Top Web Development Frameworks (Frontend & Backend)

In this evolving world, a website plays a vital role in businesses setting up their online presence. Even retailers also switched to the internet from physical visits in order to expand their reach as websites with sophisticated designs are appropriate means of engaging & attracting new users. There are various notable names changing website experience – Hulu, YouTube, HBO Max, Netflix and a lot.

Recent data from Statista shows that around 42.7% of respondents used Node.js, whereas 40.6% used React.js in 2023. Reports also reveal the extensive use of websites, which increased by 55% globally in 2023 and is expected to expand at 8.08% CAGR during the forecast period, will reach $96748.41 million USD by 2028.

With the increasing rate of user engagement towards websites, creating a user-friendly website with appropriate content & presentation is crucial. And here’s the web development framework comes into play that supports developers to build interactive websites and web applications.

To select the best web development framework, you are required to brainstorm & explore its functionalities and features. If you are also searching for the same for your web project in 2024, you have landed on the right page. Here, we provide you with a list of top web development frameworks.

But before you start diving into the frameworks, let’s first understand what exactly web development frameworks are and their types.

What is a Web Development Framework?

A web development framework can be defined as a set of tools, libraries, and resources that permit developers to create and maintain websites and web applications. These framework offers an organized approach to developers to build reliable, scalable & effective web applications by standardizing development procedures and supplying reusable code.

A web development framework contains various elements that facilitate the development process, like pre-built modules, APIs, templates, and libraries. These frameworks have numerous features & functionality that aid in improving productivity and simplify development processes.

Types of Web Frameworks: Frontend & Backend Web Frameworks

There are two major components to any website:

1. The Part that is visible to the users is called frontend or client-side frameworks.
2. This behind-the-scenes part is responsible for the background functioning of the websites and is known as the backend or the server-side framework.

1. Frontend Web Development Frameworks

Frontend web frameworks usually offer tools for UI/UX designing, SEO optimization, performance optimization, and scalability. To develop the front end of any website, client-side markup(HTML), and scripting (CSS, JavaScript, and jQuery) languages are used.

Frontend web framework offers pre-written reusable design templates, code snippets, widgets, and is responsible for managing user interactions.

HTML, CSS, JavaScript, JQuery, are a few front-end languages.
React, Vue, Ember, Bootstrap, Angular are a few front-end frameworks.

2. Backend Web Development Frameworks

A backend or server-side framework is a library of tools and modules that help in building the architecture of a website. These frameworks primarily focus on server-side scripting languages like Ruby, JavaScript, Python, PHP. They may also include compiled languages like Java and C#.

Easy database connectivity & manipulation, user authorization, encryption, third-party API integration, reusable components, are some of the benefits of using backend frameworks.

Python, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, .NET, are a few backend languages.
Django, Ruby On Rails, Spring, Express, ASP.NET Core are a few backend frameworks.

Difference between Front-End Development Frameworks and Back-End Development Frameworks

Frontend is what your users want to see, including visual elements like checkboxes, text messages, buttons, and graphics that help them to interact with your website. In contrast, a backend is a data and infrastructure that helps to make your website work and stores data.

Below, we have listed the difference between front-end development and back-end development frameworks using different aspects:

Top Front-End Web Development Frameworks

Here, we have listed a top front-end web development framework that is chosen carefully based on its features, strong community support & the capability to fit with the requirements. We will also focus on the pros and cons of the frameworks and offer insights to developers in making the best project decisions.

Let’s explore the frameworks for front-end web development.

1. Angular

Angular, another popular JavaScript-based framework, is an open-source framework that was introduced by Google in 2010. Being promoted by one of the world’s largest tech companies and due to its robust set of features, Angular was a super hit from the word go.

Its ability to work with cross-platform and client-side frameworks makes it popular among big and small tech companies. Angular promotes code consistency by using HTML, TypeScript, and CSS, in addition to varied web development tools.

