Should I Build a Native App or a Web App?
Here are some pros and cons.
This topic is the web’s form of self-torment. There are camps. There are debates. There are major companies that can’t decide.
Ultimately, the best decision is based on your business goals as each platform is uniquely qualified for different situations.
OK, now let’s contrast and compare…
Native Apps (iOS & Android)
PROS:
- performance-tuned for a particular device ✓
- design consistent across device manufacturer ecosystem ✓
- statefulness (i.e., users remain logged in) ✓
- direct access to device hardware functionality (e.g., camera, etc.) ✓
- offline support with unlimited file storage space ✓
- better security ✓
- push notifications ✓
CONS:
- deployment requires approval with unknown timeframe ✗
- maintaining compatibility with OS updates ✗
- no SEO ✗
Web Apps (Chrome, Safari, etc.)
PROS:
- unlimited UX and visual design options ✓
- accessible to far more users for less effort ✓
- supports a wide range of screen sizes and devices ✓
- changes and new features deployed immediately ✓
- SEO-friendly ✓
CONS:
- not in App Store ✗
- potentially confusing and non-native navigation controls ✗
- requires opening browser app, knowing URL, and login info ✗
- QA testing on a wide range of screen sizes and devices ✗
- storage space limited and requires user input ✗
- limited offline support ✗
Some thoughts about the obvious missing item: COST.
Cost is dependent on who is building the app, not on the technology.
Some argue that native apps cost more since you have to build specifically for many different devices. That is true; however, we find that clients don’t often require iOS and Android and Windows Phone and etc. in their strategy. There are huge differences between OSs, including functionality, device fragmentation, UI design, and even the demographics and culture of the user base.
The initial target is usually just one OS.
On one side, native app developers typically charge more by the hour; however, as a result of the hundreds of devices on which Web Apps are accessible, they require significantly more QA and infrastructure. Especially now, with the advent of React Native, we can provide true native app development at a vastly lower cost than traditional shops.
As always, if you’re looking for someone to speak a little more with about your app, we’d be delighted. :)
Author: Dennis Plucinik,
Founder, ATTCK
About ATTCK: We’re an NYC-based digital agency that specializes in web and native app design and development. We work with companies of all sizes from startups to Fortune 500s. If you’re looking for an agency to work with, give us a call at (917) 725-0044 or email us at hello@attck.com.
