Web development is a continually evolving industry, with new platforms coming out all the time. Choosing the right tools for the job can make or break a project, so it's really important to have all the information to hand before you make a choice.

Two of the most popular tools that tech developers often compare are React and Laravel. But in reality, it's not about Laravel vs React; they both serve completely different purposes and are often used together instead of being in competition.

So, which is better, React or Laravel? It really depends on what you want to achieve with your site and ultimately your business. Here, we examine what each platform does, their differences and when it makes sense to use Laravel with React together.

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Laravel: Backend Powerhouse

Laravel is a PHP-based web framework created and designed for backend development use. Laravel excels in tasks such as routing, authentication, database management, API building and server-side rendering. Laravel is well reviewed because of its clear syntax and built-in tools that simplify traditionally difficult operations like caching, sessions and middleware management.

Laravel follows an MVC (Model-View-Controller) architectural pattern, making it easy to maintain and scale large applications. It’s a great choice if you need to build a secure backend system or a monolithic application that handles both the frontend and backend in one package.

Laravel On Code

React: Frontend Prodigy

React, on the other hand, is a JavaScript library developed by Meta that only focuses on building user interfaces. It allows developers to create very interactive, dynamic web applications using components and a virtual DOM for better performance.

Unlike Laravel, React is only for the frontend. It's excellent for building Single Page Applications (SPAs), dashboards, and real-time applications. React offers a modern development experience, with features like hooks, context APIs, and a strong system of external libraries.

React Js On Code

Laravel and React: A Powerful Combination

Now that we’ve covered the basics of both Laravel and React, it's important to note that both can work well together. In fact, using Laravel with React is a very common approach for developing modern web applications. Laravel manages backend logic, data handling and APIs, while React focuses on the interactive and responsive frontend.

This setup allows developers to create scalable and maintainable applications with both. Laravel takes care of everything behind the scenes, like the data and server-side logic, while React focuses on what users see and interact with. By working together, they create a strong, flexible foundation for building fast, reliable and user-friendly websites / apps.

Laravel Code

Can You Use React in Laravel?

Absolutely you can! Laravel with React is not only possible but also highly encouraged in many situations. Laravel even includes support for React right from the off, with Laravel Mix (a wrapper around Webpack that simplifies asset compilation). You can build a new Laravel project with built-in React presets, or you can manually install React and integrate it into your Blade templates / use it in conjunction with Inertia.js or a RESTful API.

Here's some commonly used ways for React in Laravel to work together, when building sites and applications:

- Using Laravel Mix: This allows you to compile your React components using Webpack. It’s great for applications that use Blade templates and need a bit of React magic on certain pages.

- With REST APIs: Laravel can be used purely as an API server (using Laravel Sanctum or Passport for authentication), while React handles the entire frontend.

- Via Inertia.js Inertia acts as a glue between Laravel and React, letting you build modern SPAs without a separate API layer.

You can easily use React in Laravel. Doing so opens up many development possibilities for your sites and apps.

Feature React Laravel
Type
Frontend JavaScript Library
Backend PHP Framework
Main Purpose
Building dynamic user interfaces.
Handling backend logic, APIs, and database operations
Ideal For
Interactive UIs, dynamic frontends
Secure, scalable backend logic
Flexibility
Restricted to the platform’s capabilities.
Highly flexible and customisable for unique user experiences.
Architecture
Component-based
MVC (Model-View-Controller)
Laravel Developers

Which Is Better: Laravel or React?

As we've seen above, we can't really compare React and Laravel directly. They address different challenges and have different capabilities. Instead of asking "which is better," it’s more helpful to ask, "Which one do I need for this project?"

Choose Laravel if:
- You need a backend framework to manage databases, authentication and APIs.
- You are building a traditional server-rendered web app.
- You want a well-supported base and ecosystem for PHP-based backend logic.

Choose React if:
- You need a highly interactive and dynamic frontend.
- You’re building a SPA or progressive web app.
- You’re already using a backend (like Laravel or Node.js) and need a modern frontend.

Choose Laravel with React if:
- You want a full stack solution with separate aspects going to separate platforms.
- You’re building a scalable, maintainable application.
- You prefer using best-in-class tools for both frontend and backend.

Laravel vs React... or React with Laravel?

Comparing React and Laravel is like comparing apples and laptops — they serve different purposes. Laravel is best suited for backend development, while React excels at frontend user interfaces.

However, when used together, they can create powerful, modern applications that are efficient, scalable and easy to maintain. So rather than choosing between React or Laravel, consider using React with Laravel for a well-rounded, full-stack development experience.

Ready to Build Your Next Project?

Whether you’re leaning toward Laravel’s backend power, React’s dynamic front-end capabilities or both, choosing the right stack can make all the difference. If you need help deciding or want expert support in development, get in touch with our team — let’s bring your vision to life with the right tools.

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