Choosing which web app languages to learn is the hardest part when you are just starting. Whether for web app development or choosing the technology stack for your product, it will be tough. There are more and more of them, and each one has its own programming challenges and steps. Many companies that make web apps have switched to a multi-lingual strategy because it gives them better performance, more flexibility, and the ability to work with other languages. Because of this, companies want to hire developers who can use more than one language.
An Overview of Web App Development Languages
When we talk about the best programming languages for making web apps, it’s important to remember that they all have some things in common. Business and web app development services have not suddenly changed how they use or try to use a certain programming language.
Even so, there’s no denying that the times are changing. In the world we live in now, even people who don’t write code need to know something about it. If you are curious about web app development, you should learn about the best programming languages for making apps. In this first part of the lesson, we’ll talk about what a programming language is all about.
What is a programming language?
Through a programming language, individuals can direct a computer to execute specific tasks. Instead of relying on binary, which is complex for humans to comprehend and write, we utilize languages that are more human-friendly. Code composed in these languages is then transformed into “machine code,” a language that computers can readily interpret and execute.
In essence, a programming language is a structured language containing a series of instructions that generate various types of output. These instructions serve to convey algorithms to a computer or other computing devices. When people discuss “programming languages,” they often refer to high-level languages like BASIC, C, C++, COBOL, Java, FORTRAN, Ada, and Pascal.
However, the landscape of programming languages has undergone significant evolution. As of 2024, the most prevalent languages for web content are English, accounting for nearly 59 percent of websites, followed by Russian and Spanish. In the domain of software development, JavaScript and HTML/CSS reign supreme as the most utilized programming languages, with over 63.6 percent of developers employing JavaScript and approximately 53 percent using HTML/CSS.
In the realm of web app development, languages such as Python, SQL, and TypeScript have also gained traction. Python, for instance, is widely favored for its readable syntax, extensive community support, and reusable code. Its built-in modules aid in automation testing and eliminate redundant manual tasks, making it a favorite among testers and developers.
Furthermore, the global market for web application development is poised to reach $179.90 billion in 2024. Contemporary frameworks and tools like React, Angular, and Vue.js are increasingly being leveraged for web application development. These frameworks offer numerous benefits, including expedited software development cycles, heightened efficiency, and simplified maintenance.
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How does it work?
Each programming language has its own set of keywords and syntax, or rules for how to put program instructions together. These instructions are written in the programming language used to create the program, while statements are written in machine code, a different programming language. Machine code is a binary format consisting of ones and zeros, or 1s and 0s, with each digit representing either an instruction or some data in the program.
When a programmer types a command into their computer’s terminal, these instructions are transferred to the computer’s processor. Here, they’re converted into machine code so the computer can execute the programmer’s instructions. The resulting information is then translated back into a language that people can understand, typically English.
According to a report by Statista, as of 2022, JavaScript and HTML/CSS were the most commonly used programming languages among software developers worldwide, with more than 63.6 percent of respondents stating that they used JavaScript and around 53 percent using HTML/CSS. This trend is expected to continue into 2024, with JavaScript remaining a top choice for web app development.
The global web development market, valued at $60,709.6 million in 2022, is projected to reach $96,748.41 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.08%. This growth underscores the increasing importance of choosing the right web app language for your project.
Are web app languages different from other programming languages?
Yes, web app languages are indeed different from other programming languages, although there can be some overlap. Web app languages are a subset of programming languages that are specifically used to create dynamic, interactive systems that are accessed via a web browser.
As of 2022, JavaScript and HTML/CSS were the most commonly used programming languages among software developers around the world, with more than 63.6 percent of respondents stating that they used JavaScript and just around 53 percent using HTML/CSS3. This trend is expected to continue into 2024, with JavaScript remaining a top choice for web app development.
For instance, Python has been gaining popularity due to its readable syntax, vast community support, and reusable codes. Its built-in modules help with automation testing and eliminate repetitive manual tasks, making it popular among testers and developers.
