Next.js vs React: Which is Better?
The Verdict
All 2 tools are strong choices, but they win in different lanes. Next.js takes the top spot overall thanks to its balance of quality, popularity and community trust. If budget matters, React is the best free pick. Use the table below to weigh the exact trade-offs for your use case.
Winners by category
Best Overall
Best Free
Best for Developers
Best for Students
Next.js
Winner- Full-stack React
- Great performance
- Huge ecosystem
- Fast-changing
- Complexity growing
- Vercel-centric features