Web Programming Guide

Web Programming Guide: A Detailed Comparison between Node.Js and PHP

The Web development sector witnesses changes and new developments from time to time. Technologies and tools trending at present may become outdated within a few years. However, there are a few exceptions. Some web development tools and technologies, including those used for back-end development, have managed to hold their ground, staving off competition from the new entrants. PHP is one such example. The popularity of Node.js is also overwhelming. You may pick any of the two technologies for server-side web development. 

PHP Vs. Node.JS –a detailed comparison

Both Node.Js and PHP are used extensively for back-end web development needs across the world. Each platform comes with its own strengths and drawbacks. Unless you compare them well, it would be hard to figure out which one suits your needs the best. You have to compare the two competing web development platforms on some key grounds:

  • Overview

PHP is a widely used server-side scripting language. It is Open Source and has been on the web development scene since 1994. 

Approximately, over 75% of the websites you see today are based on PHP or one of its popular derivative platforms. 

Node.js is a cross-platform runtime environment, also Open Source in nature. Based Google’s V8 JavaScript engine, It enables developers to deploy JavaScript to develop server-side scripting and command-line tools. It was launched in 2009. 

Both technologies are used in back-end web development, but their application areas tend to be quite different. PHP is preferred for its flexibility, but Node.js is said to be a performant alternative. 

  • Performance

 The underlying technology or platform used in developing a web application affects its speed and overall performance. PHP was criticized for slower speed in the past, but things have changed for the better. PHP 8 comes with embedded JIT, which enhances speed by several notches. However, Node.js typically outshines PHP when it comes to speed and performance. This is owing to the fact that Node.js requires fewer dependencies than PHP. Node.js is agile thanks to the performance of the JavaScript V8 engine. PHP is an interpreted language, while Node.js is compiled. Execution of compiled code takes less time.

 While there is no denying that Node.js projects run faster, that does not mean PHP is always behind in execution. Node.js uses a solo thread, but most web servers are now multithreaded. PHP works well for the web.

  • Development

PHP is basically a back-end programming language. It is a part of the LAMP stack. To make the most use of it, developers need to be proficient in related web technologies, including CSS and HTML. Node.js ships with enhanced functionality. Since it is based on JavaScript, a full-stack development language, it can be used to create a mobile or web application without relying on allied technologies in some cases. 

PHP has been in the web development arena for a very long time, much longer than Node.js. So, coding takes place faster as there is no need to use compilers and converters. It links with SQL database sans hosting restrictions. For Node.js, handling frameworks and applications is more tedious compared to PHP. This is another reason for the lasting popularity of PHP web development.

  • Database operations

Developing a web application involves linking with database systems. PHP is very good at handling database connectivity. It syncs well with widely used databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MariaDB. Node.js works seamlessly with NoSQL databases and Graph database systems. Web developers who focus on application security may prefer Node.js as MySQL database systems are vulnerable to cross-site scripting attacks. To ensure database operations are executed when using PHP, you should hire a veteran PHP development company.

  • Practical application

Node.js is applied in specific types of projects, and these include the likes of multithreaded apps, game servers, and browsers. It suits the development of dynamic one-page applications. It is used extensively to make streaming services, social networks, instant messengers, online education apps and gaming apps, etc. PHP is more flexible, and it is deployed for diverse web projects. It syncs better with centralized servers and databases. 

  • Resources and support

PHP is an old-time player in the industry, and over the decades, the number of online support groups and communities has grown a lot. You can find many PHP developer groups on social media platforms as well. So, PHP developers do not have to stumble, and they get access to useful resources easily. The online PHP tutorials and resources are exhaustive. Node.Js entered the scene much later, but it has also got its share of support groups, and the online resources are adequate.

When should you choose Node.js?

In some situations, you will benefit from picking Node.js:

  • When you need applications that load and run fast. Examples include chatting apps and gaming applications.
  • When you require apps with real-time data transfer.
  • When the applications are not multi-layered and are dynamic in nature.

When should you choose PHP?

You should choose PHP for developing web applications when:

  • You want smooth connectivity to a broad range of database systems.
  • The app needs a centralized server.
  • The app is being developed on multiple platforms, using a collaboration model.

Importance of picking the right developer/agency

Whether you choose PHP or Node.Js for developing web applications, it is necessary to pick the right agency for such needs. Plenty of web application development entities are there, and you have to assess the contenders using some vital parameters. 

  • You have to assess the expertise area of the agency. Some agencies offer PHP development services, while there exist others that offer PHP development as one of its many packages. When you hire PHP developer India, this is something you have to check.
  • Before you sign up for the services of an agency offering Node.js or PHP development packages, it is important to evaluate their work samples. Check out the portfolio of the company carefully. See if the apps made by such an agency run fast, have nice UI, have embedded safety features, and fulfill end-users needs well.
  • When interacting with any web development agency offering PHP development services, check out its client base. Does the agency have clients from many niches? What do the clients say about its service and reliability? These are what you must check when you contact any PHP developers for hire.
  • Not all web development agencies prefer similar terms and support provisions. So, you should learn about these aspects before signing up with any such entity. If the application gets hacked or develops a snag, fast support from the developer will salvage the situation. Sign up for an agency offering support through more than one channel. 

Summing it up

Both PHP and Node.js are used extensively for server-side web development globally. Both platforms come with some advantages and limitations. Analyze your usage needs before picking any of the two.