On the other hand, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS have a never-ending demand in this market as they are the basics of web development. Another language named TypeScript has captured the market because of its scalability and readability.
In conclusion, while all programming languages share some commonalities, web app languages have their own unique features and use cases. Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right language for your web app development project in 2024.
Web app languages usage at Designveloper
Selecting the right web app language holds utmost importance for your project’s triumph. Designveloper, a premier web & software development firm in Vietnam, boasts extensive expertise in leveraging diverse web app languages to furnish top-tier, efficient, and user-friendly web applications.
JavaScript and HTML/CSS emerge as the foremost programming languages globally, as of 2022. We, at Designveloper, champion these languages for their adaptability and widespread adoption within the developer community. Moreover, we harness the capabilities of other robust languages such as Python and TypeScript, tailored to the specific requirements of each project.
Furthermore, we’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact the choice of web app language can exert on a project’s outcome. JavaScript’s flexibility and resilience have empowered us to craft interactive web applications, while Python’s clarity and extensive community backing have proven indispensable for data-intensive projects.
Top 10 Best Web App Languages
Now, let us delve into the main section of the subject of hand: the 10 best web app languages right now. Handpicked by the best web app developers at Designveloper, we hope this list will prove fruitful and informative.
1. JavaScript – The Top Web App Language
At Designveloper, we stand at the forefront of web app development, recognizing the crucial role of selecting the perfect web app language for your project. As a leading software development company based in Vietnam, our extensive expertise lies in harnessing JavaScript, a prominent web app language in 2024.
JavaScript, a versatile scripting language, serves on both client and server sides of websites. Its capabilities include data storage, component access, dynamic content updates, and enhanced interactivity. Remarkably, as of 2024, JavaScript dominates 98.9% of websites as a client-side programming language, showcasing its burgeoning popularity and adaptability.
For server-side endeavors, Java emerges as a robust option. Java’s runtime environment module converts code into machine-compatible versions, ensuring compatibility with existing operating systems. This versatility extends across various platforms, including Linux.
Businesses favor Java for its robust security features, integrated seamlessly into frameworks like Spring and Hibernate for web-based app development. Thus, recruiting Java-specialized web developers becomes effortless, given the abundance of qualified candidates.
Designveloper boasts a proven track record, delivering top-tier services to propel our clients’ business growth. Our portfolio spans diverse domains, featuring successful projects such as Lumin PDF, Swell & Switchboard, Walrus Education, Joyn’it, Bonux, CV Simply, Song Nhi, and ODC. Our adept team excels in Java, Python, GoLang, C++, PHP, Angular, NodeJS, ReactJS, React Native, iOS, and Android app development, ensuring tailored software solutions for your needs.
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2. Python
Python stands out as a robust and adaptable programming language celebrated for its concise syntax, enabling developers to craft robust functionalities with minimal code1. Embracing an object-oriented paradigm, Python seamlessly integrates with other leading-edge technologies, fostering a dynamic synergy for web application development.
Renowned for its versatility, Python remains a stalwart among web app languages, fostering an ecosystem conducive to crafting user-centric and high-impact web applications. Bolstered by a rich standard library, Python simplifies database connectivity. Notably, Python’s prowess extends to fostering the development of neural networks for artificial intelligence, an increasingly prominent domain.
Embraced by developers worldwide, Python garners acclaim for its expansive library and cross-platform compatibility. Despite the discontinuation of Python 2 in 2020, the transition to Python 3 has been seamless, with the latter retaining widespread usage as of 2024.
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3. Java
Despite ongoing predictions of its decline, Java remains a stalwart in the realm of web app languages. As of 2024, Java commands a usage rate of 4.8% among all websites employing server-side programming languages, showcasing its enduring relevance. Moreover, an impressive roster of over 9,605 companies, featuring tech giants such as Google, Instagram, Netflix, and Amazon, depend on Java for their operations.
The enduring allure of Java can be ascribed to its robust security features and its knack for generating simple, flexible, and reusable code, qualities that hold significant sway in today’s digital milieu. Especially suited for enterprise applications, Java benefits from extensive library support, cementing its status as a cornerstone of contemporary software development.
