Node.js Web Frameworks for App Development Projects

Quick Summary: When it comes to web application development, NodeJS remains the most popular technology among the developers community. The unique features and benefits of Node.js have gained some community fans. That’s why the popularity and demand of Node.js frameworks are skyrocketing. As there are many NodeJS frameworks available in the market, we have curated some of the best and most popular Node.js frameworks that offer speed and high performance for web app development. Let’s read it together.

As a business, you’d agree with the fact that: Any conversation about web development is incomplete without JavaScript, right? And similarly, any conversation about JavaScript would be incomplete without Node.js.

However, with time, Node.js Architecture has shed the “web development” tag and has ventured into more important things like API development and mobile app development.

In fact, as per the Statista report, around 47.12% of developers use Node.js, which makes it the most used technology among developers worldwide as of 2022.

But, even after all this time, a huge misconception remains about Node.js - that it is a framework. So, is Node.js a framework? The fact is, Node.js is a runtime environment based on Google Chrome’s V8 engine. We’ll discuss this later in this article.

Furthermore, with the rapid growth of Node.js development, JavaScript is not only limited to front end development anymore, and back end development is no longer rocket science for front end developers. Actually, developers consider JavaScript a silver bullet that fits in all situations – front end, web server, desktop application, databases, embedded system, and more.

Node.js has risen to prominence with astonishing speed, and the reason is that just like Angular filled the void of client-side scripting, Node filled the server-side void and even had features that could help glue both the client and server sides. Such is the Node.js craze that we frequently see new frameworks built around it. And, probably, this is the reason the top Fortune 500 companies prefer Node.js vs other backend technologies.

But with the advent of so many frameworks, developers are in a dilemma as to which one to pick. This article aims to clear up those doubts as we walk you through different Node.js frameworks, their features, and why you should hire a Node.js development team. Excited to learn about it? Most importantly, we will clear your doubt – is NodeJS a framework or not? So, let’s get started.

What is Node.js?

Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment that runs web applications outside the client’s browser.

Node JS provides an event-driven, non-blocking (asynchronous) I/O and cross-platform runtime environment for developing highly scalable and server-side applications that run on multiple operating systems like macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Node.js is built on top of Google Chrome’s V8 JavaScript Engine, which allows you to develop scalable web applications easily.

Since NodeJS is efficient and lightweight, it’s generally used for data-intensive concurrent applications on distributed devices. Therefore, some of the leading companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Netflix, Uber, and Walmart use Node.js as their primary technology.

Is Node JS a Framework?

No, Node JS is not a framework. Node.js is a JavaScript runtime environment.

You need to remember that Node JS is not a programming language or a library. Well, most people or developers are confused and consider Node.js a framework or a programming language.

Node.js allows developers to use JavaScript, which is a programming language, to build web applications. We often use Node.js for developing back-end services like APIs like Mobile Apps or Web Apps.

Types of Node JS Frameworks

A NodeJS Statistics report tells Node.js has increased developer productivity by 68%. Also, after utilizing Node JS architecture, PayPal and Netflix experienced remarkable improvements in both performance and cost.

Well, this is all because of NodeJS architecture and its frameworks.

Node JS frameworks help in cutting down the development time and effort. It does the same by providing additional functionalities and dimensions for your project.

Another aspect that we need to understand is that not all Node frameworks are built equally. Each one of them outshines at different functions. As a tech enthusiast, there must have been days when you’d find yourself stuck with the great back-end dilemma: Node.js vs Python, do you want clarity on the same? Refer to our blog for a better understanding.

Keeping insight, the kind of support for a specific use case, in the cycle of development, Node.js can be classified into three types.

1) MVC Frameworks

Model-View-Controller (MVC) frameworks adopts a specific design pattern by dividing the logic of the application into three interconnected elements: models, views, and controllers. Node.js MVC framework is known to separate the business logic of the application and to produce a better division of labor. As a result, it helps in enhancing the maintainability and scalability of the application.

