MEAN vs. MERN: Which framework is ideal for you

MEAN vs. MERN

Software developers may have encountered the terms MEAN Stack and MERN Stack. A buzzword coined by Airbnb creator Brian Chesky is MEAN Stack and MERN Stack. A set of “design principles” describes their approach to building web applications that emphasize simplicity, prioritization, and outside-in design.

You need to use both when building an application. The features and functionality of each should be considered if you are not using either already.

To help you decide what’s right for you, we’ve curated this article to help you decide which is best. Firstly, let’s examine their definitions.

What is MEAN stack and MERN stack

MEAN stack

In the development of a web-based application, the MEAN stack is a collection of JavaScript frameworks and technologies. Known as MEAN, this technology is used to develop real-time applications using MongoDB, ExpressJS, Angular, and Node.js. If you need a high-level mobile app with complex algorithms, consider hiring a MEAN stack developer.

MERN stack

A JavaScript-based stack, MERN is designed to deliver uniform development capabilities. MongoDB, React, ExpressJS, and Node.js are the four components of the acronym. By working on backend and frontend technologies, mobile app developers can build a robust and scalable app that integrates seamlessly with the user’s experience on their devices. Develop a robust and secure application using MERN stack with the help of MERN stack developers.

Comparison between them

Angular and React make up the major differences between the MEAN stack and the MERN stack. In terms of positives and negatives, both stacks have some similarities and differences.

Several factors make both stacks different, in addition to their advantages. For the conclusion, let’s jump right to it!

The learning curve

As the MEAN stack is pre-configured, you would have to spend a lot of time learning it if you are new to app development. The MEAN development process requires a lot of dedication.

There is less of a learning curve with MERN than with MEAN. In addition to the framework, there is ReactJS, which provides structured documentation to assist web developers in finding information quickly.

Data flow

Bidirectional data flow is possible with Angular, so if the UI is updated, the model state is updated immediately as well. There is only one direction in which data flows in React. As a result, if you utilize React, the user interface needs to be modified after the model state has been modified.

In addition to providing a greater perspective of the data, React’s unidirectional data binding facilitates project management. It is therefore more appropriate for large-scale projects to use the MERN stack.

If you’re working on a small project, Angular’s bidirectional data binding will prove to be more efficient. There are a lot of advantages to being able to use the MEAN stack here!

Libraries from various third parties

There is a backend server connection feature in the MEAN stack that handles HTTP requests. The Angular component libraries and third-party libraries can still be used even if you know nothing about programming languages.

There aren’t many libraries included in MERN for app development, which means it’s still in its infancy. The libraries are only for experienced developers.

Requirements for User Interfaces

Do you want your application’s UI to be straightforward yet sophisticated? You must then proceed to the MERN stack to accomplish this. As a result, a consistent user experience is ensured by displaying a frame immediately on the screen.

MVC Support

You must keep up with an entire architecture in case you are developing enterprise-level software. You should choose the MEAN stack instead of the MERN stack because of this reason.

The Model-View-Controller architecture can be helpful if you select this option. If you intend to manage code simply, however, you might want to choose the MEAN stack.

Performance

Frameworks that are pre-configured are available. This results in higher performance for MEAN stack apps.

As a result, rendering takes longer because it uses a virtual Document Object Model (DOM) rather than native DOM.

A scalable and secure system

When it comes to security, MEAN has an edge over MERN because it offers a higher degree of protection against certain kinds of attacks. The session data is not stored on the server, but on the client.

Security methods provided by MERN do not protect against CSRF attacks due to multiple authentication methods.

How to choose one of them

React JS and Angular JS are the key differences between MERN Stack and MEAN Stack. A comparison of these two options is presented here, along with the factors influencing each decision.

For the conclusion, let’s go straight to the point;

  • Projects at enterprise levels: You should consider the MEAN stack if you want to build a web application for e-commerce or your business. Dynamic web apps are built on this framework as well as prototypes are built in a systematic manner.
  • Essentials of UI: What kind of UI rendering is required for your application? Do you need a straightforward, classy, and sophisticated UI? Select MERN from the list. An image frame can be generated and displayed to provide a smooth user experience.
  • Niche Projects: The MERN Stack enables you to build and deploy CRUD applications from scratch. The React framework provides a rich user experience while handling quickly changing data efficiently. When working on a small project such as a single-page application or a mobile application, MERN would be a better option.

With React, users can enjoy an engaging user experience while sudden changes to data can be handled easily. Whether they are single-page apps or mobile apps, MERN is ideal for little applications. It is clear from this exploration that no framework is the panacea when it comes to analyzing both tech stacks. Make an informed decision based on your web development requirements after exploring all the features and mapping them to rapid development needs.

Some examples of both

The fact that it’s such a popular web stack means you can create whatever you want with it. Here are some examples and use cases of MERN:

  • A calendar app and a to-do app: If you are learning how to use a new stack, then you should work on a calendar or a to-do app, which can teach you a lot about how it works. ReactJS can be used for designing the front end of such apps. MongoDB can be used for storing, accessing, and modifying data.
  • Forums that are interactive: The MERN platform can also be used as an interactive forum, similar to a social media platform or a website that allows users to communicate and share messages.

Some examples of both

As a cloud-native stack, MEAN provides better scalability and user management than other solutions. In addition to developing single-page applications (SPA), AngularJS is a great front-end framework for developing single-page applications.

How we can help

As cutting-edge full-stack technologies for developing exceptional applications, MEAN and MERN remain at the forefront of technology. Angular and React are two very popular frameworks.

The decision between MEAN and MERN is challenging as both offer excellent features and support web development in the best way possible. A MEAN or MERN stack developer can be hired to develop dynamic applications based on your web development needs.

Whether you are looking for a full-stack development service for web development or any other aspect of it, we have it all. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs.