The Great Framework Debate

Next.js and Remix represent two different philosophies in React framework design. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice for your project.

Routing: App Router vs Nested Routes

#

Next.js App Router

Next.js 14+ uses the App Router with file-system based routing:

app/
  page.tsx
  about/
    page.tsx
  blog/
    [slug]/
      page.tsx

#

Remix Nested Routes

Remix uses a flat file structure with dot notation:

routes/
  _index.tsx
  about.tsx
  blog.$slug.tsx

Data Fetching Patterns

#

Next.js Server Components

async function Page() {
  const data = await fetch('https://api.example.com/data');
  return 
{data}
;
}

#

Remix Loaders

export async function loader() {
  return json(await getData());
}
export default function Page() {
  const data = useLoaderData();
  return 
{data}
;
}

Form Handling

Remix shines with its form handling, using web-standard forms that work without JavaScript. Next.js requires more setup for similar functionality.

When to Choose Next.js

You need React Server Components

You want the largest ecosystem and community

You're building a complex SaaS application

You need edge middleware capabilities

When to Choose Remix

You prioritize progressive enhancement

You want simpler data loading patterns

You're building content-focused applications

You prefer web standards over abstractions

The Verdict

Both frameworks are excellent choices. Next.js offers more features and flexibility, while Remix provides a simpler, more focused approach. Your choice should depend on your team's preferences and project requirements.

Compare these frameworks side-by-side with our Compare tool.