Choosing the right app type can be confusing if you need to build an app for the first time for your business. You will find different types of apps available, such as native apps, PWAs, and hybrid apps. It would become difficult to consider which one is better for you without a comprehensive understanding.
Web development services help developers create a perfect solution according to the client’s demands. We will focus on two of the most common types in this guide, native apps and PWAs. People have been comparing them for years because both have strong benefits and some drawbacks.
What is a PWA?
A Progressive Web App is an adaptable web application that incorporates some of the best web and mobile app features. Developers make progressive web apps to work across several platforms.
PWAs have the capability of loading instantly in a web browser for immediate use. You can also add a PWA as an icon to the home screen of your mobile device.
What are Native Apps?
A native mobile app refers to the software created for a specific operating system like iOS or Android. The development of these apps uses native programming languages and tools of the operating system. This allows the app to enjoy the full software and hardware strength of the mobile device. They use a camera, push notifications, an accelerometer, a GPS function, and others.
Native apps can offer a smoother and quicker experience to users. Developers design and create native apps for a specific operating system of the phone. Native apps can use everything on your phone. Several native apps work without the availability of an internet connection. You can go to the App Store to download a native app that normally demands regular updates.
Native and Progressive Apps: Main Difference
You need to analyze the development and functionalities of native and PWAs before making a decision. It will allow you to understand the main differences between these apps.
1. Which One Costs More to Build?
You should go with a PWA if you have a small budget or little time because PWAs are cheaper. A PWA takes less time and costs less because you only need to build one version of the app. It works everywhere.
2. The Development Process
The development process is a major difference between native apps and PWAs. A web development company designs PWAs to run inside a web browser. PWA apps work on devices running different operating systems using web technologies.
However, developers created native apps for devices running specific operating systems. They use native programming languages to develop two apps for different platforms.
3. Distribution of these Apps
PWAs offer simple distribution when we compare them with Native apps. You create multiple versions of your native app for different operating systems. You do not need to install or upload an app package for PWAs.
You will experience complications when you get your apps on these stores. They normally set strict technical requirements and ethical guidelines before publishing the app. To make your app more visible, you should invest in App Store optimization.
4. Trust and Security
Users need a web browser and a URL to access a progressive web app. All online stores prevent developers from releasing poor-quality apps to users. In contrast, PWAs don’t have a centralized review process. User trust is therefore placed directly on the credibility of the brand and the security of its website (indicated by HTTPS), rather than on the endorsement of an app store.
People often trust apps from the App Store more because:
- They go through a strict review process.
- Apple and Google check for quality and safety.
5. The Performance
Developers create separate apps for Android and iOS devices to grasp their full potential. Native apps amazingly provide smooth performance. The performance of a PWA relies on the quality of its underlying technology.
Professional website design and development ensure the application is built with a responsive interface that is lightweight and fast-loading in the user’s browser. However, its performance is dependent on the user’s browser and the efficiency of the underlying code. PWAs feel lightweight because they don’t require a large initial download like native apps, offering a user experience that bridges the gap between a website and a traditional app.
6. Offline Functionality
The possibility of working offline has become an impressive strength of native apps. Without an internet connection, users can use some app functions and basic information of many web apps.
PWAs can offer robust offline functionality. Using modern web technologies, they can cache the core application and user data, allowing users to access key features and content even without an internet connection.
How Do People Find and Use the App?
Native App:
- Must go to the App Store or Play Store
- Search for the app
- Download it
- Install it
- Open it
This is the normal process for using apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, or Uber.
PWA:
- Just go to a website link
- Add it to your home screen (optional)
- Tap to open it like an app
- No downloads
- No waiting
- No app store rules.
What would you select: Native or PWA?
PWAs and Native apps have their specific benefits and disadvantages. You should consider the aspects of each option when selecting between them.
You should pick a PWA if:
- You want to save money.
- You want to launch quickly.
- Your app is simple.
When Should You Choose a Native App?
You should choose a native app if:
- You want your app in the App Store.
- You need it to work offline.
- You want strong security.
- You need to use phone tools like the camera or location.
- You want a smooth and fast experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no single ‘best’ choice between PWAs and native apps. The right decision depends entirely on your project’s specific goals, budget, and required functionality. PWAs excel in accessibility, speed to market, and cross-platform compatibility, making them a fantastic choice for many businesses. Native apps remain unbeatable for performance-intensive tasks, deep hardware integration, and providing the premium, seamless experience users expect from top-tier applications.
To choose wisely, you must weigh the distinct advantages of each against your unique business needs and engage with a reliable web development agency like DataOnMatrix. This will allow you to learn more about the PWA creation process. Our experts will help you begin your native or PWA app development project. You will also find how the PWA development process offers considerable benefits.
