What's the Big Deal About Server Components?
Next.js App Router made Server Components the default, and it's a game-changer. Instead of sending everything to the browser, we can now render components on the server. This means smaller JavaScript bundles and faster apps.
The New Way of Thinking
Here's the key: everything is a Server Component by default. You only add client-side rendering when you need interactivity. This is completely different from the old React way where everything was client-side.
When to Use Server vs Client Components
Server Components (Default)
- Getting data from databases
- Accessing backend stuff
- Keeping secrets safe
- Big libraries
- Static content
Client Components (Add "use client")
- Clicking, typing, interactions
- Using React hooks (useState, useEffect)
- Browser-only features
- Custom hooks
- Real-time updates
Pattern 1: Getting Data the Easy Way
Server Components can fetch data directly without any loading states. This is perfect for when the page first loads:
Pattern 2: Adding Interactivity
Want users to be able to click things? Add Client Components inside your Server Components. The "use client" directive tells Next.js where the boundary is:
Pattern 3: Loading Things as They're Ready
This is one of the coolest features—stream content as it becomes available. Show the fast stuff immediately while the slow stuff loads in the background:
Pattern 4: Forms That Just Work
Server Actions let you handle form submissions without building API routes or writing client-side JavaScript:
Pattern 5: Making Things Feel Instant
For the best user experience, combine Server Actions with optimistic updates (show changes immediately):
Mistakes That Will Break Your App
- ❌ Adding "use client" everywhere: Start with Server Components, only add "use client" when you need interactivity
- ❌ Fetching data in Client Components: Let Server Components handle the initial data fetching
- ❌ Passing functions as props: Functions can't be sent to the server. Use Server Actions instead
- ❌ Importing Server Components in Client Components: This breaks the rules
Why This Actually Makes Things Faster
This new approach gives you real performance benefits:
- Smaller JavaScript bundles: Server Components don't send JS to the browser
- Faster page loads: No waiting for multiple API calls
- Better SEO: Content is rendered on the server by default
- Better caching: Server Components can be cached at the edge
- Direct database access: No need for API routes
Bottom Line
- Start with Server Components; only add client components when you need interactivity
- Server Components can directly access your database and backend
- Use Suspense for progressive loading
- Server Actions replace most API routes
- Combine optimistic updates with Server Actions for the best UX
- This approach gives you better developer experience AND user experience
Server Components are a complete game-changer for React development. Use these patterns and you'll build faster, more maintainable apps with less code. Spectrum UI components work great with both Server and Client Components, so you can use the right tool for each job.