What is MERN Stack? (JavaScript All the Way)

If you’re already familiar with JavaScript or planning to stick to just one language for the whole project, the MERN stack is a solid choice. MERN stands for MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js.

Here’s how it works together:

• React handles your frontend UI. You can break your interface into reusable components, which keeps your code organized and easier to maintain.
  
  

• Node.js runs your backend logic. It’s non-blocking and event-driven, so it can handle multiple requests efficiently and it is great for real-time apps.
  
  

• Express.js sits in between, helping handle routes and APIs. You can quickly set up RESTful routes with just a few lines of code, making it beginner-friendly.
  
  

• MongoDB stores your data in a flexible, NoSQL format. You can start building without defining strict schemas, which means faster prototyping and easier updates later.
  
  

The real advantage here? It is the best tech stack for startups because everything runs on JavaScript. You don’t have to switch languages between frontend and backend. This means a smoother development experience, better consistency, and easier debugging.

2. What is FARM Stack? (A Python-Friendly Alternative)

If Python feels more natural to you or you’re just tired of JavaScript everywhere, the FARM stack might be the better fit. It stands for FastAPI, React, and MongoDB.

FastAPI is a modern Python framework tech stack for MVP that makes it incredibly simple to write backend APIs. It’s fast (as the name suggests), supports async operations, and automatically generates interactive docs for your endpoints. Combine that with React and MongoDB, and you’ve got a clean, flexible stack that’s great for shipping MVPs quickly.

We use FARM ourselves for most of our builds at Greyfeathers Studio as it keeps things lean without sacrificing flexibility.

3. What is React + Supabase? (Skip the Backend)

If you're more focused on building the user interface and want to avoid the headache of setting up servers, databases, and authentication systems, Supabase is a solid tech stack for MVP. It is like an open-source alternative to Firebase, but built on trusted backend tools like PostgreSQL.

So, what exactly is Supabase?

Supabase is a backend-as-a-service (BaaS). It gives you a pre-configured backend you can start using right away with no server setup needed. That means you can pair it with React and build full apps without writing backend code. Perfect for solo builders, early MVPs, or anyone who wants to ship faster.

Here’s what you get with Supabase:

• A hosted PostgreSQL database
  PostgreSQL (or "Postgres") is an open-source SQL database known for reliability and advanced features. You can use it to store structured data like users, posts, orders, or anything else your app needs.
  
  

• Built-in authentication
  Supabase makes user sign-up, login, and password reset easy with pre-built APIs. No need to manually set up OAuth, email verification, or security rules.
  
  

• RESTful and real-time APIs
  Your database automatically becomes accessible via APIs. That means you can fetch and update data using simple HTTP requests (RESTful), and even get real-time updates when something changes. This is a great choice for collaborative or live apps.
  
  

• File storage
  Need to let users upload profile pictures or documents? Supabase gives you a way to manage and serve files securely.

  
  

4. How to Host Your App?

Once your app is ready to go live, hosting is another piece of the puzzle. Here's a setup that works well with any of the stacks above:

• Vercel is perfect for a frontend hosting, especially if you’re using React or Next.js. It handles deployment, scaling, and even gives you built-in serverless functions.
  
  

• Render is a great place to host your backend (FastAPI, Node, etc). It’s simple to set up, supports auto-deploys, and scales well for MVPs.
  
  

• You can also look into Fly.io to run services close to your users or Google Cloud Run if you’re already comfortable working with containers.

  
  

So, Which Stack Should You Choose?

That depends on what you’re building and what you’re comfortable with. Here’s a quick guide:

• Go with MERN if you want a unified JavaScript stack
  
  

• Try FARM if Python is important, and also, it is faster to write and test
  
  

• Choose React + Supabase if you want to skip backend complexity
  
  

Remember, you don’t have to get everything perfect the first time. The key is to choose a setup that helps you build, test, and iterate fast to find the best tech stack for your startup without drowning in tech decisions.

Got questions or stuck choosing? Leave a comment or reach out to us at Greyfeathers Studio. We are happy to help.