Pug vs Mustache

Developers should learn Pug when building Node meets developers should use mustache when they need a simple, cross-platform templating solution for web applications, configuration files, or documentation generation, as it enforces separation of concerns and reduces complexity. Here's our take.

Pug

Nice Pick

Developers should learn Pug when building Node

Pros

• js-based web applications, especially with frameworks like Express
• Related to: node-js, express-js

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Mustache

Developers should use Mustache when they need a simple, cross-platform templating solution for web applications, configuration files, or documentation generation, as it enforces separation of concerns and reduces complexity

Pros

• It is ideal for projects where templates must be shared across different programming environments or when minimal logic in templates is preferred to avoid security risks and improve maintainability
• Related to: handlebars, jinja2

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Pug is a template engine while Mustache is a template. We picked Pug based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Pug wins

Based on overall popularity. Pug is more widely used, but Mustache excels in its own space.