Choosing between a MEAN stack developer and a full stack developer can be a tough choice—especially when both have unique and robust capabilities essential for the project’s success. While the MEAN stack uses a specific JavaScript-based framework, full-stack developers offer broader technology expertise across front-end and back-end. Whether you’re planning to hire MEAN stack developers for a streamlined tech stack or exploring full stack options for greater flexibility, this blog highlights their key differences, skill sets, and ideal use cases to help you make a wise choice in deciding which professional to hire.
What is MEAN Stack?
It is a JavaScript tech stack that is employed to develop full-fledged web applications. The MEAN stack full form :
- MongoDB – NoSQL database
- Express.js – Web framework for backend
- Angular – Frontend framework
- Node.js – JavaScript runtime for backend
All these technologies enable developers to develop end-to-end applications with a single programming language: JavaScript.
Who is a MEAN Stack Developer?
A MEAN stack developer is a professional who exclusively works with MEAN stack technology. They are skilled in creating dynamic and scalable web applications using MongoDB, Express.js, Angular, and Node.js.
Key Skills:
- JavaScript (advanced)
- Angular for the frontend
- Express.js and Node.js for backend logic
- MongoDB for data modeling and queries
- REST APIs and JSON
If you want to create high-performance web applications with a single language throughout the stack, hire MEAN stack developers who possess immense experience in these technologies.
What is Full Stack Development?
- It is the process of creating both the frontend (client-side) as well as the backend (server-side) of a web application.
- A full-stack developer is an individual capable of designing both the front end (client-side) and back end (server-side) of a web application.
A full-stack developer is capable of working on every layer of the technology stack, including:
- Frontend: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Angular, Vue.js
- Backend: Node.js, Django, PHP, Ruby on Rails, Java
- Databases: SQL, MongoDB, Firebase, PostgreSQL
- DevOps, APIs, and version control (Git)
Key Differences Between MEAN Stack and Full Stack Developers
| Feature | MEAN Stack Developer | Full Stack Developer |
| Tech Stack | Specific to MEAN (MongoDB, Express, Angular, Node.js) | Multiple combinations (LAMP, MERN, etc.) |
| Frontend Focus | Angular | Angular, React, Vue, or others |
| Backend Focus | Node.js with Express | Node.js, Python, PHP, Ruby, etc. |
| Database | MongoDB | MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc. |
| Language | Primarily JavaScript | JavaScript + others |
| Specialization | More focused expertise | More versatile, broader skillset |
| Performance | Fast for JavaScript-heavy apps | Depends on chosen stack |
| Scalability | High scalability for single-language apps | Flexible and adaptable |
Why Choose MEAN Stack Development Services?
Selecting MEAN stack development services can be beneficial for businesses and startups in need of:
- Quick development cycles
- Real-time applications (such as chats, live feeds)
- Scalable web applications
- Single language (JavaScript) for front and back end
If your application is extremely interactive and JavaScript-focused, MEAN stack technology is an ideal choice.
Why Choose a Full Stack Developer?
Working with a full-stack developer is best if your project:
- Requires tech stack flexibility
- It is in the process of evolving with tech requirements
- Needs quick MVP (Minimum Viable Product) building
- Requires jack-of-all-trades strategy
They are adaptable, which is particularly convenient for initial development or smaller teams.
MEAN Stack Developer Salary vs Full Stack Developer Salary
Mean Stack Developer Salary (India/Global Averages):
- Entry-Level: ₹4-6 LPA / $50,000 annually (US)
- Mid-Level: ₹7-12 LPA / $70,000–$90,000 (US)
- Senior-Level: ₹15+ LPA / $100,000+ (US)
Full Stack Developer Salary:
- Entry-Level: ₹5-8 LPA / $55,000 (US)
- Mid-Level: ₹9-15 LPA / $80,000–$110,000 (US)
- Senior-Level: ₹18+ LPA / $120,000+ (US)
Note: Salaries are dependent on experience, location, and level of tech stack proficiency.
Who Should You Hire?
The decision between a MEAN stack developer and a full-stack developer is based on your project requirements:
Hire MEAN Stack Developers If:
- You want end-to-end JavaScript development
- You’re developing real-time or single-page applications
- You prefer fast, scalable app architecture
Hire Full Stack Developers If:
- You need flexibility across tech stacks
- Your project may change or pivot
- You need a wide skill set in a tight team
Points To Consider While Hiring: MEAN Stack vs Full Stack Developers?
The following steps simplify the hiring process and help you make smarter decisions:
1. Define Your Project Requirements
Start by outlining what your project demands. This clarity will help you match the right talent:
- Project goals and technical complexity
- Frontend and backend operations
- Required third-party integrations or APIs
2. Emphasis on Core Technical Skills
Seek developers with a deep understanding of pertinent technologies:
- Expertise in JavaScript and frameworks such as Angular, Node.js, Express
- Proficiency in RESTful APIs and database structure (MongoDB, SQL)
- Knowledge of deployment pipelines, cloud platforms, and DevOps fundamentals
3. Conduct a Careful Assessment
A well-rounded hiring process includes:
- Technical assessments: Coding challenges or hands-on problem-solving
- Portfolio review: Examine past projects for depth and relevance
- Interviews: Test communication, collaboration, and culture fit
Looking to hire MEAN stack developers for your next web app? Let our expert team deliver scalable, high-performance MEAN stack development services tailored to your business.
What the Future Holds: MEAN Stack vs Full Stack
- MEAN Stack is on the rise—especially with the growing need for real-time apps and the widespread use of JavaScript. It’s a top choice for startups and scalable solutions.
- Full Stack development, on the other hand, remains a timeless favorite—versatile across industries, team sizes, and types of projects.
In the end, it’s not about which is better, but which fits your project needs best.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of what is MEAN stack, the responsibilities of a MEAN stack developer, and things to be considered while choosing between them and full-stack developers, you will be able to make more informed hiring or career choices.
Want to build a powerful web application or launch a SaaS or eCommerce platform? At Logixbuilt Solutions, we specialize in MEAN stack development services for SaaS platforms, eCommerce systems, and enterprise solutions, ensuring end-to-end support from planning to launch. Connect with us today!
FAQ’s
1. What is MEAN stack and a full stack?
The MEAN stack refers to a specific set of JavaScript technologies — MongoDB, Express.js, Angular, and Node.js. On the other hand, a full-stack developer can do front-end and back-end using a lot of different technologies. Full stack is a general position, whereas MEAN stack is specialized.
2. What is the average salary of a MEAN stack developer?
The average MEAN stack developer salary may differ depending on location and experience. On average, it ranges between $70,000 – $120,000 per annum in the US, and ₹6–18 LPA in India, varying with skills, company, and project size.
3. When to hire a MEAN stack developer and a full-stack developer?
If your project relies on JavaScript technologies, particularly using Angular for the front end, MEAN stack developers are perfect to hire. When your requirements encompass other languages or frameworks for wider tech needs, full-stack developers are the best bet.
4. What are the benefits of MEAN stack development services?
It provides a single JavaScript environment, quicker development, scalability, real-time performance, and simplicity in switching between front-end and back-end as the same language is being utilized throughout the stack.
5. How can Logixbuilt Solutions help me with development services?
We provide professional MEAN stack developers and flexible full-stack teams that are customized to fit your project requirements. Our developers provide secure, high-availability solutions with end-to-end support.