Flutter vs Dart | Which is better?

Flutter and Dart are two major app development technologies endorsed by Google.

Generally, Dart is a cross-platform programming language, while Flutter is a UI SDK. However, developers and businesses want to explore Flutter vs Dart in detail.

Therefore, this guide will share the key differences and similarities between these dev technologies. Besides, we are going to talk about their advantages, features, and disadvantages.

Key Differences between Flutter Vs Dart

Description: Flutter is a cross-platform UI toolkit scripted in the programming language Dart. It builds, examines and deploys user interfaces applying a solo codebase.

On the other hand, Dark is an object-oriented client-side programming language used to craft desktop, web and mobile applications. 

• Compilation: Flutter depends on JIT or a just-in-time compiler for dev tasks. Similarly, it prefers an ahead-of-time compiler to perform production operations. These traits make Flutter an efficient and robust framework. Contrarily, Dart works as a compiled technology. It signifies you would have to transform the script into machine code before accomplishing it.

• Learning Curve: Flutter has a steep learning curve, mainly if you are a beginner. It is challenging to master reactive programming principles and widget-specific development in Flutter. Meanwhile, Dart is comparatively an easy-to-learn and easy-to-understand programming language. It has a simple syntax and is familiar with JS and Java.

• Platform Support: Although Flutter has cross-platform compatibility but, it is mainly designed for iOS and Android mobile platforms. Contrarily, Dart perfectly performs on different operating systems and platforms such as web, mobile and desktop.

• Hot Reloads: Flutter shines among other UI toolsets because of its hot reloads property. This trait lets the dev teams see the code modifications in the meantime. In this regard, programmers don’t have to restart the app to witness the changes. Unfortunately, Dart doesn’t have this capability. However, using Flutter as a framework, you can approach hot reloads with Dart. 

• UI Development: With Flutter, User Interface development is more advanced, quick and economical. It lets the developers tailor UIs through widgets. So, it provides an indigenous and fast experience to users. Withal, Dart also has an adaptable array of tools to craft user interfaces, but Flutter has an edge.

• Debugging Tools: Undoubtedly, both of them have debugging features. However, Dart’s ready-to-use debugging tools have an edge over Flutter’s third-party debuggers. Indeed, Dart has a robust debugging system.

• Community Support: Flutter is a relatively new framework, so it has a small community support. In contrast, Dart is an old programming language with ample community support. It also has a more significant number of libraries and resources than Flutter.

Core Similarities between Flutter & Dart

• Dart and Flutter are free-to-use and open-source technologies.

• Google backs both.

• They work under ‘BSD 3-Clause “New” or “Revised” License’.

Differences between Dart and Flutter

What is Flutter?

Flutter is an open-source framework or UI software development kit (SDK) that Google created in 2017.

It utilizes one codebase to craft multiplatform UIs for mobile applications. Scripted in Dart, this framework backs Android, iOS, web, Windows, Linux, and macOS.

This framework partners with Dart to build and deploy multiplatform and high-performing mobile applications. To simplify the development of UIs, it has a wide range of widgets.

Also, it unifies the apps through native codes, so running the same script on different operating systems is smooth.

In other words, Flutter can accomplish the unchanged UX design and user interface on various platforms.

Hot reload and high performance are further advantages of using this UI SDK. These features make Flutter an impeccable solution to create attractive and modern mobile applications.

The renowned Flutter apps are Google Classroom, Google Pay, eBay, Sua Música and Alibaba Group.

Flutter Features

Here are the core features of the Flutter framework:

Widget Library

Flutter owns a vast range of pre-built widgets. You can also say that every function in Flutter is referred to as a widget.

It could be a menu, design pattern, button or color. Although several readymade widgets are available under its library but, this framework also lets you craft and utilize convoluted widgets with more customization.

A few commonly used and error-free Flutter widgets are Material Design and Cupertino Package. 

Hot Reloading

Hot reloading is one of the most appealing features of Flutter. This functionality aids the dev team in fixing glitches, conducting experiments and creating UIs in a breeze.

However, this trait begins operating after inserting the code files into the Dart VM. 

So, when Dart Virtual Machine categories the novel adaptations, this framework spontaneously recrafts the widget tree and lets you witness all modifications or updates in the meantime.

This way, developers don’t have to reopen the application to view the changes.

ARM Code

Flutter has the robust backing of Advanced Risc Machines. Yes, you can compile Flutter code to Advanced Risc Machines. ARM processors offer several benefits to businesses.

First of all, they work efficiently by consuming fewer resources. That is why Flutter could be an affordable choice for startups and SMEs.

By the same token, multiprocessing, high scalability and small size are further highlights of this feature.

Compatibility with IDEs 

It is simple to execute the Flutter app utilizing a vast number of integrated development environments (IDEs).

Likewise, if you need an effective IDE with pre-built Flutter support, then Android Studio should be your first choice. On the other hand, if you want a lightweight editor, you can employ Visual Code Studio.

However, you should go with IntelliJ IDEA to obtain strong integration, refactoring and modern editing characteristics. Some other Flutter IDEs are Emacs, Atom, and Sublime Text. 