2) Full-Stack MVC Frameworks

Full-stack MVC is an architecture based on the Model-view-controller (MVC) design pattern. This development framework provides a broad view of the application, and it can handle a wide range of programming issues. Furthermore, full-stack MVC helps in utilizing the features of a small part of full application stack and keeps them isolated from other parts. It can be termed as one of the best Node.js frameworks for rapid development.

3) REST API Frameworks

Node.js provides a true full stack development, including more REST APIs. This framework is an integration of MVC and REST architectural patterns. Node.js REST API framework has a unique way to build scalable web applications. These frameworks enable Node.js developers to build apps that are focused on a specific thing and have a great feature set.

These are the types of Node.js frameworks. And these will provide multiple business benefits once you adopt them.

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Why Should You Opt for a Node.js Framework?

You must be wondering,

• Why choose Node.js framework?
• What kind of advantages do NodeJS frameworks offer over the rest?

You need to understand that Node.js offers rapid development and several benefits when you choose NodeJS for backend development.

Also, while considering the recent development trends, CTOs and CEOs are leaning towards frameworks that help them minimize resource consumption and deliver faster loading speed.

To quench your thirst, allow us to show some major benefits that NodeJS offers.

1. Scalability

They say if your app is not scalable, it’s not worth investing in. So, scalability is one of the primary parameters developers consider while building an app with Node.js. Node.js makes sure scalability does not turn out to be cumbersome for the developers.

2. Performance

The non-blocking, I/O operations of Node.js ensure efficient performance. Application frameworks that use Node.js can efficiently perform multiple tasks.

Additionally, Node.js 20 has improved performance over previous versions - Node.js 19, with better support for modern JavaScript features and faster startup times. In fact, this new version has made Node.js web development even more performant and efficient.

3. Community

Since it is a significant element of JavaScript and many popular web development stacks use it for the backend, Node.js enjoys celebrity status when it comes to community and documentation. Developers who use it will have no dearth of ideas or helpers if they run into a roadblock. Therefore, Node.js has 96.2K stars on GitHub.

4. Faster Time to Market

Time is a major issue for businesses, more so if we are talking about startups. Since Node.js is lightweight, it significantly reduces the app development time by 50% to 60%. On top of that, the simple deployment makes sure the production team can receive and review it within a jiffy.

With such high-profit qualities, is it really a surprise that Node.js is literally ruling the world of web development solutions? Let us now move ahead and look at top NodeJS web frameworks.

Popular Node.js Frameworks in 2025

In this section, we have put together a Node.js framework list, keeping insight into their popularity and usage. However, if you are planning to implement any of the given Node.js backend frameworks, the best thing is to hire a Node.js development team. You can ask some questions before you hire a NodeJS development team. And once you employ them, you can have your doubts clear with NodeJS frameworks.

Let’s get started now.

1) Express.JS: A Minimalist Web Framework

The most popular and the best Node.js frameworks, Express is a minimalist Node.js API framework used to get quick builds without the hassle of legacy codes. Even the most popular web development stacks - MEAN and MERN - use Express as their standard backend go-to framework.

As a Node.js web framework, it offers several functionalities to develop mobile and web-based applications.

Features:

• It provides ample support for different plugins and extensions.
• Express has HTTP utility methods that help in the fast creation of robust APIs.
• Its simple code provides for easy scalability of web and mobile apps.
• Express gives you the option to introduce error-handling middleware.
• The framework allows for the creation of a REST API server.

Companies that use Express.js:

• Twitter
• Accenture
• Uber
• Myntra
• BlaBlaCar

GitHub:

• 61.2K Stars
• 10.5K Fork

2) KOA.JS: Next Generation Framework

Koa is one of the simplest Node.js frameworks. A newer venture by the Express framework team itself, Koa.js is a godsend when it comes to customizing apps and managing content on web applications.

