Svelte vs Vue: Top Front-End Frameworks Comparison

Today, web developers must make a critical decision that is not getting any easier over time. Previously, there were only two frameworks to choose from – Angular, which was released in 2010, and Vue.js, which was released in 2014, now it’s more like Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte.

Without a doubt, IT is the fastest-changing industry, and all of these changes need to be adapted to. But which of these frameworks is the easiest to use and most functional? Do you need to jump ships from one framework to the next? What framework do you need, Svelte or Vue.js, for the development process?

We tried to find answers to these questions in our article, where we compared Svelte vs. Vue and tried to match Svelte vs. Vue performance. If you want to know more and can’t decide to start the Vue.js developer hiring process or hire Svelte developers – keep reading!

What is Svelte? – An overview

Svelte vs. React vs. Vue – which of these do you need for your project? Before jumping straight to React, Svelte, and Vue comparison, let’s get to know them a little bit better. Rich Harris, the author of Svelte, describes his creation as “a framework without the framework”.

Svelte is based on a tool for compiling components (essentially, Svelte.js is a compiler itself) at the build stage, allowing you to load only what is needed to display your application on the page – small, “digestible” JavaScript code. This means there is no virtual DOM, no frameworks on top of frameworks, and no framework at runtime. This is the main difference between Svelte and Vue, and the main argument in the Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue battle.

Use Cases of Svelte

Among the most crucial arguments in Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue is usage. The most common use cases of Svelte include:

• Single-page applications.
• Apps for low-power devices. Apps created with Svelte have less code, which essentially means fewer data to download, and that is perfect for low-power devices.
• Apps with interactive visualization. A framework with no runtime is much more convenient since it allows the visuals to be more responsive.

Popular Apps Made with Svelte

Increasingly, more companies pick the former in the Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue comparison. Today, more than 13,000 companies use Svelte as their framework of choice. Some of the most notable are:

• QuickBudget – a finance app to track expenses. In QuickBudget it’s possible to compare your expenses to certain guidelines.

• Upstream – a desktop version of a P2P development platform. It’s a community-driven network, where developers can collaborate freely.
• Decathlon – a famous sports equipment store, that used Svelte to build their app. Developers noted the benefits of using a code-splitting technique.

Pros of Svelte.js

In a comparison of Svelte.js vs. Vue, it’s worth mentioning several benefits of the former that make it so appealing to developers all around the world. After all, in a study conducted by Stateofjs.com, 44,9% of developers have heard of Svelte and would like to try it. Svelte or Vue.js? Which one has more benefits?

• Easier to use. With a significant shift in language, in a battle Svelte.js vs. Vue, Svelte is looking more favorable, however, in React, Svelte, and Vue comparison, they all are relatively easy to use. You can write in a .html file or a .svelte file, there is also no need to use “this.” in code blocks. But beware: the syntax is easier, yes, but in cases like this it’s a blessing and a curse. Naming conventions would be nice.

import { Router, link, Link, Route } from "svelte-routing"; 

• The ability to compile code without virtual DOM. The main selling point of Svelte and the main difference between Svelte and Vue is reducing the number of digital layers between the browser and the app, which results in more optimized and quick work. According to user tests, Svelte is approximately 30% faster than the rest of the frameworks in a showdown, Svelte vs. React vs. Vue. It also reflects upon Svelte vs. Vue performance.
• Automated updates. With the help of declared variables, Svelte can automatically update your data. That way, you don’t have to wait for changes to be reflected in your virtual structure, resulting in a better user experience.

Cons of Svelte.js

However, Svelte has some major flaws that can negatively affect your experience as a developer. Knowing the limitations of the technology allows you to see whether it’s a fit for your project. With the discussion about Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue, here are some downsides you need to consider.

• No major support. While Angular is backed by Google, React is supported by Facebook – both powerful IT giants, and Vue.js is backed by its open-source community, Svelte stands without any major support as of yet. Of course, this is a very young framework, and it may get support in the future, but be prepared for its lack if you decide to use it now.
• Small community. Svelte isn’t very popular right now, as you can see on Google Stats, where they analyze Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte. This results in a lack of support by the community, and something as simple as finding a UI Kit may be time-consuming. And using JS without UI Kits is way harder than it may seem.

