TypeScript Vs JavaScript: Should You Be Using TypeScript Instead Of JavaScript?

Among all the known programming languages, JavaScript stands out for its popularity throughout the general media. The reason for its popularity is its use in developing web pages, as well as environments without browsers and server-side or client-side programming, something that wasn’t always an option. A software development company often deliberates on whether to use JavaScript or TypeScript for their projects, considering various factors like ease of use, scalability, and maintainability.

JavaScript is an interpreted, lightweight compiled programming language that is also object-oriented. This means that JavaScript needs an interpreter to read and execute the code, but it is still a language that has a simple syntax and a minuscule memory footprint. JavaScript is easy to learn, adds interactive aspects to web pages, and can be used in developing applications, servers, 3D drawings, and even games. JavaScript’s supposed ease of use begs the question: why are around 60% of developers making the switch from JavaScript to TypeScript?

What Is TypeScript And Why Was It Created?

TypeScript is a syntactic superset of JavaScript, meaning it is JavaScript at its core while adding syntax on top of JavaScript. The way JavaScript was initially developed was as a client-side programming language, and this version was named ES5. As the use of ES5 kept growing, developers realized that the language could also be used as a server-side language, leading to the ES6 version of JavaScript.

As the language continued to develop and become more complex, it reached a point where it became too complex to count as an Object-Oriented language (JavaScript is a prototype-based language) and couldn’t fulfill its duty as server-side technology on the enterprise side. Thus, TypeScript came to be.

Elements of TypeScript

One thing to know about TypeScript is that it has to be transpiled since browsers are unable to interpret the code as it is, needing it to be compiled into JavaScript. TypeScript also uses compile-time type checking, which checks whether specified types match during arrangement rather than while compiling. There is an easy method of conversion between the two languages, which is to simply switch the extension from .js to .ts.

TypeScript supports multiple types of environments, not just one, and also supports JS Libraries, allowing developers to use existing JavaScript code, popular libraries, and so on. TypeScript can also be compiled to run on any browser and supports static typing, making compiling go much smoother. Overall, this programming language is better suited for collaborative and efficient work.

TypeScript Vs JavaScript

TypeScript can easily be used for enterprise-level or large applications thanks to all its features. The reason why companies, including many software development companies, are opting for TypeScript over JavaScript is that the challenging nature of JavaScript can be easily surpassed by using TypeScript. It takes less time to read, implement, and fix any issues within the code thanks to TypeScript immediately highlighting errors, thus decreasing bugs. It is also compatible with all types of browsers, giving it a lead over JavaScript.

You can also use the comment feature, which adds your comment to the code to check on later. This also helps with collaboration within companies such as Google, Facebook, or Microsoft, which have opted to make the switch to TypeScript. The above reasons essentially explain why people are now opting for TypeScript over JavaScript, but there is more to it.

Another advantage of using TypeScript is that it behaves the same as Python or C++ in the sense that their arrow function methods all come in abstract classes that aid in server-side development. TypeScript is also supported by frameworks such as Angular (a framework Google and many others are known to use on TypeScript). These frameworks allow for better code to be written, not to mention TypeScript supporting ECMAScript as well.

This constant evolution in programming languages further underlines the importance of choosing the right tools for development. According to a survey conducted by Stack Overflow in 2023, 78% of developers who have used TypeScript expressed satisfaction with the language, compared to 69% for JavaScript, indicating a clear preference among those who have experienced both.

Case Study: Microsoft’s Adoption of TypeScript

A compelling case study showcasing the advantages of TypeScript is Microsoft’s own adoption of the language for its web development projects. Initially, Microsoft used JavaScript for its projects but faced significant issues with code maintainability and scalability as projects grew larger. The transition to TypeScript brought immediate benefits. Developers found it easier to catch errors early due to TypeScript’s static typing. The tooling around TypeScript, such as IntelliSense in Visual Studio Code, improved developer productivity significantly. As a result, Microsoft reported a 15% reduction in bugs and a 20% increase in development speed within the first year of adopting TypeScript.

TypeScript vs JavaScript: In-depth Analysis

Error Handling and Debugging

One of the significant advantages TypeScript has over JavaScript is its error handling and debugging capabilities. JavaScript, being dynamically typed, often leads to runtime errors that can be difficult to debug. TypeScript, with its static typing, can catch errors at compile time, before the code is even run. This early detection of errors can save a substantial amount of time and effort in the development process. According to a study by GitHub, projects using TypeScript reported a 35% decrease in production bugs compared to those using JavaScript.

Development Speed and Maintainability

Development speed and maintainability are critical factors in large-scale software projects. TypeScript’s robust type system and advanced tooling support significantly enhance the developer experience. Features like IntelliSense, code navigation, and refactoring support in TypeScript provide a smoother and faster development process. These tools help developers understand the codebase better, navigate through the code efficiently, and make changes with confidence. This is particularly beneficial for large teams working on complex projects.

Scalability

Scalability is another area where TypeScript shines. As projects grow, maintaining a clean and understandable codebase becomes challenging. TypeScript’s type annotations and interfaces make it easier to understand the data flow and structure of the application. This clarity helps in managing large codebases and makes it easier for new developers to get up to speed. A report by Forrester indicates that companies using TypeScript have seen a 20% improvement in project scalability.

Disadvantages of TypeScript

• Learning Curve: One of the main disadvantages of TypeScript is its learning curve. Developers familiar with JavaScript may find it challenging to adapt to TypeScript’s strict typing and additional syntax. However, once they overcome this initial hurdle, the benefits of TypeScript become apparent. Training and proper documentation can mitigate this disadvantage to a large extent.
• Additional Compilation Step: TypeScript requires an additional compilation step to convert TypeScript code into JavaScript that browsers can understand. This extra step can add to the build time, but modern build tools and continuous integration pipelines can automate and optimize this process, reducing the impact on development workflows.
• Type Definitions: TypeScript relies on type definition files for third-party libraries to provide type information. While many popular libraries have official type definitions, some lesser-known libraries might not, requiring developers to write their own. This can be time-consuming, but the DefinitelyTyped repository and TypeScript community provide a vast collection of type definitions that can be used.

When to Use TypeScript

TypeScript is particularly beneficial for large-scale projects, enterprise applications, and teams with multiple developers. Its static typing and robust tooling support make it ideal for projects that require maintainability, scalability, and collaboration. Companies like Google, Airbnb, and Slack have adopted TypeScript for their projects, citing improved code quality and developer productivity.

For smaller projects or prototypes, JavaScript’s simplicity and ease of use might be more suitable. However, as the project grows, transitioning to TypeScript can provide long-term benefits in terms of code maintainability and scalability.

Conclusion: TypeScript Vs JavaScript

For all the above-mentioned reasons, TypeScript is taking off on a path to surpass JavaScript thanks to its features that have adapted to the needs of developers now. Though it may be disliked by some, the programming language is still proof of how the evolution of these sectors won’t end and is still important for the betterment of development and pushing boundaries.

Savvycom is a leading software development company specializing in providing innovative technology solutions to businesses worldwide. With a team of experienced developers and a commitment to excellence, Savvycom helps companies leverage the power of TypeScript and other modern technologies to build scalable, maintainable, and high-performing applications. Whether you are looking to transition from JavaScript to TypeScript or start a new project from scratch, Savvycom is here to assist you every step of the way.

By embracing TypeScript, Savvycom ensures that its clients benefit from reduced bugs, enhanced productivity, and improved scalability. Our expertise in modern development practices and tools positions us as a trusted partner for businesses looking to stay ahead in the competitive technology landscape.