MEAN VS MERN Stack Developers: The Ultimate Comparison 2022

Introduction

Today, numerous businesses develop apps to stay relevant and in touch with their clients. And this task of getting apps set is challenging as technology keeps evolving. In this scenario, one needs to ensure that the app they get is compatible with the emerging technologies and is scalable. 

Also, one does not build these apps; one hires developers to ensure a perfect app. But before you hire one, you must know which type of developers you need for your business. People employ full-stack developers to develop apps as they create the front and backend, taking care of the entire project single-handedly. 

But the full stack is not simple. There are two stacks in it: MERN and MEAN stack. And based on your project's requirements, you will need to hunt for a MERN or MEAN stack developer. If you do not know what a MERN and MEAN stack is, read the blog to dispel ignorance!

What does Full Stack mean? 

Let us read briefly what full stack means. This stack includes client and server software frameworks, tools, and libraries to assist in developing effective websites or applications. The full stack encompasses browser programming employing Angular, Vue, jQuery, and JavaScript, and server programming utilizing PHP, ASP, Node, Python, etc. 

What is a Full stack developer?

After reading what full stack means, let us see what a full stack developer does. 

The onus of a development project from the inception to the culmination is on a full-stack developer. These professionals possess solid working knowledge and comprehension of How to navigate environments and integrations. Besides this knowledge, they also work with unique libraries, frameworks, and tools to develop effective websites and applications. 

What is a MEAN stack or a MEAN stack developer?

MEAN is an acronym for MongoDB, Express.js, Angular.js, and Node.js. And one can define MEAN Stack as a modern approach to web development as MEAN stack is an amalgamation of JavaScript-based web development technologies. These technologies help MEAN Stack developers create robust apps and websites without hassles. In a nutshell, MEAN Stack is a free, open-source JavaScript framework with an extensive suite of built-in testing tools. Let us now read about MEAN Stack in detail. 

MongoDB 

1. It is a NoSQL document-based backend database. 

2. It uses collections and documents to store high volumes of data. 

3. It extends Cloud functionalities and saves the data in binary JSON format. 

Express.js

1. It is a backend web application framework for application programming interfaces. 

2. It helps create single, multi, or hybrid page apps. 

3. It is a node-based server layer providing logic for the MEAN stack. 

Angular.js

1. It is an open-source front-end JavaScript framework intended to be used for the user interface. 

2. It assists MVC design that efficiently structures business and web applications. 

3. It employs the HTML syntax to express various syntax. 

Node.js

1. It is a JavaScript-based run-time execution on the server side. 

2. It helps one create server-side and networking applications. 

3. It is one of the web frameworks intended for input-output-based web applications. 

What skills does a MEAN stack developer possess?

Before you hire a MEAN stack developer, it is better to ensure that your potential MEAN Stack developer has the following skills: 

1. A MEAN Stack developer should know cloud technologies, architecture, integration, and web designing. 

2. A MEAN Stack developer should be conversant with HTML and CSS. 

3. A MEAN Stack developer comprehends what SDLC and the Agile environment are. 

4. A MEAN Stack developer should access numerous web creation and development frameworks. 

What are the advantages of hiring a MEAN stack developer?

Going for a MEAN Stack developer is an apt choice if you want to speed up the web or mobile app development process. You will get the following advantages if you hire a MEAN Stack developer. 

1. A MEAN stack developer performs the complete development process from the client side (the front-end) to the server side (the backend) of an app with the help of JavaScript.

 2. A MEAN Stack developer includes MVC architecture and reduces the hefty work. Thus, a MEAN Stack developer smooths out the development process. 

3. A MEAN Stack developer works with prime technologies such as MongoDB and Express.js. These technologies are for working on the backend. On the other hand, a MEAN stack developer uses Angular.js and Node.js to perform the front-end work. 

4. A MEAN Stack developer uses the framework to allow numerous plugins, thus reducing the time one takes for system administration. 

What is a MERN stack or a MERN stack developer?

MERN is an acronym for MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, and Node.js. MERN Stack is an alternative to MEAN stack, replacing Angular.js  with React.js. React.js makes the development process smoother and more accessible. Let us read about the MERN stack in detail. 

MongoDB

1. It is a NoSQL document-based backend database. 

2. It uses collections and documents to store high volumes of data. 

3. It extends Cloud functionalities and saves the data in binary JSON format. 

Express.js

1. It is a backend web application framework for application programming interfaces. 

2. It helps create single, multi, or hybrid page apps. 

3. It is a node-based server layer providing logic for the MEAN stack. 

React.js 

1. It is a front-end framework one uses to create user interfaces. 

2. It efficiently handles rapidly changing data and simplifies the development of mobile and single-page apps. 

3. It is a JavaScript library that allows developers to develop user interface components and interfaces for single-page web apps. Also, it lets developers refresh and edit pages without reloading them. 

