scalable, and stable web application development has made developers try new frameworks to meet the requirements. It’s perfectly met by the Node.JS frameworks.

Did you know? Node.JS is an event-driven architecture and has a large community of developers who are actively contributing to making Node.JS better than before. Node.JS is a runtime environment that runs Javascript code on the server side.

However, developers need frameworks to create functionalities, which made leading developers to create frameworks for Node.JS. The web development guide will help you have a better insight into the web app development process and the various aspects that need to be looked into.

Among startups, reduced development costs, improved developer productivity, enhanced performance, and a range of benefits for startups have intensified the use of Node.JS framework for website development. CTOs are also giving credence to the frameworks that facilitate web app development with minimum resource consumption and time investment.

Let’s understand Node.JS frameworks and a brief overview of the best Node frameworks that are in trend.

What are Node.JS frameworks?

Node.js is not a framework but rather it is a JavaScript runtime environment, that is, a platform to execute JavaScript codes on the server-side which makes it portable. Different technologies provide a range of frameworks that make the web application development journey plain sailing. In the case of NodeJS as well it is not an exception considering the why, where, and advantages of using Node for web development stands out.

Here selecting the right tech stack for a web development project is the key. It offers various frameworks that fall into three major categories- REST API, MVC, and Full-stack MVC.

Types of Node.js Frameworks

Node.js frameworks are classified into various types to suit different development needs. Each type is designed to streamline application development, offering specific functionalities for different project requirements.

MVC Frameworks

MVC (Model-View-Controller) frameworks in Node.js help developers create organized and scalable applications. They separate application logic into three interconnected layers—model, view, and controller. This modular structure simplifies debugging and enhances maintainability. Popular MVC frameworks like Express.js and Sails.js allow developers to build high-performance applications with reusable code. These frameworks are ideal for creating dynamic web applications that require clear data flow and smooth user interfaces.

REST API Frameworks

REST API frameworks in Node.js are built to develop lightweight, fast, and scalable APIs. They support seamless integration between the front-end and back-end by following REST principles. Frameworks like LoopBack and Hapi.js make it easier to design APIs with robust authentication, routing, and data handling capabilities. These frameworks are widely used in creating microservices architectures, ensuring efficient communication between distributed services in modern web applications.

Full-Stack MVC Frameworks

Full-stack MVC frameworks offer comprehensive solutions for building robust Node.js applications. They support both front-end and back-end development within a unified environment. Frameworks like Meteor.js and Mean.js offer tools for building real-time applications, managing databases, and integrating client-server interactions effortlessly. These frameworks are particularly beneficial for projects requiring real-time features like live chat, collaborative tools, and interactive dashboards.

It is best to hire remote Node.JS developers to build a modern web app using the most feasible Node frameworks for your development requirements.

Top 10 Node.JS frameworks for best results in 2024

Several Node frameworks overwhelm businesses and clients when they are looking for the best NodeJS frameworks for web development. The importance and stature of Nodejs can be better understood when we look at some of the leading businesses that have used Nodejs in making their companies successful. Realizing the needs of businesses, the list of the best Node.JS frameworks that are highly used is created to help you.

Express.js

One of the best Node frameworks launched way back in 2010, is known for coding architecture and minimalistic approach. It’s often referred to as the de facto standard for Node.JS development because it meets the minimum Node.JS requirements with seamless sync with a single-threaded nature and high-speed I/O operations of the node.

Express.js has a low learning curve as basic programming skills and a Node.JS environment is enough to get started with Node.JS development. Plus, asynchronous and robust architecture that jives fairly with node allows rookie developers to get started easily.

Express provides APIs that streamline client-to-server requests and make user interactions visible. Thereby it helps in improving communication between client and server which results in better user experience delivery. Accenture, IBM, and Twitter are the popular companies that have built their apps using Express.

Express can be used for enterprise-grade web app development because of Node.JS features that accelerate website development with less coding. High test coverage ensures bug-free delivery and asynchronous programming guarantees high performance. Security features, routing, templating, error handling, and large community support make it the best for next-gen web development.

Top features of Express.js framework

• Minimalistic Framework: Known for its minimalistic design, Express is lightweight and provides essential features for web development.
• Middleware Support: Robust middleware support allows developers to extend the functionality of applications easily.
• Routing: Flexible routing system for handling HTTP requests and defining endpoints.
• Active Community: Large and active community, resulting in extensive documentation, plugins, and resources.
  

  When to use Express.JS?

  • Rapid web app development
  • Browser-based or enterprise-grade website development
  • Meet high-performance needs
  • Best for rookie developers

Nest.js

Nest.js framework has comprehensive libraries that enable building scalable, dynamic, and multi-layered enterprise-level web application development efficiently. The ability to maintain clean-code architecture despite large-scale web apps’ complexity improves developers’ productivity as they can build maintainable web apps easily.