Key Features of Angular

• Complex and large web applications can be developed
• Reduces the development time by using boilerplate coding patterns
• Encourages code and component reusability
• Improves application scalability by reusing code
• The most popular applications include PayPal, Upwork, Netflix, and Lego

Advantages and disadvantages of using Angular

2. Ember

Unlike Angular or Express.js, Ember is an MVVM framework that is based on JavaScript. This open-source framework uses HTML and CSS at the core of its developing model.

Web developers use this framework to build single-page and dynamic client-side applications. It is considered to be the most popular web framework but is also used to develop desktop and mobile applications.

Key Features of Ember

• Provides two-way data binding
• Heavily inspired by Angular and React
• The community of developers is an ever-expanding one
• Most popular applications include Heroku, Google, Netflix, and Microsoft

Advantages and disadvantages of using Ember

3.  Meteor

Meteor is an incredibly fast web application framework. Using Meteor, you could launch an MVP web development application or product in just 3 to 4 weeks.

Meteor uses Galaxy as its cloud platform to simplify scaling, deployment, and monitoring needs. It also supports instant prototyping and provides cross-platform code for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Web.

Key Features of Meteor

• Allows you to use a single language for an entire product, including frontend and backend.
• It is easy to learn.
• Most popular applications include Telescope, Pathable, Maestro, Any. Run, HaggleMate, Rocket.Chat, and Welshpool.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Meteor

4. Vue.Js

Vue.JS is another cutting-edge open-source JavaScript framework developed by Google. It is most popular for its use of Glorifying UI and quick development of single-page applications in no time. It utilizes the best features of React.js and Angular.js frameworks.

Its flexible design structure and TypeScript support have drawn the attention of several web development companies – large and small.

Key Features Of Vue JS

• It makes web scaffolding and prototyping easier.
• Being flexible allows the developer to integrate multiple third-party solutions.
• Most popular applications include Nintendo, Gitlab, Netlify, Wizzair, 9GAG, Behance, and Chess.

Advantages and disadvantages of Vue.Js

5. Backbone.Js

BackboneJS is a lightweight JavaScript library that offers an MVC framework. You can use BackboneJS to develop client-facing applications running in a web browser. An entire client-side application can be developed using BackboneJS building blocks such as models, views, events, routers, and collections. Developers can develop single-page applications and front-end much easier and better using JavaScript functions in BackboneJS.

Key Features Of BackboneJS

• It reduces complications and increases functionality.
• Code in BackboneJSis cleaner, nicer, and easily maintainable.
• Most popular applications include Trello, Foursquare, Airbnb, Flowdock, Groupon, and Hulu.

Advantages and Disadvantages of BackboneJS

6. React

React JS is an open-source JavaScript library introduced by Facebook in 2013.  Today, it is extensively used by businesses for their front-end web application development. Developers use React JS to develop dynamic single-page web applications. The SEO support inReact is better than most other front-end web application frameworks.

Key Features Of React

• Heavy-load applications also perform smoothly due to React’s VDOM or Virtual Document Object Model.
• Most users daily use a React application in the form of Facebook, Instagram, or applications from the Meta family.
• One-way data binding leaves little room for errors.
• Most popular applications include Facebook, Facebook Ads, Instagram, Netflix, Skype, Instacart, Salesforce, Flipboard, Dropbox, and Asana.

Advantages and Disadvantages of React

 7. Svelte

It is the latest and most innovative front-end framework that helps you assemble your code into highly optimized JavaScript code. It is compatible with building small/medium-sized applications that need good performance, including easy syntax, reactive data binding & virtual DOM.

Key features of Svelte

• Offers runtime warnings for accessibility issues
• Small App size
• Highly scalable
• Offers a built-in router
• Have responsive statements that are used to recalculate variable values

Advantages and Disadvantages of Svelte

Top Back-End Web Development Frameworks

As we have discussed what backend frameworks are and their importance, now we will discuss the best frameworks for back-end web development that offer high performance, fast development & scalability.

Let’s explore each of them and their key features, pros, and cons.

1. Ruby on Rails

On the market since 2004, Ruby on Rails has become one of the most popular backend web development frameworks. The major reasons for its popularity are that it is a free & open-source platform and has a large community of developers.