Koa.js is an elegant and lightweight web framework. It takes a modular approach for building web apps and APIs, thus laying a much stronger foundation. A primary reason for its fast rise is the fact that it has no middleware attached to the core, but it uses a set of methods to create fast and reliable servers.

Koa.js is generally used by startups as it offers a lightweight approach to web development. Hence, it’s not popular among enterprises. In fact, the framework shined when Express wasn’t updated for some time, but now, after active support for Express, Koa.js is losing its charm.

Features:

• Koa.js has an ES6 generator that can be used to avoid callback.
• Excellent error handling features also make Koa a top choice among its rivals.
• The lightweight structure of Koa leads to better app performance.
• Progressively streamlined middleware (functions that has access to both request and response) makes sure there is no chance of having messy code.

Companies that Use Koa.js:

• Bulb
• GAPO
• Paralect
• Pier
• Shimo Website

GitHub:

• 34.1K Stars
• 3.3K Fork

3) METEOR.JS: Framework For Web, Mobile and Desktop

One of the best Node.js frameworks, Meteor.js has been around for some time now and is being used by over a million developers. It is a major help in building lightweight cross-platform apps at a quick pace and has been used for major open source projects like Reaction Commerce.

Meteor.js is considered the go-to Node.js framework for rapid development. It offers many reusable components with its packages and libraries. Moreover, you can easily integrate Meteor.js framework with Cordova, allowing you to build native mobile applications while reusing Meteor’s code.

Features:

• It is compatible with iOS, Android, web, and desktop.
• It has a lightweight structure boosting performance.
• App development with Meteor.js removes the hassle of having to update mobile applications continuously.
• Meteor makes synchronous web requests with cross-platform support.
• This Node.js web app framework allows for the usage of similar APIs on the client and server sides.

Companies that Use Meteor.js:

• Deloitte
• Accenture
• Mazda
• Shelf
• Rocket.Chat

GitHub:

• 43.5K Stars
• 5.3K Fork

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4) SOCKET.IO: Real-Time Application Framework

Socket.IO is an event-driven JS library for real-time web applications. Socket.io is your go-to Node.js framework if you wish to build a real-time web application or want seamless bi-directional communication between server and clients. It is primarily built around the event-driven nature of Node.js and can also store each client’s data securely by broadcasting to multiple web sockets.

Socket.IO comprises two parts: a client-side library that runs in the browser and a server-side library for Node.js.

This real-time application framework also features a simple API that integrates seamlessly with any service.

Features:

• Socket is an event-driven framework.
• It facilitates real-time communication.
• Socket is compatible with all browsers and devices.
• It transports client data as real-time logs.
• It helps with easy audio or video streaming.

Companies that Use Socket.IO:

• Microsoft Office
• Yammer
• Zendesk
• Trello
• Alibaba Travels

GitHub:

• 58.5K Stars
• 10.2K Fork

5) Fastify: Fast and Low Overhead Framework

Fastify is a fast and low overhead web framework in the world of NodeJS development services. It focuses on providing the best developer experience with the least overhead and powerful plugin architecture, inspired by Hapi, and Express.

Fastify focuses on several features and principles. First, as the name suggests: it is focused on speed and can serve up to 30,000 requests per second. It is known to provide extensibility through plugins, hooks, and decorators. The framework is friendly for the developers, with a focus on expressive codes without hampering the aspect of security and performance.

To integrate these unique features, Fastify development from a leading company, Radixweb can help you.

Features:

• It is one of the fastest web frameworks.
• Fastify is completely extensible via its hook, plugins, and decorators.
• The framework is built to be extremely expressive, and to help the developers in their daily use without compromising security and performance

Companies that Use Fastify:

• Armut
• Payever
• bee10
• Development
• airCloset

GitHub:

• 27.7K Stars
• 2.1K Fork

6) NEST.JS: Progressive Node.js Framework

Nest.js is a framework that supports JavaScript, TypeScript, Functional Programming, Object-Oriented Programming, and Reactive Programming. It allows you to build scalable and effective server-side applications using TypeScript. In addition, it also supports HTTP server frameworks like Fastify or Express for web application development.

