Dev.to
7/17/2026

The original headline is about Server Components vs Client Components for Vite developers transitioning to Next.js App Router.
Original: Server Components vs Client Components: The Mental Model Shift Every Vite Developer Needs
Short summary
A guide for Vite developers transitioning to Next.js App Router, explaining the mental model shift from client-first to server-first components. Server Components execute exclusively on the server with zero bundle impact and direct backend access, while Client Components handle interactivity. The key strategy is pushing 'use client' directives to the leaves of the component tree to maximize server-side execution.
- •Server Components run only on the server with zero bundle impact and direct DB access
- •Adding 'use client' everywhere defeats the purpose and recreates a slow Vite app
- •Push Client Components to the leaves of your component tree for optimal performance
Generated with AI, which can make mistakes.
Is this a good recommendation for you?



