Top 15 PHP Development Frameworks: A Complete Guide

A large population of developers considers PHP the most popular server-side scripting language for mobile and web development. They have also started using PHP development frameworks to deliver feature-rich solutions with faster time to market.

Moreover, PHP is used to create 75.1% of websites as a server-side scripting language compared to other programming languages.    

With time, the PHP market is growing and has more power to deliver a wide range of solutions, such as mobile apps, websites, web apps, content management systems, and more. From SMEs to large-scale businesses, all have gone to an extended level by using PHP frameworks to streamline and accelerate development procedures.

By choosing the best PHP frameworks for web development, you can elevate the development pipeline while facilitating the maintenance of web apps and websites via model-view-controller (MVC) architecture.

In this article, we will discuss the top 15 PHP development frameworks in 2025 that will help you in your mobile and web development projects.

A Quick Overview of PHP Framework

PHP development frameworks help programmers create solutions using a structured and effective technique, leveraging pre-built modules, tools, and libraries. These frameworks manage the development process and cater to different project needs, from small to large-scale websites.  

Popular PHP rapid development frameworks, such as Laravel, Symfony, CodeIgniter, etc., simplify intricate tasks such as session management, database interaction, and routing.

These frameworks also include features like ORM integration, MVC architecture, advanced security, and more, which are helpful for ensuring security, code quality, and performance.

With strong community support, built-in best practices, and regular updates, these frameworks are ideal for all levels of developers, whether novice or professional.        

Here’s a table providing details about all the PHP mobile development frameworks with some considerable aspects:

Framework	Founded Year	Performance	Ideal For	Community Support	Database Support	Security
Laravel	June, 2011	High	Scalable, secure web apps	Large and active	MySQL, SQLite, PostgreSQL	Strong (CSRF, XSS, SQL Injection)
Symfony	October, 2005	Moderate	Complex, enterprise-grade apps	Highly active	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Robust (Built-in security tools)
CodeIgniter	February, 2006	Fast	Beginners, small-to-medium projects	Moderate	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Basic (Manual integration required)
CakePHP	April, 2005	Moderate	Rapid development, CRUD apps	Active	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Solid (Validation, XSS protection)
Yii	December, 2008	High	High-traffic apps, e-commerce	Active	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Excellent (RBAC, Input validation)
Phalcon	2012	Very High (C-based)	Performance-critical apps	Active but smaller	MySQL, PostgreSQL	Strong (Built-in security mechanisms)
Zend	2006 (Laminas)	Moderate	Enterprise-grade apps	Active	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Robust (Encryption, Input filtering)
Slim	2010	High	RESTful APIs, lightweight apps	Moderate	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Moderate (Manual configuration)
FuelPHP	June, 2011	High	Modular, scalable apps	Moderate	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Strong (Input filtering, CSRF)
Lumen	2015	Very High (Lightweight)	APIs and microservices	Laravel community support	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Strong (Derived from Laravel)
Nette	October, 2007	Moderate	Secure, fast apps	Active	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Excellent (Anti-CSRF, XSS prevention)
PHPixie	2012	High	Simple, high-performance apps	Small	MySQL, PostgreSQL	Basic
Kohana	May, 2007	Moderate	Lightweight, secure apps	Declining	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Basic
Aura	2014	High (Library-based)	Custom frameworks and components	Niche	MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite	Moderate
TYPO3 Flow	October, 2011	Moderate	CMS-driven applications	Niche but active	MySQL, PostgreSQL	Good (Input validation, XSS)

Top PHP Web Development Frameworks to Consider in 2025

Here, we have come up with the most popular PHP web development frameworks you can choose from to start your project in 2025. Without further ado, let’s get the details:  

1. Laravel

Laravel is known as the best PHP framework for web development, holding a 58% market share. It is popularly known for its simple syntax and progressive features like Blade templating and Eloquent ORM. A large population of developers uses Laravel to create scalable apps such as eCommerce systems and SaaS platforms, as it follows the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture.