Based primarily on Angular architecture, Nest.js is a developer favorite when it comes to building robust and scalable server-side applications. And just like its ancestor, Nest.Js is a breeze to test and maintain. The primary reason for such impressive details is that Nest.js works on the basic principles of object-oriented programming and functional programming coupled with Typescript integration.

Features:

• Nest.js has a modular architecture for better flexibility.
• The host of external libraries for better customization is another bonus.
• The availability of Nest CLI is a major USP of Nest.js. Nest CLI is a command-line tool that assists in initializing, deploying, and maintaining Nest.js applications.
• Nest’s built-in testing package makes the job easier.
• It has various facilities for building microservices.

Companies that Use Nest.js:

• Adidas
• Autodesk
• Neoteric
• Sanofi

GitHub:

• 57.7K Stars
• 7K Fork

7) SAIL.JS: Superior MVC Framework

If you are familiar with Node JS Express.js framework, then Sails.js may be your next step forward. Sail.js is an MVC framework of Node.js, which adheres to the morality of “convention rather than configuration.” Sails.js has recently been garnering a lot of attention for helping developers create RESTful APIs without them writing any code.

The code is auto-generated, and developers may add whatever little code they need to customize it. However, one roadblock is the fact that Sails.js has a steep learning curve. But once you’re set, there’s no limit to what you can achieve once you hire Node.js web developers.

Inspired by Ruby on Rails, Sail.js – the Node.js backend framework is used to create Single Page Applications, REST APIs, and real-time applications.

Features:

• Sail.js is a Model-View-Controller (MVC) framework, which helps create scalable and extensible apps.
• Sails.js provides built-in support for WebSockets with the help of Socket.io.
• It supports various databases with the help of database ORM/ODM Waterline.
• Sails.js has many unique security features like CSRF (Cross-Site Request Forgery) and compatibility with Lusca.
• Code organization is good and makes for easy blueprint creation.
• The framework assists in data validation.
• Modular architecture with a plethora of plugins.
• There is no dearth of documentation when it comes to Sails.js.

Companies that Use Sail.js:

• Microsoft
• Amazon
• Tesco
• Verizon
• Greendeck

GitHub:

• 22.6K Stars
• 2K Fork

8) HAPI.JS: Safety-Focused Node.js Framework

Hapi.js is an open source NodeJS web framework for backend suitable for developing scalable and high-performance web applications. Hapi.js is one of the most popular web application frameworks, ensuring tightly secured attributes with its inbuilt plugins. It’s the best Node JS framework for API.

Created by Walmart Labs, HAPI (HTTP API Server) is famous for the long list of integrations and plugins it brings to the table. It is also the automatic choice for building enterprise applications that require many checks and validations, as Hapi.js automatically gives you good control over request handling.

Features:

• Hapi.js has a plugin-based modular architecture. For scaling your app, you can simply add the required plugins.
• It caches the API response which in turn boosts the app performance by a significant amount.
• Hapi speeds up the whole web development process with its abundant web server functionalities.
• The learning curve is not as steep owing to the rich API documentation present.
• Hapi has special integrations to aid in creating superior microservices.
• Probably the only con, but endpoints of REST APIs have to be created and tested manually in Hapi.js.

Companies that Use Hapi.js:

• Gozova
• Boodle

GitHub:

• 14.3K Stars
• 1.4K Fork

9) LOOPBACK.JS: Dynamic API Explorer

LoopBack is an open-source NodeJS framework that enables developers to create dynamic end-to-end REST APIs with little or no coding. LoopBack utilizes ready modules to connect Node.js to APIs of iOS, Android, and HTML5.

