Tech Stack Guide
Best Tech Stack for MVP in 2026
The fastest tech stack for building and launching a minimum viable product. Focused on speed, simplicity, and low cost.
Updated for 2026. Practical recommendations based on real projects.
$0-50
Monthly Running Cost
$0
Initial Setup Cost
Recommended Tech Stack for MVP
Our top picks for building a mvp in 2026, with reasoning for each choice.
Frontend
Next.js - Full-stack in one framework, ship faster
Tailwind CSS - No CSS decisions, just build
shadcn/ui - Copy-paste components, own your code
Backend
Next.js API Routes - No separate backend to manage
Prisma - Database access without writing SQL
Database
Supabase PostgreSQL - Free tier, managed, with auth included
Hosting
Vercel - Free tier, zero config, instant deploys
Extras
Clerk/Auth.js - Auth in minutes, not days
Stripe - Payments without building billing
Resend - Simple email API for transactional emails
Stack Architecture Overview
Frontend
Next.js
Tailwind CSS
shadcn/ui
Backend
Next.js API Routes
Prisma
Database
Supabase PostgreSQL
Hosting
Vercel
Extras
Clerk/Auth.js
Stripe
Resend
Alternative Tech Stacks
Depending on your team's expertise and specific requirements, these alternatives might be a better fit.
No-Code Stack
BubbleAirtableStripeZapier
Best for: Non-technical founders validating ideas
Rails Stack
Ruby on RailsPostgreSQLHeroku
Best for: Developers who can ship fast with Rails
Firebase Stack
ReactFirebaseCloud Functions
Best for: Apps needing real-time features quickly
Key Considerations
Important factors to keep in mind when building a mvp.
- Choose tech you already know over trending tech
- Avoid premature optimization and over-engineering
- Use managed services to reduce operational burden
- Plan for throwaway code - expect to rebuild later
- Ship in weeks, not months
When to Avoid This Stack
This stack might not be the best choice for the following scenarios.
- Apps requiring native mobile features
- Products with strict compliance requirements
- Enterprise B2B with complex integrations
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