• Routing issues. You won’t be able to create even a one-page web application without a normal router. Currently, there aren’t that many for Svelte, mostly the choice lies between two options, both of which aren’t any good. You can link your router, but it takes more time and effort.
• Forget about cross-platform apps. You’ll have to rewrite your mobile app completely in ReactNative or use hardwired NativeScript, but finish it off by hand.

What is Vue? – An overview

When discussing Svelte.js vs. Vue showdown, it’s important to mention, that one is a newcomer in this field and another is a seasoned player with tons of support and backing. The framework took the best of the world: it adopted two-way data binding from Angular, compactibility, and component structure from React.

We can safely say that in a juxtaposition of Svelte vs. React vs. Vue, the latter will rub shoulders with React. The most important question, however, is whether a Svelte or Vue.js is the better framework?

Use Cases of Vue

The difference between Svelte and Vue lies also in versatility. Vue is pretty much a universal framework that can be used for any project of yours.

The most suitable apps developed in this framework are single-page apps, MVPs, progressive web apps, and dynamic landing pages. In React, Svelte, and Vue comparison only Svelte is somewhat specific in its functionality, React and Vue can do pretty much everything.

Popular Apps Made With Vue

When comparing Svelte.js vs. Vue we need to acknowledge the fact that the latter is significantly more popular, therefore there are more examples of successful practice. The obvious winner among Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue in the number of apps is React, but Vue comes at a close second. Currently, the number of apps running on this framework surpasses 1,500,000.

• Alibaba – an E-Commerce giant from China uses it as their primary frontend solution. Without stopping there, Chinese developers created a compatible framework Weex to build mobile solutions.

• Louis Vuitton – a website for a high-end fashion brand Louis Vuitton is a prime example of what the framework can do. For that reason, Louis Vuitton now stands as the fifth most popular brand online.
• Behance – a leading online platform for presenting art and photography, a part of the Adobe family. They used it as their frontend framework while building a website.
• Zoom – a well-known video communications company that blew up during quarantine. Their web app is built on Vue.js.

And that’s not it – a lot of the popular web apps use this framework on an occasional basis. Google used it for their careers page, Apple for SwiftUI tutorial, Nintendo when developing their loyalty page. Upwork, Nestle, Trivago, Nespresso – the list goes on and on, which stresses the multipurposeness of this framework.

On the issue of Svelte.js vs. Vue, developers are currently choosing Vue. The main difference between Svelte and Vue, in this case, is age. By the way, if you want to build an app on Vue.js ProCoders can help you with that! You can hire our Vue.js developers and recreate the success of these apps.

Pros of Vue

To match Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue, it’s worth noting the advantages of both of them, since it will be important in our Svelte vs. Vue performance analysis. Earlier we talked extensively about the pros and cons of using Svelte, but what about Vue? Who will be on the top in the React, Svelte, and Vue comparison? The benefits are:

• Extensive library and excellent documentation. Having a very meticulous and extensive library is a signature of the framework. Its documentation probably has an answer to any developer question, making it an incredibly valuable asset for those who just started discovering Vue. Among the competitors in Svelte vs. React vs. Vue it’s the best.

• High development speed. Thanks to the templates and the availability of documentation, projects can be developed quite quickly. No complicated interface and a relatively simple syntax make this framework ideal for tight deadlines.
• Adaptability. It is similar to Angular and React, which makes it easier to use in two ways. First, developers who want to migrate from Angular and React won’t find it difficult to re-learn a framework, and second, similar design and architecture make it easy to adapt the code itself.
• Scalability. First and foremost, you can use it for both small one-page apps and big complex web-app interfaces. But it’s also a wonderful tool to scale your project since it allows you to create templates for multiple employment.
• SEO Optimization Support. Besides its adaptability and scalability, Vue is also favorable for implementing SEO strategies. Vue SEO Services are tailored to improve your site’s visibility and performance, making Vue a powerful tool for developers looking to enhance their website’s search engine ranking.

Cons of Vue

Any framework, whether it’s a Svelte or Vue.js, has its downsides. Depending on your project, they may not be of much importance, but it’s still important to be aware of them.

• Community. The community, even though it is larger than Svelte’s, is less than in React or Angular. So the knowledge exchange at the developer level within the framework is still improving.
• Flexibility. Yes, this is somewhat of a disadvantage. When you have too many options there is a big risk to overcomplicate your code and make your final project bulky and slow.

