Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript: Which Framework Is Right for Your Project?

Selecting a winning tech stack for your web development project is no easy feat. As you decide between Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript, get an in-depth analysis of these two frameworks by our experts.

We’ll compare pros and cons of each — including speed, scalability and associated costs — so you can make an informed technical choice. Plus, we’ll discuss how TECLA can support your web development efforts for whichever technology you choose!

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Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript: A Complete Comparison for Developers & Businesses

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Both Ruby on Rails and JavaScript are popular general-purpose frameworks frequently used in development.

But which is the best programming language for web development? Let’s analyze these technologies to determine the #1 option for your project.

What Is Ruby on Rails in the Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript Debate?

Ruby on Rails (RoR) is a backend framework based on the Ruby programming language. RoR is best defined by its “convention-over-configuration” approach. This means there are coding defaults that simplify the decisions that developers have to make.

As you can imagine, this coding principle streamlines development, enabling your business to quickly ramp up web development. That’s why RoR is often used to build MVPs and startup products.

Which Is Quicker to Develop — Ruby on Rails or JavaScript?

Ruby on Rails is typically a quicker language for ramping up development. Due to its built-in defaults, developers are able to streamline coding decision-making. On the other hand, JavaScript is known for a deeper level of customization, which can take longer to build.

Which Is More Scalable — Ruby on Rails or JavaScript?

JavaScript is generally more scalable due to its full-stack flexibility and large ecosystem, making it ideal for complex web apps. On the flip side, RoR isn’t great for highly customized products or those requiring advanced scalability.

What Is JavaScript?

JavaScript (JS) is the world’s #1 most popular frontend and backend programming language. For web development, it’s typically combined with frameworks such as React and Angular.

JavaScript development is highly versatile for handling real-time and/or intensive performance needs. With it, businesses can easily customize and scale up complex web projects.

Plus, as an ultra-popular language, there’s a massive ecosystem of libraries and guides for developers to draw from. In turn, this speeds up development time and acts as a safety net for development challenges.

Which Is Higher Performing — Ruby on Rails or JavaScript?

Overall, JavaScript has a reputation as a high-performing language. It’s rapid, user-friendly and does well across a variety of different implementations. In contrast, Ruby on Rails has good, reliable performance but doesn’t reach the same caliber as JS.

Which Is Better for Cross-Platform — Ruby on Rails or JavaScript?

As a full-stack language, JavaScript is optimal for cross-platform development. In comparison, Ruby on Rails is solely a backend language, though it can be combined with other frameworks to achieve a full stack.

Full-Stack Development in Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript

JavaScript is extremely suitable as a full-stack language, as it works for frontend and backend development. In contrast, Ruby on Rails is only for the backend, though it can be combined with other frameworks or languages to complete a full stack.

Keep in mind that JS is much more in-demand than RoR, with 64.6% of professional developers using it. It’s also estimated to run 98.9% of websites, including big names such as Google, Microsoft, Netflix, PayPal, etc.

In comparison, Ruby is used by only 5.8% of developers. Though less popular, it’s still a top choice for thousands of businesses, including brands such as AirBnB, Shopify, Twitch and Bloomberg.

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Ruby on Rails: Strengths, Weaknesses & When to Use It

Ruby on Rails is known as a well-organized, open-source language that makes coding quick and effortless. Hire Ruby on Rails developers when your business needs to rapidly ramp up a project and doesn’t have hugely complex customization.

Here are Ruby on Rails pros and cons to keep top of mind:

Pros

• Rapid and efficient development time
• Top security (via XSS, CSRF and SQL protections)
• Built-in testing tools
• Stable performance
• Cost-effective

Cons

• Less customizable (due to the standardized nature of its “convention-over-configuration” approach)
• Less high-speed and top-performing compared to JS
• Smaller developer pool compared to JS, though there’s still strong support

Best Use Cases

• Ecommerce platforms
• Entertainment apps
• CMSs
• SaaS products

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JavaScript: Pros, Cons & Best Use Cases for Web Development

For decades, JavaScript has been a tried-and-true programming language for backend vs. frontend development. It’s a first-rate technology for cross-platform apps and/or those that require ongoing scalability. Hire JavaScript developers if you’re keen to get versatility and top performance.

Pros

• Versatile for any web project
• Fast and high-performing
• Optimal scalability and expandability
• Impressive ecosystem for developers to get support

Cons

• Complex to manage very large-scale projects
• Not as fast development time compared to RoR
• Limited debugging tools
• Security not as tight as RoR

Best Use Cases

• Dynamic web and mobile applications
• SPAs
• Web games

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JavaScript vs. Ruby on Rails Comparison: How to Choose?

At the end of the day, which framework is better: Ruby on Rails or JavaScript?

There’s no one right answer when deciding between RoR vs. JS. Here is our expert software frameworks comparison to help you understand the main difference between Ruby on Rails and JavaScript for your business.

Project Type & Scope for RoR vs. JS

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The type of project is a major factor in choosing between Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript. For example, RoR’s fast development makes it a best choice for building MVPs, while JavaScript for backend vs. frontend flexibility is ideal.

Team Expertise & Resources

The availability of talent will also impact your choice of language. Given JavaScript’s popularity, you’re more likely to find top, senior JS developers. Luckily, you can discover both Ruby on Rails and JavaScript developers by leaning on nearshore destinations like Latin America. Some top locations include Mexico, Colombia and Brazil.

Time-to-Market & Budget Considerations

Ruby on Rails is generally faster to develop and more cost-effective, but realistic estimations will depend on your specific project. What’s more, JavaScript has the key advantage of being both a frontend and backend language, which can save you resources. You’ll want to consult with an expert partner to understand whether RoR vs. JS offers the most effective scenario.

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Find & Hire Top Ruby on Rails & JavaScript Developers with TECLA

Whether you hire remote Ruby on Rails developers or JavaScript engineers, TECLA is here to support your needs. We’re a premium nearshore talent partner known for our customized solutions and top-tier developers from across Latin America.

1. Pre-Vetted Ruby on Rails & JavaScript Developers

Our robust talent pool of 50,000+ LatAm technology experts means we have elite Ruby on Rails and JavaScript developers ready to collaborate. We pre-vet our entire network for technical and cultural fit, so that you’re matched with the right professional for your project.

2. Personalized Matching Process

We take a tailored approach to find the optimal professional according to your parameters. In just 7 days, our talent specialists will curate a list of potential Ruby on Rails or JavaScript developers that fit the bill. With TECLA, you’ll speed up recruitment and save on hiring resources.

3. Flexible Hiring Models

We offer custom hiring models that meet your ideal teaming set-up and budget – whether you’re looking for full-time, contract or project-based pros. We’ll work closely with you to understand your goals and recommend solutions accordingly.

TECLA Developer Hiring Success Story

For example, TECLA recently matched an auto parts company with full-stack developers fluent in JavaScript development. This anonymous company was keen to revamp their website and login portal. Through TECLA developer hiring, they:

• Hired three full-stack developers who became “integral” to the team.
• Drastically increased the pace of development processes.
• Tried out new workflows to achieve efficiencies.
• “Highly recommend” TECLA’s talent.

Read more of this positive review (and others) here!

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Leverage TECLA to Hire Top Ruby on Rails vs. JavaScript Talent

With our ultimate guide, you now know whether to hire Ruby on Rails or JavaScript developers. While both languages have key strengths, you can make an informed decision based on our pros/cons, best use cases and more.

Eager to get top RoR or JS talent on your teams? At TECLA, we’ll connect you to elite technology experts who are well-versed in these languages and interested in career-driven opportunities. Discover first-rate developers in Latin America with us.

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