reactjs – Should I Use Next.js or Only React for a MERN Stack Application?

I’m building a MERN (MongoDB, Express, React, Node.js) stack application and considering using Next.js for the frontend. However, I’m facing some challenges as a beginner, such as understanding the difference between server-side and client-side components, managing API routes vs. an Express backend, handling authentication, connecting to MongoDB properly, dealing with CORS issues, and choosing the right data-fetching methods. I also need guidance on deployment strategies. What are the best practices for integrating Next.js into a MERN stack project?

I started building a MERN stack application and considered using Next.js for the frontend. I set up API routes in Next.js but was unsure whether to use them or stick with an Express backend. I also tried connecting MongoDB within Next.js API routes but wasn’t sure if that’s the right approach. Additionally, I faced CORS issues when making requests from the frontend to the backend.
I want to know whether Next.js is a suitable choice for a MERN stack application or if it’s better to use React without Next.js