Next.js vs React in 2024: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common questions we get from clients is: "Should we use React or Next.js?" The answer depends on your specific needs, but here's our comprehensive comparison.

Understanding the Relationship

First, let's clarify: Next.js is built ON TOP of React. It's not a replacement—it's an enhancement. Every Next.js app is a React app, but not every React app is a Next.js app.

When to Use Plain React

Client-Side Applications

If you're building a dashboard, admin panel, or app that doesn't need SEO, plain React might be simpler.

Embedding in Existing Apps

If you need to add React components to an existing non-React application.

Maximum Flexibility

When you want complete control over your build configuration and architecture.

When to Use Next.js

SEO is Important

Next.js provides server-side rendering (SSR) and static site generation (SSG), crucial for SEO.

Performance Matters

Automatic code splitting, image optimization, and built-in performance optimizations.

Full-Stack Development

API routes allow you to build your backend within the same project.

Large-Scale Applications

Built-in routing, middleware, and project structure make scaling easier.

Feature Comparison

| Feature | React | Next.js | |---------|-------|---------| | Routing | External library | Built-in | | SSR | Manual setup | Built-in | | SSG | Manual setup | Built-in | | API Routes | Separate backend | Built-in | | Image Optimization | External | Built-in | | Code Splitting | Manual | Automatic |

Performance Comparison

Next.js typically wins on initial load time due to:

• Server-side rendering
• Automatic code splitting
• Image optimization
• Font optimization

React apps can match this performance but require more manual optimization.

Our Recommendation

For most projects in 2024, we recommend Next.js. Here's why:

1. Better Developer Experience: Less configuration, more building
2. SEO by Default: Even if you don't need it now, you might later
3. Performance Built-in: Optimization without extra effort
4. Full-Stack Capability: One project, one deployment

When We Use Plain React

• Internal tools and dashboards
• Highly interactive apps with no SEO needs
• Micro-frontends
• Legacy system integration

Conclusion

Both are excellent choices, but Next.js has become our default for new projects. The built-in optimizations, routing, and deployment options (especially with Vercel) make it the pragmatic choice for most web applications.

Need help deciding? Let's talk about your specific requirements.