PWA or native app – which to choose when developing mobile apps?

Both technologies – PWA and native apps – have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right option depends on the requirements and needs of the application and its users. The purpose of this article is to provide a comparison of PWAs and native applications in terms of functionality, cost and availability to help you choose the right option for your application.

Nowadays, there are more and more users of mobile apps, therefore it is important for developers and enterprises to know the difference between Progressive Web App (PWA) and native mobile app development. Our team has extensive experience in the mobile application development, supported by many implemented projects, hence the desire to pay attention to the parameters underlying the selection of the optimal solution.

Application availability

PWA’s mobile apps can be accessed via a web viewer, which means you don’t have to download and install them on your device. Simply go to the appropriate website and use the application right away. Native apps, on the other hand, require downloading from an official app store (such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and then installing them on the device.

Integration with operating system vs. speed of operation

Native apps are better integrated with the device’s operating system, allowing them to take advantage of additional features and tools, such as access to the camera, GPS and push notifications. PWAs, on the other hand, have fewer device integration capabilities because they are browser-based. Nevertheless, we can pin them to our smartphone’s home screen and use them in full-screen app mode. Why is this important? Due to the speed of operation.
Native applications usually run faster because of the direct connection to the operating system. PWAs run slower because they depend on an Internet connection.

Costs – what affects them?

Cost is an important aspect to consider when choosing between a native application and a PWA. There are many common factors that determine the cost, such as the number of features, the user interface design and the range of tasks the application is expected to perform. What distinguishes native apps is the requirement for dedicated software, the choice of platform (Android or iOS) and the cost of maintenance. Moreover, their development is much more complicated. In the case of PWA applications, costs are much lower because they are accessed from a browser.

Trust the analysis and experience

The choice of method depends on individual project needs and resource availability. If you need an app that will use the full capabilities of the device, it is better to use a native app. If, on the other hand, you need an application that can be accessed directly from the browser and does not require installation, you’d better use a PWA. The most optimal solution for decision-making is to analyze with an experienced team that will take into account all factors and criteria. If you are facing such a choice – get back to us. We are happy to advise – visit us for a workshop on mobile applications in Poznań or let’s talk online!