React Native vs Expo: What’s the Difference?

What is Expo in React Native?

To understand Expo, we first need to clarify how React Native is different from React. React is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces, whereas React Native is a framework for building mobile applications using JavaScript and React.

Expo is an open-source framework built on top of React Native. It simplifies the process of building, testing, and deploying mobile apps, especially for developers who want to avoid working with native code or complex setup processes.

When people ask, “What is Expo in React Native?”, they are usually referring to the managed workflow Expo provides. In this workflow, Expo handles most native configurations, allowing you to develop apps entirely in JavaScript and React.

You can test your app instantly using the Expo Go app on your device. It is possible to build full-scale apps using Expo, just as you would with React Native CLI. However, there are nuanced differences that may influence your choice depending on your project needs.

Expo vs React Native: Key Differences

Both React Native and Expo allow developers to build cross-platform apps using JavaScript and React. The primary differences lie in the level of control, setup complexity, and management of native functionality.

React Native app development offers full flexibility, while Expo focuses on speed and simplicity. Below is a detailed comparison of each approach.

Pros and Cons of React Native

React Native remains one of the most widely used cross-platform frameworks for mobile app development. It provides full control over app architecture and native modules, though it comes with additional complexity.

Pros of React Native

1. Full Native Code Access
   React Native allows custom native modules in Swift, Objective-C, Java, or Kotlin, giving developers complete control over device-specific functionality, which is ideal for performance-intensive or complex apps.

2. Large Plugin and Library Ecosystem
   With an extensive collection of third-party libraries, React Native can extend functionality across various use cases.

3. Custom UI and Layout Flexibility
   Developers are not limited to prebuilt components, making it easier to maintain a unique design system across iOS and Android.

4. Scalability for Complex Projects
   React Native is suitable for large-scale applications requiring intricate business logic and platform-specific features.

5. Strong Community and Support
   Backed by Meta and used by companies like Instagram and Shopify, React Native benefits from active community support, numerous tools, and shared expertise.

Cons of React Native

1. More Complex Setup
   React Native requires configuring native development environments like Xcode and Android Studio, which can be challenging for beginners.

2. Manual Configuration for Native Features
   Implementing push notifications, OTA updates, or camera access often involves manual linking or native code integration.

3. Increased Maintenance Overhead
   Managing native dependencies directly can be complex, particularly when library versions fall out of sync across platforms.

Pros and Cons of Expo

Expo simplifies the app development process, making it suitable for rapid prototyping, small teams, or solo developers. While it provides convenience, there are trade-offs to consider. Recent updates like custom development builds allow using many native modules in a managed Expo project.

Pros of Expo

1. Simple Setup
   No need to install Xcode or Android Studio. You can start a project quickly, making it ideal for rapid development.

2. Easy Device Testing with Expo Go
   Test your app instantly on a physical device by scanning a QR code.

3. Prebuilt APIs for Common Features
   Expo includes built-in support for camera access, push notifications, location tracking, and more without installing additional libraries.

4. Over-the-Air Updates
   Update apps instantly without resubmitting to app stores, saving time on bug fixes or minor improvements.

5. Cloud-Based Build Services
   Expo Application Services (EAS Build) allows Android and iOS builds in the cloud, avoiding local setup for native builds.

Cons of Expo

1. Larger Build Size
   Expo apps include many unused features by default, resulting in larger app binaries.

2. Tied to Expo SDK Versions
   Expo SDK versions are aligned with specific React Native releases, causing potential delays in adopting the latest React Native features.

3. Ejecting Introduces Overhead
   Switching from managed workflow to bare workflow requires manual configuration, reducing some of Expo’s simplicity.

Expo vs React Native: Features Comparison

When to Use React Native

React Native is ideal for apps requiring deep customization or advanced device features. Situations include:

1. Custom Native Functionality
   Integration with device APIs or third-party libraries that need native code.

2. Performance-Sensitive Applications
   Apps with animations, real-time updates, or large datasets benefit from native-level optimization.

3. Long-Term Scalability
   Projects expected to grow in complexity can leverage React Native’s flexibility.

4. Teams with Native Experience
   iOS or Android developers can directly modify platform-specific code.

5. Full Control Over Build & Deployment
   Enterprise apps needing custom CI/CD processes or specialized deployment workflows.

When to Use Expo

Expo excels in projects that prioritize speed, simplicity, and minimal setup. Typical use cases include:

1. Prototyping or MVPs
   Quick setup, built-in tools, and OTA updates accelerate testing and deployment.

2. Apps with Standard Functionality
   Features like image picking, push notifications, or camera access can be handled within the managed workflow.

3. Small Teams or Solo Developers
   Simplifies development without needing dedicated iOS or Android specialists.

4. Cross-Platform Cloud Builds
   EAS Build supports production-ready Android and iOS apps from non-macOS systems.

5. Beginner-Friendly Environment
   Removes technical barriers for developers new to mobile app development.

Final Thoughts

This comparison of React Native vs Expo highlights how each tool fits different project needs. Expo is ideal for fast development and simpler projects, while React Native CLI provides full control and flexibility for complex or enterprise-level apps.

As a React Native app development company, we recommend evaluating your project requirements, team expertise, and desired workflow before making a choice. Understanding both frameworks thoroughly will make selecting the right approach much easier.