MEAN vs MERN vs MEVN Stacks

Over the past decade, the realm of technology has undergone a remarkable wave of innovation, reshaping our lifestyles, work environments, and interactions. Innovations like cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), social media, machine learning, and artificial intelligence have fueled a digital revolution, transforming industries and individual experiences. Devices such as smartwatches, mobile applications, wireless headphones, fitness trackers, AI-enabled gadgets, and electric cars have seamlessly integrated into our daily routines, redefining communication, information consumption, and our navigation of the world.

In response to the pervasive influence of these technologies, there has been an exponential rise in the demand for websites and applications, becoming indispensable tools for both personal and business use. The internet, serving as the backbone for these digital entities, facilitates connectivity and enables businesses to connect with global audiences. Consequently, organizations, whether large enterprises or startups, are increasingly turning to outsourcing for the development of their web and mobile applications, tapping into the expertise of specialized development teams.

In this ever-evolving technological landscape, the selection of the right technology stack is paramount for the success and efficiency of web and mobile application development. This article delves into the MEAN, MERN, and MEVN stacks, providing insights into their components, advantages, and disadvantages. Whether you’re a business owner, a developer, or someone entering the realm of software development, a comprehensive understanding of these stacks is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring the success of your digital ventures.

What is Stacks?

MEAN, MERN, and MEVN are popular stacks in modern web and mobile application development.

These stacks comprise specific technologies that work seamlessly together to create robust and scalable applications.

A technology stack, often referred to simply as a “stack,” is a combination of software components and technologies that work together to build and support a complete software solution. This set of tools, languages, databases, operating systems, scripting languages, APIs, web servers, frameworks, and more forms a cohesive unit that enables the development, deployment, and functioning of a software application. The stack conceptually organizes these elements into layers, each serving a specific purpose in the software development process.

Here’s a breakdown of the key components in a typical technology stack:

Operating System (OS):
- The foundational layer of the stack, the operating system, serves as the software interface between the computer hardware and the other software applications. Common examples include Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Server-side Framework:
- The server-side framework provides a structure for building and managing the server-side logic of an application. Examples include Express.js (for Node.js), Django (for Python), and Ruby on Rails (for Ruby).
Database:
- Databases store and manage the application’s data. There are various types of databases, including relational databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra).
Client-side Framework or Library:
- The client-side framework or library facilitates the development of the user interface and enhances the user experience. Examples include React, Angular, and Vue.js.
Scripting Languages:
- Scripting languages like JavaScript, Python, and Ruby are often used for implementing dynamic functionalities and enhancing the interactivity of web applications.
Web Server:
- The web server handles incoming requests from clients and serves the application to users over the internet. Popular web servers include Apache and Nginx.
Front-end Libraries:
- Front-end libraries, such as Bootstrap or Foundation, provide pre-designed UI components and styles to streamline the development of the user interface.
APIs (Application Programming Interfaces):
- APIs enable communication and data exchange between different software applications. RESTful APIs and GraphQL are common choices for web applications.
Development Tools:
- Tools like version control systems (e.g., Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and continuous integration tools contribute to the efficiency and collaboration within development teams.
Cloud Services:
- Cloud services, offered by providers like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform, provide scalable infrastructure, storage, and other resources for hosting and deploying applications.
Containerization and Orchestration:
- Technologies like Docker for containerization and Kubernetes for orchestration enhance the scalability and portability of applications across different environments.
Frameworks for Mobile Development:
- For mobile application development, frameworks such as React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin may be included in the stack.

The choice of a technology stack depends on various factors, including the project requirements, scalability needs, development team expertise, and the specific goals of the software solution. Technology stacks can be broadly categorized as full stacks (encompassing both front-end and back-end technologies) or specialized stacks tailored for specific purposes, such as MEAN, MERN, or MEVN for JavaScript-based development.

Importance of Technology Stack

The success of web and mobile applications hinges on the effective utilization of technology.

Outsourcing development becomes a strategic decision, especially when key stakeholders lack in-depth knowledge of the development process. MEAN, MERN, and MEVN are popular stacks in modern web and mobile application development. Following are details of these Stack:

What Is A MEAN Stack?

The MERN Stack provides a powerful and cohesive set of technologies for developers looking to build modern and dynamic web applications. Its open-source nature, consistent use of JavaScript, and support for reusable code components make it a popular choice for many web development projects. However, as with any technology stack, its suitability depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the project and development team.

