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What should I learn first, React JS or React Native?
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What should I learn first, React JS or React Native?

4 min read

Introduction: Deciding Between React JS and React Native

As a developer, making an informed choice between React JS and React Native is crucial for your professional growth and project outcomes. This blog post will delve into the fundamental differences between these technologies, guiding you in selecting the optimal starting point.

Overview of React JS

React JS is a JavaScript library for creating user interfaces. Its component-based approach organizes UI elements into reusable components. React's declarative nature simplifies state management, making it ideal for complex, interactive web applications.

Overview of React Native

React Native is a framework for building native mobile applications using JavaScript. It leverages React's component-based architecture, enabling the creation of iOS and Android apps with a single codebase. React Native's native components provide access to device-specific features, allowing apps to fully integrate with the platform ecosystem.

Prerequisites for Learning React JS

  • Basic HTML and CSS knowledge
  • Understanding of JavaScript fundamentals
  • Familiarity with ES6+ syntax
  • Git and version control basics

Prerequisites for Learning React Native

  • Basic understanding of mobile development principles
  • Familiarity with either iOS or Android development environments
  • Intermediate JavaScript and React skills
  • Exposure to native iOS or Android development tools (e.g., Xcode, Android Studio)

Benefits of Learning React JS First

  • Strong foundation: React JS provides a solid foundation in UI development principles, state management, and component-based architecture.
  • Reusable components: React JS components can be easily reused across different projects, saving development time and promoting consistency.
  • Web-first focus: React JS is primarily designed for building web applications, which can be beneficial for those primarily working on web projects.

Benefits of Learning React Native First

  • Cross-platform development: React Native allows developers to create both iOS and Android apps with a single codebase, reducing development time and costs.
  • Native performance: By leveraging native components, React Native apps perform and look like native mobile apps, providing a seamless user experience.
  • Access to device features: React Native grants developers access to native device features, such as camera, GPS, and Bluetooth, expanding the possibilities of mobile app development.

Conclusion: Recommended Learning Order

The optimal learning order depends on your career goals and project requirements:

  • If your primary focus is on web development: Learn React JS first to gain a strong foundation in UI development and component-based architecture.
  • If your primary focus is on mobile development: Start with React Native to quickly build native mobile apps with a single codebase. However, a basic understanding of React JS principles is beneficial.

Next Steps

Continuous learning and practice are essential for success in software development. By delving into these technologies, you can unlock their potential and enhance your professional growth.