Next.js
Next.js is a full‑stack React framework used to build fast, scalable, SEO‑friendly web applications. Developed and maintained by Vercel, it extends React with powerful features such as server‑side rendering (SSR), static site generation (SSG), incremental static regeneration (ISR), API routes, server components, and file‑based routing. As of 2026, Next.js is one of the most widely adopted frameworks in the JavaScript ecosystem, enabling both frontend and backend capabilities in a single project.
Benefits of Next.js
- Hybrid rendering model: Supports SSR, SSG, ISR, and fully dynamic rendering, letting developers choose the best delivery strategy for each route.
- Full‑stack capabilities: Built-in API routes and server actions allow developers to implement backend logic directly inside a Next.js project.
- Exceptional performance: Native support for caching, code-splitting, image optimization, edge runtimes, and React Server Components improves load speed and runtime efficiency.
- SEO‑friendly by default: Server-rendered HTML and metadata controls lead to better crawlability and indexability, making Next.js ideal for content-heavy or marketing sites.
- Modern React integration: Supports the App Router, React 19 features, and the latest React Server Components for more efficient rendering.
- Enterprise-ready ecosystem: Widely used across large-scale apps with strong adoption—68% of JS developers report using it, and ~71% of React job postings seek Next.js experience.
Typical Use Cases
- Content-heavy and SEO-critical websites: Blogs, documentation platforms, publishing tools, and marketing sites requiring fast rendering and strong SEO.
- SaaS products and dashboards: Combining React UI with built‑in API routes and dynamic data fetching for full-stack experiences.
- E‑commerce applications: Leveraging hybrid rendering, edge functions, and fast route transitions to optimize user experience and conversions.
- Enterprise web applications: Scalable routing, enhanced security features, and predictable architecture make Next.js suitable for large teams and complex apps.
- Hybrid web apps with server logic: Projects benefiting from server components, server actions, and React-driven UI without needing a separate backend service.
- Static or partially static sites: Using SSG or ISR for fast global performance with minimal infrastructure.