Are you considering developing a mobile application but are having trouble deciding between Progressive Web Apps (PWA) vs. native apps? Businesses nowadays face this very common and, to be honest, significant challenge.
It is no longer optional to have a mobile-friendly presence because so many people are always on their phones. But which mobile app development option is the right choice?
The choice is not solely based on technology. It has an impact on your timetable, budget, user experience, and app usage. This tutorial can help with that. There won’t be too much jargon; we’ll explain everything simply and clearly. You will receive:
- Real examples from brands you know
- Advice to assist you in choosing what is best for your company
- Comparing features, prices, performance, and other aspects side by side
By the end, you’ll know exactly what each option offers and which one fits your goals best. No guesswork, just smart choices.
Let’s dive in.
- What Is a Progressive Web App?
Consider a website that has an app-like feel to it. That’s what a PWA does. Without requiring users to download anything from an app store, it provides them with an app-like experience directly in their browser.
Instead of loading a clunky mobile site, PWAs offer speed, offline app access, and the ability to “install” the app to your phone’s home screen. It’s one of the easiest ways to deliver a smooth mobile experience without going full-on native.
Key Features of PWAs
- Runs in Any Browser on Any Device
PWAs work everywhere, including phones, tablets, and desktops, as long as there’s a modern browser. There’s no need to create distinct iOS and Android versions. This translates into reduced expenses and quicker development. - Can Be Added to the Home Screen
A PWA is as easy to install as a native app. A simple pop-up lets users add it to their home screen. There are no app store downloads, no waiting. This reduces friction and makes it easier for people to come back. - Works Offline (or With Poor Connection)
Thanks to something called a “service worker,” PWAs can cache important content. So if you’re on the subway or in a low-signal area, the app can still work. It’s perfect for things like reading articles or browsing a product catalog on the go. - Built With Standard Web Tech
PWAs use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript; technologies your developers probably already know. That makes building (and updating) them quicker and more affordable than native apps.
Real-Life Example: Twitter Lite
Let’s look at Twitter Lite, one of the most well-known PWAs. It was designed for people in regions with slower internet and limited data plans.
- Loads super fast
- Uses way less data
- Works even when offline
- Feels almost identical to the full app
By launching Twitter Lite, the company reached millions of new users, especially in places where downloading big apps isn’t ideal. It’s a smart way to expand your reach without sacrificing performance.
2. What Is a Native App?
A native application is created especially for a single mobile platform, such as Android or iOS. That means it’s written using the official programming language for that platform (Swift for iOS, Kotlin or Java for Android) and designed to work perfectly with that device’s operating system.
This deep integration allows native apps to do things that other app types simply can’t. These apps offer the most polished user experience, the fastest performance, and access to every feature the phone has to offer.
Key Features of Native Apps
- Downloaded from App Stores
Native apps are available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. Users search for them, download them, and install them directly onto their phones. The app store ecosystem adds a layer of trust and credibility and can help with discovery, too. - Full Access to Device Features
This is where native apps shine. They are able to utilize every feature of the device:
- Camera
- Microphone
- GPS
- Contact list
- Biometrics like fingerprint and face unlock
- Background syncing and more
This allows for richer, more interactive apps with features that rely on hardware.
- Seamless Integration with the Operating System (OS)
Native apps feel “at home” on your phone. They can send push notifications, run in the background, and interact with other apps smoothly. Everything feels faster and more responsive because the app is built specifically for that operating system.
- Built with Platform-Specific Code
Native applications are written in languages created specifically for that platform, such as Java for Android, Kotlin for iOS, or Swift for iOS. This helps the app run faster, look better, and handle complex features more easily.
Real-Life Example: Instagram
A great example of a native app is Instagram. It relies heavily on your phone’s camera, microphone, and push notifications. Whether you’re snapping a photo, applying a filter, recording a video, or watching stories, everything works instantly and smoothly.
The complex animations, real-time editing tools, and seamless media sharing wouldn’t be possible (or would be far less impressive) without the power of native app development.
3. Key Differences Between PWAs and Native Apps
So, PWA vs. Native: which actually comes out on top? Let’s break it down in a simple table:
4. Pros and Cons of PWAs
Let’s dive into the PWA advantages and some of the possible downsides:
Pros of PWAs
1. Faster to Build and Launch
PWAs use standard web technologies, which makes development quicker. You can get your app into users’ hands faster, gather feedback, and improve it as you go.
2. One Codebase, All Devices
You don’t need separate builds for iOS and Android. One codebase works across browsers and platforms, saving you time, money, and maintenance effort.
3. No App Store Reviews to Worry About
Skip the app store approval process entirely. That means fewer delays, no rejections, and more control over when and how you launch new features.
4. Instant Updates for Everyone
Users always get the latest version without needing to download anything. No more dealing with update reminders or version mismatches.
5. Search-Engine Friendly
Since PWAs are still websites, they can show up in search results. If SEO is part of your strategy, this can help people find and use your app without even going through an app store.
