Two popular frameworks, Next.js and Express, serve different features and purposes. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between Next.js and Express and discuss when and why you might choose one over the other.
Purpose os Next.js
Next.js is a powerful framework built on top of React, focusing on server-rendered and statically generated React applications. It provides a structure for building complex, dynamic web applications and offers features like automatic code splitting, server-side rendering (SSR), and static site generation (SSG). These features enhance performance, improve SEO, and provide faster initial page loads. On top of that, Next.js has a built-in API routing system that allows creating API endpoints securely connecting with third-party services and consuming from the front end. It can also use serverless functions and edge network deployment to build scalable APIs.
Purpose of Express.js
Express is a minimalist web application framework for Node.js, designed for building APIs and server-side applications. Express offers a flexible approach to web development. It enables developers to handle HTTP requests, implement routing, and use middleware efficiently.
In a nutshell, we can create backend APIs using both Next.js and Express server. But while Express is well-suited for building RESTful APIs, Next.js is a fullstack framework that you can create an API and use it directly in pages and components dynamically. But which one is better for creating a backend API?
Is Express Faster than Next.js Routes?
It’s the first question that React developers ask. They are aware of the impressive speed of Express.js and may have concerns about utilizing Next.js API routes. However, in practice, there are no significant performance disparities between these two frameworks. Therefore, there is no need to worry about replacing Express with Next.js. The real issue lies in the caching system of Next.js, which aims to enhance the development experience. Occasionally, this can lead to refreshing problems during the development mode, creating a perception among some developers that an Express-React app performs better than a full-stack Next.js app. However, it’s important to note that Next.js routes are equally as fast as Express.js routes.
It’s important to consider that the performance of both frameworks can be optimized through various techniques, such as implementing caching mechanisms, optimizing database queries, and applying performance best practices.
Coding Experience and Readability
I must admit that working with an Express server adds a certain level of enjoyment when creating APIs. The clear separation between the backend and frontend, along with the organized folder structure, contributes to a clean and organized workflow. Additionally, Express allows the flexibility of choosing different names for each API route, which can be quite convenient. On the other hand, with Next.js, finding and refactoring “route” files can occasionally be a frustrating experience. Moreover, the shared folder names between API endpoints and pages can lead to confusion, as it doubles the potential for mix-ups.
Authentication
When it comes to implementing authentication methods for APIs, there are numerous options available. But in any case, the golden medal is going to Next.js in this topic. Being a full-stack framework, Next.js simplifies the process of handling authentication seamlessly on both the server and client sides, eliminating the need for additional steps. By utilizing Auth.js, you can effortlessly access the user session in both pages and API routes, benefiting from its built-in features such as social authentication and database adapters. On the other hand, in an Express server, you would need to search for different libraries and authentication solutions, which, while not overly challenging, does not offer the same level of convenience as Next.js.
Conclusion
A classic conclusion. I know you hate this but: It Depends!
The choice between the two frameworks should be based on the specific requirements of your project and personal preferences as a developer. It is important to recognize that there is no specific difference between the two frameworks. When embarking on a project, it’s best not to get caught up in overthinking the choice of technologies. Instead, dive right in and start creating. As you progress with your project, you will gain a clearer understanding of your specific needs, enabling you to adapt and incorporate alternative technologies if necessary. I think my What’s going on in React video is a good resource to understand the mentality of a real developer.
Improvise, Adapt and Overcome!
See you next week.
