MERN Stack vs Full Stack: An Overview

The MERN Stack and Full Stack are two well-known software stacks used by most companies and developers. The MERN stack consists of MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js, providing JavaScript-based frameworks for developing elements on both the client-side and server-side. It provides developers with efficient tools for creating web applications geared towards modern scalability. On the other hand, full-stack development encompasses a range of programming technologies that extend beyond the MERN stack. It combines front-end and back-end frameworks according to the project’s specifications. This blog explores the key differences between the MERN stack and full stack, as well as the various career paths and scopes individuals can pursue after selecting one.

What is the MERN Stack?

MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js comprise the MERN stack, a collection of technologies used for developing web applications. It is a full-stack JavaScript development approach. It entails using JavaScript for both the front-end (user interface) and back-end (server-side logic). Here are the main components of the MERN stack:

• MongoDB: MongoDB serves as a NoSQL database that uses a JSON-like format to provide data scalability and ease of use. The system stores significant volumes of unorganized data with optimal efficiency.
• Express.js: The Express.js framework operates as a minimal and flexible tool for developing web applications under Node.js. It helps simplify server programming tasks and provides developers with a comprehensive toolkit for creating APIs and web applications.
• React: React is a JavaScript library used to develop the user interface (UI) of web applications. Organising the user interface into reusable components enables developers to generate dynamic and interactive front-end experiences.
• Node.js: Node.js serves as a server-side runtime platform that enables developers to write server scripts using JavaScript. The system delivers quick and scalable solutions for creating network applications at high speeds.

What is Full Stack?

Full-stack is the term used to describe the process of creating a software application or website that encompasses both the front-end (user interface) and back-end (server-side logic and database). A full-stack developer conducts operations throughout the entire development lifecycle, from designing the user interface to managing the server and database. Here are the main components of a full-stack:

• Front-End: It is the user-facing part of the application, developed using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It focuses on the design, layout, and interactive elements of the web.
• Back-End: The back-end refers to the server-side logic and infrastructure that underpin an application, encompassing API development, server-side programming, and database management.
• Database: A database is the storage, retrieval, and manipulation location for data in a web application. It significantly impacts the application’s scalability, security, and performance.
• Version Control: Development teams utilize Git as their version control platform for coding purposes. It enables developers to track code modifications while collaborating with their colleagues.

MERN Stack vs Full Stack: Advantages

MERN stack and full-stack provide distinct benefits that are contingent upon the project’s requirements. Full-stack development enables the integration of various technologies, whereas the MERN stack offers a unified JavaScript-based solution. Understanding the differences between these approaches helps companies select the most suitable solution for their specific needs. The following advantages highlight the differences between the MERN stack and the full stack:

MERN Stack	Full Stack
Uses a single language (JavaScript) across the entire stack, simplifying development and communication between components.	Flexibility to choose the best technology for each layer (frontend, backend, database), depending on project needs.
Open-source and backed by large communities (especially React and Node.js), offering rich libraries and support.	Ability to build diverse projects using a wide variety of tools, languages, and frameworks (e.g., Python, PHP, Ruby, Java).
High performance and scalability, especially suitable for building fast, modern single-page applications (SPAs).	Broader job opportunities, as full-stack developers, can work with different technology stacks based on industry demand.
JSON is used throughout (in both front-end and back-end), simplifying data transfer and integration.	Suitable for both monolithic and microservices architectures, depending on chosen technologies.
Easier to set up and deploy as an end-to-end solution with consistent tooling and frameworks.	Greater adaptability to legacy systems and enterprise applications that may use mixed technologies.

MERN Stack vs Full Stack: Disadvantages

In comparison to full-stack development, the MERN stack’s primary drawback is its JavaScript-centric nature and potential limitations in managing sophisticated relational data or large-scale applications. Full stack development offers a more comprehensive skill set and greater flexibility in selecting technologies, whereas MERN provides a streamlined development experience for specific projects. The following table shows the disadvantages, highlighting the differences between the MERN stack and full-stack:

MERN Stack	Full Stack
Limited to JavaScript-based technologies only, which can restrict flexibility for diverse project needs.	Requires learning multiple languages, frameworks, and tools, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
React, part of the MERN stack, has a steep learning curve, especially with advanced concepts like hooks and state management.	Balancing frontend and backend expertise can make it hard to master either side deeply.
NoSQL (MongoDB) may not be ideal for applications that require complex relational data handling.	Compatibility issues can arise when integrating different frontend and backend technologies.
Rapid changes and updates in the JavaScript ecosystem can require frequent relearning and adjustments.	Development and debugging can become complex due to handling diverse tech stacks.
Less optimal for projects that demand complex server-side computations or require SQL databases.	Project development time can be longer due to the need to effectively manage and integrate various technologies.

