Frontend: Next.js + React 19
Next.js 16 with React 19 Server Components is the gold standard for web apps in 2026. Server-side rendering, streaming, and the App Router make it perfect for SEO and performance. Pair with Tailwind CSS 4 for rapid styling.
Backend: Supabase or Railway
Supabase gives you PostgreSQL, auth, realtime, and edge functions out of the box. For custom backends, Railway offers one-click deployment for any framework. Both scale from prototype to production.
AI Integration
Every startup needs an AI strategy. Use Claude or GPT APIs for text generation, Replicate for image models, and Pinecone for vector search. The Vercel AI SDK simplifies streaming responses in your frontend.
Payments and Analytics
Stripe remains the best payment infrastructure. For analytics, choose PostHog (open source) or Mixpanel (product analytics). Add Plausible for privacy-friendly web analytics that won't slow your site.
Reader comments(2)
No account needed. Share what worked, what did not, and what you would add.
Sensible list. The advice to not over-engineer early is the part most founders skip.
Would like to see rough monthly cost ranges for each layer.