Key Features of Ruby on Rails

• Faster development compared to Java frameworks
• A powerful, robust, and extensive library is known as Active Record
• Very few configuration files are required for deployment
• A simple testing tool, RSpec, allows for easy testing
• Project deployment is automated with just a one-time setup
• Ruby is one of the simplest and most accessible programming languages
• Most popular applications include GitHub, Airbnb, Shopify, SoundCloud, and Basecamp

Advantages and Disadvantages of Ruby on Rails

2.   Laravel

Laravel is presently one of the most popular open-source backend frameworks that use PHP as its programming language. The MVC architecture allows faster development and easy maintenance. Laravel has a large number of packages with built-in API support.

Key Features Of Laravel

• Its great tutorial website, Laracasts, Has thousands of tutorials, videos, and sample code
• The built-in Object-Relational Mapper (ORM) with PHP Active Record implementation allows writing database queries directly in PHP
• The template engine lets developers create simple yet appealing designs
• The framework manages application security using hashed and salted passwords
• Most popular applications include Creative Spaces, Deltanet Travel, MyRank, Laracasts, and Neighbourhood Lender

Advantages and Disadvantages of Laravel

3. Django

One of the most popular and rapidly growing web frameworks is Django. It is one of the reasons that the Python programming language has become spread widely into the web development community. With Python as its native language, it is well suited for the development of projects requiring AI/ML components and capabilities.

Key Features Of Django

• Develop complex, highly scalable, and data-driven web applications easily and quickly
• “Convention over Configuration” and “DRY” design patterns are frequently used
• Automatically checks for and flags security issues and risks
• Helps in the development of SEO-friendly web applications
• Most popular applications include YouTube, Pinterest, Spotify, Disqus, and Instagram

Advantages and Disadvantages of Django

4. ASP.NET

ASP.NET is one of the oldest and most popular web development frameworks. The successor of the classical ASP, the ASP.Net framework, was launched in 2002. Since 2015, it is an open-source framework that is used for creating dynamic applications for the web, PCs, and Mobile.

Since its launch, ASP.Net has proven to be a formidable framework with the might of Microsoft behind it. The ASP.Net Core was introduced in 2016 and made it more secure, productive, robust, and faster.

Key Features Of ASP.NET

• ASP.NET Core supports the Razor page for building server-side rendered apps
• Supports asynchronous development and execution for improved app performance
• Most popular applications include Microsoft applications, GoDaddy, TacoBell, MarketWatch, GettyImages, and StackOverflow

Advantages and Disadvantages of ASP.NET

5. Express.Js

Express.js is an open-source lightweight backend framework for Node.js (a runtime environment for JavaScript). It is designed to build mobile web applications and web service APIs.

Key Features Of Express

• Robust application with minimalistic design and extensive capabilities
• Great support for debugging and routing
• Support for the development of web service APIs and microservices
• Most popular applications include PayPal, Coursera, MuleSoft, Myntra, FreeCodeCamp, and Accenture

Advantages and Disadvantages of Express.Js

6. Spring Boot

Spring framework is an open-source Java platform that has been available since 2003. Being open-source allows the developer community to add many side projects, boosting its security, performance, scalability, and efficiency. Being a Java framework, it can be challenging to learn, master, and work with.

Key Features of Spring

• Spring framework enables developers to develop enterprise-class applications using POJOs (Plain Old Java Objects)
• The full power of a strong and diverse language such as Java is available for developers
• Testing an application written with Spring is simple
• It provides convenient API management
• Most popular applications, including Websites like Wix, TicketMaster, and BillGuard, are users of this framework

Advantages and Disadvantages of Spring Boot

7. Flask

Unlike other frameworks, Flask runs on a web server instead of the user’s browser. It is a WSGI (Web Server Gateway Interface) framework written in Python. The core of Flask is simple and lacks a database abstraction layer, form validation, and components. Since there are not many tools and libraries, it is often categorized as a micro-framework.

