Is Angular 5 Worth It for Your Next Project?

When it comes to making the decision about which version of Angular to use for your next project, a significant amount of consideration is required. Angular 5 has been around for some time, but as technology rapidly evolves, newer versions are introduced with enhanced features and improved performance. In this article, we explore whether Angular 5 is still a viable choice for a new project, while also providing guidance on choosing the best version of Angular for you.

Why Angular 5 May Not Be the Best Choice

If you are planning to start a new project with Angular, it's worth considering the current and future updates. As of the writing of this article, Angular 7 and 8 are already in development, and it is recommended that you choose a more recent version for your project.

Here are some reasons why Angular 5 may not be the best choice:

Outdated Features: Angular 5, released in 2017, lacks the latest advancements and improvements that have been introduced in subsequent versions. Security Updates: Newer versions often include significant security updates that can better protect your application from potential vulnerabilities. Performance Enhancements: Modern versions offer better performance optimizations, making your application run more smoothly and efficiently. Community and Support: With newer versions, you have access to the latest community updates, tutorials, and support resources.

Why to Start with Angular 7 or 8

When starting a new project, it is highly recommended to use the latest version of Angular. For the latest information, refer to the current developments in Angular:

Angular 7: Released in 2018, it introduced several improvements and new features, making it a great starting point for modern web development. Angular 8: Currently in beta and scheduled for release soon, this version promises even more significant improvements and new features.

If you have an architect-level understanding or a team of experts to support the architecture of your application, you can make an informed decision based on specific requirements. However, in general, it is wiser to start with the latest version of Angular for future-proofing your project and leveraging all the latest developments.

The Learning Experience with Angular

Learning Angular, regardless of the version, is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in modern JavaScript and TypeScript. The paradigm shift from traditional JavaScript to the more structured and type-sensitive TypeScript is a valuable learning experience.

Production-Ready Applications

The decision to use a specific version of Angular in a production-ready application depends on your role and the complexity of the project. If you are an architect or your application architecture experts recommend a specific version, it makes sense to prioritize that recommendation. However, if you are still at the learning phase or evaluating potential outcomes, having the latest version can offer better long-term benefits.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while learning Angular is a worthwhile endeavor, making the right choice for a new project involves careful consideration of the current and future needs of your development journey. Starting with Angular 7 or 8, or even keeping an eye on the upcoming Angular 8, can provide you with the best possible foundation for your project and the future of your development career.