The answer
Start with the CDN for the first few lessons to understand what React and ReactDOM do, then switch to a bundler. The CDN focuses on concepts; the bundler is needed for any real project.
React via CDN vs via Bundler: Which Should Beginners Use?
Should I learn React with a CDN or a bundler?
More FAQs in React via CDN vs via Bundler: Which Should Beginners Use?
Only by adding Babel in the browser, which compiles JSX at runtime. It works for learning but is slow and not how production works. A bundler compiles JSX at build time, which is far better.
The CDN does not support clean JSX, file splitting, or npm packages. Staying on it teaches habits that do not transfer to real projects and leaves you unable to set up a proper React app.
As soon as you understand basic rendering and createRoot. After that, the CDN becomes painful because you cannot use JSX cleanly or install packages, so switch to a bundler like Parcel or Vite.
Still have questions?
Browse all our FAQs or reach out to our support team
Want to upskill yourself?
Your learning library
Small steps. Big possibilities.
Find your next course. Build something great.