Key Features of Flask

• A flexible and highly lightweight framework
• It comes with a default set of APIs with innovative functionalities
• Built-in development server with an interactive debugger
• Most popular applications include Redhat, Reddit, and Mailgun

Advantages and Disadvantages of Flask

8. CodeIgniter

It is an open-source PHP web development framework used to build dynamic websites. It basically works on the MVC (Model view controller) development methodology. It has a good set of libraries, a logical structure & comfortable interface that permits the project’s deployment faster.

Key features of CodeIgniter

• Has a strong capability to handle bugs
• Offers community support
• Includes search engine-friendly URLs
• Quick updates and deployment
• Provide codebase size under 2MB

Advantages and disadvantages of CodeIgniter

9. CakePHP

It is an open-source framework that helps to make the task simple & minimize the duration of website development from scratch. This framework is very popular among web developers as it is influential in modern website development. It is mainly used to handle web applications where the library clarifies the vision for developers.

Features of CakePHP

• Useful for content management systems development
• Extends core functionality
• Easy testing
• Offer the best security options
• Offers testing support with built-in integration for the PHP unit

Advantages and Disadvantages of cakePHP

Advantages of Using Frameworks for Web Development

Now that we understand what frameworks are and how they are helpful for developers, it’s also essential to explore the advantages of frameworks for web development. Let’s read out the benefits that streamline the work process of developers.

1. Easy Code Reusability

With the help of pre-built tools and components library, frameworks encourage code reuse that helps the developers to save time from writing repetitive code for similar tasks. Hence, it’s improving consistency of code and expediting the overall development process.

2. Empowering Developer Productivity

Frameworks offer predefined and structured components that streamline the development process of applications. It will simplify repetitive tasks, decrease manual workflow and ensure quality of codes, hence improving the developer’s productivity.

3. Reduces Code Length

A general task can keep you involved for hours or days with many lines of code. A great web development framework would eliminate the need to write a lot of repetitive code, allowing developers to:

• Focus on the unique needs of the client
• Build websites and applications much quicker
• Deliver more productivity in the same timeframe

4. Reinforces Security

A web framework takes many months to be developed and released. Any updates and patches are regularly released to make them less vulnerable. Most popular frameworks also have a strong support team or developer community.

With such advanced support and security features, you can rest assured knowing that there are experts to take care of if an issue does arise.

5. Eases Debugging & Application Maintenance

Most frameworks have the dedicated support of a strong community of developers. They are quick to respond to any problem that you may encounter while using the framework.

6. Cost-Effective

Most popular web application frameworks are open-source and available for free. Since most of the templates and website functionality are already present, the development is faster.

The per-unit cost of development reduces dramatically due to these two reasons alone. It also helps in the quick delivery of projects.

Classification of Web Development Framework Architectures

Website functionality is partly depending on the implementation technology and design. We can focus our discussion on typical classifications and framework architecture. However, we investigate critical technical matters that possess a basic understanding of web application architecture and its classifications.

1. Model View Controller (MVC)

The MVC model is an architectural pattern that separates an application into three main logical components – Model, View, and Controller.

• Model: It includes all the data, its schema, and related logic.
• View: Presents data to the user and handles user interaction.
• Controller: An interface between Model and View components that also contains the business logic.

The MVC separates the business logic and presentation layer with the backend data being managed by the Model. It allows for fast development, easy testing, and full control over your HTML and URL structure.

2. Model-View-View-Model (MVV)

The MVVM- also known as the Model-View-Binder architecture model – is used by popular modern frameworks such as VueJS and KnockoutJS.It was primarily designed to develop software applications but was later adapted for the web.

The model-view of the MVVM is similar to that of the MVC. The view model is defined as a bridge between the View and Model and acts as the business logic.

MVVM manages the data from the underlying model to make data management very easy.

3. Push-based vs. Pull-based Models

a) Push-Based Models

The work or user queries are “pushed” to the server, which has no choice in the matter. These architectures are also known as event-driven or action-based frameworks. The data (Model) is constructed and given to the View layer by the Controllers with the help of session or application scope global variables.

Some examples are Ruby on Rails, Spring MVC, Django, Sails.js, and CodeIgniter.

b) Pull-Based Models

In this architecture, the server actively requests work, usually through an intermediary. They are commonly known as component-based systems.