This full-stack Node.js framework is good for building server-side APIs and provides the connecting link between client and server. But the USP of Loopback which its counterparts do not have is the fact that Loopback.js allows developers to design API models based on their database.

LoopBack offers an easy-to-use CLI and a fun API website browser. It’s quite compatible with many REST services and multiple databases like Oracle, MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and more.

Features:

• Allows REST APIs to create instance GraphQL endpoints.
• It runs perfectly on the cloud.
• Organized code structure and excellent documentation make it developer friendly.
• It quickly connects browsers and devices to the data.
• Using the in-built CLI, you can scaffold your project and ramp up the development.
• LoopBack.js also provides a built-in ORM which means the database can be queried directly from the client-side by using simple filters.
• LoopBack bases its work on models and even communication between services created must be done with the help of models. This makes it a messy option for a very long-term project which will have to be scaled repeatedly.

Companies that Use LoopBack.js:

• GoDaddy
• Department of Energy of the United States
• Symantec

GitHub:

• 4.6K Stars
• 1K Fork

10) ADONIS.JS: A Fully Featured Web Framework

Adonis.js is a Node.js MVC framework that is compatible with all main operating systems. It’s a new framework for microservices development. Adonis.js comes with multiple packages that can easily run the server-side of the application.

Adonis.js enables you to develop server-side web applications. This framework was highly inspired by Laravel. Hence, PHP developers find Adonis.js relatively easy while working on it.

A Laravel-based framework, Adonis.js has one of the smoothest learning curves among all its contemporaries. It is an MVC framework and has an enviable collection of APIs which makes the developer’s job so much easier. It also has built-in support for mailing, authentication, and data validation. However, the one thing holding back Adonis.js in Node JS application development services is the dearth of major projects in it. Once a few big names start using it, Adonis will have more documentation, backers, and credibility.

Features:

• It has an organized folder structure, making it easier for team members to follow the workflow.
• Adonis has its very own validator which automatically vets all incoming user inputs.
• It has a robust ORM that provides support for MariaDB and MySQL databases.
• It has service providers which regulate the dependencies throughout the lifecycle.
• Adonis also has commendable security features which block attempts of CSRF (Cross-site Request Forgery).
• The whole manual testing process becomes a piece of cake as developers are given the option to write functional unit tests in Adonis.js.

Companies that Use Adonis:

• Caravelo
• R5Stats
• Synergy Global Network

GitHub:

• 14.1K Stars
• 609 Fork

11) DERBY.JS: For Real-Time, Collaborative Apps

Derby.js is an open-source, full-stack Node.js framework that is best used to create collective apps and APIs. It is compatible with most browsers and devices and provides seamless data transfer between client and server. A major chink in Derby’s armor, however, is the fact that it has a tiny community, and finding solutions to any issue you are having may not be a very successful venture.

Derby.js is the Node.js MVC framework, which allows developers to create real-time, collaborative applications that work in browsers and NodeJS. It supports intuitive code terminology and an automatic conflict resolution feature.

Features:

• Features and functionalities must be added via npm commands.
• Provides flawless data synchronization between client and server in real-time.
• Derby.js gives the developer a lot of editing options.
• It allows the same code to be used on the client and server sides.
• Derby.js is a godsend when it comes to SEO. It presents the client-side view on the server-side as well, so there's no time lag at all between request sending and processing.
• Derby.js provides the server with the power to automatically resolve conflicts.

GitHub:

• 4.7K Stars
• 282 Fork

12) TOTAL.JS: CMS-like Experience

Used for Backend development, Total.js is a hassle-free, developer-friendly framework that though written in pure JavaScript, resembles Laravel (a PHP framework) a lot and plays a big role in delivering extensible Node JS web development services at a quick pace. It does not use too many dependencies and yet aids in developing web and mobile applications.