Numerous businesses prefer hiring a Laravel development company to develop high-performing web applications. Companies like Alison, 9GAG, and BBC use Laravel as their server-side development language.

Features

• Eloquent ORM for database management
• Simple syntax and modular structure
• Schedule tasks and queue management
• Edge templating engine for dynamic views

Benefits

• A large ecosystem with tools like Vapor and Forge
• Streamlines complex web app development
• Secure and scalable app development
• Detailed documentation and large community support

Use Cases: 

• CMS (content management system)
• eCommerce platforms
• SaaS applications

2. CodeIgniter

Various enterprises are choosing CodeIgniter development services as it is known as a high-performing and lightweight PHP framework. Released in 2006, it is suitable for SMEs, large-scale projects, and API development. This PHP framework offers pre-built modules, which are beneficial for developing robust components.

Firms like Adobe, Udemy, Casio, etc., are using it to create dynamic websites and applications. CodeIgniter has a minimal footprint, taking up less space as its size is only 2 MB. This straightforward framework enables web developers to add third-party plugins to access intricate functions.   

Features

• High-performing and lightweight framework
• Built-in security features such as XSS filtering
• Fewer configuration requirements
• Form validation and data sanitization tools

Benefits

• Suitable for SME projects
• High-speed performance and low server resource use
• Ideal for beginners with complete documentation

Use Cases: 

• API development
• SMEs websites
• Small-scale web applications

3. CakePHP

It is the most popular open-source PHP framework for web development, with a set of libraries and elements. CakePHP is useful for building commercial applications quickly; it has also been updated to version 4.0 for faster development.  

Developers can easily implement CRUD operations and use convention over configuration (CoC) to guide coders during development. Companies like Express, Hyundai, etc., use this framework.

Features

• Built-in ORM and scaffolding
• Convention-over-configuration philosophy
• Integrated security features
• CRUD operations prepared simply

Benefits

• Higher backward compatibility
• Faster web app development
• Constant and secure codebase

Use Cases: 

• Large-scale enterprise solutions
• Prototyping app development
• High-speed development projects

4. Symfony

Symfony is a modular-based PHP framework used for large-scale app development. It is easy to set up and configure and has support from a broad community of developers. With seamless integrations and reusable libraries, Symfony development services have benefitted companies like Spotify and BlaBlaCar.  

Symfony is an extensive PHP framework that allows integration with other vendor libraries, proving it to be a preference for businesses. It is easy to install and configure on various platforms and depicts database engine independence.  

Features

• Alleviates redundant coding
• Use of doctrine ORM for database operations
• Advanced routing and dependency injection
• Easy integration of APIs and microservices

Benefits

• Robust and secure framework
• Appropriate for large-scale solutions
• Provides LTS (long-term support) versions

Use Cases: 

• Content-heavy platforms like CMS
• Enterprises applications
• API-driven web projects

5. Yii

Yii represents ‘yes, it is’; this fast, component-based PHP framework is used to develop modern web applications. Yii development services facilitate businesses with large-scale scalable applications. This framework has excellent caching capabilities, which are perfect for eCommerce platforms and forums.

It has a strong class code generator called Gii, which follows the DRY (Don’t repeat yourself) concept. Gii simplifies development, enticing companies like Delightful and CrowdStrike.  

Features

• Layered caching and encryption for security
• Gii tool for code generation
• Integration with jQuery and AJAX
• Built-in authentication and RBAC (role-based access control)

Benefits

• Scalable for large-sized applications
• Reliable security features
• Reduces time-to-market with automation tools

Use Cases: 

• Diverse portals and forums
• High-traffic websites
• eCommerce platform development

6. FuelPHP

FuelPHP is considered a full-stack, modular framework emphasizing security. It is one of the best PHP frameworks for web development, offering CSRF protection and input filtering. This framework provides HMVC architecture, ideal for developing scalable web applications.

