Mobile apps are a popular choice, offering convenience and enhanced user engagement. However, when it comes to developing an app, you face a critical decision: should you go for the Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) or should you opt for Native Apps?
Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we’ll describe the differences, weigh the pros and cons, and explain which option is right for your company.
What Are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?
PWAs are applications that function like mobile applications, but they can be accessed through the internet browser. They are a blend of conventional websites and always-on, rich-client native applications that can operate offline, deliver push notifications, and access native device capabilities.
What Are Native Apps?
Native apps, on the other hand, are those that are built for single operating systems, i.e., iOS, Android, or other built-in systems. They are acquired from app stores, and Cart has the liberty of utilizing most of the capabilities of the device, such as the camera, GPS, and accelerometer.
Key Differences Between PWAs and Native Apps
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Development and Cost
PWAs:
- Creating a single code base allows for the systems to be developed at a lower cost since there are only a few different platforms to accommodate.
- Developers use web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Maintenance is easy because updates are made to the server and not the app stores.
Native Apps:
- Separate development for each platform (iOS and Android), leading to higher costs.
- Developed using platform-dependent programming languages such as Swift for iOS application development and Kotlin for Android application development.
- Updates need to be reviewed, which adds time and makes the process more complicated since the application needs to be approved by the app store.
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Performance
PWAs:
- A hair slower than native apps because they are executed through the layer of browser.
- It is perfect for basic application usage but not suited for heavy operations or serious application problems.
Native Apps:
- Especially designed for corresponding platforms, providing enhanced online speed and efficiency.
- The best option for using apps that have an intensive workload, for example, game or augmented reality apps.
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User Experience
PWAs:
- Provide a seamless app-like experience but are still limited by browser capabilities.
- Due to the runtime environment, they work on all devices but do not perfectly fit in with the operating system of the respective device.
Native Apps:
- Provide a professional and engaging service across the board relevant to each site.
- More interaction with the device’s built-in features, including camera, GPS system, and sensors.
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Accessibility and Reach
PWAs:
- Designed to become available on the Internet and may be launched directly through a browser without the use of application stores.
- Best suited for companies that want to reach many users, especially if the clients are in areas that have limited device memory or slowed Internet connection.
Native Apps:
- Limit app usage through passwords where users must download the app to complete the processes required.
- Most suitable for businesses that target a specific demographic of users that can be relied upon to generate large turnover.
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Offline Functionality
PWAs:
- Put into use service workers in order to enhance offline functionality to only cover some of its features and contents.
- Ideal for companies that only require little offline interaction.
Native Apps:
- Depends on how they are designed but completely offline-ccapable.
- Perfect for applications where navigation is offline, for instance, games and personal productivity applications.
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Push Notifications
PWAs:
- Support push notifications on most browsers, though there may be limitations on iOS.
- Engaging users once more without having to invest in a fully fledged native app.
Native Apps:
- Offer robust and customizable push notification features.
- A perfect fit for any organization that seeks to maximize the levels of user engagement.
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Distribution
PWAs:
- It doesn’t require users to go through the app store; users can just add it to the home screen of their device.
- It is easier and faster to deploy updates and patches than traditional desktop-based installations.
Native Apps:
- Require app store submissions and approvals, which can delay deployment.
- Most of apps Top-ranking apps usually have an increased download rate once they gain visibility in app stores once the owners have optimized on them.
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SEO and Discoverability
PWAs:
- Can be easily optimized for searches and therefore easily accessible by search engine browsers through sites’ organic searches.
- Well suitable for companies mostly selling their products through the web.
Native Apps:
- To achieve this need for discoverability, app store optimization (ASO) is necessary.
- Lower visibility than PWAs, which operate outside the app store environment.
When to Choose PWAs
PWAs are a great choice if:
- You want to reach a broad audience with a single codebase.
- Your budget is limited, but you need an app-like experience.
- SEO and web discoverability are critical for your business.
- Offline functionality is important but not extensive.
Example Use Cases: Retail shops, social media, and written media.
When to Choose Native Apps
Native apps are ideal if:
- You require high performance and new additional functionalities.
- You are focusing on traffic from the specific platforms and offering them the best experience.
- Your app relies heavily on hardware integration, like GPS or the camera.
- You plan to monetize through app stores.
Example Use Cases: Gaming apps, fitness trackers, and financial tools.
The Best of Both Worlds
Occasionally, it is preferable to begin with a PWA and create a native application as the organization’s audience expands. Use this method for you to begin with little capital investment and only scale up after finding that the idea works.
Final Thoughts
PWA and Native apps are two different things that still coexist in a world-wide web environment. This is entirely dependent on your business objectives, your wallet, and the market you are targeting, as well as the features that you will require for your online store. Considering these factors will enable one to determine which option suits the laid-down strategy.
How Precisio Technologies Can Help
At Precisio Technologies, we specialize in developing both PWA and Native Apps, depending on business requirements. We will help you to decide which of the suitable solutions will be the most effective to reach your objectives and captivate the audience. Contact us today to start your journey to improving your fitness and being healthy.