State management in React has evolved significantly. From Redux dominance to a proliferation of alternatives, choosing the right solution depends on your specific needs. Our web development team at Softechinfra has built React applications across the spectrum—here's our practical guide.
Understanding State Types
Not all state is created equal. Recognizing different types is crucial for choosing the right tool:
Built-in Solutions
useState and useReducer
Start here. Most state doesn't need external libraries. useState handles simple values; useReducer manages complex state transitions with multiple related values.
Context API
Best for avoiding prop drilling with infrequently-updated data like themes or locale settings.
External State Solutions
Redux Toolkit (Complex Apps)
| Solution | Best For | Bundle Size | Learning Curve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redux Toolkit | Large apps, complex interactions | ~10KB | Medium |
| Zustand | Simple global state | ~1KB | Low |
| Jotai | Atomic state, fine-grained updates | ~3KB | Low |
| Recoil | Facebook ecosystem | ~15KB | Medium |
Server State: React Query vs SWR
This is the biggest insight: most "state" in modern apps is actually server state. Separate it!
- React Query: Full-featured with automatic caching, background refetching, pagination, and optimistic updates
- SWR: Simpler API, smaller bundle, by Vercel—great for Next.js apps
Decision Framework
Quick Decision Guide
- How complex is your state? Simple → useState/useReducer. Complex → Redux or Zustand
- Do you have server state? Yes → React Query or SWR (always)
- Team experience? Redux experience → Redux Toolkit. New team → Zustand
- Bundle size concerns? Yes → Zustand or Jotai
Recommended Combinations
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Putting everything in global state
- Using Redux for simple apps
- Ignoring built-in React solutions
- Not separating server/client state
- Over-engineering from day one
For architecture decisions that affect state management, see our guide on choosing the right architecture.
Real-World Application
Key Takeaways
- Categorize state first: local, global, server, URL
- Use React Query or SWR for server state (most of your data)
- Start with built-in hooks—add libraries only when needed
- Zustand beats Redux for simple global state
- Don't copy architecture from apps 10x your size
Building a React Application?
Softechinfra architects React applications with the right state management for your scale. We don't over-engineer—we build what you need to ship and scale.
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