Is Redux Still Relevant in 2025? Comparing React Query and Zustand

Introduction

In 2025, many developers find themselves asking if Redux is still a good choice for state management. With new tools like React Query and Zustand coming into play, it's crucial to look at how these options compare. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. This article helps you make the best choice for your projects.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the differences, let’s quickly go over what these tools do.

Redux: A predictable state container for JavaScript apps. It helps manage state in a centralized way, making it easy to debug and test.
React Query: A library for fetching, caching, and updating data in React applications. It simplifies data handling, especially for server-state.
Zustand: A small, fast state management tool that allows you to create global state stores without boilerplate code.

Redux: Still a Solid Option?

Redux has been around for a while and has a large community and many resources. It is well-supported with middleware and tools that make it flexible for various needs.

However, Redux requires a bit more setup. You have to write reducers and actions, which can make the code verbose. Developers have found that it might not always be necessary for all applications. If you are building a simple app, Redux might feel like overkill.

Introducing React Query

React Query changes the way we work with server data. Instead of manually fetching and storing data, React Query handles that for you. It automatically fetches data when components mount and keeps it updated. This can save you a lot of time and effort.

One of its key features is caching. React Query caches the data, so your app does not keep fetching the same data repeatedly. This can lead to quicker load times and a smoother user experience. If your application heavily relies on server data, React Query might be the better choice.

What About Zustand?

Zustand is a newer player in the state management arena. It aims to be simple and lightweight. With Zustand, you can create a global store easily without a lot of boilerplate code. This makes it attractive for developers who want to keep their code clean and easy to follow.

The way Zustand works allows you to share state across different components without needing to pass props down manually. This can make your components clearer, and you spend less time on state management.

Comparing Features

Let's break down how these tools compare across different features:

Setup:
- Redux requires more setup and configuration.
- React Query is straightforward to integrate for fetching data.
- Zustand has minimal setup, making it easy to start using.
Data Management:
- Redux handles local state well but can be complex for server data.
- React Query excels at managing server state, automating caching and refetching.
- Zustand can manage local state effectively but lacks built-in server state handling.
Performance:
- Redux can slow down with a large state tree due to frequent updates.
- React Query boosts performance by minimizing unnecessary data fetches.
- Zustand is fast and lightweight, as it only updates components that use the state.

When to Use Each Tool

Choosing the right tool depends on your project needs.

If you are working on a large application with complex state management needs, Redux can still be valuable due to its strong community and ecosystem.
For applications that rely heavily on server data, go with React Query. It will save you time and reduce the complexity of fetching and managing that data.
For smaller applications or when you want to keep things simple, Zustand is a great option. It's easy to use, and you won't have to deal with excess code.

Final Thoughts

So, is Redux still relevant in 2025? Yes, but it depends on what you need. React Query and Zustand offer different approaches to state management that can be excellent alternatives. Think about the specific needs of your project and choose the tool that fits best.

In the end, every developer has different preferences and workflows. The right choice is the one that helps you build your app effectively and efficiently.