JSF vs Spring MVC – Comparison Spring MVC vs JSF Frameworks

In this article, we’re going to take a quick look at JSF vs Spring MVC while discussing the benefit each framework offers Java web developers.

What is JSF?

JSF stands for JavaServer Faces and is a component-based web framework that is designed under the Model-View-Controller software architectural pattern.

The MVC architectural pattern divides any MVC compliant application into three interconnected parts. Furthermore, JSF simplifies the development of web application’s User Interfaces (UI) via reusable UI components.

These UI components facilitate connection to data sources as well as server-side event handling.

What is Spring MVC?

On the other hand, Spring MVC is action-based web framework that also provides MVC software architectural pattern.

In addition to this, Spring MVC has readily available components for development and integration of web applications.

JSF vs Spring MVC

Consequently, both web frameworks – JSF vs Spring MVC – support MVC software architecture pattern but they do differ slightly when comparing JSF vs Spring MVC as discussed below:

1. JSF

• As part of J2EE specifications an official standard promoted by Sun Microsystems, JSF has a lot of implementations.
• JSF is fast and easy to develop with given its model that makes it easier to to use WYSIWYG graphical user interface builders to generate JSF pages for you on the fly.
• There are lots of component libraries to choose from coupled with its well documentation therefore reducing the development life cycle.
• Unfortunately, JSF doesn’t flow well with Security and RESTful but has built-in AJAX support.
• Has inbuilt Template Layout Tags which makes achieving reusable web application easier.
• Makes it easy to implement Converter where compared to Spring MVC.

2. Spring MVC

• Spring MVC makes it much more easier to convert static htmls for Spring MVC views than to transfer them to JSF UI components. This makes life easy for developers and definitely a good benefit for Spring over JSF.
• For those already familiar with Struts, the learning curve for Spring MVC is much more less when compared to JSF. You’ll be able to continue using the page-based and action-oriented web framework Struts is known for.
• Seamlessly integrates with Velocity, Tiles, FreeMarker, Excel, PDF, JSP/JSTL as well as many other view technologies.
• Spring MVC provides quick and easy Spring Security and RESTful API integration but has no in-built AJAX support
• It’s a bit intensive during configuration – lots of XMLs to deal with.
• When it comes to data-binding you are responsible by writing your web application and making calls to Spring MVC REST services.

Final Thoughts

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