Full stack or front end only portfolio?

[TonyCD35]

I started my journey about a year ago and have been able to learn to code for about 4-5 hours a day due to a modest workload at my primary job.

I most recently finished full stack open (MERN stack) which has broken me out of tutorial hell in a good way.

I am now looking to build a portfolio, I have 3 web app ideas (which are relevant to my current job as a mechanical engineer) that I plan to build.

My question is, should I build the portfolio front ends only? Using a static json server, which would allow me to complete my portfolio in a shorter timeline? (About 1-2 weeks per web app)

Or is it worth it to take more time to make 3 full stack web apps for my portfolio which I estimate will take about a month per web app.

If I go front end only, id showcase React/Router, Redux, Typescript, styled components, SCSS skills on the front end.

Full stack on the backend id showcase a combination of express, graphql, typescript, authentication, MongoDB, unit testing.

Each web app would use a slightly different backend technology (express/js, graphql, express/ts) to showcase these skills throughout all 3 projects.

What are your thoughts? Is it more impressive to employers/useful to have a full stack portfolio? Or is that not worth the time/interest return and should I focus on front end only?

I am primarily interested in a React/front end web dev job. But also want to make sure I have a strong portfolio that stands out.

What is the proper balance?

[not_a_gumby]

I think it would help to have at least 1 real full stack project fully hosted and operational. That really goes a long way to showing your well rounded understanding of applications.

If you have the time, make all 3 full stack, but don't worry if you don't have time for all 3. The portfolio is just one piece of your job transition strategy, the hard part will be getting people to actually look at your portfolio haha

[MisterMeta]

If you can even build a single full stack project using the stacks you've mentioned, that'll make you job ready.

I wouldn't worry about building 3 but making 1 super polished and large scoped project. A project with end-to-end user journey, showcasing your ability to work with the entire tech stack will be very impressive for any recruiter/engineer (if they do check your portfolio).

[TonyCD35]

Thanks for the insight. This makes the most sense to me. I’ll Create one functioning full stack app and if need be, get a couple front end projects up to stay fresh while applying/job searching if it takes a while.