Jetpack Compose or XML, which is better for creating a large application with very many features, and complex features

Question

I'm new android developer and i complete all the fundamentals and foundation of the android development with Kotlin, Now i look at build app like Instagram or Facebook or very complex app with complex features to improve my experience, So i want advice from the senior developer, which the best choice for app like instagram, Jetpack Compose or XML

I search on the YouTube and Google, but there is no one answer my question

Answer 1

I worked with Compose and XML for the same kind of projects. The big difference is Compose is more fluent after getting to know the syntax better.

I recommend working with Jetpack Compose because no matter the size of your application, it can be much more readable and clean. I will write the main points for both of them down below.

For XML :

• Managing complex codes with XML usually requires more effort and may require additional libraries (LiveData, ViewModel, etc.).
• Rendering is slow (not that slow, but as a user, you can see the difference).
• Works fine with older versions of Android devices. If you want to reach a crowded user base, ensure that you research Android version usage.
• You will separate the UI definitions from business logic. For me, it is hard to manage.

For Jetpack Compose :

• You write the ui codes as Kotlin files within the business logic so they are easy to read and manage.
• New tech, so not very good with older devices.
• If you don't know Jetpack Compose, it is not a good idea to start learning with a big project. First, it can seem too much mess, but after getting used to it, it will be so much faster than XML.
• Google supports Jetpack Compose and is continuously improving the technology. For new projects, it is highly recommended to go with Jetpack Compose.