PWA vs Native App and how to choose between them (2024)

FAQs

PWA vs Native App and how to choose between them? ›

PWAs are more accessible than native apps, as they can be accessed on any device with a web browser. Native apps, on the other hand, are limited to a particular platform and require users to download and install the app before they can use it. This means that PWAs can reach a wider audience than native apps.

Universal compatibility

The main difference between a progressive web app and a native app is that PWAs adapt to various operating systems and screen sizes. Unlike native apps, you can open a PWA on iOS, Android, Windows, or any OS – they will offer a great user experience regardless of the device.

Fewer functionalities

Not all functionalities of the device can be used (for example, you cannot access contacts, calendar, Bluetooth or NFC). When your application has to make intensive use of the hardware of the device, it is often wiser to choose a native application instead of a PWA.

If you want to build an app that works on both Android and iOS without having to maintain two separate codebases, a hybrid mobile app is the way to go. Hybrid apps are built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and then wrapped in a native shell to access device features.

The main difference between PWA and native app is that progressive web apps are web-based and can run on any platform with a modern web browser, while native apps are platform-specific and provide a more optimized experience on a specific platform like iOS or Android.

Limited discoverability: PWA is not widely available on app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store. Security risks: PWAs are vulnerable to cyberattacks and may require additional security measures to protect user data.

Today, native apps remain an essential part of the mobile app ecosystem, but PWA has become more pronounced in the software industry. Both PWA and native apps are not mutually exclusive. The former is not designed to supersede the latter.

One of the main concerns is performance. Hybrid apps typically load in a browser-like component called WebView, which may result in slower performance compared to native apps. This could impact user experience, particularly in applications where speed is paramount. Another limitation is the compromise on customization.

To decide, evaluate your app's nature, UI significance, and specific hardware requirements. If your app requires extensive hardware access and a highly customized UX, native mobile app development can potentially be the best option.

Examples of brands using a hybrid app include Amazon App Store, Gmail, and Yelp.

What is the difference between PWA and native 2024? ›

Both PWA and Native Apps can function offline, but the methods for storage and access may vary. PWAs often utilize Service Workers and the Cache API, which are typically more complex than their native app counterparts. Native Apps usually offer better performance since they are optimized for their specific platform.

Safari is the only browser that fully supports PWAs on iOS, meaning users must use it to install and run these apps effectively. Other browsers, like Chrome and Firefox, can display PWAs, but they lack essential features like push notifications and background sync because they are required to use Apple's WebKit engine.

PWAs, or Progressive Web Apps, are web applications that offer app-like experiences, while React Native is a framework for building native mobile applications using JavaScript and React. PWAs are accessed through a web browser, whereas React Native apps are installed on a device like a native app.

Native applications give better performance when compared to web apps. They are faster, more responsive, and more interactive.

To illustrate, if you are using a desktop browser, the PWA will function as a standard internet site. But if you open a PWA on an Android or iOS device, you get a functional hybrid of a website and an app. Twitter, Uber, Starbucks, Pinterest are popular examples of PWA you might be familiar with.

The most significant advantages of a PWA are its speed, the ability to work offline, and accessibility directly from the browser.

In 2024, saying PWA is just a temporary fix for a startup isn't right. It's not only a fast, cheap way to get an app which helps bridge the gap until better times while earning and investing in building "real" apps. In fact, PWA can cover all business needs without losses.