Some examples are Tapestry, JBoss, Micro, Lift, Wicket, and Java Server Faces.

Some common frameworks – like struts, Play, and RIFE – use both push-based and pull-based application controller calls.

4. Three-Tier Organization

The classical three-tier architecture is used to organize applications into three logical and physical computing tiers: the presentation tier; the application tier; and the data tier.

The Three Tiers

1. Presentation Tier– It is the UI or the communication layer of the application. It displays information and collects data from the users. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used to develop this tier.
2. Application Tier– It is where the data is processed and is commonly called the logic or the middle tier. It acts as the glue between the presentation and data tiers.
3. Data-Tier– This is where the data associated with the application is stored and managed in databases and data files. It is also known as the data access tier or the backend.

Things to consider while choosing a Web Development Framework

It seems to be difficult to choose the best web development framework for your business. If you have various choices, then it might be challenging to select one. Hence, we have discussed some points that need to be considered while choosing a web development framework.  

1. Programming Language

Each programming language has its own pros and cons. Like – C++ offers reasonable control and better performance, whereas Python provides easy usability and readability. While choosing the framework, you are required to select the best programming language that meets your project goals, developer community, security, and scalability needs.

2. Community Support

You might face issues or experience bugs when working with a framework. The best way to deal with this sort of situation is to get support from the framework community. Some frameworks offer large and active communities on various platforms such as Reddit, Discord, GitHub, Twitter, and many more. While using the frameworks, these communities will help developers – both newbies & experienced and community behavior affects the developer’s decision as well.

3. Industry Adoption

Frameworks bring an organized base to business that improves the growth rate. While choosing a framework it must be essential to check whether that particular framework has been used by different industries or not. If yes, then how much it deliver success to the project? Then, you need to analyze how that framework can meet your business goals and fulfill the requirements. 

4. Scalability and Extensibility

With the growth of businesses, their web applications are also required to handle increased data volume and traffic. Here’s framework scalability plays a significant role and helps with changing demands & manage workload performance. Frameworks should have scalability features that manage high traffic volumes without altering the performance. Developers must also look for extensibility while choosing the frameworks to check whether extensions can be used or not during web app development, which will customize the UIs and backend to meet the website requirements.

5. Security

Security plays a crucial role in the development of websites and web applications. Your aspect should be as follows: Does this particular framework offer a security feature? To meet the security requirements, a framework must have built-in security features, including SSL support, safe password storage, easy customization, and protection against web attacks.

6. Documentation

Good documentation is required for any framework as all the developers rely on it; this will help them to understand framework functionalities, follow guidelines, and troubleshoot issues. A documentation should be concise, up-to-date, and straightforward; otherwise, it may be tough to use and learn the frameworks. For developers, documentation quality is essential, so there is a requirement to check the high quality, accessibility, and modulation. Documentation must have proper instructions, sample code, API references, and tutorials.

How can EmizenTech Help you Choose the Best Web Development Framework?

EmizenTech is a leading website development company that has enormous experience in creating web applications and websites. Our certified experts will provide you with the best web development services and also help in selecting the best web development framework to fulfil the requirements of your project.

If you are looking to develop a web application, there are numerous reasons why you should consider us for the same.

• Offers flexible options for pricing
• Offers 24/7 support to ensure that your website runs smoothly
• Has an engaging portfolio
• Completed numerous website development projects for clients
• Has a well-defined process for development
• Has certified website developers  

Conclusion

In this article, we have provided an inclusive list of the best frameworks for website development, including their benefits, limitations, and classifications. So, now you have a complete understanding of web development frameworks, their functions, and their types. This blog will help you to choose the top web development framework for your upcoming projects in 2024.

Just remember that success and growth are ongoing activities for projecting companies. Staying ahead of the competition with the latest web development trends is crucial. Hence, go ahead with the best framework that suits your requirements, attentively track constant advancements, and test potentials in the ever-evolving web development world.

Contact an expert and developer at EmizenTech to find solutions to fulfill your business requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions about Web Development Frameworks