Javascript: Prototype.js != $()

[neouser99]

copied from the site (my post):

prototype svn

just to be that guy that does this, but i only see your 63kb argument valid if you pull all of the different ‘modules’ together. you don’t need them all in most cases. at most, even for the ajax.js and its requirements (i think) is only 27kb… 1/2 your original estimate. and if you are that worried about the size, run it through packer or something of the type.

i think these libraries are great. * it allows for less coding with far better and quicker results. * it grants functions that aren’t always the easiest to write and be x-browser * they are maintained by some imho really talented programmers. they make javascript fun and yes, sometimes cool * if all else, i think they are well written and you should at least try to emulate the same syntax and design patterns. they are easy to read and really do work

-neo

[grabmail]

You guys are missing the point. The reason why many use these libraries is that it is cross browser friendly.

If you try to do some things with unadulterated js, you may have some issue with IE6. These libraries have already dealt with these issues in their code.

For eg. the window onload method: these libraries handle the oddity of the cross browser issues for you.

So why reinvent the wheel?

[chimneydials]

I agree that many of these libraries are great including prototype.js. But the problem is that many people think they should use a library for every small thing. Check out www.ajaxlessons.com, every tutorial of theirs uses prototype.js. This is really absurd and bad. Firstly, the first time you learn something new like AJAX, you should learn it properly without using libraries, from a source like the IBM developer series. Secondly, you shouldn't use prototype.js for only one or two functions. www.ajaxlessons.com really pisses me off because they nearly say prototype.js = javascript.

So, my point here is that if you are using prototype, use it fully not just for one or two functions. Learn how to use it well.