htmx vs React: When Should You Choose a Simpler Approach?

HTMX vs React: Why Simple Might Just Be Better

Today, we’re tackling a question that a lot of people stress over: Should you go with HTMX or React for your next project? Don’t worry — it’s not as overwhelming as it sounds. Trust me, by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which one is right for you.

Oh, and no fancy tech jargon. We’re keeping this simple, okay? Let’s go!

When You Should Use HTMX

Alright, picture this: You’re working on a small project. Maybe it’s a dashboard, an internal tool, or just a basic web app. You don’t want to deal with heavy setup or 1,000 dependencies, right? That’s where HTMX shines.

1. Less JavaScript, More Simplicity
HTMX lets you handle page interactions without writing a ton of JavaScript. It’s like adding shortcuts to your HTML. Need a button that loads new content? Just tell HTMX to handle it. No need to mess with complex frameworks.

2. Speed That Google Loves
Because HTMX works with server-rendered HTML, your pages load faster. And here’s the best part: Google’s search bots can easily read your content. So if SEO matters to you, HTMX is a solid choice.

3. Better for Server-Based Logic
If your backend does most of the heavy lifting — whether you’re using Flask, Django, or Rails — HTMX keeps things simple on the front end. You focus on the server, and HTMX handles the rest.

It’s like HTMX is saying, “Relax, I’ve got this. Go ahead and grab a coffee while I handle your AJAX calls.”

So, for small to medium-sized projects or apps that rely heavily on the server, HTMX is a no-brainer.

When React is the Better Pick

Okay, let’s flip the coin. What about React? React isn’t here to play small. It’s built for bigger, more interactive projects. Think apps with real-time updates or tons of moving parts.

1. You Need Interactivity
React is like that overachiever in your class — it can’t stop showing off. If your app needs real-time state updates, like live chat, collaborative tools, or interactive dashboards, React is the way to go.

2. Single-Page Apps (SPAs)
If you’ve ever used a site that feels more like an app, chances are it’s a SPA. These apps rely on React for client-side routing and updating without reloading the page. It’s smooth and fast — your users will thank you.

3. You Need Reusable Components
React is big on building blocks, called components. You can reuse them across your app, which is especially handy if your project has a lot of similar elements.

4. You’re Working With a Team
If your team is tackling a huge project, React’s structure and tools make collaboration easier. Plus, it has a massive community with plenty of resources, libraries, and extensions to help you out.

But here’s the thing — you’re gonna need to put in some work. React comes with a bigger learning curve and more setup. It’s like buying a Lego set versus a pre-assembled toy. Sure, the Lego set takes longer to build, but the final result?

Quick Example Time

Let me show you just how different these two work.

HTMX Example:

Here’s a simple button that loads content with HTMX:

<button hx-get="/new-content" hx-target="#content">Load Content</button>  
<div id="content">Old Content</div>

See? No JavaScript! You just tell HTMX, “Get new content and stick it here.” Done.

React Example:

React’s version looks a little more like this:

import { useState } from "react";
function App() {  
  const [content, setContent] = useState("Old Content");
  const loadContent = async () => {  
    const response = await fetch("/new-content");  
    const data = await response.text();  
    setContent(data);  
  };
  return (  
    <div>  
      <button onClick={loadContent}>Load Content</button>  
      <div>{content}</div>  
    </div>  
  );  
}

It’s more flexible, but also more involved. You’re managing state, dealing with functions, and fetching data — all on the client side. React gives you power, but with power comes responsibility.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Use?

Here’s the deal: If your project is small, server-rendered, or you just want something quick and simple, HTMX is your best friend.

But if you’re building something big, complex, or highly interactive, React is worth the investment.

Remember, it’s not about which one is “better.” It’s about which one fits your project.

For more tutorials, visit https://codeymaze.com