Node.JS and Angular are some of the most popular web development frameworks. But, regarding the best tools for beginners, Ruby on Rails is at the top of the list. This article will explore Ruby on Rails and review some questions and resources about it. Further, we'll cover the basics of Ruby, its programming language. Are you ready to dive in?
What is Ruby on Rails?
Released in 2004 by David Heinemeier Hansson, Ruby on Rails (RoR) is a full-stack framework. It was initially created to build web and desktop apps. Further, it’s written in Ruby programming language and favors convention over configuration. The framework also emphasizes RESTful application design.
Pros of Ruby on Rails
● Faster Programming. Not only is it easy to learn the basics of this framework. There are also countless tools available to help speed up the development process. The Ruby on Rails community offers a lot of open-source code that makes coding easier and faster.
● Large Community. RoR has a very active community behind it. There, developers are always improving the code base and creating new functionalities. Moreover, you are also likely to find solutions to any issues that may arise.
● Tools and Libraries. There are countless Ruby on Rails tools, gems, and libraries to develop and test your software.
Cons of Ruby on Rails
● Not Very Flexible. Customizing Ruby on Rails can prove a bit tricky. Also, the framework leaves little room for creativity.
● Slow Performance Time. RoR has a slow runtime performance and speed compared to frameworks like Django. Yet, developers argue this should not be an issue if you use proper optimization.
● Mistakes Can Be Costly. Mistakes when developing an app with Ruby on Rails can hurt performance and functionality. Moreover, these mistakes can prove difficult and expensive to fix.
Ruby on Rails vs Python
Well, Ruby on Rails is a framework that uses the Ruby language. Meanwhile, Python is a programming language that uses the Django framework. We'll focus on the languages in this section and look at the development frameworks below. These two languages are visually similar but approach problem-solving differently.
Ruby and Python are both cross-platform, scripting, and server-side. Also, they're general-purpose languages available under open-source licenses. Moreover, they're both high-level and dynamically typed. What sets these languages apart, then? Ruby is flexible and elegant, while Python is more direct and efficient. The latter emphasizes code readability.
Ruby on Rails vs Django
Both RoR and Django create web apps and include traditional MVC framework concepts. Their main difference lies in how they install the various features. As we’ve mentioned, these frameworks work with different programming languages. Regarding architecture, RoR opts for MVT, while Django uses MVC. Django is the most popular of the two, while Ruby on Rails is the fastest.
RoR is also more scalable than Django, which has a steeper learning curve. It all comes down to the specific project at play if you want to know which framework is better. Django is perfect for highly-detailed apps. Instead, RoR is the better choice if you are looking for a quick launch or after a web app.
Ruby on Rails vs JavaScript
Ruby on Rails is a development framework, and JavaScript (JS) is a programming language. Because of this, we'll focus on Ruby and JS in this section. Both Ruby and JavaScript are object-oriented, dynamic, general-purpose scripting languages. Ruby applies for back-end development, while JS is usable for both the front and back end. Ruby offers slower performance and is not very scalable in comparison to JavaScript. Meanwhile, JS is not as efficient as Ruby for CPU-intensive tasks. On RoR vs. JavaScript, the choice will depend on the specific project and your team's skills.
Ruby on Rails vs React
When it comes to React, we are talking about a JavaScript library. Hence our first two differences: one is a library, the other a framework. While RoR works with the Ruby language, React uses JS. Moreover, while Ruby on Rails is a full-stack framework for web apps, React focuses on the front end. Its main use is to create user interfaces for the web (though there is also the React Native tool for mobile apps). Again, you need to check the project specs to choose one framework over the other. Ruby on Rails is great for MVP development and data-driven apps. But, if you are looking to develop a high-traffic app or a dynamic website, React is the way to go.
Is Ruby on Rails a Programming Language?
No, Ruby on Rails is a web development framework. But, the framework is written in Ruby, a dynamic and open-source programming language. We'll learn more about this language later on.
Is Ruby on Rails Front End or Back End?
Ruby on Rails is a full-stack framework covering the front and back end.
What is Ruby on Rails Used For?
As mentioned above, Ruby on Rails is used to develop web apps. Some examples include eCommerce (Shopify and Etsy) and SaaS (Basecamp and Zendesk). Also, it includes trading and data analytics platforms (Bloomberg) and live-streaming apps (Twitch).
What is Ruby?
Yukihiro Matsumoto created Ruby in 1993. It's an interpreted, robust, and dynamic-typed programming language. It is also open-source, high-level, general-purpose, and object-oriented. Isn't that quite the mouthful? Other Ruby features include a dynamic loading of object files and exception handling. Moreover, it has operator overloading and an extensive standard library.
Why use Ruby?
Ruby is an expressive language, which means it is easy to read and understand. Also, it has a great plugin ecosystem that solves everyday problems. Moreover, like RoR, Ruby has a fantastic community of developers behind it. They'll be happy to help you with any issues that might pop up! If you want to learn more about this programming language, you can start by looking at Ruby's documentation.
Conclusion
Ruby on Rails is an excellent web development framework. It's beneficial for programmers that are starting. Its supportive community and countless resources make it easy to learn. The framework has pros and cons but should be considered case-by-case, like any other tool. Are you ready to give Ruby on Rails a chance?
