React Router v7 vs A La Pieter Levels Stack

React Router v7

VPS

The official React routing library, now evolved into a full-stack framework. React Router v7 represents the merger with Remix, bringing data loading patterns that eliminate waterfalls and keep your UI in sync with your URLs. Loaders fetch data before rendering, actions handle mutations, and the router manages pending/optimistic states automatically. Nested routes enable parallel data loading and isolated error boundaries. Type-safe links catch broken routes at build time. Compared to Next.js, React Router offers a more explicit data flow with loaders/actions and tighter Remix-style conventions. It's particularly strong for apps with complex forms and frequent user interactions.

A La Pieter Levels Stack

VPS (PHP)

The indie hacker's PHP stack popularized by Pieter Levels, creator of Nomad List, Remote OK, and Photo AI. This deliberately simple LAMP-style architecture has powered multiple million-dollar bootstrapped products. No build step, no JavaScript framework, no complex deployment—just PHP files served directly. SQLite for the database, jQuery for interactivity where needed, and vanilla CSS. The entire stack fits in a single developer's head. This approach challenges modern web development complexity. It demonstrates that successful products don't require cutting-edge frameworks—they require shipping. Perfect for solo founders and rapid prototyping.