The functional reactive programming and object-oriented programming of Nest simplify complex UI engineering. Easy integration with Express and Fastify frameworks and high compatibility with Angular facilitate the best front-end development.

The smooth learning curve and an arsenal of tools to improve developers’ productivity enable quality web application development in reduced time.

Top features of Nest.js framework

• Modularity: Highly modular and follows the modular development approach, making code organization and maintenance more manageable.
• Decorators: Utilizes TypeScript decorators for defining modules, controllers, and services, enhancing code readability.
• Dependency Injection: Implements dependency injection to manage the components and their dependencies efficiently.
• GraphQL Support: Built-in support for GraphQL, allowing developers to create scalable and flexible APIs.

When to use Nest.JS?

• Dynamic and scalable development
• Graphics-heavy development
• Maintainable large-scale development
• Multi-layered enterprise development

Koa.js

Koa APIs make web services development a lot easier because it has a mechanism to better deal with HTTP middleware using a stack-like method. Koa.js framework aids in maintaining different content forms that are shown to the users with the same link.

For instance, representing different image formats, page translations, content personalization, and others are handled by the framework. Koa enables writing code with fewer complexities which helps in handling errors and makes the web app flawless.

The node inconsistencies normalization, a high degree of customization, and cascading middleware enable delivering the hyper-personalized experience to the users. If performance is the need of the application, Koa is a good choice but the steep learning curve makes it difficult to play for novice players.

Top features of Koa.js framework

• Lightweight: Designed to be a more lightweight successor to Express, offering a more minimal and expressive foundation.
• Async/Await Support: Uses async/await functions for handling middleware, making code more readable and manageable.
• Streamlined Error Handling: Improved error handling mechanisms for better debugging and error reporting.
• Generator Functions: Utilizes generator functions for middleware, enhancing control flow and readability.

When to use Koa.JS?

• High performance is needed.
• Require more options for customizations
• Extensive web development with large teams involved

Meteor.js

Launched in 2012, Meteor.js is an isomorphic, JS-based framework that leverages only one language for Node.JS web app development. It helps developers to disseminate data changes to clients automatically, and effortlessly.

The seamless data transfer between client and server makes the framework an ideal solution for real-time streaming service applications. Also, a comprehensive set of libraries and testing features lend a hand in maintaining pace with client-server communications.

Besides, building apps for desktop and mobile OS-variants is feasible with JS language making Meteor a cross-platform framework. Easy integrations, extensive community support, and enhanced interactions make it good for real-time web application development with a short deadline and budget.

The ability to deploy updates on the users’ applications without interrupting their ongoing session makes Meteor outshine.

Top features of Meteor.js framework

• Full Stack Development: A full-stack framework that enables seamless development across the client and server.
• Data Synchronization: Automatic data synchronization between the client and server, reduces the complexity of real-time applications.
• Integrated Build System: Comes with an integrated build system for easy development and deployment.
• Community Packages: A vibrant community contributing a wide range of packages and extensions.

When to use Meteor.JS?

• Accelerated, cross-platform development.
• Deploy live updates
• Real-time web app development
• Integration with other frameworks is required

Socket.io

Real-time web app development requires updating requests and responses in real-time for the best results, which is configured using the Socket.io framework.

For instance, WhatsApp like a real-time chat application requires continuous updates wherein background processes run ceaselessly to keep the chat up-to-date.

The framework is well-known for enabling bidirectional communication between client and server. Also, the real-time analytics functionality is enabled with less code.

If you are looking for a multiplayer game app, video conferencing app, and chat room application development, Socket works great by pushing data from the servers even if it’s not requested by the client.

The support for multiplexing, auto-reconnection, and error detection is phenomenal which made thousands of companies use the Socket framework.

Top features of Socket.io framework

• Real-Time Communication: Specialized in enabling real-time bidirectional communication between clients and the server.
• WebSocket Support: Built on top of WebSocket, providing a reliable and efficient communication channel.
• Event-Driven Architecture: Utilizes an event-driven architecture for handling real-time events and updates.
• Room Support: Allows the creation of rooms for broadcasting messages selectively.

When to use Socket.io?

• WhatsApp-like real-time chat app development
• Enable real-time analytics functionality
• Zoom-like Video conferencing app development

Total.js

Initially, if the businesses are looking for a framework that delivers a CMS-like experience and the backend is as powerful as Node.JS apps, the Total.js framework is the right fit. The open-source framework is available in three variations- CMS, Eshop, and HelpDesk to widen the app’s capability.

For instance, you can leverage REST service, integrate IoT technology, and others which reduces maintenance costs.

Accelerated development facilitated by Total framework helps businesses to meet their web app development project needs with a steep deadline. Flexibility to seamlessly integrate with the frontend framework makes the Total framework- an ideal solution for visual interface programming, and custom development.