One of Java’s primary strengths lies in its cross-platform compatibility, facilitated by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). This adaptability extends to various popular programming languages, including Kotlin, Scala, and Groovy, all of which leverage JVM as their runtime environment. Despite the uncertainties posed by natural disasters and pandemics, Java upholds its reputation for reliability and consistency, with updates rolled out every six months.
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4. TypeScript
TypeScript, a JavaScript superset nurtured by Microsoft, has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity. By 2024, TypeScript’s usage has escalated to 38.87%, marking a notable increase from 34% in the preceding year, affirming its expanding adoption among developers. This upward trend underscores an industry-wide pivot towards more structured and dependable coding methodologies.
TypeScript enriches JavaScript with types, classes, and modules, augmenting its capabilities significantly. It empowers developers to craft applications that seamlessly operate on any browser or platform without necessitating recompilation. Notably, TypeScript seamlessly integrates with the vast majority of JavaScript codebases, owing to its foundation on the ECMAScript 6th Edition (ES6).
5. C#
C#, nurtured under the wing of Microsoft, emerges as a safer programming language in comparison to its predecessors, C and C++. Throughout its evolution, C# has consistently maintained its status as one of the most sought-after web app languages, securing the fourth spot on Google’s coveted list of the most sought-after language lessons. Notably, C# shines in its prowess for constructing robust server applications.
As an object-oriented language finely tuned for compatibility with the command-line interface (CLI), C# stands out for its arsenal of safety measures, adept at addressing compile-time and runtime concerns. Its automated garbage collection system streamlines memory management, ensuring optimal performance. Moreover, its interoperability facilitates seamless integration with libraries and components from diverse programming languages, further enhancing its utility. This expansive repository of libraries not only expedites the development cycle but also paves the way for the creation of a diverse array of services.
6. HTML/CSS
HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) collectively serve as the cornerstone of web app development. HTML lays down the fundamental structure and content of a web page, while CSS injects style into the web application, elevating its visual appeal. Together, they furnish a robust foundation for embarking on web app development endeavors.
As of 2024, CSS boasts an impressive utilization rate, permeating through 96.8% of all websites, showcasing its widespread embrace within the digital landscape. HTML and CSS enjoy broad support from major browsers, ensuring uniformity in appearance and functionality across diverse platforms, a paramount consideration in web app development.
Furthermore, HTML and CSS remain dynamic entities, continually evolving to cater to the burgeoning demands of modern web development. Notably, with the advent of updates such as HTML5 and CSS3, these languages have undergone enhancements, introducing novel features that facilitate the creation of more immersive and dynamic web applications.
7. SQL
SQL, short for Structured Query Language, stands as a cornerstone language in the realm of web development. Originating from the ingenuity of IBM computer scientists in the 1970s, SQL has since matured into a ubiquitous language for navigating and administering databases. As of 2024, SQL commands a staggering 40% adoption rate among developers worldwide, securing its position as the 4th most favored language according to the esteemed TIOBE Index.
SQL furnishes developers with a versatile toolkit, enabling them to execute an array of operations against databases, ranging from querying data to managing records. Since its inception in the mid-1970s, SQL has reigned as the foremost data manipulation language, enjoying preference from a substantial 67% of database administrators.
In the landscape of web development, SQL assumes a pivotal role in fashioning dynamic websites that seamlessly interact with databases. To embark on the creation of such websites, a confluence of essential components is imperative: an RDBMS database program (e.g., SQL Server, MySQL, or PostgreSQL), a server-side scripting language (e.g., PHP, ASP, or analogous languages), SQL for orchestrating data extraction and manipulation, and HTML/CSS for sculpting the structure and aesthetics of web pages.
At the heart of SQL lies RDBMS, or Relational Database Management System, which underpins its functionality. Prominent database systems such as MS SQL Server, Oracle, and MySQL operate on an RDBMS architecture. Within this framework, data finds organization within tables, each comprising columns and rows, culminating in a structured and efficient mechanism for storing and retrieving data.
