Top Next.js Starter Templates and How to Choose

Building effective projects often involves managing a variety of tools, with Next.js serving as a key framework for many developers. Utilizing third-party starter templates or creating custom starters can significantly streamline project initiation, providing a solid foundation, reducing manual setup, and allowing teams to focus on delivering high-quality results. The article explores the advantages and limitations of technology-oriented and use-case-oriented starters, offering examples such as the Next.js Toolbox for Netlify and e-commerce setups using Stripe. It emphasizes the importance of understanding licensing implications when using third-party starters and suggests that for unique requirements, developers might benefit from crafting a custom starter, either from scratch or by adapting an existing solution. Best practices for building a starter include selecting tools used frequently across projects and ensuring the starter remains flexible enough to adapt to various project needs. The discussion sets the stage for a follow-up guide that will delve into the step-by-step creation of a custom Next.js starter, highlighting the potential to boost productivity and enhance the developer experience.