How Svelte works
Component-based structure
Svelte is based on a component-based architecture, similar to other modern JS frameworks. Developers can create reusable components to organize the structure of their user interface. Each Svelte component consists of a template, a script file and optional styles.
Compilation during the build time
The key difference to somewhat older frameworks such as Vue, React or Angular lies in the way Svelte works. During development, the programmer writes code in a special Svelte syntax. However, when the code is compiled, it is not converted into framework-specific runtime code, but instead the majority of the framework code is eliminated. The result is an optimized, lean JavaScript code that can be executed directly in the browser.
Less overhead, better performance
As the framework code is already removed during build time, Svelte eliminates the need for a separate framework library during runtime. This leads to a reduced size of the end application and a faster loading time. The application benefits from improved performance as unnecessary overhead is minimized.
Reactive programming
Svelte relies on reactive programming, made possible by the use of so-called “reactivity statements”. These allow developers to react to changes in variables and automatically update the user interface. This reactive nature makes the code more intuitive and facilitates the handling of state changes.
Differences to other JS frameworks
Differences in size and loading time
A key advantage of Svelte is its small size. As most of the framework code is removed during build time, the end applications are smaller and load faster. Compared to React, Angular or Vue, Svelte applications can score with smaller file sizes, which is particularly advantageous for mobile applications and slow network connections.
Runtime performance
Compilation during build time not only leads to smaller file sizes, but also to improved runtime performance. As the browser has to interpret less code, Svelte applications can react and act faster due to the reduced overhead.
Simpler syntax
Svelte is characterized by a clear and simple syntax. The special Svelte syntax is easy to understand and requires less boilerplate code compared to other frameworks. This makes it easier for developers to familiarize themselves with, especially those who are new to frontend development.
No Virtual DOM
Unlike Vue and React, which are based on a Virtual DOM, Svelte eliminates the need for one. Since the code is converted directly into efficient JavaScript code during build time, there is no need for an additional mechanism such as the Virtual DOM. This helps to improve runtime performance.
Conclusion
Svelte offers an innovative perspective on front-end development through its compilation-based approach that optimizes performance and provides a user-friendly syntax. Developers find in Svelte a lean alternative to established frameworks. These benefits extend to users and customers by enabling an improved user experience, faster load times, lower resource consumption and cost-effective solutions.
