TypeScript is an object-oriented, open source programming language and an extension of Javascript. Many people in the tech world have discussed, in the past, whether TypeScript is better than JavaScript or not. Before we begin, we must know the differences and similarities between the two programming languages. It is a well-known fact that TS (TypeScript) is a superset of JS (JavaScript). So, the two languages can be interchangeably used.
What are the differences between the two?
To begin with, TS is majorly used when JS becomes complicated. Where JS stops, TS comes into the picture and saves the day. In short, TS is used for heavy, more complex coding where JS can get challenging to use.
Some important differences between the two are:
- JavaScript is mostly client-side programming whereas TS is used for both client-side and server-side programming. The TS code gets transpiled to JS during the time of compilation. Transpiling is interpreting one language and converting/translating it to another specified programming language.
- TypeScript uses the principles of object-oriented programming (OOP), which involves the use of classes, interfaces, modifiers and more. It is a multiparadigm language. JS does not have class-based object-oriented programming because it is mostly a prototype-based object-oriented programming language.
- Static typing is seen in TS as it demands a variable type be explicitly declared and determined at compile time. This is not available in JS.
- As mentioned before, TS is used for complex parts and JS is used to solve the simpler parts of a web program.
- TS was developed at Microsoft by Anders Hejlsberg and JS was developed at Netscape by Brendan Eich.
- A JS code can be used for running on any browser but that is not possible in the case of a TS code.
- Compilation takes time in TS whereas a JS code is instantly compiled.
How can I learn TypeScript?
Learning JS before trying TS would be more pragmatic. TS and JS go hand-in-hand. So, to better understand the concepts of TS, one must understand the workings of JS and OOP concepts. Even if someone directly jumps to TS, you will still be learning JS. So, it is best to learn and understand the concepts of JavaScript before you begin with TypeScript. Of course, there will be teething troubles when you start but you’ll eventually get a hang of it with practice.
There are a plethora of online courses and free tutorials to choose from. You can easily find the suitable one.
Also, TS is booming in the programming world. A TS programmer is earning around $ 150,000 a year, more than a JS programmer. So, there is a lot of potential in this area. Getting your grip on both JS and TS can actually be a game changer.
Programmers’ Experience
TS has been evolving with time and the best part is that it delivers better code. It has improved when it comes to compilation and we have heard from programmers that their experience with it has been extremely smooth. The quality of the code is also good as it is easier to read. One can compile the code efficiently without any hassle. Since it follows multiparadigm principles, it makes it apt for object-oriented programming. One can code using inheritance, classes, with additional features in it, and modifiers.
Final Thoughts
TypeScript and JavaScript are equally important in today’s world. Like we said before, where JS stops, TS jumps in. TypeScript is best used for the heavy coding part. For small snippets, one can stick to JavaScript. So, it is important to understand that there is not much difference between the two but yes both are important in certain areas in the development domain. TypeScript, of course, has an edge above but without JavaScript it is nothing.
So, get down and get busy with learning. Happy coding!
