When you create a WordPress Gutenberg block using React, it behaves a bit differently compared to a standalone React app. Here’s a detailed explanation to clarify how a Gutenberg block works and how it compares to a typical React front-end application:

How Gutenberg Blocks Work

1. Frontend vs Backend Context:

React in Gutenberg: React is used to define how the block behaves in the editor (backend). It's embedded in the WordPress admin dashboard where you build the post/page using the block editor.

Frontend Behavior: When you save a Gutenberg block, WordPress serializes its state into HTML and JSON attributes, which are stored in the post content (post_content in the database). On the front end, the saved HTML renders directly unless server-side rendering is applied.

2. Block Rendering Process:

In the block editor (backend), React manages the UI, state, and interactions.

On the front end, the saved HTML output is displayed. If you want dynamic front-end behavior, you can attach additional scripts or make API calls.

When to Use Gutenberg vs React App

Use Gutenberg Blocks when

You want to integrate directly with WordPress’s block editor. You’re building components for content creation. You need to rely on WordPress's built-in functionality and APIs.

Use a React App when:

You need full control over the frontend experience. You want a highly interactive, standalone application. You are building something that doesn’t depend on WordPress.

Why React for WordPress?

• Reusability: React makes it easy to create reusable components (blocks) that can be dropped into any post or page.
• Interactivity: Blocks can be interactive, allowing for advanced features (e.g., live previews, custom controls).
• Declarative UI: React's declarative nature fits well with the block editor's need to manage dynamic layouts and previews.
• Extensibility: React allows developers to easily extend and customize the editor interface with custom panels, toolbars, and more.

Normal Custom Block vs React-Based Custom Block :

• Normal Custom Blocks are great for simple, static, and lightweight use cases.
• React-Based Custom Blocks shine when you need dynamic behavior, interactivity, or reusable components.

In most modern WordPress development scenarios, React is the preferred choice due to its flexibility and alignment with Gutenberg's architecture. It may have a steeper learning curve, but the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for complex and interactive blocks.

In summary, Gutenberg blocks provide a blend of React-based development for the editor and WordPress’s templating for the front end. You can make blocks behave like React apps by adding frontend interactivity, API calls, or dynamic server-side rendering. However, remember that Gutenberg is designed primarily for content creation within WordPress, so its behavior is optimized for that context. Let me know if you'd like examples of specific patterns! 😊