React14 min read

React Server Components: The Game Changer

React Server Components are changing how we build React apps in 2025. Learn what they are, when to use them, and how they make your apps faster. This is the future of React.

Michael Park

December 18, 2025

0.0k0

React Server Components are probably the biggest change to React in years. If you're building React apps in 2025, you need to understand this.

What Are Server Components?

Think of Server Components as components that run on your server, not in the browser. They can directly access your database, read files, and do server stuff. The cool part? They never send JavaScript to the browser, so your pages load faster.

Server vs Client Components

Here's the simple rule: use Server Components for fetching data and showing static content. Use Client Components (the regular ones you know) for buttons, forms, and anything interactive.

Using Them in Next.js

Next.js 13+ makes this super easy. By default, every component is a Server Component. Just add 'use client' at the top when you need interactivity. That's it!

Why This Matters

Your app will be faster, use less JavaScript, and feel more responsive. It's like having the best of both worlds - server-side rendering and client-side interactivity.

#React#Server Components#Next.js#Performance

Common Questions & Answers

What's the difference between Server Components and regular components?

Server Components run only on the server and never send JavaScript to the browser. They can directly access databases and files. Regular components (Client Components) run in the browser and can use hooks, event handlers, and browser APIs. Server Components make your app faster by reducing JavaScript.

javascript

Run Explain

// Server Component - runs on server
async function ProductList() {
  const products = await db.query('SELECT * FROM products');
  return (
    <ul>
      {products.map(product => (
        <li key={product.id}>{product.name}</li>
      ))}
    </ul>
  );
}

// Client Component - runs in browser
'use client';

function AddToCart({ productId }) {
  const [loading, setLoading] = useState(false);
  
  return (
    <button onClick={() => addToCart(productId)}>
      Add to Cart
    </button>
  );
}

When should I use Server Components vs Client Components?

Use Server Components for: fetching data, accessing databases, keeping sensitive info on server, reducing JavaScript. Use Client Components for: buttons, forms, anything with onClick/onChange, browser APIs like localStorage, and hooks like useState.