Choosing the Right React Framework: Next.js, React Router v7, and TanStack

This article compares three popular React frameworks: Next.js, React Router v7, and TanStack Start, highlighting their strengths and ideal use cases.

Next.js

Next.js excels in providing easy SEO integration and a serverless platform out-of-the-box. Its robust ecosystem makes it suitable for various applications, including:

• E-commerce sites
• Marketing sites
• Landing pages
• SaaS dashboards
• Blogs
• Documentation sites

However, it has a steeper learning curve due to its dual routing system (App router and Pages router), server actions, server components, and different rendering methods.

Choose Next.js when:

• You need built-in optimization or want to use React Server Components (RSCs).
• Granular caching controls are essential.
• You don't require custom webpack builds.
• Wide adoption and community support are priorities.

React Router v7

React Router v7 leverages web standards, unifying client and server functionality. This makes it easier to develop and migrate applications, providing flexibility to create a standard SPA and add server-side rendering.

It benefits from a fast build system using Vite, offering a great developer experience.

Choose React Router v7 when:

• You value progressive enhancements, web standards, and accessibility.
• Deep nested routing is required.
• Seamless cloud platform integration is a priority.

TanStack Start

TanStack Start is a full-stack React framework known for its fully typed nature, making it robust and less error-prone. Its isomorphic loaders and server functions enhance development efficiency. It also integrates seamlessly with React Query.

Choose TanStack Start when:

• You are already using React Query/TanStack Router.
• You're building client-heavy applications such as interactive dashboards or admin panels.
• You need streaming and server-side rendering (SSR) without complex abstractions.

Note: TanStack Start is still in beta and is not ideal for server-rendered sites with minimal client-side interactivity. RSC support is planned for the future.