8. PHP
PHP, short for Hypertext Preprocessor, emerges as a versatile open-source scripting language celebrated for its prowess in server-side scripting. Originating from the ingenious mind of Rasmus Lerdorf in 1993, PHP has since ascended to prominence as a cornerstone of web programming. As of 2024, PHP commands a noteworthy usage rate, resonating with 79.2% of websites whose programming language could be ascertained.
PHP empowers a diverse spectrum of functionalities, encompassing tasks such as form data collection, dynamic page content generation, and cookie management. It finds its niche primarily in the realm of dynamic websites and web applications. PHP code undergoes processing on a web server via a PHP interpreter, facilitating seamless interaction with databases, adept handling of user input, and dynamic content delivery to web users.
Beyond the confines of web development, PHP flaunts its adaptability. It lends itself to an array of programming tasks transcending the web landscape, including the creation of standalone graphical applications and even control systems for robotic drones. Moreover, PHP code boasts the capability of execution directly from the command line, further amplifying its utility and flexibility.
9. Ruby
Ruby, an open-source language known for simplicity, is a beacon of innovation. Created by Yukihiro “Matz” Matsumoto in the mid-1990s, Ruby is now among the top 20 languages in the TIOBE Index. It’s used in over 1.2 million websites worldwide.
One of Ruby’s standout features lies in its dynamic typing paradigm, which obviates the necessity of explicitly declaring variable types during initialization. At the heart of Ruby lies an object-oriented philosophy, where every operation revolves around objects, with methods invoked upon them. Furthermore, Ruby boasts a built-in garbage collector, diligently purging unused objects to optimize memory utilization and enhance efficiency.
The influence of Ruby transcends the confines of its syntax. Ruby on Rails, colloquially known as Rails, emerges as a robust web application framework meticulously crafted atop Ruby’s foundation. Ruby is versatile. It can create standalone graphical applications and even control systems for robotic drones. Rails, a framework in Ruby, uses the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern. It streamlines development workflows and fosters code elegance.
This amalgamation of Ruby and Rails furnishes developers with a potent arsenal for crafting dynamic and sophisticated web applications.
10. Swift
Swift, a versatile language by Apple, is a key asset in software development. It uses Automatic Reference Counting (ARC) for efficient memory management. Since its launch in 2014, Swift has evolved, with Swift 5.9.2 reigning as the stable release in 2024.
At the core of Swift lies its distinctive feature: static typing, ensuring meticulous assignment of types to every value. This rigorous type checking occurs at compile time, preemptively thwarting any potential mismatches and fortifying program integrity. Swift’s compiler, based on LLVM technology, integrates smoothly with Xcode. This IDE is essential for Apple software development.
A notable hallmark of Swift is its seamless interoperability with Objective-C, a stalwart programming language entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. Crafted with the intent of harmonious coexistence within this ecosystem, Swift emerges as a potent asset within Apple’s software development arsenal. Furthermore, Swift’s open-source nature affords it the freedom to transcend platforms sans the encumbrance of special permissions or licensing constraints.
Swift boasts Automatic Reference Counting (ARC) for memory management, furnishing a streamlined approach to memory utilization and elevating the efficiency of applications. This intrinsic feature exemplifies Swift’s commitment to facilitating seamless and optimized development experiences.
So, Which Is The Best Web App Language?
So, which is the best web app language? At Designveloper, we believe there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The choice of web app languages depends on the specific needs of your project.
Let’s break it down. If you’re aiming for a fast, efficient, and easy-to-learn language, Python might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re developing for the web and need a language with robust libraries and frameworks, JavaScript could be the way to go.
For those looking to develop iOS apps, Swift is a powerful and intuitive language created by Apple. Java, with its write once, run anywhere (WORA) capabilities, remains a popular choice for enterprise-scale applications.
In the end, the best web app language is the one that fits your project requirements, team skills, and long-term goals.