Ruby on Rails vs Nodejs : Which One is Most-in Demand Back End Development Framework in 2022?

Introduction

Having an app with perfection in back-end development is what every product owner wants. However, the goal seems tough to attain as multiple frameworks are available, each having different pros and cons. Ruby on Rails Vs NodeJs, both are most demanding frameworks. Being an app owner if you’re having trouble picking one out of these two, we got your back.

As we have years of hands-on experience in both these two frameworks, we’re going to talk about the advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and much other stuff in detail. It’s going to be an insightful read. So, stay tuned.

Background and Purpose of Node js and Ruby on Rails

Before we delve any deeper, let’s understand the intent and purpose of these two frameworks. Node.js is a runtime ecosystem where developers can convert the client-side code to server-side code. During the process, only JavaScript-based codes that are hardware compatible can be processed by Node.js. It’s a Chrome V8 Engine-based framework and is known for its blazing code-conversion speed.

On the contrary, RoR is a world-recognized website development framework known for its efficiency, quick computing, and speed. It’s an open-source framework developed using Ruby and MVC. As Ruby is a beginner-friendly language, RoR is also easy-to-learn.

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs in 2022

Now that the basic meaning of Node.js and RoR is cleared, it’s time to learn about the major differences between node.js vs ruby on rails. As a product owner, it’s crucial to know the factors where these two are dist, leading heads to a wise choice. We’re going to present six major differences on ruby on rails vs nodejs:

• Performance and Speed

Considering the competitive world we’re in, you need to adopt a framework that is a performer and can help complete the development quickly. So, we’re going to find out which one, out of these two, is a performer and fast.

I have read on Reddit as well that software developers swear by the Node.js’s speed. As Node.js is a single-threaded and asynchronous framework, code conversion and execution are fast.

We have already mentioned that Node.js is based on JavaScript V8 Engine, the fastest engine the world has until today. Thanks to V8 Engine, Node.js can process a huge number of codes or requests in a blink of an eye. This amazing speed forces many developers to use Node.js over any other back-end development framework.

When it comes to RoR, speed is good but not as good as Node.js. Compared to Node.js, it’s a slow technology, because it is Ruby’s Garbage collector (GC). The algorithm behind GC is slow and hinders the process of garbage collection.

Additionally, the higher object and basic variable consumptions contribute heavily to the sluggish performance. A real-time example of this scenario is the LinkedIn application. Previously, the application performance was sluggish as Rails-based string manipulation and JSPN translation were poor. Recently, the company switched to Node.js and experienced 20 times faster performance immediately.

But, Ruby on Rails isn’t a complete waste as continuous improvements are happening. Recently, Ruby 7 was launched and is equipped with far better performance.

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs Verdict – It’s hard to beat Node.js if performance and speed are concerned; it’s hard to beat Node.js.

• Libraries and Tools

A wide range of libraries and tools allows developers to complete the development quickly and easily. So, let’s find out what these two offer on this front. Gladly, there is no dearth of these resources with both frameworks.

Ruby on Rails comes with Ruby Gems, a package library guiding through installation and version control. The default library of Node.js is NPM which offers resources for task automation and keeps coding repetition as little as possible.

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs Verdict – You’ll have sufficient library and tool support regardless of the option picked. Still, Ruby on Rails is preferable here.

• Gem vs NPM

Ruby Gem is an open-source library providing documentation and codes suitable for direct use. There is no need to add library codes with program codes. You’ve many Gems to use as Bundler, Rake, Devise, and RSpec.

Node NPM, which is a subsidiary of GitHub, features JavaScript supportive packages and libraries. As NPM offers a command line for most progressive tasks, it’s a very famous subsidiary.

ruby on rails vs node.js Verdict – Both Gems and NPM are updated and extensive. They don’t disappoint you at all.

• Usage

The main usage of Node.js is to ensure the purposeful implementation of JavaScript codes both at the back-end and front. It is widely used for real-time application development.

RoR is mainly used for database application development and leads to the speedy development of content-heavy website development. It happens because of the use of ORM systems like ActiveRecord. Also, with the right use of the DRF approach, one can develop prototypes of MVPs. 

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs Verdict – These frameworks have different purposes and can bring perfection if used diligently.

• Community

With the right kind of community support, technology is bound to perform better, and developers are likely to have immediate remedial assistance.

Node.js has great community support and receives insights from technology giants like Facebook and Google. You’ll get huge support from tech communities like GitHub, Reddits, and Stackflow regarding any technical glitches.

However, we felt that RoR has better community support as Rails developers are more proactive and engaged in the communities. New features and updates are offered frequently, and it’s easy to get a quick bug fixation. Also, finding the relevant code is easy. 

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs Verdict – With more active developers and community members, Ruby on Rails has better support. RoR has 4200 contributors on GitHub while the Node.js community has nearly 2900 contributors.

When It Is Ideal To Use Node.js?

You’re going to enjoy a great back-end development journey with Node.js if you use it for real-time applications that need to process huge data between server and client. Its cluster module makes the process easy. In case you need to develop RESTful APIs, Node.js is the best bet.

In case scalability is your prime goal, go with Node.js, as the framework is very flexible. As only competency in one language, JavaScript, is required with Node.js, it’s preferred for start-ups as it leads to low development costs.

When Is It Ideal To Use Ruby on Rails?

Hire Ruby on Rails developers when you need to develop a full-stack web application and content-heavy website. It’s also used widely in building content management systems. Use it if you need to build a heavy-traffic-handling social media site.

As Ruby on Rails code is updated and upgraded more often, it’s recommended strongly for the development of e-commerce solutions demanding strong security protocols. As Ruby on Rails code is easy to re-write, applications with strict deadlines must be developed using RoR.

The framework is the best choice to make if you need to develop MVPs and prototypes. Many back-end developers also prefer it over any other framework for developing Single Page applications that demand speedy data manipulations.

Key Takeaway

Both Ruby on Rails and Node.js win app owners’ hearts with their respective unmatched qualities. As both have different intents and purposes, the choice demands a deeper understanding of organizational needs and the offering of these frameworks. But, the task is too daunting.

To attain perfection in development, the ideal option is to take the help of our skilled consultants before you outsource your project to any remote software development vendor. Based on their guidance and your requirement, hire back-end developers from us. With this two assistance, you will make most of the opt framework and have a professionally built application by your side.

FAQs

Ruby on Rails Vs Nodejs, which is faster?

Node.js is faster, and it is because of the V8 engine. Also, being a single-threaded and asynchronous framework makes Node.js a speedy resource.

Which is better Node.js or Ruby on Rails?

The answer depends on your requirements. If you need to build a real-time application, then go with Node.js. Ruby on Rails is used for content-heavy websites.

Ruby on Rails vs NodeJs   — What to Choose for a Mobile App Backend?

Both these frameworks are great options for the back-end of mobile app development. The key is the purpose of an application. So, take the help of a skilled back-end developer, discuss your requirements, and get the right suggestion.