Rendering Engine 

The availability of a compelling multiplatform rendering engine gives Flutter a clear edge over other SDKs.

This rendering engine empowers developers to release Flutter UIs on distinct platforms quickly. Having your own engine also permits you to perform cross-platform UI launches without changing them.  

Native Functionalities

Flutter grants native features to programming teams. Therefore, developers can use native traits like location, text, sensors, and cameras to build interactive mobile apps.

Correspondingly, Flutter provides plugins to connect with 3rd-party platforms like Firebase, Google Maps, etc.

Animation Support 

Well-designed animations have become integral to applications to enhance user experience and engagement.

Fortunately, Flutter provides comprehensive animation libraries and tools for building highly interactive apps. Some of these animation types are tween, physical-based and pre-canned.

Localization & Internationalization

Creating and deploying multilingual applications for distinct regions is easy using integral Flutter features like localization and internationalization.

Although Flutter libraries are already internationalized, you must add l10n.yaml to the root. This file insertion decides where the translated file will stay. 

Advantages of Flutter

Are you looking for Flutter advantages for your business? Have a look at these benefits of Flutter:

Open-Source

Flutter is an open-source SDK with ample community support. With accessible code, it is straightforward for developers and Flutter experts to identify and fix the technical glitches.

Correspondingly, Google uses this framework for its continuous projects, which is why its experts always try to improve this technology.

The backing of Google ensures that Flutter would work as a persistent SDK with more innovation and long-term support.

On the other hand, the open-source nature of Flutter permits novice developers and startups to ask their queries on online discussion platforms.

Hereof, you can approach Flutter Community, Dev Community, Stack Overflow, FlutterFlow Community and FlutterDev on Reddit.  

Cross-Platform Consistency

Although Flutter is considered a more reliable option for mobile apps but, it provides absolute consistency across distinct platforms.

This cost-efficient solution authorizes the dev teams to script the code once and deploy it on multiple platforms, including web, Linux, Android, iOS, Windows, macOS and Fuchsia.

Moreover, you simply need to update the code once, and this modification to the script will apply to all platforms. Indeed, with Flutter, you don’t have to be concerned about platform-centric scripting. 

High Performance

High and optimized performance is another advantage of programming with Flutter.

Unlike other cross-platform frameworks, this software development kit doesn’t depend on webview or JS to conduct interactions between the platform and mobile apps. 

Consequently, businesses can access appealing, high-performing and fast applications using Flutter.

Similarly, its novel versions also promise better performance. Likewise, Flutter 1.17 reduces memory spending by up to 70% and enhances rendering functioning by 50%. 

Faster Time-to-Market

Flutter allows startups and companies to fasten their time to market. Unlike other development frameworks, it doesn’t ask for platform-specific coding, saving developers several scripting hours. 

By the same token, its declarative user interface API plays a significant role in improving dev speed and simplifying visual transformations.

In addition, you can put a 2D-centric UI in action without interacting with the native app’s analogue.

MVP Development

Do you want to craft a minimum viable product (MVP) that is short-lived and has great extensibility features?

If yes, you can choose Flutter. This multiplatform and single codebase technology lets you develop MVP in minimal time.

Besides, when your app users grow in the future, it will be seamless for you to extend your resources and services using a single script across different platforms.

So, you will have to spend fewer hours coding, resources, and money to scale your app in the future.  

Shorter Testing Process

Flutter flows automatic app testing instead of manual testing. Manual testing takes longer, mainly if your mobile app has vast services and a complex UI.

This SDK classifies its automated testing into three sections: integration test, unit test and widget test.

Furthermore, Flutter doesn’t require you to perform tests for different platforms.

Yes, you must test the script once because it is platform-independent and has a single codebase. Hereof, you can employ ‘test’ and ‘flutter_test’ packages. 

Disadvantages of Flutter

• Large file size is one of the significant drawbacks of using Flutter. The resulting apps are bulkier than their indigenous counterparts. This can create an excellent hassle for users with insufficient mobile storage space. Large file sizes can particularly cause problems for individuals who are using old devices.
  
• While Flutter confers extensive tools and plugins but, it still lacks third-party libraries. Yes, it has inadequate libraries, especially when you compare it with technologies like React Native.
  
• The steep learning curve, less compatibility with iOS and a small talent pool are further limitations of using Flutter.  

What is Dart?

Dart is an object-oriented, open-source, functional programming language Google established in 2011.

This client-optimized scripting technology can quickly build applications for distinct platforms. Indeed, it is suitable for building desktop, mobile, and web applications on the fly.

This strongly typed language is particularly used to generate frontend UIs of mobile and web applications.

Hereof, Dart doesn’t accomplish the code straightforwardly. Yes, a compiler reviews the code and ships it into a machine script. That is why it is also called a compiled language.

Like C-syntax, this language is familiar with JavaScript, C#, and Java. Moreover, this cross-platform technology provides an absolute backing for functions, classes, mixins, type inference, and generics.

Besides, pairing it with frameworks like Flutter gives excellent results. You can employ a Pub package manager to create such applications. 

