What is Redwood.js? Features, Pros, Cons, Installation & FAQs

Redwood.js is a full-stack JavaScript/TypeScript framework designed for building modern web applications with React on the frontend and GraphQL APIs on the backend. It’s heavily inspired by Ruby on Rails, aiming to bring the same productivity and developer happiness to the JavaScript ecosystem.

If you’ve been looking for a framework that ties together frontend, backend, and database into one cohesive experience, Redwood.js might be the perfect choice.

Key Features of Redwood.js

• Full-Stack Framework: Includes React (frontend), GraphQL API (backend), and Prisma (database).
• Cells Concept: Simplifies data fetching in React by managing loading, empty, and error states automatically.
• Prisma Integration: Built-in ORM support for relational databases like PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQLite.
• Serverless-Ready: First-class support for serverless deployment on platforms like Netlify and Vercel.
• TypeScript Support: Works seamlessly with TypeScript for better type safety.
• Built-in Authentication: Provides out-of-the-box auth integrations (Auth0, Netlify Identity, etc.).
• Routing Made Simple: Easy file-based routing similar to Next.js.

Pros of Redwood.js

• All-in-one: No need to manually connect React, GraphQL, and Prisma.
• Productivity Boost: Inspired by Rails, provides code generators and scaffolding.
• Great for Startups: Quickly go from prototype to production.
• Serverless-First: Perfect for JAMstack and modern deployments.
• Community-Driven: Backed by a growing community and contributors.

Cons of Redwood.js

• Still evolving: Not as mature as Next.js or Meteor.js.
• Steep learning curve if you’re new to GraphQL or Prisma.
• Limited ecosystem compared to older frameworks.
• Opinionated structure (you must follow Redwood’s way of building apps).

Installation: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how you can set up a Redwood.js project from scratch,

1. Install Node.js

Make sure you have Node.js (v16 or higher) installed.

If not installed, download Node.js.

2. Install Yarn (Required)

Redwood.js uses Yarn as its package manager.

3. Create a New Redwood App

Use Yarn to create your Redwood project:

This will scaffold a full-stack app with React + GraphQL + Prisma.

4. Navigate to Your App

5. Start the Development Server

Your Redwood app will now be running at http://localhost:8910.

Conclusion