Next JS vs React: Which Framework to Choose for the Frontend in 2024?

The Next JS vs. React debate is so common among developers. The reason is that application and web developers need tools that make their development tasks easier.

However, choosing the best remains confusing for everyone. For instance, when you are buying something to wear, you will look for something comfortable and reliable.

The same is true when choosing the technologies for web or app development. Developers want the frameworks and tools that make their tasks more manageable and less complex.

That’s why the best technologies for development will provide you with simple navigation through the coding process.

That’s where the confusion comes from deciding the winner between react vs. next js for developers.

This blog, however, will help you figure out the best option for your projects.

This is an important decision so we will be introducing you to the basic concepts of React and Next.Js, the difference between the two, and which one is better to use.

Let’s get started!

What is Next Js?

Before starting with the next js vs react js debate, let’s first understand what exactly NextJS is.

It is a JavaScript framework and is open-source by nature. If you’re looking to develop user-friendly web applications and websites using React, Next.js can contribute to its faster speed.

The primary factor about Nextjs is that it’s based on Node.js and Babel and can integrate amazingly with React to create an efficient single-page application.

This can be your ultimate tool for website or app development. Vercel makes it and can help you in your development tasks along with React.

It is a great option to choose as it can take charge of more complex tasks for you during the development process. Using NextJs can help you build a platform that loads faster. It can be done through its highlighted feature: server-side rendering.

In simple words, it enables some parts of the platform to be ready to load after opening it on your devices instead of waiting for the whole site/platform to load.

Additionally, with its static site generation feature, you can develop many copies of your website. You can also store them in different places. They’re ready to be loaded without waiting when you want to show them.

It also has other built-in features, such as splitting your codes into smaller parts by default, which helps the platform be quick and compatible with any device for display.

Overall, Next.js is perfect for developers of all skill levels, whether you’re just starting or you’re a pro.

Usage of NextJs to Develop:

» ECommerce Websites

» Marketing Websites

» Landing Pages

Recommended Read: Custom Website vs Template Website: Which is Right for Your Company?

What is React Framework?

React is the most significant player in the JavaScript framework. It is currently one of the most used technologies for front-end development, having efficient libraries to build large web applications.

Facebook developed React which comes with flexible JavaScript libraries, allowing developers to create simple and fast interfaces that are also user-friendly and have more scalability.

It is ideal for both single-page web applications and multi-page web applications. It can provide you with the flexibility to take things in the directions you want swiftly.

If you wish to quickly create reusable parts of the platform, such as menus or buttons, then React.Js can help you make them quickly. Tools like Redux help in data management and routing.

However, as much as it provides the ease of developing web applications and static websites, it isn’t as flexible in handling more complex projects. It can be trickier to use when you wish to change up the codes.

This is why Next.Js is treated as a complimentary upgrade. The framework overtakes the part of React and makes it better to work with.

React is undoubtedly an excellent technology for building websites and applications, but there are some complexities to consider as well.

Usage of ReactJs to Develop:

» Social Media Platforms

» Video Streaming Platforms

» Media Platforms

» SaaS

Explore More: How to Create a Social Media Website Step-by-Step

Difference between React and Next Js

In the world of website development, developers are not unfamiliar with the usage of React and Next Js. However, are you sure you know the difference they both serve?

That’s why here we are breaking the difference between next js vs react:

Nature: React vs Next Js

» Next.js: This framework is actually built on top of React.Js. It complements the framework of React and adds features to enhance its performance. The features include server-side rendering, routing, and static site development.

» React.Js: You can say React is a JavaScript library. It lets the developers build user interfaces simply. You can create parts of the website using React, like buttons or forms.

Static Site Development: Next Js vs React Js

» Next.js: You can develop a static site with Next Js. In simple words, you can create a pre-built version of your website. It enables a super fast loading speed and better performance.

» React.Js: You can create a pre-built version of your website just using the React framework unless you top it off with another web technology (Next Js).

Configuration: React JS vs Next JS

» Nextjs: This framework has many built-in features and usually doesn't require any manual configuration. It has a simple and minimal configuration process.

» React: With React’s framework, you will need additional features for the configuration process, such as server-side rendering, routing, and more complex settings.

Server-side Rendering: React vs Next JS

» Next.js: NextJs, on the other hand, uses a server-side rendering feature to ensure some of the work has been completed in advance, and the platform will be laid faster for each visit.

» React: Basically, React builds your website on the user's browser. That indicates that the browser will be taking the load of putting everything together for each visit.

Routing: Next js vs React js

» Next.js: NextJs has an in-built routing feature, enabling a smooth transition from one page to another. The routing capabilities are efficient.

