What is difference between use-client & use-server in next Js 14?
Mayur Patel
Dec 22, 2023
5 min read
Last updated Jan 12, 2024
Table of Contents
Rendering Redefined: A Tale of Two Sides
use-client: Unleashing the Power of the Client
use-server: Mastering the Art of SEO and Pre-Rendering
Making the Right Choice: A Matter of Balance
Beyond the Binary: Advanced Rendering Strategies
Conclusion: Mastering the Rendering Game with Next.js 14
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Share
Contact Us
We are at the end of the year 2023, and since the beginning, we have experienced immense updates in the tech industry. Every new update is a breath of fresh air for developers.
Here's some exciting news for all of us!
For those who enjoy creating:
High-performance websites and landing pages
Dynamic web applications
Static websites with rich interactivity
Single-page applications (SPAs)
The Next.js 14 update is here for all of us.
Next.js 14 has become hugely popular in web development for making it easier to create fast and SEO-friendly web applications with great flexibility. A big part of this is the introduction of two important features: use-client and use-server. These features let developers have more control over how their app components are shown, allowing them to customize the user experience and manage server work based on what they need. But with this new capability comes an important question: what's the real difference between use-client and use-server, and how do you pick the right one for your app?
Rendering Redefined: A Tale of Two Sides
In web development, rendering defines the process of transforming code into the visual and interactive experience users see on their screens.
Traditionally, this could happen in two ways:
Server-Side Rendering (SSR): Here, the heavy lifting happens on the server. The server generates the complete HTML for the page, including all the content and structure, before sending it to the user's browser. This results in an instant, fully-formed page experience, but can be slower for initial page loads and less suitable for interactive applications.
Client-Side Rendering (CSR): With CSR, the server sends a basic HTML outline to the browser, and the browser itself takes over the task of rendering the actual content and functionality. This can lead to faster initial page loads and smoother interactions, but requires more processing power on the client side and may present SEO challenges.
Enter use-client and use-server: Next.js 14's Rendering Superpowers
This is where use-client and use-server come in. They act as powerful switches, allowing you to specify where exactly each component in your application should be rendered: on the server or on the client.
Use-client: Unleashing the Power of the Client
Imagine components that spring to life instantly in the user's browser, responding to interactions with lightning speed. use-client takes charge of just that, making it the ideal choice for:
Components without initial server-side data fetching: If your component doesn't rely on data pulled from the server to display its content, use-client keeps things quick and smooth by rendering it directly in the browser.
Highly interactive elements: Dynamic components like dropdowns, sliders, and real-time chat functionality shine with use-client, as their responsiveness benefits from the direct browser-to-component communication.
Performance-hungry scenarios: Applications where every millisecond counts, e.g., single-page applications (SPAs) and e-commerce platforms, can leverage use-client to ensure a seamless and lag-free user experience.
Use-server: Mastering the Art of SEO and Pre-Rendering
Think of use-server as the SEO champion, ensuring your application is readily discovered by search engines and delivers a fully formed experience from the get-go. It excels in situations where:
SEO is a top priority: Search engines love to see fully rendered HTML content, and use-server guarantees that your pages are SEO-ready, boosting your discoverability in search results.
Initial data fetching is crucial: Need dynamic content like news feeds or personalized recommendations to be available instantly? use-server fetches the data on the server before sending the page to the client, leading to a smooth and immediate user experience.
Content freshness matters: For applications with frequently updated content, use-server ensures that every user receives the latest and most relevant information.
Making the Right Choice: A Matter of Balance
The decision between use-client and use-server becomes a strategic dance between performance, SEO, and interactivity. Consider these factors to make the optimal choice for each component in your application:
Performance: Does this component require lightning-fast response times and minimal initial load? If so, use-client might be the answer.
SEO: Is visibility in search engines paramount for this component? In that case, use-server should be your weapon of choice.
Data dependencies: Does the component rely on server-side data to function properly? If yes, use-server ensures the data is readily available.
Interactivity needs: Will the component involve user interactions like dynamic updates or real-time functionalities? use-client can offer a smoother and more responsive experience for such scenarios.
