When it comes to web applications, both MEAN Stack vs MERN Stack are popular choices. But which one is better? And how would you choose the right one for your web application development project?
We will answer all these questions and more in this blog. But before we move onto the technical aspects, let’s try to understand what a technology stack actually means.
Imagine you are building a house- what are the things that you will need?
- Hammers, saws, and drills (like programming languages)
- Bricks, wood, and concrete (like databases and frameworks)
All these tools and materials work together in a specific order to create the final product – the house (the website or app).
“A tech stack is all the building blocks used to create a software application.” Here is the list of key building blocks that more or less make up the technology stack for any project:
- Programming languages: Instructions for the computer.
- Frameworks: Pre-written code for easier coding.
- Databases: Store all app info, like filing cabinets.
- Front-end tools: Create what you see on the screen.
- Back-end tools: Power everything behind the scenes
What is a Full Stack?
A full stack developer is someone with all the skills and knowledge. They can use all the different tools (programming languages, frameworks, databases, etc.). They can build both the front-end and back-end of an application. Many businesses hire full stack developers who can build the app’s frontend and backend and take care of the creation of databases and research.
What is the MEAN Stack?
MEAN Stack is a popular open-source framework. It streamlines web application development. The best part-you can build a complex with a cohesive set of JavaScript-based technologies:
- MongoDB: A flexible database for storing your application’s data.
- Express.js: A framework for building the backend logic of your app.
- Angular: A framework for creating UX/UI (front-end).
- Node.js: A JavaScript runtime environment.
Why MEAN Stack?
MEAN Stack is a favorite among mean stack developer for several reasons:
- Full-Stack Efficiency: Works for both back-end and front-end development.
- Rapid Prototyping: Quickly create prototypes to validate ideas faster.
- Open-Source Advantage: Has a large supportive community and plenty of resources.
What About Mobile Apps?
MEAN Stack excels in web development. But, it can be used for mobile apps as well. However, these are typically hybrid apps that run within a web view on a mobile device. They are not true native apps. You may rely on the best MEAN Stack Development Services for mobile apps.
Benefits of MEAN Stack
- Simplifies transition between client and server, streamlining development with JavaScript.
- Proficient JavaScript developers can manage entire projects seamlessly, utilizing Node.js for direct server application launch without standalone deployment.
- Facilitates easy code transfer between languages, enhancing flexibility.
- Enables effortless application testing on cloud platforms, accommodating expanded form fields for added information.
- Cost-efficient by requiring only JavaScript experts, reducing the need for developers compared to LAMP Stack.
All MEAN Stack technologies are open-source, eliminating licensing fees and reducing overall development expenses.
What is the MERN Stack?
MERN Stack, similar to MEAN Stack, is a popular open-source JavaScript framework. MERN too simplifies web development. It does so using these powerful technologies:
- MongoDB: A flexible database for storing your application’s data.
- Express.js: A framework for building the backend logic of your app.
- React.js: A library for creating dynamic user interfaces (front-end).
- Node.js: A JavaScript runtime environment that allows you to run the entire stack (front-end and back-end) using JavaScript.
Benefits of MERN Stack
- It covers the entire web development cycle. From front-end (client-side) to back-end (server-side) development using JavaScript.
- It comes with a full suite of testing software pre-built.
- Open source and sponsored by strong community support for frameworks.
- With the JavaScript stack, developers just need to be JavaScript and JSON fluent.
- Supports the architecture of the MVC (Model-View-Controller) to easily let the development process flow.
- The four best technology available, i.e., MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js.
Similarities Between MEAN and MERN Stack
Both are open-source, defend against cross-site XSS scripting, have good support for documentation, help organize the UI layer, follow the architecture of MVC, and provide a wide variety of testing tools. The resemblance between the two is also attributed to the use of MongoDB, Express.js, and Node-js. You can hire professionals from the best MEAN Stack Development Company.
MEAN Stack vs MERN Stack
The Main Difference: Front-End Framework
- MEAN: Uses Angular, a mature framework known for its structure and organization, especially for large-scale applications.
- MERN: Uses React, a more flexible library that excels in building user interfaces and single-page applications.
Other Considerations
- Learning Curve: Angular is complex and has a steeper learning curve. React is generally considered easier to pick up.
- Data Flow: Angular uses two-way data binding. But React uses one-way data flow.
- Mobile Compatibility: React can be easily extended to create mobile applications, whereas Angular requires additional tools.
MEAN vs MERN: Which Tech Stack Should You Choose?
MEAN and MERN stacks offer similar functionalities. So it’s crucial to understand your business needs before choosing one. Both are reliable and popular, with many considering them essential for development. Your choice between MEAN and MERN depends on your project’s specific requirements.
- MEAN: A good choice for complex enterprise applications that require a structured approach and a strong emphasis on data management.
- MERN: A good choice for dynamic web applications, single-page applications, or projects where mern stack developer experience with React is a plus.
Planning to build a user-friendly web app for your business?
We’ve an experienced team of developers who can build a customized web app.
Hiring Full Stack Developers: Things to Keep in Mind
We are pretty sure- by now you can make the choice between MEAN Stack vs MERN Stack for your web app development.
- MEAN with its structure and strong tooling- is a good fit for complex enterprise applications.
- MERN with its flexibility and speed- is a good fit for smaller projects.
But this is only half the work done!
You also need to hire the right full stack app development company. Here are some tips that will help you make the right choice:
- Expertise: Ensure they’re experienced in your chosen stack (MEAN or MERN).
- Portfolio: Check past projects for alignment with your needs.
- Communication: Opt for clear communication and collaboration.
- Development Approach: Understand their methodology (e.g., Agile).
- Team Skills: Assess their technical capabilities.
- Pricing: Ask for a clear project deadline and cost estimate.
Conclusion
Both MEAN Stack vs MERN Stach stack are versatile and easy to use, with each technology fulfilling its role effectively. MongoDB is a popular user-friendly database, while Node and Express ensure strong server-side performance for JavaScript web apps. React and Angular handle front-end development. Overall, these stacks cover the full development cycle, are well-equipped with features, and are favored by developers worldwide.
Read More: Top New Trending Technologies in 2024
FAQs
Q1. How can binding impact data management?
Binding in data management is like linking filing cabinets. It can:
- Auto-copy info: Update an address in one cabinet, and it pops up in another, saving time and avoiding errors.
- Label data clearly: Like name tags on files, binding makes data easier to find and use.
This keeps your data organized and helps avoid mistakes!
Q2. Is MEAN good for a fast development cycle?
For projects with a clear vision and a team familiar with MEAN Stack, development can be quite rapid. Highly complex projects or teams new to MEAN Stack might experience slower development cycles.
Q3. What full stack development services do you offer?
We offer a wide range of full stack development services:
- Frontend Development
- Back-end Development
- MEAN/MERN Stack Development
- Database Development
- Mobile App Development
- API Development
- UI/UX Development
Q4. How experienced is your full stack development team?
Our team has experience of 500+ full stack projects. They have extensive knowledge of the latest tools and best practices. Our team can handle all kinds of projects- from simple web apps to enterprise grade applications.
Q5. Can I hire Full Stack Developers from DreamSOft4u?
Yes, you can hire full stack developers. We have a flexible engagement model where you can choose to work with us on an hourly, monthly, or project basis.