Total.js delivers higher performance, minimal maintenance requirements, and a hassle-free scaling transition. The framework offers a CMS-like experience in the Node.js environment. Developers can easily use the Total.js framework, which is available in various versions like CMS, HelpDesk, and Eshop.

Total.js has more than a hundred services for JavaScript development, Cloud Computing, Code Sharing, Cooperation, and UI development.

Features:

• Prototyping is quick in Total.js.
• It supports several databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB.
• Total makes good use of NoSQL databases to simplify the development of complex applications.
• The framework has inbuilt SMTP mailing features and image processing tools

Companies that Use Total.js:

• Medium
• CapitalOne
• Trello

GitHub:

• 4.3K Stars
• 463 Fork

13) FEATHERS.JS: Flexible JavaScript Framework

Feather.js is a simplistic real-time framework built on top of Express.js to design advanced web applications. As a popular framework for Node development services, it provides flexibility with Node and React Native. The framework is designed to ease the development process of mobile and web applications, by enabling you to execute SMS, authentications, and email messaging.

Feather.js is a popular JavaScript framework, which is compatible with multiple databases, Node.js, microservices Frameworks.

In addition, it offers support for bug fixing quickly in web and mobile app development.

Features:

• It offers an extremely lightweight codebase.
• It has automatic RESTful APIs.
• It is reusable in terms of service and functions.

Companies that Use Feathers.js:

• marcapo
• Didomi
• Mylo
• Koola
• Company Stack

GitHub:

• 14.7K Stars
• 741 Fork

14) KEYSTONE.JS: Superpowered CMS

Keystone.js is an open-source, fast, lightweight, and flexible Node.js full stack framework allowing you to build all your basic and complex web applications. It’s the best framework of Node.js for web development, suitable for static and dynamic content management that’s used for content-heavy projects. Also, it enables you to build anything without worrying about extra dependencies like boilerplate code or bootstrapping.

Keystone.js helps you in simplifying the process of developing the backend for your web applications. It comes with powerful features like GraphQL API, automated CRUD, flexible access control, database migrations, and more. Utilizing MongoDB as its database, it is the best option for building scalable, production-ready apps.

Features:

• Keystone.js, the best web app development framework uses the MongoDB collections to store data and reduce data models.
• It supports RESTful APIs via HTTP methods like GET, POST, DELETE, PUT etc., which are used to communicate with the services on different types of websites where we have a set of actions that need to be performed on the website.

Companies that Use Keystone.js:

• Sony
• Vodafone
• Macmillan

GitHub:

• 8.1K Stars
• 1K Fork

These are the top Node.js framework lists for web app development. However, the cost of developing a Node.js web app depends on the framework you choose and the functionality you wish to integrate.

How to Choose the Best Node.js Framework?

When it comes down to choosing the right Node.js framework, it becomes easier if you can define your standard for quality early in the project. Clarity on what kind of features and approaches are important to your project will help you in making your choice more objective.

If your focus is on integrating the feature of flexibility, then it’ll be great if you don’t choose frameworks like LoopBack, and on the latter, frameworks like: Koa, Meteor will work in the best possible ways in this scenario.

You can keep certain things in mind when you are choosing the Node.js frameworks. However, if you are planning to develop Microservices, SPA, IoT, and real-time applications, you should not have any doubts or questions – when and why should you choose Node.js development? As all your dream ideas could be sufficed with the usage of Node.js and its popular frameworks.

Choose The Right Node.js Framework with RadixwebNode.js is a runtime environment greatly suited for businesses. Not only does it guarantee easy scalability and quick deployment, but it also aims at the development of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).All frameworks built with Node.js have these qualities and most of them have USPs of their own. These frameworks may be used for myriad purposes - web apps, mobile apps, chatbots, or even APIs and games.If you are still in doubt about which of these frameworks would be the best fit for you, reach out to Radixweb, which has been a leading Node.js development company with satisfied clients for years now.Drop us a call or an email for assistance in choosing a framework!