MooTools – A Review

MooTools is an open source JavaScript framework that evolved from the simple function called moo.fx. The developers of moo.fx have slowly expanded this simple function into a fully functional framework. As of this writing, the framework is on its 1.2.0 version and has been enjoying a good following along with other JavaScript frameworks.

Advantages

MooTools is a lightweight framework. But do not think MooTools is another lightweight framework that would eventually stack-up. This framework is as lean as they could be. Instead of stacking up the functions and lines, MooTools divide the codes by developing functions in small code bases.

Expect to have a fully working function in 28kb or less. You can even compress it to make it even smaller. Another function that made it lean is the idea of modularity. Since functions could be laid out as modules, you will basically have an application that is lightweight. The modules built with MooTools are also lightweight in themselves and because of the modularity property of these functions; they are already optimized for performance.

Since moo.fx is originally an effects function, it is no wonder that MooTools is one of the best frameworks if you wanted to have a good looking application with all the effects on it. An Ajax based application will run faster even though there effects are bombarded in the application.

Again, this lean framework ensures that the functions are executed faster and it even looks better. The library of effects is very impressive and if you are into simplistic websites and applications, you will easily be tempted with the sheer number of effects options.

Last but not the least; MooTools will wow you with its documentation. Yes, everyone writes documentation about their tools, functions and frameworks but only a handful of them could be just like MooTools. You are practically reading the encyclopedia of how-to’s with all their examples and explanations about the certain function.

If you are not familiar with MooTools yet, be sure to stop by the documentation and see yourself developing your first Ajax based application with MooTools.

Disadvantages

On the other hand, among the noticeable disadvantages of MooTools is found on its Syntax. It does not go with the popular syntax so integrating different frameworks for a good mash-up is a little bit difficult. That means if you wanted to build a mash-up of frameworks, you will find yourself translating some of the functions from other frameworks. Because of the changes, it could…or will be slower whenever you integrate another framework to MooTools.

Although it is not their fault, MooTools is a little bit young compared to other frameworks. That maybe the reason why the problem with syntax is not addressed yet or was never changed. In previous versions dom.js could nowhere be found among the library of functions now, it is clearly there and could be used anytime. Hopefully this trend continues by answering some of the things lacking in the framework.

If you are looking for a framework that will look great with all its functions especially on the effects, go with MooTools. It is free so you do not have to buy any licenses.