MERN Stack vs Full Stack: Difference in Salary

MERN stack developers in India are generally compensated above full-stack developers, even though both positions are adequately compensated. The salary between the two also depends on factors such as skills, experience, and the technologies used. The tables below provide a breakdown of the average wage ranges for full-stack developers vs. MERN stack developers in India:

	Beginner	Mid-Level	Experienced
MERN Stack Developer	₹2 LPA- ₹5 LPA	₹6 LPA- ₹10.3 LPA	₹10 LPA- ₹18 LPA
Full Stack Developer	₹3 LPA- ₹6 LPA	₹7 LPA- ₹13 LPA	₹10 LPA- ₹22 LPA

MERN Stack vs Full Stack: Career Opportunities

While both full-stack development and the MERN stack offer substantial career prospects, they cater to distinct requirements and preferences. Full-stack developers possess a more extensive skill set. They are capable of working with a variety of technologies in both front-end and back-end development, whereas MERN Stack developers are skilled in JavaScript-based frameworks. Here are the typical career advancement opportunities for MERN stack vs Full stack developer:

1. Career Paths for MERN Stack Developers

MERN stack developers have the opportunity to pursue a variety of career paths, such as full-stack development, front-end specialisation, back-end specialisation, technical lead, or project management. Here are some typical roles available for MERN Stack developers:

• Senior MERN Stack Developer: A senior MERN stack developer is a highly professional software engineer skilled in developing and maintaining web applications using the MERN stack.
• MERN Stack Lead Developer: A MERN Stack lead developer is a technical executive responsible for overseeing the development of web applications that utilize the MERN stack.
• MERN Stack Architect: A MERN stack architect is a software engineer with exceptional skills who specialises in the design, development, and supervision of the architecture of web applications that utilise the MERN stack.

2. Career Paths for Full Stack Developers

Full-stack developers have a wide range of career paths, including fundamental roles such as web developer, software engineer, and DevOps engineer, as well as more specialized areas, such as technical lead, architect, or even freelancing. Here are some typical roles available for Full Stack developers:

• Senior Full Stack Developer: These professionals oversee both front-end and back-end tasks, lead initiatives, and manage end-to-end development.
• Full Stack Engineers: A full-stack engineer maintains responsibility for working with the complete stack by adding expertise to user interface elements and server-side implementation of web applications.
• Full Stack Development Manager: A full stack development manager is a leadership position responsible for the complete development lifecycle of a software project, encompassing database and server administration, as well as the entire software stack, from the front-end to the back-end.

MERN Stack vs Full Stack: Similarities

The MERN stack and full-stack development share the fundamental principle of developing web applications that include both front-end and back-end development. Both methods involve creating a comprehensive application that connects the UI with the backend for data storage and retrieval. It consists of the development of a user interface and server-side logic. Here are some points covering the similarities between the MERN stack and the full stack: 

• Both Involve Full-Stack Development: Both the MERN stack and full-stack development encompass both the client-side and server-side. Developers need to design user interfaces that adapt to screen sizes and, simultaneously, operate database systems. 
• Versatility in Technology Use: Both MERN stack and full stack developers work with multiple technologies to build dynamic applications. While MERN utilizes JavaScript-based tools, full-stack development provides the flexibility to employ various front-end and back-end frameworks tailored to project needs.
• Requires Knowledge of Databases: Knowledge of databases is essential for both full-stack and MERN stack development. They both involve creating web applications that interact with data storage and retrieval.
• Emphasis on Problem-Solving Skills: Problem-solving skills are emphasized in both full-stack and MERN stack development, as they necessitate comprehension and resolution of obstacles in various web application development-related domains.

Conclusion

Both MERN stack and full stack development offer unique advantages based on the project’s needs and the technologies required. The MERN stack relies exclusively on JavaScript tools in its development process, and a full-stack approach grants flexibility through various technology choices. Businesses and developers can make more informed decisions after studying the components, advantages, and prospective occupations for MERN stack versus full-stack development. Whether opting for the MERN stack or full stack, each offers valuable paths for web application development. Check out our detailed blog on ‘What is the MERN stack?’​ to understand all the essential aspects and the need for the software.

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