Top features of Total.js framework

• MVC Architecture: Follows the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architectural pattern for structured and organized development.
• Code Reusability: Promotes code reusability with components like RESTBuilder and AuthBuilder.
• Real-Time Functionality: Offers real-time functionality with WebSocket support and easy integration.
• Built-in Authentication: Provides built-in authentication mechanisms for secure application development.

When to use Total.JS?

• Visual interface for IoT apps
• Custom web app development
• Ecommerce development
• Real-time collaboration app development
• Cloud services

Sail.js

The architecture, database compatibility, and integration with JS frameworks make the Sail.js framework best support data-oriented development. The code writing policies reduce the number of lines of code to write and enable seamless integration with npm modules. Also, the same API can be used by different team members which saves web application development time and effort.

When high-end custom chat app development or scaling Node.JS web app is your business need, sail framework helps you with the same using reusable middleware functions and smooth data flow. With Socket and Express, the best Node.JS web app can be built.

Top features of Sail.js framework

• MVC Structure: Adheres to the MVC architectural pattern for organized development.
• Data-Driven APIs: Automatic generation of data-driven APIs, reducing the effort required for API development.
• Real-Time Features: Built-in support for real-time features with WebSocket integration.
• ORM Support: Integrated Waterline ORM for database management and consistency.

When to use Sail.JS?

• Custom chat app development
• Easy integration with games and social media apps

Hapi.js

When security is the core need of the web application, the Hapi.js framework will make you happy forever. The open-source framework is well known for building secure, scalable, and stable web app development with minimal overhead. The rich set of plugins enables enhancing the web app at speed.

Default authentication and data validation, secure defaults, compatibility with a range of databases, and compatibility with proxy apps are the plus points of the Hapi framework that developers search for the most.

Top features of Hapi.js framework

• Configuration-Centric: A configuration-centric framework, making it easy to set up and customize.
• Plugin System: Strong plugin system allowing developers to extend and enhance functionality effortlessly.
• Validation: In-built validation system for handling input validation and ensuring data integrity.
• Logging and Monitoring: Provides robust logging and monitoring capabilities for better application management.

When to use Hapi.JS?

• Social media development
• Secure and scalable development
• Real-time app development

Feather.js

The JS-based framework is essentially a Node.JS microservice framework with real-time functionality that has transformed the web application development landscape. Feather.js framework just like its name makes the developers feel light with straightforward decoding and without getting entangled in the complexities of RESTful APIs.

It supports all frontend and backend development technologies in the Node.JS environment to facilitate the development of production-ready apps and full-stack web apps.

Top features of Feather.js framework

• Microservices Architecture: Designed for microservices architecture, offering scalability and flexibility.
• Real-Time Communication: Built-in support for real-time communication using WebSockets.
• RESTful APIs: Easy creation of RESTful APIs with a minimalistic and intuitive syntax.
• Client-Side Framework Agnostic: Works seamlessly with various client-side frameworks, offering flexibility in front-end development.

When to use Feather.JS?

• Building production-ready apps
• REST APIs development
• Real-time app development
• Engineer full-stack web app

Loopback.js

Loopback framework seamlessly integrates with various APIs and other Node.JS frameworks. That’s why it’s leveraged at scale for creating REST APIs in reduced time. Structured code also lends a hand in app module maintenance and rapid web app development. The flexibility it provides in connecting with an array of browsers, databases, devices, and services is impressive.

When end-to-end API development or API request handling is your business need, Loopback can help with multiple database support, clear and modular codes, extensibility, third-party stack, and authentication mechanisms.

Top features of LoopBack.js framework

• API Composer: Powerful API composer that simplifies the creation of APIs with minimal coding.
• Built-in CLI: Command Line Interface (CLI) for quick project setup and scaffolding.
• Data Source Agnosticism: Supports multiple data sources and databases, allowing data source agnosticism.
• Authentication and Authorization: Robust built-in support for authentication and authorization, including third-party providers.

When to use Loopback.JS?

• Creating REST APIs
• Rapid app development
• Real-time networking applications
• Extensible and secure app development

Which Node.JS framework should you choose for the next development project?

In the advancing web development era, businesses look for modern technologies and frameworks to meet ends. Using these frameworks makes it easy for Node.JS developers to integrate the best web development trends into the business solution.

That’s where the 10 best Node frameworks help them build a stable, secure, and scalable solution. Deciding the best pick in the list of Node.JS frameworks is implausible because every project is unique and differentiates the resource requirements.

First, document your project requirements and then compare them with Node framework offerings to identify the best fit. Still, struggling with Node.JS framework selection for web development? Talk with an expert at Prismetric to help you conduct a discovery workshop to precisely find out project needs and accordingly choose the right Node.JS framework that fulfills web development project needs. Also, All the best!

Ketan Chavda

With in-depth knowledge in International Business Management and Information Technology, he can effectively craft business enhancement strategies and can skillfully untangle technical complexities. This has laid the path for him as the Co-Founder and MD of Prismetric . Writing about the new age technology and sharing his thoughts on the continuously evolving business trends keep him content.