Progressive Web Apps vs Native Apps

What are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?

Technically, progressive web apps are built with web technologies and are designed to feel like native apps. They offer features such as push notifications, offline access, and background updates. You can install them on smartphones, and they can use hardware features like the camera, GPS, and accelerometer. While they are built like web apps, they provide an experience similar to native or cross-platform apps.

To simplify, a Progressive Web App is essentially a website that functions like a mobile app. You don’t need to go to the app store to install it. Plus it can sit on your phone or desktop just like a normal app.

Here’s what it can do:

• Work offline or when your internet is slow.

• Load quickly so you don’t have to wait.

• Send notifications to keep you updated.

• Fit any screen—phone, tablet, or computer.

• Be added to your home screen like a real app.

Behind the scenes, it’s still built with standard front end technologies or web development languages, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with a few additional tools (or frameworks) to give it the appearance of an app.

In short, progressive web apps let companies offer an app-like experience without having to create separate versions for iPhone, Android, and the web.

What are Native Apps?

Native apps are built specifically for each platform using that platform's programming language. They are considered premium apps and generally offer better performance than hybrid, cross-platform, or progressive web apps.

For example, apps like Photos and Mail are native apps. Building a native app requires developers with different skills, such as Java or Kotlin for Android and Swift for iOS.

Progressive Web Apps vs Native at a Glance

• Native apps are built for a specific platform, like iOS or Android, and offer top performance. PWAs provide a good user experience but may not take full advantage of all device features.

• Native apps need to be developed separately for each platform, which increases costs and takes more time. PWAs use a single codebase for all platforms, making development faster and less expensive.

• Native apps are distributed through app stores, while PWAs can be accessed directly through browsers, so users don't need to install them.

• Native apps are not indexed by search engines, but PWAs are web-based and can be found through search engines.

• PWAs are a good choice for businesses that want to reach a wide audience without high development costs. Native apps are better for projects that need top performance.

1. Cost & Speed

PWAs offer a significant cost advantage, with development costs typically 33-75% lower than native apps. This is primarily due to the single codebase approach. Additionally, PWAs can be developed in a shorter timeframe, often within 6-8 weeks, compared to the 12-16 weeks required for native apps.

Native Apps, while more expensive and time-consuming to develop, provide a higher return on investment in scenarios where performance and user experience are paramount. They are particularly beneficial for applications requiring deep device integration and advanced functionalities.

For startups and businesses that need to launch quickly and keep costs low, PWAs are a strong option. But if your company needs high performance and deep device integration, investing in native app development could pay off more in the long run.

2. Performance

Native Apps excel in performance, offering smooth and responsive user experiences. They are optimized for specific platforms, allowing for efficient use of device resources. This makes them ideal for applications involving complex computations, high-quality graphics, or intensive data processing.

PWAs, while improving in performance, still face limitations due to their reliance on browser capabilities. They may not fully leverage device hardware, potentially affecting performance in resource-intensive applications.

If your app needs top performance, like in gaming or augmented reality, native apps are the best choice. PWAs work well for content-focused apps where performance needs are not as high.

3. Reach & Discoverability

PWAs offer enhanced discoverability through search engines, as they are essentially websites that can be indexed. This allows for organic traffic generation and broadens the potential user base.

Native Apps rely on app store visibility for discoverability. While app stores provide a platform for user acquisition, they also introduce barriers such as approval processes and the need for users to download the app.

If your goal is to reach a large audience quickly and affordably, PWAs are a great choice. For apps that need to target specific users or require deep integration with a platform, native apps may be better.

4. Device Features & Integrations

Native Apps provide full access to device features, including camera, GPS, and biometrics. This allows for the development of feature-rich applications that can leverage the full capabilities of the device.

PWAs have limited access to device features, especially on iOS platforms. While they can access basic features like camera and geolocation, more advanced functionalities may be restricted.

For apps that need to work closely with device hardware, like fintech or healthcare apps, native apps are essential. PWAs are better for apps that don't need as much hardware access.

5. Security

Native Apps benefit from operating system-level security features and app store review processes, providing robust protection against malware and unauthorized access.

PWAs rely on browser-level security, which, while strong, may not offer the same level of protection as native apps. 

Recent studies have highlighted security gaps in PWA installation processes, underscoring the need for improved security measures.

