Building Modern Web Apps with Next.js

Next.js has become my go-to framework for building modern web applications. Here's why I love it and some tips I've learned along the way.

Why Next.js?

Next.js offers the perfect balance between developer experience and performance:

• Server-Side Rendering: Better SEO and faster initial page loads
• Static Generation: Lightning-fast pages for content that doesn't change often
• API Routes: Backend functionality without a separate server
• File-based Routing: Intuitive and organized project structure

Key Learnings

1. Choose the Right Rendering Strategy

Not everything needs to be server-rendered. Use static generation when possible for better performance.

2. Image Optimization Matters

The Next.js Image component automatically optimizes images, reducing page load times significantly.

3. Code Splitting is Automatic

Next.js automatically splits your code, ensuring users only download what they need.

Best Practices

• Keep components small and focused
• Use TypeScript for better type safety
• Implement proper error boundaries
• Test your application thoroughly

Building with Next.js has made me a more productive developer, and I highly recommend giving it a try if you haven't already.