Choosing the right tech stack is one of the most important early decisions for any startup. The wrong choice can slow you down, increase costs, and create technical debt. This guide helps you choose wisely.
The SpeedMVPs Recommended Stack for 2026. Frontend: Next.js (React) for web, React Native or Flutter for mobile. Backend: Node.js (Express/NestJS) or Python (FastAPI). Database: PostgreSQL + Redis. Auth: Supabase Auth or Auth0. Payments: Stripe. Hosting: Vercel, AWS, or Railway. This stack balances developer productivity, performance, and scalability.
Choosing Frontend Technology. For web apps: Next.js is the clear winner—SSR for SEO, great DX, and excellent performance. For mobile: Flutter for custom UIs, React Native for JavaScript teams. For both: Consider React Native Web or Flutter Web for code sharing.
Choosing Backend Technology. Node.js: Best for JavaScript teams, real-time features, and API-heavy applications. Python: Best for AI/ML integration, data processing, and teams with Python expertise. Go: Best for high-performance, high-concurrency systems. Rust: Best when performance is absolutely critical.
Choosing a Database. PostgreSQL: Default choice for most applications. Reliable, scalable, great ecosystem. MongoDB: When you need flexible schemas and document storage. Redis: For caching, sessions, and real-time features. Supabase: PostgreSQL with real-time subscriptions and built-in auth.
Choosing Infrastructure. Vercel: Best for Next.js apps, excellent DX. AWS: Most flexible, best for complex architectures. Railway/Render: Great for simple deployments without DevOps. Supabase: Backend-as-a-Service for rapid development.
Tech Stack by Product Type. SaaS: Next.js + Node.js + PostgreSQL + Stripe. AI Product: Next.js + Python (FastAPI) + PostgreSQL + OpenAI. Marketplace: Next.js + Node.js + PostgreSQL + Stripe Connect. Mobile App: React Native/Flutter + Node.js + PostgreSQL.
Common Mistakes to Avoid. Over-engineering for scale you don't have yet. Choosing technologies because they're trendy, not because they fit. Using too many different technologies. Not considering team expertise in your choice.
What You'll Get
Tech Stack Guide
Recommendations by product type
Architecture Template
Starter architecture for your stack
Tool Comparison
Detailed comparison of options