Keep in mind, you don't have to stick to just one option. Next.js 14's flexibility lets you mix and match use-client and use-server within the same application, creating a detailed rendering strategy that fits the specific needs of each component. You can even use advanced techniques like Server Components and Client Components to build hybrid workflows that combine the strengths of both worlds.
Here are some examples to illustrate these concepts:
Example 1: A Blog Homepage with Optimized SEO
Header: Use use-server to render the static content like logo and navigation, ensuring immediate visibility for search engines.
Featured Posts: Fetch these dynamically with use-server on the initial load to provide users with instant content engagement.
Pagination: Implement use-client for subsequent page loads, maintaining a smooth and responsive user experience without server roundtrips.
Example 2: An Interactive Product Page
Product Image and Description: Use use-server for initial render to avoid any delays and improve SEO.
Reviews and Ratings: Fetch these dynamically with use-server to ensure fresh data, but leverage use-client for user interactions like sorting and filtering reviews for a responsive experience.
Add to Cart functionality: Use use-client for the button and subsequent actions for a seamless and quick interaction without needing another server call.
Next.js 14 empowers you to go beyond the simple use-client vs. use-server choice. Here are some advanced techniques to consider:
Server Components: These are rendered on the server but can utilize hooks like useState to retain interactivity. Think of them as a bridge between SSRand CSR, offering the best of both worlds.
Client Components: Nested within Server Components, these are rendered on the client, allowing you to build highly interactive UI elements within an overall server-rendered application.
Data Fetching Strategies: Choose between getStaticProps for one-time static data fetching and getServerSideProps for dynamic data on each request, tailoring your approach to individual components.
Conclusion: Mastering the Rendering Game with Next.js 14
use-client and use-server aren't just directives; they are powerful tools for Next.js developers. By understanding their individual strengths and using them strategically, you can create applications that excel in performance, SEO, and user experience. Remember, the key lies in finding the right balance and tapping into the full range of rendering possibilities that Next.js 14 offers.
So, spark your creativity, experiment with these tools, and build exceptional web experiences that truly stand out!
From use-client & use-server in next Js 14 to mastering the rendering game with Next.js 14, What’s New, What’s the Difference, and Why Does It Matter? is an exciting journey, full of twists and turns that unlock incredible possibilities.
Ready to experience the Next.js 14 revolution?
At Linearloop, we love helping businesses use the latest tech for awesome web apps. Whether you're starting a new project or updating an old one, we're here to help you succeed.
Get in touch with us to explore how Next.js 14 can enhance your web apps even further.
This blog post is just the beginning. Check out our blog section and join the developer community to learn more and code more.
Let's make the future of web development amazing with Next.js 14!
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Mayur Patel
Front End Technical Lead
Dedicated Front-End Technical Lead with 9+ years shaping seamless digital experiences. Expert in UI/UX, leading high-performing teams to deliver innovative web solutions. Committed to driving excellence through cutting-edge technologies and collaboration.
Because of dynamic significance, IT industries are inclining towards Next.JS. It allows (SSG) Static Site Generation and also improves the SEO score of the website.
Also, by working on the concept of SSR, a developer saves cost and time for the organization.
Further, it allows more time to market the product and increase its awareness. Having these kinds of benefits, we use Next.JS for:
React Ecosystem
Enhancing the overall performance of the applications
Customizing the Open Graph
Boosting the SEO score of the web applications
Quick generation of static sites
These are some places where developers prefer to work in Next.JS only. Also, when you are getting a more comfortable option for the development, why would you use any complex technology?
Why should I select Next.JS for web development?
Selecting a technology somehow depends on the requirement of the project. And to choose a technology, you must have knowledge about it.
Also, we have seen many developers who always think implanting the technology that helps them complete the project on time by fulfilling all the demands.
To support the programmers, here we will let you know the reasons to go with Next.JS. At the same time, we would also say that examine the requirement of your project more precisely and then plan to start the project.
A better understanding of a project helps you to use a better programming language or framework.
Next.JS makes your web development process smooth and reliable because it offers a more satisfying user experience. Here, let’s have a look at the advantages of Next.JS for web development.
Enhances SEO performance
We all know, people build websites to explore businesses and get more business opportunities. And it is only possible when you have a solid presence at search engines such as Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc.
