Javascript library for building desktop-like web application: ExtJS, jQuery, YahooUI, Mocha, SproutCore, Cappuccino, others?

javascript jquery extjs yui mootools
Dema picture Dema · Nov 6, 2008 · Viewed 30.5k times · Source

I am evaluating several Javascript UI toolkits for building web applications that have a desktop-like feel, mainly because of dialogs and window management.

I looked at several options - here are my evaluations so far:

  • ExtJS - Great widget library, great docs! Not so great license.
  • jQuery UI - Lack of ready-made window and dialog containers. I love jQuery though.
  • Yahoo! UI - Same problem as above. Really mature (but, unfortunately, is no longer being actively maintained) and well documented.
  • Mocha (Mootools-based) - Not as mature as the others. Lacks good documentation.
  • SproutCore - Same as above. Also doesn't have window and dialog widgets.
  • Cappuccino - Too weird and revolutionary.

What's your take on these? Are my evaluations correct?

Answer

James Hughes picture James Hughes · Nov 6, 2008

In terms of a desktop look/feel the best of that bunch has to be ExtJS. In terms of the UI it really is leaps ahead of the rest. Of course there are licensing issues but they have their FLOSS exceptions and if you intend to make money from the project then a commercial license isn't exactly going to break the bank.

Other Very Rich Framework worth looking at (all have their good and bad points),

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