If your app handles sensitive data, like in banking or healthcare, native apps provide stronger security. PWAs can also be secure, but they may need extra steps to address possible risks.

6. Maintenance & Updates

PWAs allow for instant updates without the need for app store approval, enabling developers to quickly address issues and release new features.

Native Apps require app store submission and user installation for updates, which can delay the rollout of new features and fixes. 

If your business needs to update and improve your app often, PWAs make this process fast and easy. For apps that require careful version control and managed rollouts, native apps are a better fit.

When to Choose a PWA

1. Rapid Go-to-Market & MVPs

PWAs enable quick deployment, making them ideal for testing ideas and launching Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). Their single codebase approach reduces development time and costs, allowing businesses to validate concepts swiftly.

2. Content & Media Platforms

For content-heavy platforms, PWAs offer enhanced performance and user engagement. They provide a seamless experience across devices, ensuring users can access content effortlessly.

3. E-commerce Targeting a Broad Market

E-commerce platforms aiming for a wide reach benefit from PWAs by offering fast loading times and offline capabilities, improving user experience and conversion rates.

4. Cost-Sensitive Projects

Startups and businesses with limited budgets can leverage PWAs to deliver app-like experiences without the high costs associated with native app development.

5. Companies Testing New Ideas

PWAs allow businesses to experiment with new features and functionalities, gathering user feedback before committing to full-scale development.

Real PWA Success Stories

1. Starbucks

Starbucks implemented a PWA to enhance its ordering system, allowing users to browse menus and place orders offline. This approach led to increased user engagement and satisfaction, especially in areas with unstable internet connections.

2. Twitter Lite

Twitter introduced "Twitter Lite," a PWA designed for users in regions with limited internet connectivity. The PWA offered faster loading times and reduced data usage, resulting in a significant increase in user engagement and retention.

3. Pinterest

Pinterest revamped its mobile web experience by adopting a PWA, leading to improved performance and user engagement. The PWA's offline capabilities and fast loading times contributed to a better user experience, particularly in emerging markets.

4. Flipkart

Flipkart, one of India's leading e-commerce platforms, developed a PWA to cater to users with low-bandwidth connections. The PWA's fast loading times and offline capabilities resulted in increased user engagement and higher conversion rates.

5. AliExpress

AliExpress adopted a PWA to enhance its mobile shopping experience, leading to improved performance and user engagement. The PWA's lightweight design and offline capabilities contributed to a better user experience, especially in regions with limited internet connectivity.

When to Choose a Native App

1. Your app needs to be fast and smooth

If your app has heavy graphics, videos, or AR features, native apps handle it better. They are built for the phone, so everything works quickly and feels smooth.

• Example: Instagram uses native code to handle real-time filters, video uploads, and AR effects without lag.

2. You are dealing with sensitive information

Apps that handle banking or health data need strong security. Native apps can use the phone’s built-in protections like fingerprint login, secure storage, and encryption.

• Example: Banking apps like Chase or HSBC are native so your money and personal info stay safe.

3. You need full access to the phone

If your app needs GPS, camera, sensors, or background location tracking, native apps do this reliably.

• Example: Uber uses native code to track rides in real time and make sure drivers and riders get accurate updates.

4. You want users to trust your app

Being on the App Store or Google Play gives credibility. People feel safer downloading apps from these stores and trust that they work.

• Example: Spotify and Netflix use app stores not just to distribute their apps but to show users they are reliable.

5. You want people to stay engaged

Native apps can send notifications, work offline, and run background tasks. This keeps users coming back.

• Example: Instagram and TikTok keep users engaged with notifications, smooth scrolling, and offline access.

Before deciding, answer these questions:

• What is the main goal of the project? Test an idea quickly, reach lots of users, or build a feature-rich, high-performance app?

• What is the budget? Low, medium, or high?

• Do you need something fast, or can you invest time in multiple platform development?

• Audience: Are they global, in regions with poor connectivity, or high-end device users?

• Required features: Do you need deep hardware access, AR, push notifications, offline mode, or security for sensitive data?

2. Quick “Scorecard” for Recommendation

Conclusion

In short, PWAs are ideal for quick launches, broad reach, and lower development costs, while native apps excel when you need top performance, advanced features, or strong security.

Choosing the right approach can be tricky, and the right strategy depends on your project goals and audience. To make it easier, we offer tailored solutions that help businesses build apps that fit their needs. Learn more about our app development services.