When it comes to aligning Svelte vs. Vue performance is the key indicator. But how can we do it without looking at their direct competition?

What if You Need To Compare Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte?

You can endlessly look at three things: fire, water, and the debate over choosing the best front-end framework. It’s a tough battle between Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue since they constantly evolve and get better and better.

If you read about Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue but are still unsure what to choose, we prepared a small list of benefits and downsides of React and Angular vs. AngularJS so that you can objectively decide where you stand in an Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte debate.

Pros of Angular

• Ease of updates. You can easily upgrade your application to the newest version of the framework using the “ng update” command.

• Cross-platform. Whether it’s a native desktop app you want to create or a progressive web application, Angular allows for a smooth transition of code.
• Two-way data binding. Provides a smooth performance and minimizes the risk of potential errors.

Cons of Angular

• Basic documentation. There are very few descriptions and real-life examples in the Angular documentation, which makes it difficult to use.
• Harder to learn. Learning Angular is significantly harder since it requires a profound knowledge of RxJC, TypeScript, molecules, injectables and pipes, and other specific programming technologies. So with alternatives like Svelte vs. React vs. Vue Angular is losing.

• Heavy modules. If you are using straight-out-of-the-box Angular, you will have to manually exclude modules you don’t use and use lazy-loading modules to simplify and lighten your code structure. Svelte or Vue.js use much lighter code that affects speed and performance.

Pros of React

• Virtual DOM. Maintaining real DOM is slow and decreases the overall performance of your project, which is a known flaw of Angular.
• Great rendering. It is not only optimized to the max but also supported on the server-side, which in turn makes React an ideal framework for content-oriented apps.

• The steep learning curve, compared to Angular. With React there is no need to learn TypeScript and the syntax overall is easier. The trio Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue is easier to gain skill in.
• The fullest JS library that updates daily.

We have to say, React is great for a framework of choice. If you want to see the best React websites examples, you can follow the link and see for yourself.

Cons of React

• JSX syntax. Some web developers and designers believe that the JSX code is too complex and difficult to understand. This disadvantage is more of a personal preference.
• Only the view part of the MVC model is provided, resulting in relying on other technologies and their intercommunion.
• Rapid development. Well, some think React develops too fast. Developers have to master new updates in a snap because tomorrow there will be new ones, and the old ones would be considered outdated. Keeping up with this blistering pace is not easy, however, React’s API is getting more stable over the years.

Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue

Now when you are fully aware of the capabilities of each part of the Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte combo, it’s time to choose. The choice highly depends on the particular idea, the team, the tech stack. But here are some things to consider. One of the most important factors in React, Svelte, and Vue comparison is availability.

According to the 2021 Developer Survey, professional developers nowadays prefer React to other frameworks (40,14%). Next follow Angular (22,96%) and Vue.js (18,97%), but Svelte is nowhere to be found.

This is important for two reasons: first, the more developers use the framework, the more community support you have. Vue.js compensates for this with a well-developed library and documentation, but Angular and Svelte cannot boast of the same. Second, it’s going to be easier to find developers for your startup if you don’t have any on your team. Among Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte, the easiest will be to find developers who know older frameworks (based on the performance and popularity).

Of course, there are a huge number of criteria by which you can choose a framework for the frontend and compare them to one another. Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue is a very tight-knit bundle, all of them have their advantages and disadvantages.

For example, if you are using the React+Redux combo, the bigger your project gets, the harder it is to maintain since the developer has to concentrate a lot on Redux mechanisms. Meanwhile, in Vue, this problem is eliminated by introducing Vuex, and it’s more manageable than Redux.

Here is a nice React, Svelte, and Vue comparison (Angular isn’t as well-rated), calculated by the satisfaction and interest. You can notice how Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue are more positively ranked, and Angular has mixed reviews. When every framework in Svelte vs. React vs. Vue has a positive awareness of more than 70%, Angular has only ~35%.

Overall, as you can see, the developers are satisfied with React and want to learn more about Vue.js and Svelte, however, the former looks more promising judging by the positive/negative ratio. We would say the Svelte vs. React vs. Vue matchup most accurately reflects today’s trends in production, and if you are looking to hire React.js developers you can give us a call!

Svelte vs. Vue performance

Now let’s compare the most important feature of any framework, whether it’s Svelte or Vue.js – its performance. When we are comparing Svelte.js vs. Vue, it’s important to remember the main difference between Svelte and Vue – virtual DOM (or its absence), as it greatly affects performance.

