NextJs vs React: Which one to choose for your Project in 2024

So, you're about to go on a new web development project and find yourself stuck at the crossroads between Next.js and React. Well, you're in good company. It's time to go further and understand the difference between this framework and some numbers.

According to research from nextjs.org, over 79,245 sites were built with next.js in 2023. On the other hand, there are over 4.5 Million sites built with Reactjs (that's a lot!) also, this doesn’t mean Reactjs is just better than Nextjs.

Next.js is a simplified development environment built on top of React. It has a small learning curve, so even developers who are new to front-end development can learn it quickly.
In this blog post, we will dive deep and give you all the basics of the site, which will help you determine which platform is best suitable for your web development and mobile app development.

What is Next.js?

Next.js, developed by Vercel, is like the Swiss Army knife of frameworks. It's built on top of React, adding more tools and features to make your development journey smoother. Think of it as React with a fancy suit and tie. Net.js allows you to create user-friendly and lightning-fast static websites and web applications.

Next.js is designed to take the complexity out of building robust web applications by offering a host of built-in functionalities like server-side rendering (SSR), static site generation (SSG), and API routes. On top of that, Nexj.js also has many other features like static export, preview mode, pre-rendering, faster compilation, and automatic building size optimization.

Too many technical terms? Basically, it is very popular among front-end developers.

What is Next.js Used for?

Next.js is your go-to for building server-side rendered (SSR) applications. If you want blazing-fast performance, improved SEO, and a seamless user experience, Next.js is your guy. It's perfect for e-commerce sites, blogs, and complex web applications that need to load quickly and efficiently. With its hybrid capabilities, you can combine static and dynamic content to create rich, interactive user experiences without sacrificing speed.

Popular Example of Next.js?

I'm not creating hype, but Next.js has some big names under it.

1. Twitch:- Yes! if you are a gamer, you know about Twitch, which is built on Next.js. Suprised? Next.js helps Twitch seamlessly handle its complex data and high user interaction.
   
   
2. Hulu:- Do you know about this streaming platform? Hulu leverages Next.js for its performance benefits, ensuring users get a smooth viewing experience.
   
   
3. TikTok:- Yes… Yes, yes. Where all the videos go viral, TikTok uses Next.js to manage its vast content and high traffic efficiently.
   

Also Read:- Top 20 Popular React Websites of 2024

What is React.js?

React, Facebook's brainchild, is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces. It's like LEGO for developers—you build components that fit together to create complex applications. React has become one of the most used, and we can say, well-known front-end frameworks for large web apps. React allows you to develop scalable and fast applications for single-page or multi-page web applications.

React Focuses on the view layers, allowing developers to create reusable UI components to manage their state.

To Technical, right? React is good for larger-scale projects

What is React Used for?

React is ideal for creating dynamic and interactive UIs. If your project needs a lot of user interaction or involves heavy client-side logic, React is your best friend. React handles everything from simple websites to complex single-page applications (SPAs). Its component-based architecture makes it easy to manage large applications by breaking them down into smaller, manageable pieces.

Popular Example for React?

React’s portfolio is equally impressive. Some  of the big names are:-

1. Facebook: This one needs no introduction, right? The social media giant Facebook uses React to ensure its platform is fast, responsive, and scalable.
   
   
2. Instagram: Do you need an introduction? Scrolling through photos and stories, Instagram uses React for its rich interactive features and smooth performance.  
   
   
3. Nextflix:- Binge-watching your favorite series? Netflix uses React to create a highly dynamic and user-friendly experience.
   

Next.js vs React Features

Let's compare head-to-head

Maybe Read:- Angular vs React vs Vue: Which Framework To Use In 2024?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Next.js and React

Let's go through some of the advantages and disadvantages so that you can have a clear picture of this framework (FYI: I will try to keep it simple)

Next.js Advantage

1. Easy to Setup:- With built-in routing, SSR, and other features, Next.js speeds up development.
   
2. Built-in performance optimization:- Next.js automatically optimizes your application for performance.
   
3. Excellent for SEO:- SSR and SSG ensure that search engines can effectively crawl and index your content.
   

Next.js Disadvantages

1. Slightly Steep Learning Curve:- If you're new to SSR and SSG, there can be a slight learning curve
   
2. Heavier initial load:- The added features can make the initial load heavier than a simple React app.
   

React Advantage

1. Flexible and Versatile:- React can be used to build a wide range of applications, from simple to Complex SPAs,
   
2. Large Community and Ecosystem:- Finding solutions and libraries for React is easier with a vast community.
   

React Disadvantage

1. Require additional Configuration:- To achiever SSR, routing, and other advanced features, you must integrate additional libraries and tools.
   
2. Performance Optimization:- Manual optimization is required to achieve the best performance.
   

Should I Learn React or Next.js First?

Think of React as the foundation and Next.js as the upgrade. Start with React to grasp the basics of building user interfaces. Once you're comfortable, dive into Next.js to leverage its advanced features.

Learning React first will give you a solid understanding of how to build component-based UIs, which is essential when you move on to Next.js.

Which is Best, Next.js or React.js?

Let's address the elephant in the room. The best choice depends on your project requirements. Yes! If you need fast performance and SEO, go with Next.js. For a more flexible and versatile approach, stick with React. Both tools have strengths, and the decision should be based on the specific needs of your projects.

Conclusion

So that's a wrap! As you might have noticed, there is no one size fits all. Both frameworks have strengths and weaknesses and fit different sizes. Assess your project’s goals and choose the one that best aligns with them.

But wait! If you don’t want to be confused by these frameworks, Third Rock Techkno can help you build custom software for your business. We have a decade of experience in building software and offer free consultations! Contact us here.

Happy coding!

Frequency Ask Question(FAQs)

1. Can I use Next.js for a static website?
   
   Yes, Next.js is excellent for static websites. It offers static site generation (SSG), which pre-renders pages at build time, resulting in fast load times and better SEO.
   
   
2. How does Next.js handle API routes?
   
   Next.js has built-in API routes, allowing you to create API endpoints directly within your application without needing a separate backend server. This makes handling server-side logic easier and integrates it with databases or external services.
   
   
3. Can a React Project be migrated to Next.js?
   
   Yes, Migrating a React project to Next.js is possible and often beneficial. Since Next.js is built on React, you can gradually integrate Next.js features like server-side rendering and static site generation into your existing React application.
   
   
4. What are the deployment options for Next.js and React applications?
   
   Next.js and React applications can be deployed on various platforms, such as Vercel, Netlify, AWs, and more. However, Next.js is optimized for Vercel, offering seamless integration and deployment. React applications may require additional configuration depending on the deployment platform.