What is Create-React-App?

Create React App (CRA) has been a popular and widely-used tool for setting up a new React project since its release in 2016. and it has seen a significant increase in popularity over the years due to a multitude of reasons.

Why it became popular

to understand how CRA became such a popular way to start React projects its important to know how React apps were made before it's creation. Before the advent of CRA, developers were tasked with the challenge of setting up a development workspace, acquiring and arranging the necessary tools and dependencies, and hand-configuring the build process. This demanding procedure demanded a thorough comprehension of the foundational technologies, frequently draining hours of effort from even the most experienced developers.

Advantages of CRA

• quick and easy setup for React apps using a single command.

npx create-react-app my-app

• Unopinionated CLI.

• a lot of built-in features and tools for development.

• Strong community support.

The problems of CRA

• No Server-Side Rendering Support: CRA is designed to create client-side applications and does not have built-in support for server-side rendering. While it is possible to add server-side rendering to a CRA-based project, it requires extra work and may not be feasible for smaller projects.

• Performance Issues: Performance is another issue that developers face with CRA. The tool generates a lot of code, which can be a problem for larger projects. As a result, projects that use CRA may have a slower initial load time and may not perform as well as other applications.

• Lack of Customization: although the default setup may work well for small projects, as your project grows in complexity, you might want to add your own configurations, such as a custom build process, environment variables, or specific dependencies. However, doing so can be challenging because CRA limits the amount of configuration that can be done.

The alternatives

1. Next.js: With its emphasis on server-side rendering, automatic code splitting, and high performance, Next.js has become a preferred framework for constructing high-performance and scalable applications. Not only does it deliver these advantages, but it also offers a simple API, making it an excellent option for developers who desire a more streamlined development experience.

2. Vite: a build tool designed with speed and optimization as its foremost goals. It offers a refreshing departure from traditional build tools like Webpack and Babel, delivering an improved development experience for React developers. Not only is Vite faster than CRA, but it also boasts a more optimized build process. In addition to its speed, Vite boasts a small build size. Unlike CRA, which includes a substantial amount of redundant code, Vite is optimized for smaller builds. This means that developers can enjoy a faster and more efficient development experience, all while creating smaller builds for their Projects

3. Setting up webpack yourself: This one is definitely the most tech-savvy option on the list. Setting up Webpack on your own can be a daunting task, but the payoff is worth it. By taking the reins and configuring the build process yourself, you'll enjoy a host of benefits, such as unparalleled customization options, lightning-fast performance, an in-depth comprehension of the build process, seamless integration with a variety of tools, and unrivaled flexibility in managing dependencies. With a self-configured Webpack setup, you'll be in complete control, able to tweak and optimize the build process to your heart's content, resulting in a better-performing application and a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanics, here's a great video by WittCode to guide you through this process.

Conclusion

In summary, Create React App (CRA) has been a staple in the React community for its ease of use in setting up projects, yet it seems to be losing traction due to its limitations. The absence of server-side rendering support, mediocre performance, and rigid customization options are causing developers to seek better options.

As a result, alternatives such as Next.js, Vite, and custom Webpack configurations are gaining popularity among developers. These alternatives offer a more optimized development experience with features like improved performance, seamless code splitting, and limitless customization options, appealing to those seeking a more streamlined development process and high-performance applications.

Ultimately, the decision to use CRA or one of its alternatives boils down to the unique demands and specifications of each individual project. The choice between these options requires careful consideration of the project's requirements and the developer's preferences.