Svelte

Svelte primarily is a compiler. It’s capable of producing and simultaneously optimizing the code at one step, thus enhancing the performance. This results in a lower runtime overhead, and users can enjoy smooth transitions and exceptionally fast rendering.

Another unique source of decreasing the runtime is virtual DOM. With no virtual DOM optimizations and concurrent mods necessary, the performance is streamlined. Svelte takes care of updating the DOM without the middleman (e.g. API) via changing the components themselves.

Vue

Comparing Svelte.js vs. Vue performance, they are not drastically different. Where Svelte uses no DOM whatsoever, Vue uses Virtual DOM – it’s slower, but the tool is well-known and optimized.

A great feature that makes a difference between Svelte and Vue – lazy loading, which somewhat makes up for the time spent in virtual DOM. Essentially, lazy loading is a strategy that allows you to defer the rendering of non-critical resources until the user needs them specifically. This results in a faster page loading time.

If we are to compare Svelte vs. Vue performance, here is a result of a RealWorld comparison of the most popular frontend frameworks.

Yes, Svelte has a score of 99, but Vue is not that bad either with 86 points. Is it a drastic difference? We don’t think so, especially judging by the results of other represented frameworks. The difference in performance won’t be even noticeable in light-weight apps, and only perceptible in big apps with billions of elements or mobile games.

Svelte and Vue Application Architecture

Svelte

What is so different in Svelte is that in comparison to Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue, Svelte can render a page directly meanwhile frameworks like Vue and React have to wait for the virtual DOM to load. Our Svelte vs. Vue performance analysis already established how big of an influence on the app this is. Svelte also uses an existing javascript to render the page and generates the whole app’s components using its compilation feature.

Vue

Comparing Svelte.js vs. Vue architecture, it is rather different. The latter uses a ViewModel method, based on the two-way data binding in the MVVM model. MVVM – is a template that emerged to get around the limitations of MVC and MVP patterns.

M – Model – represents the business logic of the application.
V – View – XAML UI view.
VM – ViewModel – contains all the logic for building the GUI and a reference to the model, so it acts as a model for the view.

Vue.js’ architecture also consists of two parts: Filters and Directives. Filters are used for common text formatting tasks and Directives, which are reusable code blocks that allow developers to manipulate DOM elements in web apps. What makes Vue more unique and flexible is the ability for developers to create custom directives.

Svelte and Vue App Size

Svelte

When you are comparing frameworks, be it Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte, size matters. The logic is quite simple in this round of Svelte.js vs. Vue: the lighter the app – the faster it will load and the less will be the parse.

Developers that use Svelte tend to build smaller apps. It’s one of the most appealing features of this framework. Comparing it to Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue, it’s able to create a smaller bundle size because there is no dependencies section.

Vue

It’s is a relatively lightweight framework if we compare it to some of the more old ones (namely React and Angular). The average size of the app is somewhere between 50kB and 100kB and even with tips on how to decrease the size of your app, like replacing moment.js with date-fns, in comparison with Svelte.js vs Vue, it is still not enough to be as tiny as Svelte.

However, if we look at a Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue combo, we can see that both frameworks are in the first ten, while React and Angular fall behind. Quite good indicators proving the viability of frameworks.

Svelte and Vue Ability to Build Complex Apps

Svelte

If you have an idea for a large complex application, Svelte is not the best choice for the front end. Despite showing great results in a Svelte vs. Vue performance analysis, this framework is still young and lacks support, backing, and community. With no styles and kits, the amount of work you have to do by yourself will probably soon outweigh the positives that come with Svelte.

Vue

With major backing from Google and relatively strong community support, building a complex app using Vue seems easier. Not mentioning the Vuex, which greatly facilitates the task. The difference between Svelte and Vue – having the ability to develop larger and more complicated apps – might be a make or break for someone who plans to quickly scale up their business and add more functions.

The best framework for going big is the trio Svelte vs. React vs. Vue is React, but it is heavier and has less impressive performance results.

When Svelte is the Best Choice?

Choosing between Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte is not as easy as it seems. Yes, Svelte shows great results on tests, but it has its flaws. With the React, Svelte, and Vue comparison already done, we can finally answer the question of when it’s the best time to use Svelte over other frameworks?