Companies like Amitum, Pickomatic, etc., have used FuelPHP to develop high-performing and secure web apps. With outstanding community support, this framework considers security the top concern and helps enterprises find capable solutions. 

Features

• URL routing and filter input
• Full-stack framework with HMVC architecture
• Security features like CSRF protection
• Command-line utilities for development

Benefits

• Easy integration with third-party libraries
• Modular and scalable architecture
• Better security for solutions

Use Cases: 

• Secure web projects
• Modular web applications
• APIs and backend systems

7. Laminas

Laminas, formerly known as Zend, is an open-source, object-oriented agile development PHP framework. It is also considered a PHP-based REST API framework, providing more modularity, flexibility, and responsiveness to web apps. It provides a robust MVC architecture and can be integrated with external libraries.   

Companies like Google, IBM, and Microsoft have used this framework to create solutions that meet their specific business needs. 

Features

• Drag-and-drop editor with debugging tools
• Cloud APIs, session management, and encryption
• MVC architecture for structured development
• Modular design with reusable elements

Benefits

• Flexible and extensible
• Enterprise-grade applications
• Created for mostly long-term projects

Use Cases: 

• Middleware systems
• Enterprise solutions
• Intricate web platforms

8. Phalcon

Businesses must hire PHP developers to leverage Phalcon if they require a high-performing web solution. This framework offers the latest features, such as caching, asset management, and a universal autoloader. Phalcon provides excellent performance with the use of C and C++. Various organizations use this framework to get flawless web apps, including Urban Sports Club and Edureka.

Features

• Supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQLite
• VOLT template engines and Query language
• Low resource consumption
• Caching, ORM, and templating built-in

Benefits

• Easy management of large-scale apps
• Ultra-fast implementation speed
• Lightweight with less overhead

Use Cases: 

• Real-time platforms
• Performance-critical apps
• High-traffic websites

9. Lumen

Lumen is known as a micro-framework by Laravel, delivering lightweight, fast APIs and microservices. Unlike Laravel, it doesn’t offer compatibility with Laravel libraries like Passport, Cashier, Scout, etc.

Some leading companies using this framework are Codepolitan and Index.co, Threat Data Science, mPokket, Piio, Agro24, Rooter, etc. Lumen is best suited for high-performance backend services. It is mostly chosen by start-ups and others requiring simple backend solutions like DHL Express.

Features

• Faster than Silex and Slim (other PHP micro-frameworks)
• Easily can be upgraded to a full-fledged Laravel app
• Higher speed and performance
• Lightweight routing and middleware

Benefits

• Better use of Laravel’s ecosystem
• Suitable for microservices
• Faster and efficient for small-scale projects

Use Cases: 

• Lightweight backend systems
• RESTful APIs
• Microservices architecture

10. PHPixie

PHPixie is the best framework to choose from when acquiring web development services. It uses a bundle system with reusable code and shares it with the broad user community. PHPixie uses independent components like HTTP, Auth, and validate that are unit-tested and need minimum dependencies. Firms like HelloSign have used this framework for modular, efficient development.

PHPixie lacks support for aspects created separately from the dependencies, making it a less flexible framework. However, it is easy to learn and implement and requires fewer resources.

Features

• RESTful routing & input validation
• Built with independent components
• CSRF protection
• Built-in ORM and caching

Benefits

• Simple to learn and use
• Suitable for small-scale projects
• Minimal server resource usage

Use Cases: 

• Small-scale business apps
• Blogs and portfolio websites
• Lightweight APIs

Also Read: Best Front End JavaScript Frameworks: Top 10 Choices

11. Slim Framework

Slim is a minimalist PHP framework mainly used for microservices and RESTful APIs. It focuses more on HTTP requests and responses. Its latest version has made the foremost updates to PSR-7 updates and interfaces.