Cons of PWAs
1. Limited Access to Device Hardware
PWAs don’t have full access to features like Bluetooth, biometric authentication, or certain sensors. If your app needs these, it might hit a wall.
2. Different Browsers, Different Results
Not all browsers handle PWAs the same way. You’ll need to test across Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and others to ensure a smooth experience everywhere.
3. Performance Depends on the Browser
While PWAs can be fast, they still rely on the user’s browser. If someone’s using an outdated or slow browser, performance might suffer.
4. Push Notifications Are Less Reliable
PWAs can support push notifications, but they’re not always as consistent, especially on iOS, where notification permissions can be strict.
Tip: PWAs are a great option for content-driven apps, eCommerce stores, news platforms, and MVPs. If you want to test an idea without spending a lot up front, PWAs let you launch fast and learn what works before investing in a full native app. Let me know if you want the same tone for the native app pros and cons, too.
- Pros and Cons of Native Apps
Now let’s flip the coin and take a look at the benefits and the trade-offs of going native.
Pros of Native Apps
1. Top-Tier Performance and Speed
Native apps are built specifically for their platform, which means they’re fast, responsive, and smooth. They can easily handle animations, graphics, and high-performance tasks without breaking a sweat.
2. Full Access to Device Features
Need advanced camera functions? Augmented reality? Access to biometric sensors or background syncing? Native apps are unrestricted in their use of the device’s capabilities.
3. Users Trust Apps from the App Store
Credibility is increased by being available on Google Play or the App Store. Users often feel safer downloading apps from official sources because they’ve gone through a review process.
4. Designed to Fit Right
Native apps follow each platform’s design guidelines, so they look and feel familiar to users. This improves the user experience and helps people navigate your app more naturally.
Cons of Native Apps
1. More Expensive to Build and Maintain
Because you need platform-specific code (and sometimes separate teams), native apps cost more, both upfront and over time.
2. You May Need Two Teams
If you want your app on both iOS and Android, you either need two teams or developers who know both ecosystems. Either way, it’s a bigger investment.
3. App Store Approval Can Slow You Down
Submitting your app for review can delay your launch or updates. You’ll need to wait for approval, and sometimes changes are required before you can go live.
4. Larger File Sizes
Native apps typically take up more space on users’ devices. It’s not a huge deal today, but for users with limited storage, it might be a reason to skip the download.
Tip: Native apps are your best bet if your product needs top performance, deep hardware access, or extra trust, like in banking, healthcare, or mobile gaming. If you’re building something complex or high-stakes, native is usually worth the extra cost.
Let me know if you’d like this turned into a comparison chart or visual asset next.
- Which Is Right for Your Business? A Decision Framework
Go with a PWA if…
- You want to launch fast and keep costs down
PWAs are quicker and more affordable to build. Perfect if you’re on a tight budget or just getting started. - Your app doesn’t require extensive device feature access
If your app is mainly about delivering content or services like a blog, news site, or online store, a PWA can do the job without the extra complexity. - You wish to connect with as many people as you can
PWAs work in almost any browser, on almost any device. Great for visibility and accessibility. - Your app is all about content or service delivery
PWAs are ideal for eCommerce platforms, service portals, and media apps that prioritize speed and reach. - You care about SEO visibility
Since PWAs are technically websites, they can show up in search engines. That’s a big win for discoverability.
Go with a Native App if…
- Your app needs access to hardware
Camera, GPS, Bluetooth, AR, biometrics—native apps can access everything the device offers. - You’re aiming for a top-tier user experience
Want something sleek, fast, and polished? Native apps provide better interactions and a more upscale experience. - You plan to monetize through app stores
Whether it’s subscriptions, in-app purchases, or paid downloads, native apps let you tap into app store revenue streams. - Offline functionality is critical
Do you need your application to function flawlessly without an internet connection? Native apps handle that best. - Security matters
If your app handles sensitive data or transactions, native apps offer more control and stronger protection.
- Tips for App Planning and Launch
Alright, ready to get started? Here’s some food for thought to point you in the right direction:
- Know Your Goal: What problem does your app solve? Start with a clear purpose.
- How Often Will It Be Used? Frequent use? Go native. Occasional use? A PWA might be better.
- Know Your Users’ Devices: Build for where your audience actually is: iOS, Android, or web.
- Test with a PWA First: PWAs are great for testing ideas without a big upfront cost.
- Focus on Performance and Usability: No matter what you build, make it fast and easy to use.
- Have a Launch Plan: Pick a date, promote it, and get people excited.
- Track and Improve: Keep an eye on metrics so you can improve with every update.
If you want a PWA for SEO, greater viewership, then that may be for you. Think reach and ease of access. However, if native apps offer greater advanced features and the most security, then this may be the app you wish to choose. Think power and control.
Need help choosing the right path? The Digilite team can help plan, build, and launch your app the smart way. Request your free consultation or quote today.
