Comparison
Native App vs PWA
App-store native experience vs installable web app.
A native app is installed from the app stores and taps deep device features; a Progressive Web App (PWA) runs in the browser and can be installed without a store. The right choice depends on your features, budget, and distribution goals.
Side by side
Native App vs PWA
| Native App | PWA | |
|---|---|---|
| Distribution | App stores | Web / installable |
| Device features | Full access | Limited |
| Offline support | ||
| Install friction | Store download | One tap |
| Build cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Feature-rich apps | Reach & fast launch |
Choose Native when
- You need deep device features
- Performance and polish are critical
- App-store presence matters
- You want push, camera, sensors, etc.
Choose PWA when
- Reach and low friction matter most
- Budget or timeline is tight
- You want one codebase for web + app
- Store distribution isn't essential
Our verdict
Choose native for feature-rich, performance-critical products; choose a PWA for broad reach, fast launch, and lower cost. Many businesses start with a PWA and add native later.
FAQs
Common questions
Yes — PWAs cache content and work offline, though with fewer device capabilities than native.
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