Next.JS offers better SEO practices and improves the visibility of the website as it works on SSR.
Also, the implementation of Next.JS makes your website more interactive and flexible. We know search engines give priority to an interactive and flexible website.
Persistent Caching
Next.JS is also advantageous because it holds caches for the uniform web pages. It has offered much relief to the developers.
In previous versions of Next.JS, this feature was not there. And developers had to face lots of troubles.
It happens because whenever they upload applications, users needed to download all the JS and CSS again despite you had not changed the bundles.
Now, the founder, Vercel, has made the improvisations and added persistent caching. Further, it improves the overall performance of the application.
Why should I select Next.JS for web development?
As our content revolves around the concepts that can make your start-ups super successful, PWA is one of them.
Basically, PWA (Progressive Web Applications) is the leading software development technology. It is different from the traditional approach of programming.
Basically, PWA is a combination of web pages and mobile applications. Also called a hybrid application.
Further, PWA incorporates the features given by the recent browsers, and thus it became more suitable for the programmers.
PWA has brought a revolution to the IT industry, and when you are a start-up, it may act
as a game-changer for your business.
You must be thinking, being a start-up, why should you go with PWA?
Have you ever analyzed the parameters at which a start-up depends?
As per our analysis, start-ups always care for client acquisition, investment management, resource management, and cost-saving. PWA offers you benefit at all these parameters.
Also, PWAs are gaining attention since the time of foundation because they are fast, reliable, and engaging.
Moreover, with front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JS, etc.), these applications are used to generate more interactive and user-friendly interfaces.
Reasons that make PWAs, a perfect choice for start-ups
Takes you among the bigger range of clients
More conversion rates.
Boost the business revenue.
Suits E-commerce businesses.
Allow you to reconnect with your clients.
Keep your system secure.
As you are a start-up, so always go for the smart choice. It keeps your momentum higher and drives more confidence.
In this context, Next.JS is a fantastic framework if you are approaching PWA.
Also, the technology contains an immense number of APIs along with documentation that will make your development process quick and reliable.
Also, frequent updates are an integrated part of Next.JS, and they always perform well to enhance the potential of the applications.
Next.JS supports TypeScript as well as Sass Module
To empower CSS, sometimes the technical team uses Sass that further eases the job of a developer. Also, so many developers prefer to work using TypeScript if they get a chance to use anything other than JS. So, in both formats, Next.JS works amazingly.
Furthermore, by using Next.JS, you get a chance to import Sass with the extensions either .scss or .sass. Moreover, here you will have the flexibility to utilize component-level Sass through the CSS modules along with module .sass or module .scss extension.
Please Note: In order to use Next.JS built-in Sass support, make sure to install sass.
Businesses go online in order to earn more by reaching their potential customers. Do you think it will be possible without proper marketing? Not at all.
Specifically, in the present, where competition is at its peak, businesses need to promote their product on a very large scale. Also, marketing demands time, money, effort, consistency, and patience.
Just imagine a scenario. You have planned to launch your product within 6 months. And you have made all your marketing strategies to start by the end of 4th or 5th month.
In the first case, suppose your product is not ready for launch even after 6 months. Now, what will happen? You will lose your development as well as marketing investments. Also, financial losses drive tension, stress and sometimes make you impatient.
In the second case, suppose your product is ready by the 5th month. Now you have one more month to market your product. It gives you energy and confidence as well. You will be able to boost the marketing by using the extra period.
Which one is better? Of course, we all want to be in the 2nd case, and Next.JS makes it possible for you. Next.JS saves development time, effort, and money. It is the reason clients and companies both prefer to go with Next.JS for web development projects.
Security of Data
Data is an essential element of any business. Also, during the development of applications, developers always take great care of data security.
While testing, the QA team makes sure to protect the system from unwanted attacks and hacks. In this series, Next.JS becomes a suitable choice because it protects the data.
As it supports static web pages which means, there is no communication with the database. When there is no exchange of data or other information, then the system will remain safe.
Supports all devices
Users give preference to the applications that support the majority of the applications. And Next.JS fulfills this demand. The applications of Next.JS either, web-based or mobile-based, are always compatible with all the devices.
