Webapp with Node backend: Stick to Next.js or switch to React?

Hey everyone! I’ve got a dilemma and could use some advice. I’m comfortable with Next.js for building SSR marketing sites, but now I’m tackling a bigger project. It’s a large webapp that needs a Node and Express backend with features like cron jobs and RBAC.

For the frontend, I’m torn. Should I:

  1. Keep using Next.js but only for its frontend capabilities?
  2. Switch to plain React and learn stuff like Tanstack Query and Router?

I’m worried that if I stick with Next.js, I’ll be missing out on using a lot of its core features. What’s the best approach here? Has anyone faced a similar situation?

Any tips or experiences would be super helpful! Thanks in advance!

hey there! have you thought about using next.js api routes? it gives you ssr and a backend. you can use express middleware if needed. which features do you feel are missing from next.js? i’d love to know more about your project!

I’d recommend sticking with Next.js for your project. It’s a versatile framework that can handle both frontend and backend requirements effectively. You can leverage its API routes for your Express backend, and it integrates well with Node.js for cron jobs and RBAC implementation. Next.js also offers excellent performance optimization out of the box.

While plain React with additional libraries like Tanstack Query and Router is a valid approach, it may introduce unnecessary complexity. Next.js provides a more cohesive ecosystem, potentially simplifying your development process and maintenance in the long run.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific project needs and team expertise. However, based on your experience with Next.js, it seems like a solid foundation for your webapp.

yo LucasPixel23, i’ve been in ur shoes. honestly, Next.js can handle ur project fine. u can use its API routes for backend stuff, and it plays nice with express too. plus, u keep the SSR goodness. no need to overcomplicate things by switchin to plain React imho