Mob vs Pair Programming
Mob programming and pair programming are collaboration techniques that reduce defects, improve design, and accelerate learning. They differ mainly in scale.
Core Difference
Pair Programming: Two people share one task. One types (Driver), the other thinks strategically (Navigator).
Mob Programming: The whole team works on one task together, rotating who types every few minutes.
Strengths Compared
| Aspect | Pair Programming | Mob Programming |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledge Spread | Between two devs | Across entire team |
| Decision Quality | Improved via discussion | Collective intelligence surfaces edge cases |
| Speed to Align | Requires later sync with others | Everyone aligned instantly |
| Context Switching | Low | Moderate (group pacing) |
| Onboarding | Good | Excellent (osmosis + participation) |
| Cost Per Minute | Lower headcount | Higher but offset by fewer handoffs & rework |
When to Choose Which
- Choose Pairing: Routine features, targeted fixes, mentoring, refactoring isolated modules.
- Choose Mobbing: Complex architecture decisions, production incidents, high-risk migrations, exploratory spikes.
Hybrid Approach
Many teams use a hybrid model: start a tricky problem as a mob for alignment, then split into pairs for execution—reconvene as a mob for integration or review.
Rotation Timing
Short rotations (3–7 minutes) keep energy high. This app defaults to 5 minutes; adjust as your team matures.
Outcome
Both techniques build quality and culture. Mob programming amplifies learning and alignment; pairing balances speed and focus. Use both intentionally.