Elements of MEAN Stack

MongoDB: A NoSQL database
Express.js: A back-end web application framework
Angular: A front-end framework
Node.js: A JavaScript runtime

Characteristics of MEAN Stack

It offers the advantages of having plug-ins and widgets
It utilizes JavaScript to overcome needless bandwidth usage
With the support of this stack, developers can design all types of applications
It allows developers to run on both the server and browser-end.

Advantage of MEAN Stack

Here are some advantages of the MEAN Stack:

Platform Independence:
- One significant advantage of the MEAN Stack is its independence from any specific operating system. JavaScript, the primary language used in MEAN, can run on various operating systems, providing developers with flexibility in choosing the environment that best suits their needs.
Support for MVC Structure:
- MEAN supports the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architecture, which provides a clear separation of concerns in application development. This separation allows developers to work with different programming languages for the various components of their application, offering flexibility in development.
Seamless Cloud Hosting:
- MEAN is often considered a seamless stack for apps hosted on the cloud. It allows developers to design, build, and test applications directly in the cloud environment. This approach provides flexibility and scalability, making it easier to deploy and manage applications in cloud hosting services.
Open Source and Free:
- All components of the MEAN Stack—MongoDB, Express.js, Angular.js, and Node.js—are free and open source. This means that developers can access and modify the source code, contributing to a collaborative and supportive community. The open-source nature also contributes to the cost-effectiveness of using the MEAN Stack.
Integrated Web Server:
- The MEAN Stack includes its own web server, making the setup and configuration of the development environment straightforward. This built-in server simplifies the development process by providing a unified environment for both front-end and back-end components.
MongoDB Database Advantages:
- MongoDB, the NoSQL database in the MEAN Stack, offers advantages such as speed, flexibility, and scalability. It is well-suited for cloud environments and can be easily scaled to accommodate increased demand. Features like automatic replication contribute to reliability and performance. Additionally, the flexibility of MongoDB’s document-based model can be advantageous in certain use cases.
Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly:
- Due to the open-source nature of the MEAN Stack and the scalability features of MongoDB, MEAN is often considered a cost-effective and budget-friendly stack for businesses. The ability to leverage cloud hosting further enhances cost efficiency.

Disadvantage of MEAN Stack

Here are some disadvantages of the MEAN Stack:

Complexity and Maintenance:
- The MEAN Stack includes multiple libraries and frameworks (MongoDB, Express.js, Angular.js, and Node.js), and managing the dependencies between them can add complexity to the development process. Integrating updates and staying current with the latest versions of each component might require effort and could be challenging, especially for larger and more complex applications.
Frequent Updates:
- Each component of the MEAN Stack may have its own release cycle, and updates to one component might require corresponding updates to other components to maintain compatibility. Frequent updates can introduce challenges in terms of ensuring that the entire stack remains cohesive and functions correctly.
App Sustainability:
- The sustainability of an application built on the MEAN Stack could be a concern over time. This is particularly relevant when considering the long-term support for specific versions of the stack components, or if the development community shifts focus to other technologies. A lack of ongoing community support for older versions might impact the maintenance and security of applications.
MongoDB Data Loss in Heavy Load Conditions:
- While MongoDB is known for its scalability and flexibility, there have been concerns about potential data loss in heavy load conditions. This could be due to the nature of NoSQL databases, where data consistency may be sacrificed for performance. Properly configuring and managing MongoDB, including considering appropriate data replication and backup strategies, is crucial to address this concern.

What is MERN Stack?

The MERN Stack is widely used for developing full-stack web applications because it leverages JavaScript throughout the entire development stack. This can lead to a more seamless and efficient development process, as developers can use a single language (JavaScript) for both server-side and client-side code.

In the context you provided, the MERN Stack is described as a modified version of the MEAN Stack, where React.js is used instead of Angular.js. React.js has gained popularity for its component-based architecture and efficient rendering, making it a preferred choice for many developers building modern web applications. Additionally, JSX is mentioned, which is a syntax extension for JavaScript often used with React to describe what the UI should look like.

The MERN Stack is a powerful combination of technologies for building web applications, and it’s particularly well-suited for developers who prefer using JavaScript throughout their entire development stack.

Elements of MERN Stack

MongoDB: A NoSQL database.
Express.js: A back-end web application framework.
Node.js: A JavaScript runtime.
React.Js: A JavaScript library for building user interfaces is the primary difference from MEAN.

