What is Ember?

Ember is a JavaScript framework that helps developers build ambitious web applications quickly and consistently. It provides tools, conventions, and a solid structure so you can focus on the features of your app rather than low-level details.

Let's break it down

  • JavaScript framework: a collection of pre-written code that makes it easier to write JavaScript for websites.
  • Ambitious web applications: larger, more complex sites that need many interactive features, like dashboards or social platforms.
  • Tools and conventions: ready-made pieces (like routers, data models, and UI components) and agreed-upon ways of doing things, so everyone writes code in a similar style.
  • Focus on features: because the heavy lifting is handled for you, you spend time building the unique parts of your app.

Why does it matter?

Using Ember can speed up development, reduce bugs, and make large projects easier to maintain, especially when many developers are working together. Its strong conventions also help new team members get up to speed quickly.

Where is it used?

  • Discourse - the popular forum software that powers many online communities.
  • LinkedIn Learning - parts of the learning platform’s front-end are built with Ember.
  • Square’s Cash App web interface - uses Ember for its responsive, real-time UI.
  • Twitch’s chat overlay - leverages Ember to manage dynamic chat components.

Good things about it

  • Convention over configuration: reduces decision fatigue and keeps codebases consistent.
  • Powerful router: makes handling URLs and nested pages straightforward.
  • Built-in data layer (Ember Data): simplifies fetching, caching, and updating server data.
  • Strong community and addons: many reusable packages are available to extend functionality.
  • Stability without stagnation: Ember follows a predictable release schedule while still adding modern features.

Not-so-good things

  • Steeper learning curve: the conventions and tooling can feel heavy for beginners.
  • Larger bundle size: compared to lighter frameworks, Ember apps may start bigger, affecting initial load time.
  • Less flexibility: the strong opinions can feel restrictive if you want to deviate from the standard patterns.
  • Smaller job market: fewer companies use Ember than React or Vue, so opportunities can be limited.