Framework vs Library
Next.js is a React framework that adds server-side rendering, routing, and more. But when should you use each?
Next.js 14 Features
- App Router: New file-based routing system
- Server Components: Render on server by default
- Server Actions: Handle forms without API routes
- Streaming: Progressive page loading
- Built-in SEO: Metadata API for SEO
When to Use Next.js
- SEO is important (blogs, marketing sites)
- Need server-side rendering
- Want file-based routing
- Building full-stack applications
- Need image optimization
When Plain React is Fine
- Single-page applications (SPAs)
- Dashboard/admin panels
- Apps behind authentication
- When you need full control
- Learning React fundamentals
Performance Comparison
Next.js advantages:
- Faster initial page load (SSR)
- Better SEO out of the box
- Automatic code splitting
- Image optimization built-in
Our Recommendation
For most new projects, Next.js is the better choice. It provides structure, performance optimizations, and features you'd otherwise build yourself.
Use plain React for SPAs where SEO doesn't matter or when integrating into existing systems.
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