This lamp development framework in PHP offers various features such as URL routing, sessions, cookie encryption, HTTP caching, etc. Companies like Directus, HHey, E-commerce, etc., have leveraged Slim due to its flexibility and simplicity.   

Features

• URL routing to specific HTTP request handler methods and URL
• Minimalist framework emphasized on REST APIs
• Cookie encryption
• Simpler and faster setup

Benefits

• Easy-to-learn and implement
• Efficient and lightweight
• Supports custom middleware integration

Use Cases: 

• Lightweight web apps
• RESTful API development
• Prototyping backend systems

12. Pixie

Pixie owns a Simple ORM library and an appealing query builder for creating PHP web applications. This PHP development framework is suitable for projects with effective database abstraction. Developers can build highly optimized web apps by following its HMVC architecture.

Firms like Azure Kubernetes Service, Amazon EKS, and Google Kubernetes Engine have used Pixie for its straightforward integration and lightweight nature.

Features

• Low coupling for faster performance
• Supports a bundle system to reuse the code
• Unit-tested components
• Centered on query building and database abstraction

Benefits

• Simplified database operations
• Faster integration with existing projects
• Low learning curve

Use Cases: 

• Projects needing custom database solutions
• Data-centric app development
• Backend tools

13. TYPO3 Flow

TYPO3 Flow is a powerful PHP framework for efficient web and mobile app development services. It is integrated with TYPO3 CMS to deliver content-heavy web solutions. Various enterprises have used this framework to build well-structured and scalable applications.

TYPO3 Flow has a domain-driven design, making it ideal for CMS-oriented projects. It provides features like MVC framework, built-in caching, flexible configuration, etc.

Features

• Strong integration with TYPO3 CMS for smooth content management
• Advanced MVC framework customized for intricate apps
• Built-in caching and flexible configuration
• DDD (Domain-driven design) for scalable app architecture

Benefits

• Highly scalable for enterprise-grade apps
• Suitable for developers with the knowledge of TYPO3 CMS
• Promotes maintainable, clean, and reusable code

Use Cases: 

• Enterprise apps requiring advanced workflows
• Content-heavy portals and websites
• Projects needing integration with TYPO3 CMS or Neos CMS

Learn More: Top 10+ Mobile App Development Frameworks in 2025

14. Nette

Nette is popularly known as a user-friendly, secure PHP development framework that focuses on robust security and clean code to develop web solutions. This framework is used across different industries, such as healthcare, fintech, etc. With various debugging tools, Nette has been used by companies like Netbank due to its advanced coding standards and robust security measures.  

Features

• User-friendly and secure framework
• Diverse debugging tools and performance optimization
• Manages complex tasks

Benefits

• Rapid development cycles
• Higher security for web applications
• Advanced coding standards

Use Cases: 

• CMS platforms
• Secure web portals
• Scalable web applications

15. Kohana

Released in 2007, Kohana is a secure and lightweight PHP framework offering HMVC architecture. It is highly focused on the security and simplicity of web solutions. Moreover, it provides built-in tools and HMVC architecture useful for faster development.        

This framework is mostly chosen by companies to create legacy applications, prioritizing high-performance, efficient, and lightweight systems.

Features

• Secure coding approaches
• Lightweight HMVC framework
• Built-in tools for debugging and profiling

Benefits

• High-security standards
• Manages complex development tasks
• Speed optimization

Use Cases: 

• Fast-performing and lightweight projects
• Secure web applications
• Backend system development

In Essence,

In the above blog, we have guided you through the best PHP development frameworks 2025 to help you build web applications, websites, and more. These PHP frameworks assist businesses in developing advanced solutions with little time and resources.

To develop a web app that will be successful for a long time, you must choose the most suitable PHP framework, packed with in-built libraries and tools.

To turn your web development ideas into an amazing reality, you will also need the assistance of a top PHP development company and frameworks. Octal IT Solution can help you with extensive knowledge and years of experience. Contact us today to share your PHP web project requirements!  

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