Angular js vs Angular: Key Differences, Which Framework is Better, Real-world Examples, and More

When Google first introduced AngularJS in 2010, it revolutionized how you could build dynamic, single-page applications. By 2016, its successor, Angular, redefined modern web development for you with TypeScript, performance optimizations, and a component-based architecture. 

Interestingly, according to the 2023 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, 17.46% of developers use Angular, while 7.21% use AngularJS. This evolution isn't just about technology; it's about empowering you to tackle complex challenges more efficiently.

These frameworks redefined the way you build, scale, and maintain web applications architecture, making them the cornerstone of modern front-end development roadmap. This blog dives into the differences between Angular JS vs Angular, strengths, and real-world applications, helping you decide which suits your development needs better.

So, gear up and read on!

Angular JS vs Angular At a Glance

What is AngularJS?

AngularJS framework was developed in 2009 and launched in October 2010. It introduced the MVC pattern to web development, emphasizing two-way data binding for seamless user interaction. Here are the key features of AngularJS.

• Built on JavaScript.
• Two-way data binding for live updates.
• Simplified dependency injection.
• Built-in routing for navigation.
• Reusable components for modularity.

What are the advantages and limitations of AngularJS?

Now, if you look at the main advantages and disadvantages of AngularJS, you'll see clear trade-offs in complexity and performance. Have a look.

Example of AngularJS

Have a look at an example that demonstrates AngularJS's two-way data binding for dynamic content updates.

Code Snippet:

<div ng-app="exampleApp" ng-controller="exampleController">
 <input type="text" ng-model="name" placeholder="Enter your name">
 <p>Hello, {{ name }}!</p>
</div>

<script>
 angular.module('exampleApp', []).controller('exampleController', function($scope) {
   $scope.name = "";
 });
</script>

Output:

When you type "Isha" in the input field, the paragraph dynamically updates to:

Hello, Isha!

The ng-model directive binds the input field to the name variable, allowing instant updates to the paragraph content. This demonstrates AngularJS's two-way binding feature effectively.

Also Read: AngularJS for Web Development: Top 10 Compelling Reasons

What is Angular?

Angular debuted in September 2016, adopting paradigms like TypeScript and component-based data architecture to meet modern development needs. Here are the core features of Angular.

• TypeScript for type safety.
• Component-driven architecture.
• AOT compilation for speed.
• Command Line Interface (CLI) tools for efficiency.
• Mobile-first design principles.
• Advanced routing with lazy loading.

What are the advantages and limitations of Angular?

Looking at the advantages and disadvantages, Angular is ideal for large-scale, complex applications with scalability. Have a look.

Example of Angular

Have a look at an example that demonstrates how Angular uses components to display dynamic content.

Code Snippet:

@Component({
  selector: 'app-root',
  template: '<h1>{{ message }}</h1>'
})
export class AppComponent {
  message = "Welcome to Angular!";
}

Output:

Welcome to Angular!

The code defines an Angular component that binds the message property to the HTML template, displaying "Welcome to Angular!" on the screen.

Also Read: Enhancing User Experience with GenerativeAI: Personalization and Recommendation Systems

How Do AngularJS and Angular Compare Across Key Aspects?

The debate of Angular JS vs Angular centers around major differences in architecture, programming language, performance, and mobile readiness. Angular’s component-based architecture and TypeScript language give it an edge. This makes it more scalable and efficient than AngularJS’s older MVC architecture and JavaScript foundation.

Below is a detailed comparison of Angular vs AngularJS across critical technical aspects to help you make informed decisions.

What are the architectural differences between AngularJS and Angular?

AngularJS follows an MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture, while Angular adopts a component-based architecture. This shift improves modularity and reusability.

Below are the key architectural differences.

How do AngularJS and Angular handle data binding?

AngularJS uses two-way data binding, while Angular employs one-way data flow. This improves performance in Angular.

Below are the data binding comparisons.

What is the difference in dependency injection mechanisms?

AngularJS uses a simple injection system, while Angular offers a more advanced, hierarchical injection mechanism for better flexibility and performance.

Below are the dependency injection mechanisms.

How do routing configurations vary between AngularJS and Angular?

AngularJS uses a less sophisticated routing system, whereas Angular offers a more powerful and flexible routing system for better performance and user experience.

Below are the routing differences.

How do AngularJS and Angular support mobile development?

Angular has better support for mobile development, thanks to its performance optimizations and tools like Angular Material. AngularJS is less suited for mobile apps.

Below are mobile development differences.

What is the performance comparison between AngularJS and Angular?

Angular’s performance is superior, thanks to its optimizations like tree shaking, ahead-of-time (AOT) compilation, and improved change detection.

Below is the performance comparison.

How do their written languages differ?

AngularJS uses JavaScript, while Angular is built with TypeScript, offering better tooling, type safety, and code maintainability.

Below are the language differences.

What is the difference in expression syntax between AngularJS and Angular?

AngularJS uses double curly braces {{}} for expressions, while Angular uses a more sophisticated template syntax with directive bindings.

Below are the expression syntax differences.

How Do AngularJS and Angular Handle Updates and Long-Term Support?

Angular receives regular updates with long-term support, while AngularJS is in the maintenance phase, with fewer updates and no active new features.

Below are the update and support differences.

What Are the Differences in Testing Capabilities Between AngularJS and Angular?

Angular offers more powerful testing tools like TestBed and better integration with modern testing frameworks, while AngularJS provides basic testing utilities.

Below are the testing capabilities differences.

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Angular or AngularJS - When to Choose and Why?

Both Angular and AngularJS offer distinct advantages depending on the project requirements. While Angular excels in modern development, AngularJS may still be ideal for simpler, legacy projects. Below are the reasons to choose one over the other:

Here’s why you can choose Angular for modern development.

• TypeScript for better maintainability and scalability.
• Modular architecture enables easier expansion and management.
• Built-in CLI for faster development and deployment.
• Optimized performance with features like lazy loading.

Here’s why some projects might still choose AngularJS.

• Simplicity for smaller, less complex applications.
• Ideal for rapid prototyping and fast software development cycles.
• Better fit for legacy systems or existing codebases with minimal changes needed.

You should choose based on the complexity and goals of your software development cycles.

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What Are the Key Challenges in Migrating from AngularJS to Angular?

Migrating from AngularJS to Angular is a significant upgrade, but it brings several challenges. Here are the key challenges you may face when migrating from AngularJS to Angular.

• Steep learning curve.
• Code refactoring complexities.
• Compatibility with libraries.
• Larger build sizes.
• Transitioning to new tools.
• Complexity of the project scope.

Also Read: Top 10 JavaScript Libraries to Learn

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How Do AngularJS and Angular Fare in Real-World Applications?

When it comes to real-world applications, both AngularJS and Angular have made a lasting impact. The following examples showcase how these frameworks perform in practical scenarios.

Examples of Applications built with AngularJS

Here are some examples of applications built with AngularJS.

High-profile Applications That Utilize Angular

Here are the high-profile applications that utilize Angular.

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Examples of Applications built with AngularJS

Here are some examples of applications built with AngularJS.

High-profile Applications That Utilize Angular

Here are the high-profile applications that utilize Angular.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between Angular JS vs Angular is key to selecting the right framework for your project. As you navigate through these powerful tools, you can take your skills further with upGrad’s free courses. 

These courses offer expert guidance and hands-on experience, along with personalized counseling to help you excel in modern web development. Start your learning journey today with upGrad to stay ahead in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

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