This feature makes it accessible for the majority of the users. Hence, compatibility with all the devices makes it more advantageous.
Conversion rate increases
The conversion rate does not come under the direct benefits of the Next.JS. We know you must be thinking, how can a programming concept drive traffic? So, to avoid your confusion, here is the explanation.
Till now, you must have understood that Next.JS offers quick loading, the best user experience, and easy accessibility. So, guys, all these features contribute to making the application user-friendly.
When you get more users, ultimately, the conversion rate will increase for sure.
Additionally, when users get a better experience, they refer their known people, and in this way, the application earns name and fame both. As a result, the revenue of the business increases.
Some additional features that make Next.JS best for web development projects
Furthermore, we are very well aware of the vibrant and dynamic features of Next.JS. It offers exceptional performance and a pleasant user experience. Apart from those, there are some additional features that make it even more worthy.
Offers 100% React support.
Serves server-side rendering.
Twitch your web-pack.
Supports Lambda function i.e. API routes.
Offers responsiveness.
Quick assistance is available on demand.
Pros and Cons of Next.JS
Being a leading Next.JS company in India and overseas, we are responsible to maintain complete transparency about the leading technologies. Here we are mentioning the Pros and Cons of Next.JS for your better judgment.
Pros:
With the help of Next.JS, developers are able to build fast and quick static sites that act as dynamic ones.
The evolving technology facilitates a more reliable user experience.
The implementation of Next.JS drives more traffic to the application.
It also offers community support.
It supports SSR as well as SSG. Hybrid of both.
Automatic optimization of the images
It shows an analysis report based on real-time performance.
Reduces the maintenance cost by a great margin.
Cons:
Next.JS has a limitation of poor plugin ecosystem
The concept has no in-built state manager.
People consider it costly because it involves paid services.
Based on these pros and cons, a developer can decide either to go with Next.JS or not.
Next.JS example
Some bigger brands are working in Next.JS. For a better understanding, we are letting you know about the leading websites. The technology behind these websites is Next.JS:
Our blog revolves around the startups for whom Next.JS can be a better technology to complete web development projects. Being a startup, lots of things matter, and hence we should always consider our decisions by thinking about all the risk factors.
We have presented our well-researched blog for the worth of Next.JS in web development. Furthermore, Linearloop always provides software development services using Next.JS.
Our reliable services have given us recognition in the global market as well. We are getting constant projects from all parts of the world in Next.JS. Also, we have developers having concrete knowledge of Next.JS with decades of experience.
We always make sure to fulfill the clients’ demand by following the best development services. Hence, if you need to know more about the advantages of Next.JS or anything else, feel free to contact us.
We are here to clear your doubts. Stay safe and keep searching.
Launch your startup faster and smarter with Next.js.
Moreover, for the past few years, the concept is being used on a large scale. Many startups and business owners are following React because it offers productivity by saving cost and time both.
Now here we will discuss the new version of it, which we call React 18 Developers seeking to get knowledge about it, stay tuned till the end of the article. It is definitely going to help you in the future.
The alpha version of React 18 is available, and soon it will be in production for the developers. But till the time it becomes ready for production, we must know about the features obtainable in the new version. We all know, versions are upgraded to bring more comfort features and productivity to the applications.
The same goes here as well. React 18 alpha version is made available for the technocrats so that, they could see the same and share their feedback. Here we will put some light on React 18 roadmap to keep the developers aware.
The new release of React includes out-of-the-box improvisations that will help the developers for sure.
Also, it will increase the potential of an application. Here you will get to experience a new streaming server renderer that is available with in-built support, automatic batching, and a new API (startTransition).
So many people are struggling to know the exact React 18 release date, but so far, no specific date is issued by the owners. If we get to know about the exact date of release, we will share it for sure. Till then, let’s learn React 18 new features.
New Features of React 18
Improvements to Root API
By using React 18, developers will have a new Root API. While working, we follow a common practice of passing ReactDom.render our app component, then document.getElementById and root element in the available version of React.
import { StrictMode } from "react";
import ReactDOM from "react-dom";
import App from "./App";
const rootElement = document.getElementById("root");
ReactDOM.render(
<StrictMode>
<App />
</StrictMode>,
rootElement
)
Now with React 18 version, you will be able to execute the task in a new way. Here, the root variable is equal to a new method that we call “Create Root”. As it passes our root element, its name becomes root.render, and will pass the app component.