» React: In contrast to NextJs, this framework doesn’t include any in-built routing feature. If you are using React Framework and have to perform the routing task, you would have to use third-party libraries.

Clearly, we see the difference between the two, with React being excellent for interface development and Next.Js having the advantage of extra features for ease of developing platforms.

Read More: 10 Must-Have Skills To Become a Backend Developer in 2024

Advantages and Disadvantages of the React Framework

Pros of ReactJs

Here are some of the pros of React.Js:

Easy Development

As the developers are more familiar with the JavaScript framework, they find it easy to develop apps and websites via React using less coding.

Support from the Developers

This technology has garnered massive support from the developer community throughout the years. This is why they provide them with resources and support to learn.

Components

You can easily use React components, enabling you to load many pages back to back. You can still keep the characteristics and see the changes appear across all pages after the component code has been modified.

Customization

You can not only set a lot of features but also expand them using third-party tools, such as Redux.

Cons of ReactJs

Here are some of the cons of React.Js:

Tricky & complex

Despite the ease of development, React can be tricky and complex to work on, especially for huge-capacity web development projects with heavy backend languages that include complex features. This is one of the biggest challenges.

Tough Learning

It might be challenging for some to learn this framework, mainly since it covers all the basics; beginners may find it complex.

Configuration

Those who are new to website development or application development may need help to configure its settings.

Related Read: Why Do You Need Custom Web Development Services?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Next.Js Framework

Pros of NextJS

These are some of the pros of NextJs that contribute to the next js vs react debate:

Faster Development

Next.js comes with built-in components and libraries that make it quick and easy to build an MVP (Minimum Viable Product). This allows you to get early feedback from users and make improvements without delay.

Better UX/UI

Next.js helps you create a front end that fits your business needs, leading to a smooth and unique experience for users.

Compatible with SEO practices

Next.js allows you to build fast, lightweight static websites, making them more likely to rank higher on search engines.

Real-Time Rendering

Any changes you make are shown instantly on the website. This makes it easy to see and track updates in real-time.

Built-in CSS

You can easily add CSS styles directly into your JavaScript files, making the website load faster.

Cons of NextJs

Set-up Difficulty

Setting up a Next.js project, especially for features like server-side rendering, can be tricky.

Inflexibility

Next.js might not be as customizable as other frameworks, which can be limiting for particular needs.

Affects Performance

While it improves speed, Next.js can also add some extra load, meaning you may need to optimize it for the best performance.

Recommended read: Web Developer Vs. Web Designer: The 6 Main Differences

Which one is Better—React Js vs Next Js?

When comparing Next.js and React, the best choice depends on your project and how easy each tool is to use.

Next.js is easier to work with because it needs less coding and has built-in features like server-side rendering and routing. This makes development quicker and saves developers a lot of time.

React, on the other hand, is ideal for large, complex web applications. It’s very flexible and powerful, making it great for managing data and user interactions. This is ideal for projects with a lot of moving parts.

If you're working on a dynamic project, React might be better. But for simpler sites or those focused on speed and performance (like with JAMstack), Next.js could be a smarter choice.

In the end, your decision should be based on what your project requires and what feels suitable for you. Both have their pros and cons, so take the time to think it through before starting your next project.

Conclusion

We have finally reached the end of this comparison article to provide you with the information you need on next js vs. react. Hopefully, this will help you consider your options better.

After knowing what Next JS is, along with the differences between React and Next JS and their pros and cons, you will surely pick up the best technology for your development projects.

If you’re still unsure about deciding which will be best for your project, you can always contact Arramton Infotech, a leading web development company.

Our experts are here to answer all your questions about the website or Android app development. So, don’t wait. Connect with us soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can NextJS replace React?

Ans: In the whole next JS vs react debate, we cannot say one can replace the other. So, no, Next Js will not be replacing React; instead, it will complement it. Next, Js can add features that will make it more efficient for specific projects.

Q. How does Next Js enhance React?

Ans: As we already know, Next Js complements React by adding extra features to it, adding more to its capabilities for certain types of projects. It adds features like server-side rendering, routing, and static site generation to React. This enables the program to build websites that load faster and are search engine-friendly.

Q. Next JS vs React JS: Which one should you learn first?

Ans: You should start from React and then only move to NextJs. You will learn most of the basics from ReactJs, such as how to create user interfaces. Learning such basics will prove to be an advantage when you get to know about more complex features in NextJs.

Q. Can Next.js be used for big projects?

Ans: Yes, you can absolutely use NextJs for bigger and more complex projects. It offers built-in features that enable you to make your websites or applications more efficient and leave room for scalability as the organization grows. It is perfect for handling more complex projects that need various features and custom elements.