Mobile vs. Web Apps: Which Will Be Better for Your Business?

The decision to choose the right platform for your application is crucial for any business. Companies must constantly make strategic decisions about investing in a specific type of application: mobile application or web application.

Both types of software offer a number of unique advantages that can contribute to the success of your business, but choosing between the two can be a challenge, especially when you consider the cost of production, the functionality of the application and the needs of future users.

In this article we will analyze the main differences of the two solutions and discuss the growing popularity of the so-called PWA (Progressive Web Apps) applications as an alternative combining the essential features of both types of applications. Thanks to this, we will help you choose the right type of application that best suits the needs of your business.

Differences between mobile and web applications

Mobile and web applications differ in their application and how they work. When choosing the right solution for your project, it is worth paying attention to several essential aspects, which we will discuss in the following sub-points.

Access to hardware features

One of the biggest advantages of mobile applications over web applications is full access to the hardware functions of the device. This is a huge advantage of mobile applications, which can help you decide on the application you are creating. With access to a set of sensors and other components, applications can benefit from functionalities such as:

• GPS Module: Precise user location, which is important in navigation apps or location-based services like Uber or courier apps.
• Apparatus: Take photos and record videos directly inside the application, which is invaluable in the case of social networks such as Instagram or in augmented reality (AR) applications.
• Gyroscope and accelerometer: Monitoring the movements and position of the device, which is used in fitness applications or games that require physical activity.
• Microphone: Audio recording, which can be useful in communication applications such as WhatsApp or in music applications.
• Push Notifications: Quick messages to users that can increase engagement and inform about important updates or promotions.

Availability and coverage

In turn, the biggest advantage of web applications is their availability and range of operation. They work on different devices without the need for installation, which makes it possible to reach a wide audience. They are available on computers, tablets and smartphones through a web browser, which makes it possible for users to use them from anywhere, having only access to the Internet.

Web applications are also more versatile in terms of compatibility, as they run on different operating systems and devices, without requiring adaptation to specific technical requirements, as is the case with mobile applications.

In addition, web applications often use a responsive user interface that automatically adjusts to the width of the device being used, providing a consistent and user-friendly experience no matter what device the user is using.

Personalization and interactivity

Mobile apps offer a higher level of personalization and interactivity compared to web apps, which can be important for building user engagement. Thanks to full integration with the device, mobile applications can adapt their operation to individual user preferences, which translates into a better user experience. An example would be health apps that monitor a user's physical activity and provide personalized workout suggestions, which is harder to achieve with web-based apps.

Application development and maintenance costs

The costs associated with developing and maintaining applications are a key aspect to consider when deciding on a particular option. For mobile applications, costs can be higher for several reasons:

• Creating native applications for different operating systems: Android and iOS apps often require separate versions, which increases production costs. Each of the platforms has its own unique requirements and development tools, which makes the application development process more complex and time-consuming.
• Integration with hardware features: Adding support for sensors, camera or push notifications increases the complexity of the project. This requires advanced technical knowledge and testing on various devices, which increases the cost and time it takes to bring the application to market.
• Maintenance costs: Regular updates to adapt the application to new versions of operating systems can be expensive and time consuming. Mobile applications must be compatible with the latest Android and iOS updates, which requires constant monitoring and updating of the application to ensure that it runs smoothly on all devices.

For web applications, the costs are usually lower for several reasons:

• One version for all devices: The web application works on different systems, which reduces costs. Thanks to this, you do not have to create separate versions of the application for different platforms, which significantly reduces costs and speeds up the deployment process.
• Minor hardware requirements: No need to integrate with advanced hardware features, reducing development time and cost. Web applications use publicly available browser functions, which simplifies the development process and minimizes the risk of technical problems.

When to choose a mobile application and when to choose a web application?

Choosing the right type of application depends on the specifics of your business and the needs of your users. Here are some tips that can help you decide:

Select a mobile app when:

• Your application requires intensive use of the equipment of the device: If your app needs to use features such as camera, GPS, gyroscope or microphone, the mobile app will be the best choice.
• You want to provide offline users with access to content or features: Mobile applications can work without an internet connection, which is crucial for users who are often on the move or have limited access to the network. This makes mobile apps ideal for travelers, field workers, or users who use apps in places with limited network access.
• You need higher personalization of the user experience: Mobile applications offer more advanced personalization and can better adapt to individual user preferences, which can increase the engagement and loyalty of your customers.

Select a web application when:

• Your business wants to reach a wide range of users on different devices: Web applications are available on any device with access to a web browser, allowing broad reach to users no matter what device they are using. This makes web applications an ideal solution for businesses looking to reach a global audience.
• You need an application that will work on different platforms at minimal cost: With a single version of the application that runs on different operating systems, web applications are cheaper to develop and maintain. This allows you to significantly reduce costs and speed up the implementation process, which can be crucial for startups and small businesses.
• You want faster deployment and easier maintenance: Web applications are easier to manage because they do not require regular updates on different platforms. Updates can be deployed centrally, which means that the application always runs on the latest version without the need for user intervention.

PWA - a popular alternative to the development of cross-platform applications

Progressive Web Apps (PWA) is a technology that is gaining popularity by combining the advantages of mobile and web applications. PWA works in the browser, but offers features that were previously reserved for mobile applications:

• Installation on the device: PWAs can be added to your device's home screen, allowing you to access them like native apps. Users can install the PWA directly from the browser, which eliminates the need to download the application from official stores such as Google Play or the Apple App Store, however, it is possible to publish it in said stores.
• Offline access: PWAs offer the ability to work without an internet connection, which is crucial for users on the go. This allows users to use the basic functions of the application even when they do not have access to the network, which increases their engagement and loyalty.
• Push Notifications: Like mobile apps, PWAs can send notifications to users, increasing their engagement. These notifications can inform you of new content, promotions or important updates, which can attract users to use the application again.
• Integration with device functions: PWAs can use certain hardware features, such as GPS or camera, although to a more limited extent than native mobile applications. As a result, PWAs can offer functionality similar to mobile applications, but at a lower cost and greater flexibility.

PWA is an excellent solution for companies that want to offer their users a rich experience without having to invest in the development of native mobile applications. With progressive apps, you can provide users with access on both mobile and desktop devices, allowing you to reach a wider audience at a lower cost.

If you would like to learn more about Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and learn more details, we encourage you to visit the documentation MDN Web Docs. There you will find detailed explanations and practical tips for implementing PWA in your project.

summary

Choosing between a mobile application and a web application is a decision that requires consideration of many aspects. Mobile apps offer advanced hardware features and higher personalization, which can translate into a better user experience. Web applications, on the other hand, offer broad coverage and lower costs, which can be crucial for many businesses. If you are looking for a solution that combines the best features of both options, Progressive Web Apps can be a great choice.

Need help choosing between a mobile app and a web app? Take advantage of our free consultation. Our experts at PowerNoCode will help you choose the optimal solution for your business. Make an appointment today through our contact form or online calendar and let us support the development of your project!