The fundamental concept is the same as the existing versions, but the way of execution is different. The old method is given a new name “Legacy Root API” and if you are worried about whether will it work with the existing version or not, stay relaxed. It works with React 18 as well but there is a possibility of depreciation at some points by the new Root API.
As we have stated earlier, the new version revolves around “concurrent rendering” and it enables React to build various versions of the user interface at the same time.
All the changes take place in the background or you can say behind-the-scenes but, it offers flexibility to the applications. By seeing the response from the community for “concurrent mode”, the React team has redesigned and upgraded the concept for gradual adoption.
Despite the feature all-or-nothing, the concept of concurrent rendering will only get enabled when any new feature will trigger updates. In practical terms, here, you get the flexibility to adopt React 18, and there is no need for rewriting.
Also, one can easily access new features. Further, developers can easily upgrade the version to React 18, either by doing minor or no changes to the code.
The intent behind the new version is to offer ease to the developers along with a better user experience. Hence the adoption of React 18 is pretty simple, and one can do it conveniently. Also, the concurrent features are successfully delivered to the thousands of components that work for Facebook.
And it has been noticed, that most of the React components work well even without any change in the code. The owners have committed that React 18 is smooth for all communities, and one can work on it.
SUSPENSE in React 18
This new version of React has brought full support for SUSPENSE. If you work in React, you must know SUSPENSE refers to the suspension of something till the time it is ready to render, and we call it Lazy Loading as well. Lazy Loading is also known as on demand loading that refers to loading of the required part only by delaying the rest.
import React from 'react';
import { Spinner } from "../Components/Spinner";
// This component is loaded dynamically
const OtherComponent = React.lazy(() => import("./OtherComponent"));
function MyComponent() {
return (
// Displays <Spinner> until OtherComponent loads
<React.Suspense fallback={<Spinner />}>
<div>
<OtherComponent />
</div>
</React.Suspense>
);
}
export default MyComponent;
In the current version of React, the SUSPENSE uses fallback till the time data is returned from an API call or async component and component rendering is done.
Now you can experience, even if all the data is not waiting for the component, they wait till call-stack gets empty and then event queue gets executed because the rendering of the entire component is still awaited.
Here we will share an example to counter the above-stated problem. Suppose you have a web page with sections Navigation Bar, Search Bar, Post Block, and Comment Box. Now if you follow React 18, there is no need to load the comment box before someone reaches that section.
Hence in the background, developers can suspend the comment section. Once the user reaches, the comment section will get loaded.
Automatic Batching
To attain improved computational performance, React groups multiple updates altogether in a single state as a result which “Batching” occurs.
import { batch } from 'react-redux'
function myThunk() {
return (dispatch, getState) => {
// should only result in one combined re-render, not two
batch(() => {
dispatch(increment())
dispatch(increment())
})
}
}
The existing React version prevents the components from rendering i.e. Half-Finished state. Under this condition, developers become able to update only one state variable that further may create bugs.
Also, React favors performing two independent batches, and it will not batch the updates every time.
Now in React 18, a new concept is added that has increased the overall performance. Here it automatically batches the updates without having any dependency on the origin of library code and the application.
The way updates, inside the React native, are batched, similarly, the updates inside the timeouts or native events handlers are batched. Hence the concept drives out-of-the-box improvisation to render process, and as a result, the performance improves.
So, React 18 has resolved the problem of batching and increased the efficiency & consistency of the process.
Conclusion
By reading the above content you must say, React 18 will bring lots of new possibilities. So many JS concepts seem impossible today but they may get possible with this new foundation.
Other frameworks of the market will surely get inspired by React 18 and they will also do something in the favor of technology. Linearloop always works for evolving concepts of technology and we keep researching for updates in order to aware our team and clients.
So far, React 18 is available in alpha mode, and if you are working on any project, do not implement it. For now, you can take the understanding about React 18 new features and share your feedback.
