How do I choose a tech stack?
Quick Answer
For most projects, let your AI tool choose. Lovable and Bolt use modern, well-supported stacks (React, Next.js, Supabase). Don't overthink this until you have specific requirements that demand it.
Full Explanation
Tech stack decisions paralyse many beginners, but for vibe coding, the answer is usually simpler than you think:
The default stack (works for 90% of projects):
- Frontend: React or Next.js (handled by AI tools)
- Database: Supabase (PostgreSQL underneath)
- Authentication: Supabase Auth or Clerk
- Hosting: Vercel or Netlify
- Styling: Tailwind CSS
Why this stack is the safe choice:
- AI tools know it extremely well
- Large community means help is available
- Scales from MVP to significant traffic
- Modern but stable (not bleeding edge)
When to consider alternatives:
Mobile-first: Consider React Native, Flutter, or FlutterFlow Python-heavy (ML/AI features): FastAPI or Django backend Real-time heavy: Consider Firebase or custom WebSocket setup Enterprise requirements: May need specific cloud providers (AWS/Azure)
How to decide:
1. If using Lovable/Bolt: Use what they generate. Don't fight the tools. 2. If you have specific requirements: Research stacks that handle those well. 3. If you don't know: Use the default stack. You can always migrate later.
The truth about tech stack debates: Experienced developers argue about stacks endlessly, but for most applications, multiple stacks would work fine. The stack matters less than execution. Build something, learn, then have opinions based on experience.
Related Questions
What's the best database for beginners?
Supabase is the current favourite for beginners-it's free to start, has a visual interface, and handles authentication too. Firebase is another solid option.
What's Supabase and why is it popular?
Supabase is an open-source backend platform that gives you a database, authentication, and APIs in one place. It's popular because it's powerful, beginner-friendly, and free to start.
What tools do professional developers actually use?
VS Code or Cursor for editing, GitHub for version control, and the same databases and services you'd use with vibe coding. The difference is in depth of knowledge, not fundamentally different tools.
Get Hands-On Answers at Buildday Melbourne
Stop reading about building apps and start actually building. Join our one-day workshop and get your questions answered while creating something real.
Related Questions
What's the best database for beginners?
Supabase is the current favourite for beginners-it's free to start, has a visual interface, and handles authentication...
What's Supabase and why is it popular?
Supabase is an open-source backend platform that gives you a database, authentication, and APIs in one place. It's...
What tools do professional developers actually use?
VS Code or Cursor for editing, GitHub for version control, and the same databases and services you'd use with vibe...
Is AI-generated code production ready?
It can be, but it requires review and testing. AI code is a starting point, not a finished product-treat it like hiring...
Which AI tool is best for complete beginners?
Lovable is currently the most beginner-friendly option, with Bolt as a close second. Both let you build without...
Can ChatGPT build me an app?
ChatGPT can help you plan and write code snippets, but it can't directly build or deploy a complete app. You need...