Devographics’ annual State of React survey shows that React retains its dominant position, but is also raising more and more questions among developers.
Based on responses from more than 3,700 professionals, The Register paints a picture of an ecosystem that remains powerful but is struggling with increasing complexity and uncertainty about its direction. In particular, the role of React on the server side and the emergence of alternatives such as TanStack are causing debate.
React was originally a JavaScript library and not a complete framework. That choice offers flexibility, but also leads to fragmentation. Developers have to choose from a wide range of frameworks, libraries, and tools. Many respondents indicate that this makes setting up and maintaining a consistent development environment unnecessarily complicated, especially when build processes, tests, and CI must work together.
Despite this criticism, React remains very widespread. The survey even suggests further growth, partly due to AI’s influence. Generative AI tools rely heavily on existing, popular code examples, so React is often used automatically when generating user interfaces. This strengthens React’s position, even if not everyone is convinced.
Within the React ecosystem, Next.js has played a central role as a full-stack solution for years. The framework is used by a large majority, but enthusiasm is limited. A significant proportion find Next.js complex and see risks in its strong dependence on a single commercial party. At the same time, a group still values the integrated approach, creating a divided picture.
Growing interest in TanStack
On the other hand, there is growing interest in TanStack. TanStack Query, in particular, is widely used and receives predominantly positive responses. The full-stack framework TanStack Start is still in its early stages, but is already appealing to many developers. Its focus on type safety with TypeScript and its modular design are seen as an alternative to heavier frameworks.
TanStack is also developing into a broader platform with multiple subprojects, including a data store, experimental AI functionality, and command-line tooling. This positions it as a set of building blocks for modern web applications, rather than a single comprehensive system.
The lukewarm response to React Server Components and server functions is striking. Although these are supported by both Next.js and TanStack Start, a large proportion of developers have little need for server-side React logic. This is relevant because these innovations were intended for React’s next phase.
There is more enthusiasm for the React Compiler. Developers see this as a way to keep code simpler and reduce manual optimization. The announced React Foundation, focused on infrastructure and event management, has also been positively received and is seen as a step towards greater stability.
The survey thus paints a picture of an ecosystem that is solid but clearly in flux. React remains the default among developers and AI tools, even as calls for simplicity and alternatives grow. This tension does not pose a threat for the time being, but it is a driver for change.