MkSaaS vs ShipFast
ShipFast is the proven indie-hacker starter with 8,100+ makers and flexible JS/TS routing; MkSaaS is the more feature-packed Next.js boilerplate if you want built-in AI features, i18n, and docs out of the box.
MkSaaS and ShipFast are both Next.js SaaS boilerplates aimed at shipping AI products fast. ShipFast, by Marc Lou, is the widely adopted indie standard with Stripe, auth, email, and SEO baked in. MkSaaS adds a broader feature set including i18n, blog, docs, shadcn UI, and AI-specific modules for teams who want more scaffolding upfront.
Side-by-side comparison
| Dimension | MkSaaS | ShipFast |
|---|---|---|
| Stack | Next.js + shadcn + BetterAuth | Next.js (app or pages router) |
| Payments | Stripe integration | Stripe and Lemon Squeezy |
| Differentiator | AI features, i18n, blog, and docs | Proven indie ecosystem and simplicity |
| Community proof | 550+ makers | 8,100+ makers |
| Best for | Feature-rich AI SaaS from day one | Fast MVP launches |
MkSaaS strengths
AI Coding
- More built-in modules (i18n, blog, docs, AI)
- Modern shadcn UI component stack
- Good when you want fewer gaps in the template
Choose MkSaaS if: Choose MkSaaS when you already know you need internationalization, content pages, docs, and AI modules included rather than assembling them yourself.
ShipFast strengths
AI Coding
- Larger maker community and social proof
- Flexible router choice and payment providers
- Battle-tested for fast indie launches
Choose ShipFast if: Choose ShipFast when you want the most proven indie boilerplate path to a shippable MVP with minimal decision fatigue.
Frequently asked questions
Is MkSaaS or ShipFast better for a first SaaS?
ShipFast is often the easier first choice because of its larger community and simpler scope. MkSaaS is better if you already know you need a fuller feature set from launch.
Do both support Stripe payments?
Yes. Both include Stripe integration. ShipFast also supports Lemon Squeezy out of the box.
Which is better for AI SaaS specifically?
MkSaaS explicitly markets AI feature modules in the boilerplate. ShipFast is widely used for AI tools too but leaves more AI integration choices to you.
Is MkSaaS or ShipFast better?
ShipFast is the proven indie-hacker starter with 8,100+ makers and flexible JS/TS routing; MkSaaS is the more feature-packed Next.js boilerplate if you want built-in AI features, i18n, and docs out of the box.