What are the drawbacks of Clean Architecture?
Updated Apr 28, 2026
Short answer
Increased complexity, boilerplate code, and initial development time.
Deep explanation
Clean Architecture requires many files (Mappers, DTOs, Interfaces, Use Cases). For a simple CRUD app, this can be overkill and feel like 'over-engineering'. It also requires a high level of discipline from the team to maintain the boundaries.
Real-world example
A startup building a MVP might find CA too slow, whereas a bank building a core system would find it essential.
Common mistakes
- Applying CA to tiny microservices that only have one or two simple functions.
Follow-up questions
- How can you reduce boilerplate?