Question

With Merb 1.0 rapidly approaching, I would like to know what Merb/Rails users recommend?

Is it time to try Merb? What was downside for you when you switched to Merb from Rails?

Answer 1

Yes.

Downsides:

• Lack of documentation, although this is getting better (not really a problem for some, as the code is very well documented).
• Rails plugins, Merb uses Gems, and not all have been ported (the most used ones have)
• Doing a straight port of a Rails app, will not utilize some of the cool features in Merb (plus syntax differs in places)

But, the Advantages:

• Faster & Thread-safe (added advantage if using DM or Sequel as they are thread-safe too)
• Modular (can pick what you need along with your fav ORM, JS Lib, Templating Lang)
• Less Magic
• Good for green field projects or exposing your API
• Merb has a stable API (1.0 comes out in a few weeks)

Overall, if you’re comfortable with Rails switching to Merb isn’t hard at all. I personally prefer Merb over Rails, as it adopts more Ruby conventions.