Software Alternatives & Startups

Apache Struts VS B4X

Compare Apache Struts VS B4X and see what are their differences

Apache Struts logo Apache Struts

Apache Struts is an open-source web application framework for developing Java EE web applications.

B4X logo B4X

Cross platform development tools for native iOS, Android, desktop and server applications.
  • Apache Struts Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-04-27
  • B4X Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-17

Apache Struts features and specs

  • Robust Framework
    Apache Struts is a mature and well-established framework for Java web applications, providing stable and reliable tools for enterprise-level applications.
  • MVC Architecture
    Struts adheres to the Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern, which separates business logic, presentation, and navigation, making code maintenance and development easier.
  • Extensive Documentation
    Struts has comprehensive documentation and a wealth of online resources, including tutorials, community forums, and user guides, which can support developers throughout their projects.
  • Rich Tag Library
    It comes with a rich set of custom tags that enhance the JSP (JavaServer Pages) to create dynamic web content easily.
  • Plugin Support
    Apache Struts supports various plugins that can extend its functionality, allowing developers to integrate additional features without much effort.

Possible disadvantages of Apache Struts

  • Steep Learning Curve
    New developers might find Struts challenging to learn due to its complexity and the need for a good understanding of the MVC architecture and Java web application development.
  • Configuration Overhead
    The framework requires extensive XML configuration, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming compared to convention-over-configuration frameworks.
  • Performance
    Struts can be slower than some newer, lighter frameworks due to its broader feature set and the overhead associated with its extensive configuration.
  • Security Vulnerabilities
    Struts has had notable security vulnerabilities in the past. Although patches and updates are available, it necessitates proactive monitoring and maintenance.
  • Outdated Compared to Modern Frameworks
    With the advent of modern frameworks like Spring MVC and JavaServer Faces, some developers consider Struts to be less up-to-date with the latest web development standards and practices.

B4X features and specs

  • Cross-Platform Development
    B4X allows developers to write a single codebase that can be deployed across multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, and desktop applications, which significantly reduces development time and effort.
  • Ease of Use
    B4X offers a simple and intuitive environment for developing applications, making it accessible for beginners while still powerful for experienced developers.
  • Strong Community Support
    B4X has an active and supportive community that provides plenty of resources, tutorials, and forums for troubleshooting and mentorship.
  • Rapid Application Development
    The visual designer and powerful libraries included in B4X allow for quick prototyping and development, helping to accelerate the overall development process.
  • Cost-Effective
    B4X offers a free version with substantial features, allowing smaller developers and hobbyists to get started without incurring high costs.
  • Native Performance
    Applications developed with B4X leverage native controls and performance, which ensures that apps run fast and efficiently on their target platforms.

Possible disadvantages of B4X

  • Limited to B4X IDE
    Developers are largely locked into the B4X IDE, limiting flexibility in terms of using other development environments and tools.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While basic development is straightforward, mastering advanced features and functionalities requires time and effort, which could be a hurdle for some developers.
  • Less Popular
    B4X is less popular compared to other development frameworks like React Native or Flutter, which could mean fewer third-party resources and plugins.
  • Limited Enterprise Features
    While excellent for small and medium-sized projects, B4X may lack some of the advanced features or extensive third-party integrations needed for large enterprise-level applications.
  • Inconsistent Documentation
    Some users have reported that the documentation can be inconsistent or outdated, making it challenging to find up-to-date and accurate information on certain topics.
  • Platform-Specific Customization
    Despite being cross-platform, extensive customization for each platform may still be required to ensure optimal user experience and compliance with design guidelines.

Analysis of Apache Struts

Overall verdict

  • Apache Struts is a robust framework, suitable for building Java-based web applications, but it's crucial to stay vigilant regarding security updates.

Why this product is good

  • Apache Struts is known for its MVC framework, which is useful for creating well-structured and maintainable Java applications. It provides a range of comprehensive features like a flexible tag library, integration with other Java frameworks, and a strong support community. However, it has faced some high-profile security vulnerabilities in the past, underscoring the importance of keeping the framework timely updated.

Recommended for

  • Organizations developing enterprise-level Java applications
  • Developers familiar with Java and looking for a robust MVC framework
  • Teams interested in integrating their web applications with other Java technologies

Analysis of B4X

Overall verdict

  • B4X is considered a good option for developers looking for a versatile and efficient development platform. Its ease of use, cross-platform capabilities, and strong community support make it a valuable tool, especially for those who prioritize development speed and multiplatform deployment.

Why this product is good

  • B4X is a suite of rapid application development tools that simplifies the coding process by providing a cross-platform development environment. It uses a simple, yet powerful programming language suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. The platform boasts a strong community, extensive documentation, and a rapid development cycle. Additionally, it is known for its ability to develop native apps for Android, iOS, and desktop systems from a single codebase.

Recommended for

  • Beginners who want an easy introduction to programming.
  • Developers looking to create cross-platform applications with a single codebase.
  • Small to medium-sized development teams needing rapid prototyping and development.
  • Educators seeking a simple yet effective tool to teach programming.
  • Independent developers or startups who need to quickly deploy apps across multiple platforms.

Apache Struts videos

Finding and Fixing Apache Struts CVE-2017-5638 with Black Duck Hub

More videos:

  • Review - Apache Struts 2 - remote command execution
  • Review - Dark ambient drone music | Vulnerable Apache Struts installation under attack (Java, Jakarta)

B4X videos

Little Bear B4X: A Short Sound Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Apache Struts and B4X)
Developer Tools
58 58%
42% 42
IDE
0 0%
100% 100
Web Frameworks
100 100%
0% 0
JavaScript Tools
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using Apache Struts and B4X. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Apache Struts and B4X

Apache Struts Reviews

17 Popular Java Frameworks for 2023: Pros, cons, and more
You can integrate Struts with other Java frameworks to perform tasks that aren’t built into the platform. For instance, you can use the Spring plugin for dependency injection or the Hibernate plugin for object-relational mapping. Struts also allows you to use different client-side technologies such as Jakarta Server Pages to build the frontend of your application.
Source: raygun.com
10 Best Java Frameworks You Should Know
Followed by Struts Framework, the next leading framework currently being used in the IT industry is the Wicket.

B4X Reviews

Top 10 Android Studio Alternatives For App Development
B4X is a cross-platform tool that helps in creating applications on platforms like Google Android, Arduino, Apple iOS, and so on. The syntax of B4X is similar to BASIC.
10 Best Android Studio Alternatives For App Development
B4X is a suite of rapid application development IDE’s. This platform allows you to create applications on the following platforms: Google’s Android, Apple’s iOS, Java, Raspberry Pi, and Arduino. B4X is a popular tool for Android app development. It is not only used by developers, but popular companies are also using this amazing tool like IBM, NASA, and others.
Source: techdator.net

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Apache Struts seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 2 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Apache Struts mentions (2)

B4X mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of B4X yet. Tracking of B4X recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Apache Struts and B4X, you can also consider the following products

Spring Framework - The Spring Framework provides a comprehensive programming and configuration model for modern Java-based enterprise applications - on any kind of deployment platform.

Android Studio - Android development environment based on IntelliJ IDEA

Grails - An Open Source, full stack, web application framework for the JVM

Flutter - Build beautiful native apps in record time 🚀

Spark Mail - Spark helps you take your inbox under control. Instantly see what’s important and quickly clean up the rest. Spark for Teams allows you to create, discuss, and share email with your colleagues

ASP.NET Core - With ASP.