Why TypeScript Isn’t Always the Best Option for Every Project — What Do You Think?

The Rise of TypeScript

TypeScript has taken the developer world by storm. It’s like JavaScript’s smarter cousin — providing type safety, better tooling, and a more structured way to write code. By 2025, a whopping 61% of developers use TypeScript in their projects, according to recent surveys.

But let’s pause for a moment. Is TypeScript truly the one-size-fits-all solution it’s made out to be?

My Experience: TypeScript in Real-World Projects

I’ve worked on diverse projects, from freelancing dashboards to mobile apps. Here’s what I’ve found:

1. Admin Dashboard (JobShop App): TypeScript was invaluable here. It helped ensure data consistency between the frontend and backend. When fetching job stats via APIs, TypeScript’s type definitions saved us from runtime errors and made collaboration seamless.
2. Local Business App (PaisaKhata): For this smaller project, using JavaScript made more sense. Why? The codebase was smaller, there were tight deadlines, and the need for type safety wasn’t as pressing. Adding TypeScript would have been overkill and might have slowed down the development process.

What do you think? Would TypeScript fit both scenarios?

The Downsides of TypeScript

While TypeScript is powerful, it isn’t perfect. Here are the key drawbacks:

• Increased Learning Curve: For beginners or teams unfamiliar with static typing, TypeScript can feel overwhelming.
• Slower Prototyping: Building quick MVPs? TypeScript might slow you down with its strict typing requirements.
• Larger Codebase: Type definitions add bulk, which can feel unnecessary for small-scale projects.
• Tooling Setup: TypeScript demands more setup — config files, linters, and compilers. For simple projects, this can be frustrating.

Real-World Decision: When to Use TypeScript vs. JavaScript

• Small Projects or Prototypes: Stick with JavaScript. It’s fast, simple, and gets the job done without the overhead.

Example: A basic to-do app or a quick landing page.

• Large-Scale Applications: TypeScript shines here. Complex data flows and team collaboration benefits immensely from static typing.

Example: E-commerce platforms, enterprise-level dashboards.

• Startups with Tight Deadlines: JavaScript is your friend when you’re racing against the clock.

The Thrill of the Debate

So, what do you think? Should every project adopt TypeScript just because it’s trendy? Or should we choose tools based on the project’s needs?

As someone who’s balanced both worlds, my take is simple: Use TypeScript when the benefits outweigh the setup cost. Stick with JavaScript for simplicity when speed is key.

What’s your experience? Have you faced challenges with TypeScript, or has it been a lifesaver? Share your thoughts — let’s keep this conversation going!