Next.js vs Relay

React's opinionated best friend meets graphql's overbearing but brilliant bodyguard. Here's our take.

Next.js

Nice Pick

React's opinionated best friend. All the server-side rendering, none of the excuses.

Pros

• Built-in server-side rendering and static site generation
• File-based routing that's actually intuitive
• Automatic code splitting for better performance
• Seamless API routes for backend logic

Cons

• Can feel bloated for simple projects
• Learning curve with its opinionated structure

Relay

GraphQL's overbearing but brilliant bodyguard. It'll fetch your data perfectly, but good luck arguing with it.

Pros

• Automatic caching and pagination out of the box
• Declarative data fetching reduces boilerplate code
• Optimized network requests for better performance

Cons

• Steep learning curve with complex setup and conventions
• Tight coupling to GraphQL can limit flexibility

The Verdict

Use Next.js if: You want built-in server-side rendering and static site generation and can live with can feel bloated for simple projects.

Use Relay if: You prioritize automatic caching and pagination out of the box over what Next.js offers.

The Bottom Line

Next.js wins

React's opinionated best friend. All the server-side rendering, none of the excuses.