Best Tech Stack for Side Project in 2026
Tech stack for building side projects on nights and weekends. Optimized for learning, fun, and minimal maintenance.
Updated for 2026. Practical recommendations based on real projects.
Recommended Tech Stack for Side Project
Our top picks for building a side project in 2026, with reasoning for each choice.
Frontend
Backend
Database
Hosting
Extras
Stack Architecture Overview
Alternative Tech Stacks
Depending on your team's expertise and specific requirements, these alternatives might be a better fit.
Astro Stack
Best for: Content sites and portfolios
SvelteKit Stack
Best for: Learning something new while building
Go Stack
Best for: Minimal dependencies and fast binaries
Key Considerations
Important factors to keep in mind when building a side project.
- Minimize ongoing maintenance requirements
- Use services with generous free tiers
- Keep the codebase small and understandable
- Automate deployments to reduce friction
- Have fun - that's the point of side projects
When to Avoid This Stack
This stack might not be the best choice for the following scenarios.
- Enterprise or compliance-heavy projects
- Apps expecting rapid growth
- Projects requiring 24/7 uptime guarantees
Need Help Building Your Side Project?
We build MVPs using these exact stacks. Get your side project launched in 2 weeks for $2,997 with our 90-day revenue guarantee.