A lot of learners might be asking themselves "What's the best framework to learn — Node.js? Django? Flask? FastAPI?..."
As I started to delve deeper into backend development, I started to realise that it is not really about "what is best" — in absolutist terms, that is. Essentially, it is about what you actually need, and what kind of projects you are planning to build.
Each framework has its own flavour, and its own strengths and weaknesses:
• FastAPI is all about async speed and auto-generated APIs — more advanced, but great for API work. Love it! My personal favourite.
• Django gives you everything out of the box — admin panel, auth, ORM, templating, security features — but it is definitely a heavier lift for getting started. Took me some extra time to get my first project running.
• Flask feels like freedom — lightweight, flexible, and very easy. You can learn in no time.
• Node.js (with Express) is probably the most accessible if you are just starting out. One language across the stack, async by default, and tons of community support.
What I have learned is this:
🔑 The right framework depends on the context — your goals, your team, your use case.
It is not about putting yourself in a box or picking a side.
And it is definitely not that Node.js is "the Jedis" and Django devs "the Sith".
At the same time, it does help to focus on one framework when you are still learning.
Start with one (maybe Node.js or Flask, depending if you want to focus on JavaScript or Python first), build something real, then expand as needed.
Django felt harder to set up than what I am used to in FastAPI or Flask, but I also get now why it is used for bigger apps. Ideal for full-stack applications like blogs, news sites, educational platforms.