What is Next.js?
Next.js is the React framework that became the default. Built by Vercel in 2016, it now covers everything from file-based routing to React Server Components, edge runtime, image optimization, middleware and incremental static regeneration. It powers indie blogs and most Fortune 500 marketing sites.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Best-in-class DX with file-based routing and server components.
- ✓ Huge ecosystem and hireable talent pool.
- ✓ Portable to any Node host.
Cons
- ✗ Tight coupling to Vercel for some features.
- ✗ Breaking changes between majors can hurt.
Alternatives to Next.js
FAQ
Is Next.js free?+−
Yes. Next.js itself is open source under the MIT license. You only pay for hosting.
Do I need Vercel?+−
No. Next.js runs on any Node host. Vercel has the tightest integration but Cloudflare, Netlify, Fly and self-hosted Docker all work.
App Router or Pages Router?+−
For new projects, App Router. It supports Server Components, nested layouts and streaming.