Node.js 

1. It is a JavaScript-based run-time execution on the server side. 

2. It helps one create server-side and networking applications. 

3. It is one of the web frameworks intended for input-output-based web applications. 

What skills does a MERN stack developer possess?

Before you hire a MERN stack developer, it is better to ensure that your potential MERN Stack developer has the following skills: 

1. They should be conversant with JavaScript and HTML. 

2. They should have a good comprehension of profiling apps and optimizing them. 

3. They should possess a sound grasp of various databases and programming templates. 

What are the advantages of hiring a MERN stack developer? 

1. A MERN Stack developer effectively creates mobile and web apps using standard abilities and processes. 

We mention the perks of hiring a MERN stack developer below to help you. 

2. A MERN stack developer implements designs with enhanced skills in various technologies. 

3. A MERN stack developer maintains a full-fledged development in less time. A MERN stack developer focuses on improving solutions. They maintain a compelling user experience and deliver scalable cloud integration. 

What are the differences between MERN and MEAN Stack? 

Let us read the differences between MERN and MEAN stack below. 

MEAN Stack

1. Its technology stack includes MongoDB, Angular.js, Express.js, and Node.js. 

2. MEAN Stack is a JavaScript framework. 

3. MEAN Stack uses the Typescript language. 

4. MEAN Stack offers better productivity. 

5. MEAN Stack has a steep learning curve. 

6. It assists in managing and rendering the code. 

7. Its data flow is bidirectional. 

8. MEAN Stack does not support mobile apps. 

MERN Stack

1. Its technology stack includes MongoDB, React.js, Express.js, and Node.js. 

2. MERN Stack is an open-source JavaScript library. 

3. MERN Stack employs JavaScript and JSX. 

4. MERN Stack offers low productivity. 

5. MERN Stack offers better documentation. 

6. MERN Stack facilitates smooth rendering of the code. 

7. Its data flow is unidirectional. 

8. MERN Stack supports mobile apps. 

How to choose between MERN and MEAN stack? 

By now, you might have realized the main difference between MERN and MEAN stack (developer) is the usage of React.js and Angular.js. 

We mention the factors playing a vital role in determining between MERN and MEAN stack below. 

Enterprise-level projects

Those interested in developing an enterprise app or an eCommerce can use MEAN Stack as it is the backbone for all dynamic web applications and gives a systematic approach to building prototypes.

User Interfaces Essentials

Suppose you desire a simple, sophisticated, and elegant user interface rendering for your developed application. In that case, it is better to go for the MERN stack as it builds a frame and displays it on the screen for a smooth user experience. 

Niche Projects

Developers can create and deploy CRUD apps from inception to finish with the help of MERN Stack, as React makes it easy to manage rapid data changes while delivering a beautiful user interface. Thus, the MERN stack is apt for smaller projects such as mobile or single-page apps. 

Conclusion 

It does not matter whether you are an entrepreneur or an industry leader; you will require an app to stay in the limelight and avoid shutting up shop. And for that, you must decide which full stack to use. Since determining which one to go for depends on your business requirements, you must examine things minutely to avoid making a mistake while choosing. And the next thing to do is to come to AppsRhino as our MERN and MEAN stack developers are the best who develop only the best! And if you are unsure which stack to pick, no worries, we can even help you with that. All you have to do is come to us and tell us what you want and see the magic happen before your eyes. 
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between MEAN and MERN stack development?

MEAN stack development refers to using MongoDB, Express.js, AngularJS, and Node.js to build full-stack web applications. On the other hand, MERN stack development involves MongoDB, Express.js, ReactJS, and Node.js. The main distinction lies in the use of AngularJS in MEAN stack and ReactJS in MERN stack.

Which stack is more suitable for my project: MEAN or MERN?

The choice between MEAN and MERN stack depends on the specific requirements of your project. If you prefer a framework that provides a two-way data binding and offers a robust ecosystem, MEAN stack with AngularJS may be a better fit. Conversely, if you prioritize flexibility and a component-based architecture, MERN stack with ReactJS might be more suitable.

Does the difference in front-end frameworks affect performance?

The choice of front-end framework, AngularJS in MEAN and ReactJS in MERN, may have some impact on performance. ReactJS is known for its virtual DOM and efficient rendering, which can contribute to better performance compared to AngularJS in certain scenarios. However, overall application performance depends on various factors beyond the choice of front-end framework.

How do the learning curves for MEAN and MERN differ?

In terms of learning curves, both MEAN and MERN stacks have their own complexities. MEAN stack requires familiarity with AngularJS, while MERN stack requires proficiency in ReactJS. Depending on your prior knowledge and experience with either framework, the learning curve might differ. It is advisable to assess your team's expertise and project requirements before making a decision.

Are there differences in the developer community and resources available for MEAN and MERN?

Both MEAN and MERN stacks have active developer communities and abundant resources available. However, the popularity of ReactJS has led to a larger community and extensive libraries and tools for MERN stack development. Nevertheless, MEAN stack has been widely used for a longer duration, so there are still numerous resources for AngularJS as well.