React with or without NextJS: Which is Right for Your Project?

React.js is a popular JavaScript library for building user interfaces, and Next.js is a framework built on top of React.js that offers additional features and functionality. In this post, we'll compare Next.js and bare React.js to help you decide which is the right choice for your project.

One of the main differences between Next.js and bare React.js is that Next.js provides server-side rendering (SSR) out of the box. This means that Next.js can generate and serve HTML on the server, rather than relying on the client to render the HTML. This can help to improve performance and make your site more SEO-friendly.

In addition to SSR, Next.js also offers a range of other features that can be helpful for certain types of projects. These include automatic code splitting, optimized performance with optimized builds, and support for serverless functions.

On the other hand, bare React.js does not include these features by default. While you can add them to a bare React.js project, it requires additional setup and configuration.

Another consideration is the learning curve. If you're already familiar with React.js, you may find it easier to start with bare React.js and add the features you need as needed. However, if you're new to React.js or want a framework that provides a range of features out of the box, Next.js may be a better choice.

Conclusion:

When deciding between Next.js and bare React.js, it's important to consider your project needs and goals. If you need server-side rendering and a range of additional features, Next.js may be the better choice. However, if you're comfortable with React.js and prefer a more lightweight approach, bare React.js may be a better fit. It's important to carefully evaluate your options and choose the approach that best meets the needs of your project.