Choosing Your Tech Stack
The tech stack decision paralyzes many founders. Here's the practical approach.
The Only Rule That Matters
Use what your team knows.
A great developer using familiar tools will outperform a great developer learning new tools. Speed matters more than theoretical perfection.
If You're Starting Fresh
For most web applications in 2024:
Frontend:
- React or Next.js (largest ecosystem, easiest hiring)
- TypeScript (catches bugs, better developer experience)
- Tailwind CSS (fast styling, consistent design)
Backend:
- Node.js for JavaScript teams
- Python/Django for data-heavy apps
- Go for high-performance requirements
Database:
- PostgreSQL (handles 90% of use cases well)
- MongoDB only if you truly have unstructured data
Infrastructure:
- Vercel or Netlify for frontend
- AWS or Google Cloud for backend
- Start simple, optimize later
Common Mistakes
1. Overengineering
You don't need Kubernetes on day one. You don't need microservices for an MVP. Start simple.
2. Chasing Trends
That new framework might be exciting, but can you hire developers who know it? Will it exist in 3 years?
3. Premature Optimization
Build for 1,000 users first. Scale when you actually have scaling problems.
Our Standard Stack
For most client projects, we use:
- Next.js (React framework)
- TypeScript
- PostgreSQL
- Tailwind CSS
- Vercel or AWS
This stack is boring—and that's the point. Boring technology is reliable, well-documented, and easy to maintain.
When to Deviate
Consider alternatives when:
- Your app has specific performance requirements (games, real-time trading)
- You're building in a specialized domain (ML, blockchain)
- Your team has deep expertise in something else
Otherwise, go with proven tools and focus on building your product.
