Selecting a technology stack is the most important aspect of web development. PHP has dominated the space as a server-side scripting language for many years, allowing millions of websites and applications to run and function. However, the question that all programmers must eventually consider is whether they should use Core PHP or use a large framework like Laravel?

Both Laravel and Core PHP have pros and cons; below we will discuss Core PHP vs. Laravel around performance, security, scalability, and ease of development to help you make an informed decision for your next project. If you need professional PHP development services, then the team at GemsDevs application development services can help!

What is Core PHP?

Core PHP simply refers to writing PHP scripts without the use of frameworks. Core PHP provides complete control of coding to the developers, and it is well suited for custom solutions, which are low on dependency. Most small and medium-sized websites are still developed using Core PHP.

Pros of Core PHP

  • Lightweight: The applications will execute faster since they are not dependent on other libraries.
  • Complete Control: The developer has complete control of the structure and logic of the code.
  • Flexibility: Core PHP allows the developer to execute their architecture without restrictions beforehand.
  • Simple Learning Curve: If the developer knows some basics of PHP, the individual can get started with Core PHP in a short amount of time.

Cons of Core PHP

  • Time-Consuming Development Time: As everything is developed from scratch, it will take time to complete development. 
  • Security: Core PHP applications have security implications because it does not have built-in security features. 
  • Scalability: Larger applications will become complex without a proper architecture. 

What is Laravel?

Laravel is a robust PHP framework that provides a structured and feature-rich web development experience. It uses a Model-View-Controller (MVC) architecture so it is popular in the development of large-scale applications. 

Pros of Laravel

  • Faster Development: Pre-built functions and libraries reduce coding time.
  • Security Features: Laravel protects against CSRF, SQL injections, and XSS attacks. 
  • MVC Architecture: Provides clean, modular, and maintenance coding. 
  • Built-in Tools: Tasks like authentication, routing, caching, and job scheduling. 
  • Scalability: A great option for complex web applications with structured coding and use of the database. 

Cons of Laravel

  • Learning Curve: Developers need to first learn Laravel’s syntax and concept. 
  • Overhead: Laravel will consume more server resources when running than Core PHP. 
  • Framework Updates Dependency: Applications relying on the Laravel framework should consistently be updated for new versions of Laravel.

Core PHP vs Laravel

1. Performance

  • Core PHP is lightweight and does not depend on other packages, which allows for quicker performance. 
  •  Laravel features built-in functionalities and dependencies which may result in marginally higher performance, but it does provide a way to increase productivity. 

2. Security

  • Core PHP applications require you to build all security measures themselves. 
  • Laravel provides pre-built functionality for security including hashed passwords and encryption. 

3. Development Speed

  • Core PHP requires a lot of code to be written, leading to a slower development process. 
  • Laravel has templates and other pre-coded functions, which allows for a quicker development process.  

4. Scalability

  • Core PHP is sufficient for smaller applications, but to scale an application is more difficult. 
  • Laravel can easily scale, so for larger applications it is a better choice.

5. Code Maintainability

  • Core PHP can lead to easy spaghetti code if not properly built. 
  • Laravel uses MVC pattern, which helps provide clean and maintainable code.  

When to Choose Core PHP?

Use Core PHP when:

  • You are creating a small/simple website. 
  • Performance is the primary concern and you want to minimize the usage of server resources. 
  • You want to have complete control of the code without framework restrictions.  

When to Choose Laravel?

Use Laravel when:

  • You are developing a larger or complex web application. 
  • Security and scalability are a requirement. 
  • You want structured and maintainable code. 
  • You want a quicker development process and features already built in.  

Conclusion

The choice between Laravel and Core PHP will depend upon the requirements of your project. If you need something lightweight and fast, Core PHP would work best. If you need flexibility and maintainability along with security and scalability, then Laravel would be a fine solution for you. 

At GemsDevs, our qualified PHP developers are proficient in both Core PHP and Laravel development, ensuring that you receive the appropriate technology to suit your project. Contact GemsDevs today to develop top-quality, performant web applications!