Gatsby vs Next.js 14: Choosing A Framework

The web development landscape constantly evolves, and choosing between Gatsby and Next.js 14 requires understanding their strengths, especially for projects needing internationalisation and CMS integration.

Understanding rendering methods

Before diving into frameworks, let's clarify the rendering approaches:

• SSR (Server-Side Rendering) - Real-time content generation for dynamic sites
• SSG (Static Site Generation) - Pre-built pages for maximum speed and SEO
• ISR (Incremental Static Regeneration) - Static performance with dynamic updates

Think of SSR as a bustling marketplace with live pricing, SSG as a curated gallery that loads instantly, and ISR as a news platform that updates seamlessly without full rebuilds.

Gatsby: The speed specialist

Static Site Generation mastery

• Excels at build-time page generation for blazing-fast sites
• Perfect for portfolios, blogs, and marketing websites
• Prioritises speed and security through pre-rendering

Rich plugin ecosystem

• Extensive plugins for SEO, image optimisation, and i18n
• Simplifies CMS connectivity
• GraphQL data layer centralises data management

Limitations

• Primarily focused on static sites
• Less suited for real-time interactive experiences
• 3D content requires pre-rendering approach

Next.js 14: The versatile powerhouse

Flexible rendering options

• Supports SSR, SSG, and ISR in one framework
• Adapts to both static sites and dynamic applications
• Built-in features reduce plugin dependencies

Modern capabilities

• File-based routing and API routes included
• Built-in i18n support for global audiences
• Excellent for interactive 3D applications and real-time experiences

Advanced features

• ISR updates static content without full rebuilds
• Server-side rendering enables complex user interactions
• API routes support advanced backend logic

Key comparison points

For 3D and interactivity

• Gatsby - Better for pre-rendered 3D assets and static 3D showcases
• Next.js 14 - Superior for interactive 3D, games, and real-time manipulation

For internationalisation

• Gatsby - Requires plugins for i18n functionality
• Next.js 14 - Built-in i18n support streamlines multi-language sites

For CMS integration

• Gatsby - Strong plugin ecosystem for content-driven sites
• Next.js 14 - Flexible data fetching accommodates both static and dynamic content

Is Gatsby outdated?

Not outdated, but increasingly specialised. Gatsby remains excellent for high-performance static sites, whilst Next.js 14 offers broader capabilities for complex, evolving projects.

Making the choice

Choose Gatsby when:

• Building static sites prioritising speed
• Content rarely changes
• SEO and performance are primary concerns

Choose Next.js 14 when:

• Need flexibility between static and dynamic content
• Planning international expansion
• Building interactive or real-time features
• Want future-proofing and scalability