Next.js vs Gatsby: What Are The Differences

Next.js vs Gatsby: What Are The Similarities

The differences between Next JS and Gatsby set them apart and make them ideal for different applications. The key differences between Next JS vs Gatsby include data handling, page rendering, scalability, extensibility, data security, server use, etc. The primary differences between Next JS and Gatsby are listed in the below table.

Differences	Next.js	Gatsby
Data Handling	Next JS framework gives you full control when it comes to managing your data.	Gatsby provides an exact way you should follow to collect and handle data.
Page Rendering	Next JS framework is known for using the traditional SSR approach for rendering pages. When you request a page, the server renders the requested pages and delivers the HTML response to the browser.	Gatsby framework utilizes the SSG approach for pre-rendering pages during the build time. So, when you request a page, you will get the pre-rendered HTML file directly from the server.
Extensibility	Next JS comes with a decent amount of libraries, tools, and add-ons.	Gatsby comes with its own ecosystem and there are thousands of pre-configured plugins.
Scalability	Next JS framework is the most ideal choice for creating enterprise-grade applications with high stability.	Gatsby does not have the capacity for large-scale apps, but it is a great choice for building personal blogs and small static sites.
Data Security	Even though it has CMS tools and private APIs, the data is available on the server, which means there are high chances for cyber attacks.	With Gatsby, rather than creating real-time files on a server, this framework will pre-render all your files. You can collect only the necessary data from the source, making it relatively safe.
Server Use	As for the Next JS framework, it comes with a default server, which is required when utilizing the “next start.”	Even if the server is not present, you can run Gatsby.

Next.js vs Gatsby: A Comprehensive Comparison of React Frameworks in 2024

In the ever-changing world of front-end development, React.js stands out as a fundamental technology. Among the many frameworks that use React, Next.js and Gatsby often steal the spotlight, sparking lively debates among developers due to their unique strengths and practical applications. Both Next.js and Gatsby have earned their places as go-to open-source React frameworks, commanding a strong presence in the market thanks to their advanced capabilities for creating cutting-edge web applications.

With these frameworks playing such pivotal roles in the React ecosystem, choosing the right one can be daunting. This in-depth guide aims to simplify the choice between Next.js and Gatsby by dissecting their differences, highlighting their similarities, showcasing their standout features, and providing insights into their best use cases. Whether you’re starting a new project or enhancing an existing one, this guide will help you navigate the world of Next.js and Gatsby to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Table of Content

What is Next JS?

Key Features Of Next JS

What is Gatsby?

Key Features Of Gatsby

Next.js vs Gatsby: What Are The Similarities

1. Incremental Building
2. Enhanced SEO
3. Incredible Features
4. Robust Websites
5. Developer Experience