Characteristics of MERN Stack

The complete stacking procedure can happen totally on Java as well as JSON.
It offers real-time testing with the support of built-in tools and flexible UI rendering.
It is the unique coding script that covers both back-end and front-end
It contains a robust Graphical User Interface, command-line tools, and Dynamic schema, making development faster.
It includes MongoDB, which can run over different servers

Advantages of MERN Stack

Here are some advantages of the MERN Stack:

JavaScript Throughout:
- MERN Stack indeed utilizes JavaScript throughout the entire development stack, making it a full-stack JavaScript framework. Developers can use the same language for both server-side and client-side development, promoting consistency and efficiency.
Model-View-Controller (MVC) Structure:
- The mention of MERN supporting the Model-View-Controller (MVC) structure is a bit misleading. While Express.js (part of the MERN Stack) is a server-side framework that can be used to implement MVC architecture. React.js is more associated with a component-based architecture rather than traditional MVC.
Node.js Runtime Environment:
- The use of Node.js in the MERN Stack is highlighted for its asynchronous nature, which can lead to efficient and scalable server-side code. Node.js is well-suited for handling concurrent connections, making it suitable for building applications with a large number of users or real-time features.
Global Developer Community and Open Source:
- The MERN Stack benefits from a large and active developer community. The open-source nature of the technologies involved encourages collaboration and the sharing of best practices. This can lead to faster development cycles and continuous improvement of the stack.
React for Front-End Development:
- React.js is indeed a key component of the MERN Stack, and it’s highly praised for its component-based architecture and the ability to create interactive user interfaces efficiently. The mention of popular websites like Dropbox, Facebook, and Airbnb using React highlights its widespread adoption in the industry.
Performance Considerations:
- The asynchronous nature of Node.js can contribute to better performance in certain scenarios, especially in handling a large number of concurrent connections. However, the overall performance of a web application depends on various factors, including the specific use case, code optimization, and server architecture.

Disadvantage of MERN Stack

Here are some disadvantages of the MERN Stack:

Lack of Full-Fledged Framework:
- The MERN Stack is a combination of separate technologies rather than a fully integrated framework. While this modularity can be an advantage, it can also be a disadvantage for developers who prefer the structure and conventions provided by a full-fledged framework. Some developers may find themselves relying on third-party libraries and tools to fill the gaps.
Dependency on Third-Party Services:
- As you mentioned, developers working with the MERN Stack may need to depend on third-party services for certain functionalities. This reliance on external tools can introduce complexities, especially when dealing with issues like compatibility, versioning, and potential service disruptions.
Limited Support for Direct Calls:
- The MERN Stack, by default, may not support direct calls between the front-end and back-end servers. This could be a limitation in scenarios where direct communication is essential. However, developers can use techniques like API calls to facilitate communication between the front end and back end.
Not Suggested for Large-Scale Web Apps:
- While the MERN Stack can be suitable for a wide range of applications, some developers may argue that it’s not the best choice for very large-scale web applications. The reasons could include concerns about scalability, performance optimization, or the lack of certain features provided by more specialized stacks or frameworks.

What Is A MEVN Stack?

The MEVN stack, with Vue.js on the front end and Express.js on the back end, offers a combination of rapid development, efficiency, and flexibility. Developers can leverage the strengths of Vue.js for building dynamic user interfaces while benefiting from the server-side capabilities provided by Express.js. The stack’s flexibility allows for the integration of additional elements to meet the specific needs of the application.

Elements of MEVN Stack

MongoDB: A NoSQL database.
Express.js: A back-end web application framework.
Node.js: A JavaScript runtime.
Vue.js: Replaces Angular and React, offering a more lightweight and flexible front-end framework.

