Codeigniter Vs Laravel: Which PHP Framework would you choose in 2021?
In recent years, PHP frameworks have progressed as a leading structural programming language for backend developers. This is due to its ability in delivering smooth performance and tailored outcomes by speeding up the web app development process. Further, if you are looking to choose the top one among PHP frameworks, Codeigniter and Laravel are the major ones that lead the debate. Even though both have their unique factors, the choice relies on the app requirements and features involved in the product. Keep reading below to know more about the battle between these two popular types in the market.
Laravel Framework:
Laravel is an open-source PHP framework that was developed for creating a rich user experience having the feel of Symfony framework with model-view-controller (MVC) style. Laravel includes precise and easy-to-read syntax outlines with source code available on GitHub coupled with MIT License. It excels by decreasing the overall development time and resources in mandatory development processes like routing, authentication, sessions, caching, etc. Since the Laravel framework is specific and follows communicative language norms, it is termed a highly reliable PHP framework.
CodeIgniter Framework:
CodeIgniter is a highly strong and proven PHP framework that lets you develop feature-filled web apps. It has proven to be the ideal type of framework to develop robust websites with attractive functionalities yet in a simple manner. This framework lets for the inclusion of complex features by integration of 3rd party plugins. Another distinct feature of Laravel is that it does not strictly follow the MVC pattern but the apprehension of security is the same as Laravel. Due to this, there will not be any mandatory dependency on the MVC pattern and the mobile app developers are flexible to develop strong web apps.
Also Read: Cost to Develop a Marketplace E-Commerce App Like Amazon?
Major differences between CodeIgniter and Laravel Framework:
While Laravel is component-oriented, CodeIgniter is an object-oriented and event-driven framework. Laravel and Codeigniter both are equally capable frameworks in PHP development. They consist of their importance and advantages in performing according to the goal of the developers. It is observed that CodeIgniter is comparatively simple to use but Laravel has several exciting functionalities but they are a bit intricate to be used for minimally experienced developers. Both types of frameworks provide unique benefits that have to be chosen by developers according to their needs and precise project requirements. Below are key differences:
Database Model:
As Codeigniter is an object-oriented model it will store the data as an object with the key focus on inheriting and encapsulating the data. Laravel is a component-oriented model that stores the data in the form of entities developing a link between connected tables in the database.
Helping RESTful API:
In Laravel, the RESTful controllers hold the ability to push the engineers in creating a variety of REST APIs without the requirement of wasting more time in the process. But, CodeIgniter does not push for updated and organized development of the REST APIs.
Template Engine:
Updated versions in the CodeIgniter framework are not having any in-built template engine as the app developers must employ the relatively scalable template and organize it for robust android app development. The stable version of Laravel emerges with Blade – an integrated in-built template engine.
Also Read: How much does it cost to develop an app like UberEATS?
Maintenance and construction:
The file structure of Laravel is dependent on the model-view-controller (MVC) pattern which includes a command-line tool dubbed the Artisan. But the structure of Code Ignitor does not strictly follow the MVC pattern while stimulating onboarding. As it is an object-oriented programming structure several engineers customize it to their needs.
Even the template engine of the Laravel is easy to use but strong like Blade which provides the app developers to enhance the performance of the web app by altering and increasing the views. Codeigniter does not have any integrated template engine; hence the developers must perform the task of integration with other smart engine templates which is crucial in carrying out regular activities and enhancing the website functioning.
In-built components:
Laravel excels in this segment by the inclusion of in-built features that helps the engineers to take every project in smaller parts and accomplish them individually. But CodeIgniter does not have any in-built components that force developers to develop them and maintain them for longer with appropriate extensions.
Aid for Unit testing:
Laravel consists of an in-built testing tool called PHP Unit that continuously assesses the app code by carrying out effective unit testing. This will make sure that there are no open defects in the product and it is running smoothly. CodeIgniter does not consist of any in-built unit testing aid which pushes for using an external unit-testing tool for verifying the working of the product.
Also Read: How much does it cost to develop an app like Flipkart?
Which one to choose among these Web Framework: CodeIgniter or Laravel?
Both CodeIgniter and Laravel web frameworks are beneficial in their way. If you are looking to choose among the best PHP framework, it rests assured that both CodeIgniter and Laravel are proven for diverse purposes. Selecting between these two is completely reliant on your specific business requirements and the motives of that entire project.
1)CodeIgniter is the best selection if —
You are looking to get a framework that functions for customization but does not consist of any integrated database management or testing abilities.
It is suited for developing eCommerce web systems.
Best for easy-to-use yet scalable web apps and websites.
2) Laravel is an ideal selection if –
Need to develop complex websites that demand cutting-edge features.
Need a framework that must extend the complete web development lifecycle.
If there is a need to manage huge datasets that are ideal for exclusive functionalities in the website.
Also Read: How much does it cost to develop an app like Zomato?
Final thoughts:
Laravel and Codeigniter both are equally promising frameworks of PHP development that have won the trust of developers according to their requirements. Regardless of the chosen framework, you have to choose an expert like Brillmindz who is experienced in working with both PHP frameworks and mobile app development. The apps developed by expert app engineers are popular in the market and yielding a significant profit for our esteemed clients.