• When you have time. Because probably no one from your team already knows it well enough to construct a top-notch complicated app. And if there is someone, with no community support and available tools, comparing it to Svelte vs. React vs. Vue, it’s probably gonna take a bit longer than expected. But if you are ready to invest time and effort – by all means, go for it!

• If package size is a serious concern for you, there is no doubt that among Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue, Svelte is the best choice by far. There is no doubt that app size is going to affect the performance, as it was shown in our Svelte vs. Vue performance analysis, so if you know beforehand you’re gonna struggle with the size – pick Svelte.
• If you are aimed at low-power devices. Comparing Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue, Svelte is 100% more lightweight and quick, even on low-capacity devices.
• If you want a simple one-page app.

When Vue is the Best Choice?

Whether you choose Svelte or Vue.js, it must depend entirely on your exact business idea. How complex do you want your app to be? How scalable should it be? What people are on your team? In a comparison between Svelte vs. React vs. Vue there are certain cases when Vue is your best choice. Namely:

• When you want something easy and ready to go. The difference between Svelte and Vue is that the latter comes with a great router (Vue-router) and data management (Vuex) that is taken care of. These components can be rebuilt – there is also such an opportunity in this framework, but if you are satisfied and want to get to work – having this option is great!

• When you want to have great integration capabilities and flexibility. For one, you can write the templates using whatever language you desire (HTML, JS, JSX) and have great integration with CSS modules. It makes Vue a universal framework. Also comparing Svelte.js vs. Vue, the second one is more likely to seamlessly integrate with other apps because it relies only on JavaScript and is a well-known framework.

• If you want to shift from React or Angular. In React, Svelte, and Vue comparison, Vue has a similar structure and has elements from React (and even Angular!), so retraining shouldn’t be a problem. If you are choosing Svelte or Vue.js and already know React and/or Angular, it would be much easier to pick up Vue!

• If you want to be able to quickly scale your team up. Since Vue is the framework more developers are working with, it’s going to be significantly easier to find a programmer to extend your team. Moreover, if there are no specialists available in your country you can hire remote developers. Svelte, on the other hand, is a rare bird and finding someone with experience is going to be hard.
  
  A similar strategy would be to outsource app development entirely, not just hiring programmers, and it still would be easier as the market for Vue.js is currently bigger than the one for Svelte. The choice you make depends on the capabilities of your in-house team. However, when comparing Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue on the criteria of availability, the older frameworks win by far. When deciding on the framework, especially between Svelte or Vue.js, consider this fact.

Our Experience in Vue

At ProCoders we work with multiple languages and frameworks, and Vue.js is surely among them. There is no question what framework is better, Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte – doesn’t matter, we are ready to use it! However, one particular case is especially dear to us.

HANDLE came to us in 2020, when COVID-19 had struck. They were managing the medical equipment sales, and when pandemics hit, they found themselves at the brink of a wonderful opportunity, that not only would save lives, but also help their business prosper. What they were needing was someone to help them develop their own Capital Cycle Management (CCM) system. And we were happy to assist!

As a matter of fact, we used this frontend framework for our project, bundled up with Laravel, Firebase, and MySQL, and it worked like a charm. Earlier we talked about compatibility while comparing Svelte vs. Vue, and what truly stands out to us is how it seamlessly worked with these stacks.

As a result of working with ProCoders, HANDLE was able to cut their time to market by 30%, which is especially valuable in a pandemic, their income consequently increased by 30%, and they were able to quickly expand the market and use every opportunity to establish their business.

Conclusion

The debate between Angular vs. React vs. Vue vs. Svelte for the title of the best frontend framework is probably never going to cease to exist, especially when new strong players, such as Svelte, come to play. Svelte.js vs. React vs. Vue – which framework will you pick for your next project? We’ve all heard about the great performance Svelte demonstrated, but is it worth it to jump ships without thinking twice?

Hopefully, our article was helpful in telling you about the difference between Svelte and Vue, and why it is important to juxtapose your goal and the capabilities of a framework, even comparing Svelte vs. React vs. Angular vs. Vue. You can find any information about software development in our blog, like different framework comparisons or average hourly rate for app developer. If you struggle to find answers to your questions here, you can always contact ProCoders for extra help!

Do you want to hire Vue.js developers to help you meet your targets? We have seasoned developers that can extend your team and bring all the necessary skills to the table. Let’s book a consult and get you closer to your business dream.