May 1, 2024
Next.js Backend vs Express Backend: How Far Can You Go?
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Next.js can now act as a backend through Route Handlers, Server Components, and Server Actions-but that doesn't always mean you should skip Express.This post compares when a Next.js - only backend is enough and when a dedicated Express backend still makes sense.
1Explains how Route Handlers, server-only modules, and Server Actions form a “backend inside Next.js”.
2Clarifies what an Express backend offers as a standalone Node HTTP server.
3Lists scenarios where a Next.js-only backend is sufficient for real products.
4Covers cases where a separate Express backend is better for multi-client APIs and complex infrastructure.
5Shows common hybrid architectures combining Next.js as a BFF with Express as a core domain service.