Advantages of MEVN Stack

Here are some advantages of the MEVN Stack:

Platform Independency:
- The MEVN stack, consisting of MongoDB, Express.js, Vue.js, and Node.js, is designed to be platform-independent. This means that applications built using this stack can run on various operating systems without major modifications. JavaScript, as the primary language, contributes to this platform independence, as it is supported by most web browsers and server environments.
MVC Architecture:
- MEVN supports the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architecture. MVC is a software design pattern that separates the application logic into three interconnected components: Model (data and business logic), View (presentation layer), and Controller (handles user input and updates the model and view). This separation of concerns can lead to more maintainable and modular code.
Single Language – JavaScript:
- One of the prominent advantages of the MEVN stack is the use of a single language, JavaScript, throughout the entire application stack. This consistency simplifies the development process, as developers can use the same language for both server-side and client-side development. It eliminates the need to switch between languages, promoting a unified and efficient development workflow.
Understanding of Customer and Server Sides:
- Using JavaScript as a common language for both the client and server sides contributes to a better understanding of the entire application for developers. Developers who are familiar with JavaScript can work seamlessly across the full stack, facilitating collaboration and communication between the client-side and server-side development teams.
Sign Language for Software Development:
- The term “sign language for software development” might be a metaphorical way of expressing the unified nature of JavaScript in MEVN. JavaScript serves as a common language that acts as a bridge between the different components of the stack, enabling developers to communicate and express functionality seamlessly.

Disadvantages of MEVN Stack

Here are some disadvantages of the MEVN Stack:

Vue.js as a Language:
- Vue.js is not a programming language; it’s a JavaScript framework for building user interfaces. Developers use Vue.js to create dynamic and interactive web applications. Vue.js has gained popularity for its simplicity, flexibility, and ease of integration into existing projects. While it might not have been around as long as some other frameworks, it has gained a large and growing community of developers.
Developer Perception and Flexibility:
- Vue.js is generally known for its ease of use and developer-friendly approach. It provides flexibility, which can be an advantage for many developers. However, some might argue that too much flexibility could lead to inconsistencies in larger projects, especially when many developers are involved. It’s essential to establish and follow best practices and coding standards to maintain a clean and maintainable codebase.
Vue.js and MongoDB:
- Vue.js and MongoDB serve different purposes in a tech stack. Vue.js is used for the front end, and MongoDB is a NoSQL database used on the back end. Vue.js has no direct influence on the choice of database technology. The decision to use MongoDB or any other database depends on the specific requirements of the project, such as data structure, scalability needs, and the development team’s familiarity with the technology.
Multi-Object Transactions and ACID Transactions:
- MongoDB has historically been known for not supporting multi-document transactions in a single operation. However, MongoDB has introduced support for multi-document transactions starting from version 4.0. This means that you can perform multiple operations on multiple documents within a single transaction. ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) properties are indeed maintained in these transactions.

Tabular view of MERN vs MEAN vs MEVN

Tabular views of MERN vs MEAN vs MEVN are given below:

Parameter	MERN	MEAN	MEVN
Technologies	MongoDB, Express.js, React, Node.js	MongoDB, Express.js, Next.js, Angular	MongoDB, Express.js, Vue.js, Node.js
Front-end Framework	React	Angular	Vue.js
Server-Side Rendering	Optional	Built-in (Next.js)	Optional
Learning Curve	Gentle	Complex	Gentle
Ecosystem	Large	Smaller	Large
Development Speed	Moderate	Faster (with Next.js)	Moderate
Flexibility	Moderate	Moderate	Flexible
Community and Support	Large and Active	Substantial	Large and Active

Mean Stack Vs. Mern Stack Vs. Mevn Stack: Who’s The Best?

All the frameworks and stacks contain essential attributes, making them unique. Selecting the excellent stack for your software project and software development procedure determines which kind of stack you utilize. You can use the MEAN stack if your developers choose Angular over React. Otherwise, there is no critical partiality other than the requirement and comfort. Renowned companies like NASA, HBO, Nike, and YouTube utilize MEAN stack development for their precise web solutions.

MERN stack supports making User interface rendering simple with its React.js library. It utilizes the solo language for both server-end scripting and customer. Thus there is no requirement for context switching, which is a primary liberation for the developers. Too many big giant companies like Flipkart, Netflix, and Uber utilize the MERN stack, and their web solutions are entirely based on React.js.

If you want to develop an app with MVC ability and the best server-side functionality, then MEVN may be the correct choice. It offers powerful features of MERN and means that support us in designing best-performance and lightweight applications like social networking, e-commerce, and gaming platforms.

In the rapidly evolving world of web and mobile application development, MEAN, MERN, and MEVN stacks stand as pillars of innovation and efficiency. Understanding the nuances of each stack empowers businesses and developers to make strategic decisions that align with project requirements and goals. Whether it’s the robustness of MEAN, the flexibility of MERN, or the simplicity of MEVN, each stack offers a unique set of advantages and considerations.