Spring vs Spring Boot

The Java framework that makes dependency injection feel like a warm hug, even if it sometimes smothers you with configuration meets java's magic wand for turning boilerplate into production apps, with enough auto-configuration to make you forget what a bean is. Here's our take.

Spring

Nice Pick

The Java framework that makes dependency injection feel like a warm hug, even if it sometimes smothers you with configuration.

Pros

• Comprehensive ecosystem with Spring Boot for rapid development
• Strong dependency injection and inversion of control support
• Excellent integration with databases and microservices
• Active community and extensive documentation

Cons

• Can be overkill for simple projects, leading to bloated configurations
• Steep learning curve, especially for beginners in Java frameworks

Spring Boot

Java's magic wand for turning boilerplate into production apps, with enough auto-configuration to make you forget what a bean is.

Pros

• Auto-configuration slashes setup time for common use cases
• Embedded servers like Tomcat or Jetty simplify deployment
• Opinionated defaults enforce best practices out of the box
• Strong ecosystem with Spring Data, Security, and Cloud integrations

Cons

• Can feel bloated for simple projects due to its comprehensive nature
• Auto-configuration magic can be opaque, making debugging a headache

The Verdict

Use Spring if: You want comprehensive ecosystem with spring boot for rapid development and can live with can be overkill for simple projects, leading to bloated configurations.

Use Spring Boot if: You prioritize auto-configuration slashes setup time for common use cases over what Spring offers.

The Bottom Line

Spring wins

The Java framework that makes dependency injection feel like a warm hug, even if it sometimes smothers you with configuration.