Laravel vs. CodeIgniter: Which is Better PHP Framework in 2021

PHP is a prevalent backend programming language for developing bespoke solutions. This may be determined by examining PHP’s use data.

PHP frameworks are critical for accelerating the web development process. Today, many PHP frameworks are available on the web, but two well-known PHP frameworks are Laravel and CodeIgniter.

Laravel vs CodeIgniter which is better? let’s proceed and understand.

What is the Laravel Framework?

Laravel is an open-source PHP framework intended for the creation of feature-rich web applications. It is structured in the model-view-controller (MVC) style, influenced by another famous PHP framework, Symfony.

The source code of the Laravel framework can be found on GitHub under the MIT License. It is a dependable PHP framework since it adheres to precise and expressive language rules.

Numerous web development activities, including routing, authentication, caching, and sessions, are rationalized via Laravel development, resulting in significant resource and development time savings.

Laravel Framework Features

Its following characteristics set it apart from the other prominent web frameworks available on the market:

Session quality assurance at its peak.
Simple incorporation of third-party libraries.
Provides enhanced IO.
Modular packaging.
Caching mechanism built-in.

What is the purpose of the CodeIgniter Framework?

CodeIgniter is a popular simple web framework built on top of the PHP programming language. It was designed with developers in mind seeking beautiful and easy toolkits that would assist them in creating feature-rich web development apps.

This dependable PHP framework is widely popular as one of the finest accessible markets for developing dynamic websites using PHP.

CodeIgniter provides complete freedom to customers, removing the need to adhere to the MVC development paradigm. One of the best features of this framework is that it supports third-party plugins that assist in implementing complicated functions.

CodeIgniter Framework Features

The primary reason for this renown is due to the framework’s superior authentication capabilities.

Class for file uploading
Logging of errors
It enables the use of hooks and class extensions.
It verifies data and forms.
The collection contains courses on picture manipulation.

Difference Between CodeIgniter and Laravel?

Laravel and CodeIgniter are two distinct frameworks, each optimized for a particular use case. While CodeIgniter does not support object-relational mapping, Laravel enables web developers to use an elegant object-relational mapping ORM. Similarly, CodeIgniter needs developers to create and maintain modules via modular extensions, while Laravel is pre-built with modularity features.

Construction and maintenance

Laravel

Laravel’s file structure is based on the model-view-controller (MVC) paradigm. It has a command-line tool dubbed the Artisan.

CodeIgniter

CodeIgniter’s architecture follows the MVC paradigm and facilitates onboarding. The inspiration of the pattern was taken from object-oriented programming in general. Nonetheless, many developers customized it to their specifications.

Support for database management systems

Laravel

Laravel supports the following databases: Microsoft SQL Server, ORACLE, MySQL, IBM DB2, PostgreSQL, and JDBC compliant databases.

CodeIgniter

Additionally, CodeIgniter supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, and Microsoft Business Intelligence. Additionally, it supports interaction with other popular databases such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and DB2.

Modules built-in

Laravel

This framework is designed with modularity in mind. Through the bundle, Laravel enables developers to divide a project into simple components.

CodeIgniter

This framework does not have any built-in modularity functionality. As a result, developers must create and maintain modules using Modular Extensions.

Popularity and current fashion trends

Laravel

It is prevalent in the modern-day due to its communicative code style, which experienced developers prefer. It is more popular than CodeIgniter.

CodeIgniter

Its simplicity of use in 2.x is one reason why most web developers choose CodeIgniter.

API construction and template engine

Laravel

It has a robust yet straightforward template engine dubbed Blade. By modifying and enhancing views, the Blade engine enables PHP programmers to improve the web application’s execution.

CodeIgniter

It lacks a built-in template engine. The developers should integrate it using Smarty, a third-party templating engine tool. This enables users to conduct routine activities and optimizes the CodeIgniter website’s speed.

Testing at the unit level

Laravel

With the help of the PHP Unit, Laravel enables its developers to test application code thoroughly and continuously.

CodeIgniter

CodeIgniter lacks an integrated unit testing tool. As a result, its developers should use additional unit testing tools to assess the application’s and code’s worth.

Which is the Better Web Framework: CodeIgniter or Laravel? Why?

Both web frameworks are trendy. When choosing the best PHP framework, we can safely say that both CodeIgniter and Laravel are outstanding and well-suited for distinct objectives. Choosing between these two frameworks is entirely dependent on your business needs and the nature of your online project.

CodeIgniter is an excellent choice when —

It would be best to have a basic framework devoid of any built-in testing or database management capabilities.

CodeIgniter is excellent for building web systems for eCommerce.
It is well-suitable for simple, scalable websites.

Laravel is a better choice if –

Laravel is well-suitable for big, complicated websites that need advanced functionality.

It is well-suitable for database-driven web applications that need the management of big datasets.

Choose Laravel if you are looking for a framework that spans the whole web development lifecycle.

This article is originally published by: https://www.aalpha.net/articles/laravel-vs-codeigniter-better-php-framework/