The phrase "vanilla script" denotes the use of unadulterated JavaScript, or what can be described as plain JavaScript, devoid of any supplementary libraries. Occasionally, this term is employed humorously. In contemporary development, numerous tasks can also be accomplished without relying on extra JavaScript libraries.
The vanilla script stands as one of the most lightweight frameworks available. It is exceptionally simple and easy to master, making it accessible for users. With vanilla script, you have the capability to develop substantial and impactful applications and websites.
The group of developers responsible for the creation of vanilla JavaScript is actively engaged in ongoing enhancements to the language, aiming to increase its utility for web developers.
Let’s examine several prominent websites that are presently utilizing vanilla JavaScript:
These following websites are currently using vanilla JavaScript , and these websites also mentioned on vanilla JavaScript home page.
- YouTube
- Yahoo
- Wikipedia
- Windows Live
- Amazon
- eBay
- Microsoft
- Tumblr
- Apple
- PayPal
- Netflix
- Stack Overflow
It is indeed plausible that many individuals find it hard to accept that the quantity of websites utilizing vanilla JavaScript significantly exceeds that of those employing jQuery.
Why should you learn vanilla JS?
This is a frequently posed question among newcomers, who wonder why they should opt to learn vanilla JavaScript when numerous other robust frameworks and libraries are readily accessible.
There are numerous justifications for selecting vanilla JavaScript for learning and implementing in our projects. In this discussion, we will focus on the three primary and most significant reasons for this choice.
a. Web-performance
This approach significantly enhances web performance compared to numerous other frameworks and libraries, given that it represents the most critical and costly aspect of the front-end stack. Unlike HTML and CSS files, which can be utilized upon their download, Vanilla JS code must undergo compilation and parsing. A JavaScript file that is 50kb in size exerts a considerably greater effect on web performance than an HTML or CSS file of the same size.
b. User Experience
It offers a straightforward yet intuitive development experience. When creating an application or website with JavaScript, a developer simply needs to launch a text editor and can start writing code right away. There is no requirement for the developer to undertake cumbersome tasks such as running npm install, going through compilation procedures, or managing builds, among others.
c. It also simplifies the process of utilizing frameworks.
If developers prefer to utilize alternative frameworks, it enhances their experience and facilitates their work. We all recognize the challenges that come with beginning to work with a new framework.
The documentation often presumes a certain level of prior knowledge, and gaining an understanding of the various tools at your disposal significantly simplifies the learning process. Many newcomers, who possess limited experience, attempt to dive straight into learning a framework. It is not surprising that they encounter obstacles along the way, leading some to abandon their efforts and overlook the core principles of Vanilla JavaScript. Once they achieve a solid grasp of the fundamentals, they can subsequently return to framework learning, where they typically progress at a much faster pace.
Several additional significant benefits of using vanilla JavaScript include the following:
- Interoperability:-
JavaScript can be embedded into any web page, whereas this is not possible with other scripting languages, such as PHP.
It can also be utilized in various applications due to its compatibility with additional programming languages, including PHP and Perl, among others.
- Server Load:-
It is well understood that JavaScript is executed on the client-side, which consequently lessens the overall load on the server. Additionally, basic applications may not necessitate any server interaction whatsoever.
- Rich interfaces:-
Utilizing JavaScript enables us to develop high-quality functionalities, including drag & drop capabilities and components like sliders. These features can significantly enhance the overall user experience on a website.
- Speed:-
Given that its execution takes place on the client side, JavaScript does not necessitate any external resources, resulting in impressive speed. Additionally, the performance of JavaScript remains unaffected by requests made to a back-end server.
Disadvantages of the Vanilla Script
- One of the most significant disadvantages of the vanilla script is client-side security since we all know that the code of JavaScript is viewable at the client-side. Hence, anyone can modify it and use it as a weapon or tool for malicious purposes.
- Another major disadvantage of JavaScript is that it lacks Debugging Facility.
- We cannot use it for network-based applications because there is no such kind of support available.
- The vanilla script also does not have some capabilities such as multiprocessors, and multithreading, etc.
- It also does not allow reading and writing files for security reasons.