The prominent tech companies that are associated with Dart are Appwrite, Google, Mews and Colavosalon.

Dart Features

Let’s dive into the key characteristics of Dart:

Concurrency

Concurrency is a vital part of advanced application development. Fortunately, Dart has this aspect. It permits multithreading utilizing isolates.

These isolates are the substances allied with threads but don’t apportion the memory. Moreover, isolates build interactive UIs between linked actions by communicating messages.

However, developers must sequence these messages to facilitate better communication. Hereof, dev teams can get assistance from auto-create snapshots built through objects. Later, send these series to other insulates for subverting.

Considerable Libraries

This client-side programming language is rich with built-in libraries. You can easily organize your Dart script in any desired library with appropriate names.

Also, it is robust for you to reutilize these libraries via import statements. Some essential Dart libraries are math, developer, convert, async, core, and HTML. 

Flexible Compilation

Code compilation is swift and flexible with Dart programming. It provides two kinds of code-compiling methods.

The first is AOT or Ahead-of-Time, and the second is JIT or Just-in-Time. In addition, it is straightforward to transfer these codes to another language and operate them on contemporary browsers.

Type Secure

Dart is a type-safe scripting technology by Google. This leverages runtime and stable type reviews to validate the value of the variable, which is identical to its static counterpart.

More readability, less technical glitches, and more regularity are further advantages of type-safe languages. 

IDE & Editor Support

Dart has excellent compatibility with a wide range of editors and IDEs. The most commonly used integrated development environments for Dart are Android Studio, Visual Studio Code, Atom and IntelliJ IDEA. Similarly, Vim, Eclipse, and Emacs plugins are also available for Dart programming.

Object-Oriented

Dart backs interfaces, optional typing, objects, polymorphism, encapsulation, classes and inheritance because of its object-oriented nature.

This trait also lets the dev teams increase the efficiency, extensibility and reusability of the source code. 

Hereof, Dart also supports avant-garde OOP theories, including customized generic, fast-type systems, as well as mixing and abstract.

Platform Independent

Dart operates through its own VM called Dart Virtual Machine. In this way, executing Dart code on different operating systems and devices like Windows, Linux, macOS, and Macintosh becomes seamless. 

This feature saves time when it comes to running codes and preserves consistency. Furthermore, with this characteristic, developers can get a uniform app look with minimal planning.  

Ahead-of-Time (AOT)

This compiler assembles your Dart code before transferring it to a runtime environment. It has a quick startup time compared to the JIT compiler.

You can employ this compiler when preparing to set up an application store. Its use is also beneficial if you are collaborating with Flutter. 

Advantages of Dart

Dart confers numerous advantages to its users. Let’s talk about the prominent Dart benefits below:

Easy to Learn & Use

Dart is an easy-to-learn, understand and use programming language. It is similar to Java syntax. So, if you have already created applications with Java, it will be convenient for you to learn and use Dart.

In addition, programmers working on object-oriented languages find it an uncomplicated technology.

Several Dart learning tutorials are available on its official website and YouTube channels. Google for Developers lets the programmers play with the Dart code to explore it in detail.  

Productivity

Dart is considered a highly productive scripting technology because of its logical but straightforward syntax.

You can adopt Dart for enterprise-grade projects because of its type-safe feature. With this functionality, it becomes easy for dev teams to check the code before execution. 

Similarly, high scalability, availability of vast libraries, documentation and support for distinct IDEs make Dart an efficient choice for large apps. 

Outstanding Documentation

Another advantage of using Dart is its detailed documentation. Most developers switch from renowned programming languages to Dart because of its outstanding documentation.

Yes, it is easy to document your Dart classes, APIs or functions, mainly if you are building production-grade applications.

No Configuration or Installation is Required

There is no need to install the Dart before commencing the dev process. Basically, DartPad is the user interface of this programming technology that doesn’t need any configurations to begin the scripting.

You just have to put your source code into DartPad and press the run button to start the code execution.  

Community Support

Dart is an open-source, free programming language that has vast and active community support. Several resources and libraries are available on the web to support your Dart project.

Developers can also join discussion communities like Stack Overflow, Codecademy Forums, and D Programming Language forums to get answers to their queries. 

Disadvantages of Dart

• Dart is a comparatively new programming language, which is why it could be troublesome for businesses to find skilled developers for their projects. A recent Stack Overflow survey shares that only 6.02% of participants consider Dart a popular technology. 
  
• While Dart is a growing language with massive libraries but compared to other programming languages, Dart still needs more tools and plugins. Especially if we talk about the third-party libraries. 
  
• Verbose syntax, less market demand and a relatively small community are drawbacks of programming with Dart. 

Conclusion

Flutter and Dart are two different app development technologies with no rivalry. They work together to build highly interactive and advanced user interfaces for applications.

However, this guide discusses all the possible differences between Flutter and Dart.

You can read this article thoroughly to explore everything about Dart and Flutter, including their differences, similarities, features, drawbacks and advantages. This Dart vs Flutter post will help you understand these technologies.