The owners have put it into Alpha because they are willing to understand the review of technocrats. React 18 will launch within few months. And being a leading software development company in usa, we are really excited, and we know you too! So guys, stay tuned to know about the recent updates.
Let’s elaborate on react first. Developers working in react technology must know that it is a component-based front-end library tool. Further react helps connect distinct segments of a web page.
The terminology “props” is used in the component through which non-static variables are accessed. Props help, pass those variables to other child components from the parent.
Also, with the implementation of React, an attractive UI becomes obvious. Also, for each state of an application, it renders and updates accurate components, as and when the data updates.
Further, with the declarative views, the code becomes more predictable and simpler for debugging.
Now, coming to redux, it is a state management tool for the applications developed in JavaScript. Basically, redux is storage, or you can say cache, and all components access it in an organized way. The access is done via Actions & Reducer.
Furthermore, redux acts as a store that contains the state of all the variables used in an application, and it also builds the process for the interaction with the store. Hence it prohibits components from the random update and read.
You can understand it with an example. Almost all of us have some deposits in banks, but in order to access that money, we need to follow the protocol. The same case is here.
Redux is frequently used with react and is compatible with other technologies like Preact, Vue, Angular, etc. As we know, Redux and React are used together a lot, but you must know they do not have dependencies.
As we have stated above, the key role of redux revolves around Store, Action, Reducers & Subscriptions.
Initial State: At this stage, all the To-dos lists are placed.
Dispatches/Actions: Here, we need to perform “Action to Dispatch” to the Reducer.
Reducer: Now comes the role of reducer, and it will decide what to do with the given actions.
It is the core functioning of redux, and now we will focus on what is redux in react. As we have explained above, react applications hold various components, with the state of other components.
And, it becomes challenging to decide where to place the state among these components where their maintenance could be easier. To eliminate the issue, react-redux comes, and it offers a dedicated store and state that resides inside the components, and here, the maintenance is quick & simple.
Apart from that, actions and reducers are also introduced. And they work in synchronization of the stores that further enhance the predictability of the state.
What is the use of redux in react?
With the implementation of redux in react, the application becomes more interactive, innovative, and productive. Further, the development time is fast here. Let’s discuss the advantages of using redux in react:
1. React-redux offers centralized state management:
With the concept of “Store” the technology delivers controlled and centralized management. Further, redux is very strict for the codes to be structured. And the organized code makes maintenance and management effortless.
Moreover, it also helps in the segregation of the business logic from the component tree. Components of the whole application get quick accessibility of the data. With the evolution of react-redux, the component can easily get the state it needs.
2. Performance:
When a component updates, react re-renders it by default. Under a specific scenario, when the data of the component is not updated, this re-rendering becomes useless.
And Redux store skips such non-required re-renders and improves the overall performance. Further, it also assures the component will only be re-rendered when the data changes in the actual.
3. Long-term data storage:
In redux, data resides on the page until it is refreshed. Hence utilizing this feature, the concept is widely being used for the storage of long-term data that is needed when the end-users are navigating the applications.
Furthermore, react is the best option to store short-term data that changes frequently. Hence react-redux brings performance optimization and increases the overall productivity of an application.
4. Fast Debugging:
Being a react developer, you may be aware that tracking the state of an application while debugging is a challenging process. And with the contribution of redux, debugging becomes easier.
As we know, redux represents the whole state of an application hence facilitating the best for time travel debugging. Moreover, it is capable of sending the entire bug report to the server as well.
5. Superior community support:
Redux holds a vast range of communities and thus offers great support. One can easily get to know about the best practices of redux-react along with quick support while coding.
Further, here numerous ranges of extensions are available through which the code logic can be more simplified, and as a result, performance enhances.
Conclusion
We have explained all the aspects of react-redux. Further, being your reliable partner for redux development services in India & USA, we are always available to listen to your queries. If you have doubt, please connect.
Further, if you are looking to hire react-js developers from India, you are just a click away. Our team has executed many projects using react-redux successfully and now is your turn.
Apart from that we have a solid presence in USA and have an extensive range of clients here. So, if you want tosoftware development company in USA, Linearloop is always there. Don’t delay because every second is important.
Ready to simplify state management in your React app?