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Designers get more freedom and flexibility with Next.js than with the ASP.NET Core renderer in Sitefinity. Instead of working page by page, they can build reusable patterns, add motion, and experiment quickly while keeping performance high. ASP.NET Core is dependable for enterprise-driven projects, but when the goal is a modern, design-led experience, Next.js puts far more creative control in the hands of the design team.
Clients often ask, “Can a designer do more with Next.js than with the new ASP.NET Core renderer?” The honest answer is yes. Both rendering options work within Sitefinity, but Next.js gives designers more room for creativity, flexibility, and modern tools that support building rich digital experiences. Here’s how they compare.
1. Components Put Designers in Control
Next.js is built on React, so everything starts with components. Designers can think in terms of reusable pieces—buttons, cards, menus, banners that can be styled, themed, and rearranged quickly. This matches the way design systems and pattern libraries are built in tools like Figma or Sketch.
ASP.NET Core also has Razor components, but its ecosystem is smaller and geared more toward developers. Designers often need more support to achieve the same level of flexibility.
2. Motion and Interaction
Next.js works smoothly with libraries such as Framer Motion, React Spring, Lenis, and GSAP. That makes it easy to layer in animations, transitions, and micro-interactions without heavy custom coding.
With ASP.NET Core, those same effects are possible but usually require extra development effort and more time to implement.
3. Faster Prototyping and Feedback
In Next.js, hot reload and component props make rapid iteration possible. Designers and developers can spin up prototypes, test variations, and launch campaigns quickly.
ASP.NET Core tends to move slower in this area because changes are tied closely to backend workflows.
4. Theming and Branding
Next.js plays nicely with CSS variables, Tailwind, and CSS-in-JS. Switching brand palettes, enabling dark mode, or rolling out seasonal designs can be done with little friction.
ASP.NET Core supports theming too, but the workflow is less straightforward for design-driven teams.
5. Performance and Best Practices
Next.js includes SSR, SSG, image optimization, and Core Web Vitals support out of the box. Designers can be confident their work looks sharp while still performing well for users.
ASP.NET Core can be just as fast, but it usually requires more manual setup from the development team.
6. A Broader Ecosystem
React and Next.js are the most widely used front-end tools today. Designers benefit from a huge library of accessible, headless components and modern design-to-code workflows.
ASP.NET Core has a strong developer community, but design-focused resources are fewer and often require extra customization.
"Using React.js and Next.js highlights a major shift in design thinking over the last decade. Instead of working from a page-by-page mindset, designers now focus on building ecosystems of reusable components and creating cohesive digital experiences."
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