Mobile App vs Web App

Understanding Your Options

Web Application

Runs in a web browser on any device. No installation required.

Native Mobile App

Built specifically for iOS or Android. Downloaded from app stores.

Hybrid/Cross-Platform App

Single codebase that runs on both iOS and Android (React Native, Flutter).

Progressive Web App (PWA)

Web app with mobile app-like features. Installable, works offline.

Web Application

Advantages

• Works on any device with a browser
• Single codebase to maintain
• Updates instantly for all users
• No app store approval process
• Lower development cost
• Easier to find via search engines

Limitations

• Limited access to device features
• Requires internet connection
• Can't send push notifications (without PWA)
• Not in app stores (less discoverable for consumers)

Best For

• Business applications used primarily at a desk
• Applications with complex data entry
• Internal tools and portals
• Applications where SEO matters

Native Mobile App

Advantages

• Best performance and user experience
• Full access to device features (camera, GPS, sensors)
• Works offline
• Push notifications
• App store presence

Limitations

• Separate development for iOS and Android
• Higher development and maintenance cost
• App store approval required
• Users must download and update

Best For

• Consumer applications
• Applications requiring device hardware
• Gaming and media applications
• Applications used primarily on mobile

Hybrid/Cross-Platform

Advantages

• Single codebase for iOS and Android
• Lower cost than two native apps
• Good device feature access
• App store presence

Limitations

• Performance slightly less than native
• Some device features may require native code
• Dependency on framework (React Native, Flutter)

Best For

• Mobile apps that don't need maximum performance
• Budget-conscious mobile projects
• Applications that need both iOS and Android

Progressive Web App (PWA)

Advantages

• Web app that feels like a mobile app
• Installable on home screen
• Works offline
• Push notifications
• Single codebase

Limitations

• Limited iOS support for some features
• Not all device features accessible
• Not in app stores (though workarounds exist)

Best For

• Businesses that want mobile features without native cost
• Content-focused applications
• E-commerce and service applications

Decision Framework

Choose Web App When:

• Users will primarily access on desktop/laptop
• You need to support many device types
• Budget is limited
• You don't need device hardware features

Choose Native Mobile When:

• Performance and UX are critical
• You need device hardware (camera, GPS, sensors)
• Your audience expects app store presence
• Offline functionality is essential

Choose Hybrid When:

• You need both iOS and Android
• Budget doesn't allow two native apps
• Performance requirements are moderate

Choose PWA When:

• You want mobile features on a web budget
• Your audience primarily uses Android
• You want a single codebase