NativeScript performance is on par or better than other cross-platform solutions, like Xamarin. NativeScript animations run at 60 frames per second and we have the ability to offload long running processes to maintain front end speed.
Performance optimizations are a component of each release. We will continue to evaluate the performance of NativeScript and make changes as appropriate. Feel free to try a NativeScript app on your own device. Or, take a look through our showcases to see what others have done.
Also, the performance of your app depends on your use of best practices. Here's an article on Improving the Startup Performance of a NativeScript app.