Which JavaScript backend framework or runtime is best for 2025?

[sattarrasouli]

Discussion Type

General

Discussion Content

I’m exploring backend options for JavaScript/TypeScript and would love to hear your thoughts.
Here’s what I’ve been looking at:

Frameworks:
Express.js – Classic and minimal
NestJS – TypeScript-first and enterprise-ready
Fastify – Fast and modern alternative to Express
Hono – Lightweight and edge-friendly
AdonisJS – Full-featured MVC like Laravel

Runtimes:
Bun – Ultra-fast runtime with built-in bundler, test runner, and package manager
Deno – Secure and modern alternative to Node.js

[Xtrawalo]

Personally, I like NestJS the most!
It keeps the code organized and it uses TypeScript for fewer mistakes so u can build big apps and connect databases easily.

[mecodeatlas]

Thanks for posting in the GitHub Community, @sattarrasouli!

We're happy you're here. You are more likely to get a useful response if you are posting your question in the applicable category, the Discussions category is solely related to conversations around the GitHub product Discussions. This question should be in the Programming Help category. I've gone ahead and moved it for you. Good luck!

[mahirliy55]

Node.js – Most popular runtime, huge ecosystem, works for almost any project.

Express.js – Simple, flexible, great for small to medium APIs.

Fastify – Fast, modern, TypeScript-friendly.

NestJS – Structured, enterprise-ready, perfect for large apps and teams.

AdonisJS – “Laravel-style” full-stack framework; great for quick development.

Bun – New high-performance runtime; still experimental but promising.

Hono (for Deno/Bun) – Ultra-light framework for edge and serverless apps.

[Rocky-Dewan]

Short Answer:

For enterprise-grade, structured, TypeScript-heavy projects: Go with NestJS.

For maximum speed and modern tooling (greenfield): Use Fastify/Hono on Bun.

For battle-tested stability and ecosystem: Stick with Express.js on Node.js.

Bun is currently the fastest runtime and a great all-in-one tool, but Node.js still has the most mature ecosystem. Deno is the best choice if security-by-default and native web standards are your top priority.