Currently, PWA and React Native are two of the most widely used methods for creating cross-platform applications. Since the decision ultimately depends on your unique wants and business objectives, there is no clear winner in this situation.
For instance, individuals use mobile cell phones twice as frequently as desktops and laptops to open website content and consume information. Additionally, the number of consumers choosing mobile phones will continue to soar.
Therefore, it makes sense that the most effectively run businesses use PWAs and React Native Apps to keep ahead of the mobile domain curve.
When conducting a study on the topic, it is reasonable to be confused about which development path would be best for your organization and for your next project. We’ll be exploring the details of each React Native & Progressive web app development program in this post, what they are, their benefits and cons, and how to decide on a development style that might help your organization.
What is Progressive Web App?
Using PWA, you can build web-based apps that offer the same functionality as native apps. Users can install it, and it works the same as ordinary mobile apps, and one can build PWA using Html, CSS, and JavaScript.
One can have the same features and functionalities like offline support, notification, etc., just like native apps. Here are some of the PWA app lists – Starbucks, BMW, Uber, MakeMyTrip, Pinterest, Spotify, etc.
Pros of Progressive Web App Development
- PWA development does not require a large budget.
- One of the pros of progressive web app development is that many resources and money can be developed only once.
- It automatically gets all new features once you update it, no need to do it separately.
- As it is a web-based app, you can rely on SEO.
- It feels, looks, and functions like any other Native app.
- Another significant benefit is that it works offline and in unstable networks.
- There is no need to download it; thus, it takes up a very small portion of the memory of the operating devices.
Cons of PWA Development
- On certain Platforms, it has limited usefulness.
- Fast battery drains because a PWA uses a lot of CPU
- Progressive Web Apps might not have full access to the device’s functionalities like Native Apps do.
Any progressive web app development company can use a solution to increase its digital presence and guarantee a positive user experience. However, given the functionality that a PWA still can’t offer, some businesses may think about creating a Native App. But once more, the choice of solution to use for your business objectives is entirely up to you.
What is React Native?
React Native is an open-source Javascript framework that allows developers to build native applications that run cross-platform. Applications built using this framework can interact with native APIs via reacting UI paradigm and Javascript. It means only using react single code base; the app can be maintained for both platforms (Android or IOS). Native apps example, Skype, Discord, etc.
Pros of React Native App Development
- React Native App works by utilizing the gadget’s built-in characteristics, making them quick. Mobile Apps that require a lot of processing power will still run smoothly.
- Even after, downloading the apps is simple and only requires one click. Additionally, the stores thoroughly examine the apps before approving them.
- Native apps don’t necessarily need the internet, and the way they work is offline.
- An operating system for the device is directly connected to a native app. As a result, these characteristics are efficiently utilized by native apps to provide a better user experience.
Cons of Native App Development
- The total expense associated with creating and maintaining a native app is significantly higher.
- A native app requires different programmers for every platform, which makes the process challenging.
- The creation of native apps for numerous channels takes longer to complete. Compared to its alternatives, native apps may take much longer to create.
Detail Comparison of PWA vs. React Native Apps 2022
Description
- It is important to note that native apps are designed for specific operating systems (built separately for Android and IOS)
- PWA is a website-like application with features & functionalities.
Installation
- Native needs to be downloaded from Google play store/ Apple store for a particular device.
- In PWA no need for installation; just add it on the home screen.
Offline Working
- In most cases, native applications work offline, depending on the application type.
- Pwa works in an offline mode, thanks to caching.
Updates
- It is the users and businesses who make updates.
- Changes are automated and immediate without worry for the end user.
Time to market
- It takes longer to develop and market native apps.
- PWA takes less development time and is accessible to the market.
Resources and development cost
- One needs a specific team for native app development. So, the development cost is high.
- No need for separate or dedicated teams leads to less progressive web app development costs.
Promotion
- In the native app, it is done through ASA/ASO
- PWA is Seo-friendly.
Security
- Additional safety protections depend on a structure and control that are built-in.
- Progressive web app development is HTTPS encrypted.
Inter-app communication
- In native apps, inter-app communication is possible.
- In this, inter-app communication is not available.
PWA vs. React Native: 5 Questions to help you decide in 2022.
What is your ultimate goal: want to be mobile-focused or want to target large audiences?
If you want to target mobile-specific (Android or IOS), then react native is the most suitable option. Suppose your objective is to target a larger group of people. In that case, progressive web app development is an ideal choice because it provides web-based app solutions.
What’s your preference? Would you go for the lowest-cost options for your development team?
Progressive Web App wins here because the solutions are developed for one time only using Html, Javascript & CSS., and it works flawlessly. Providing updates, it will automatically add new features and functionalities to the web app. Do you know how to build PWA app for yourself? If not, take the help of an expert.
Do you want the best User Interface Responsiveness and performance?
In this scenario, the ideal option is react native app development. React Native takes advantage of the native UI controls for iOS and Android, allowing the use of the platform controls in combination with a non-HTML UI layer for quick performance.
The interactions in a PWA will always be a little clumsy. For example, the graphics are not so detailed, multitouch will be a little less reactive, and there won’t be any multithreading. It means your interactions will always clash with other features of the app.
What skills do you and your development team possess?
In order to teach others how to use new technology, you have to pay a lot of money. When you want to create a great user experience with PWAs and React Native, you’ll have steep learning curves (particularly at the last mile), so be sure to take this into consideration.
Is your app designed for a group of consumers or particular businesses in mind?
Consumer apps frequently require a high level of aesthetic polish, which favors React Native because it allows you to leverage native UI controls. Even though enterprise applications should have amazing visuals, this is not always a differential. However, the majority of enterprise applications do not have alternatives. A decent PWA app development with (alternatively) proper offline functionality might satisfy the majority of company requirements.
What to pick, React Native or a PWA?
Given the many benefits of both Native Apps and PWAs, you must consider all aspects and select the best path depending on your current business plan and available resources. React Native Apps and PWAs are both equally important to businesses of all sizes, from startups to rapidly expanding companies.
It is preferable to choose a PWA when you require a quick and affordable solution. On the other hand, a PWA might not offer the necessary performance level or include all the functionality of the device. Perhaps you should consider developing a Native App if this is the case. Otherwise, it is possible to produce both to increase your audience and provide a better user experience. Be sure to reach out to a professional & experienced web application development company if you still have questions or concerns. In order to develop a web app, they will assist you with selecting the right technologies.