gluestack-ui is a component library for React Native and Expo that provides copy-pasteable UI components styled with Tailwind CSS through NativeWind.
The library addresses the need for customizable, accessible native components without forcing developers to adopt a pre-packaged dependency model. Instead of installing components as a monolithic package, developers select the specific components they need and copy them directly into their projects. This approach integrates with NativeWind v5 and Tailwind v4 to provide consistent styling across native platforms, includes built-in accessibility features, and supports flexible theming through configuration tokens.
Developers should choose this tool if they want granular control over their component implementations and prefer copying components into their codebase rather than managing external dependencies. The library suits Expo and React Native projects that prioritize customization and have existing Tailwind CSS workflows. It offers particular value for teams already using Expo Router, as the library provides first-class integration with that routing solution. The modular architecture means you avoid importing unused components, keeping bundle size minimal.
The project maintains active development with frequent updates and new component additions. Community support is available through a dedicated Discord channel for questions and feature requests. The team provides comprehensive documentation and migration guides for upgrading between major versions, reflecting ongoing attention to the developer experience.
