There are three different app types but do you know which is right for your business? We are going to describe each one so that you can choose the best app for your needs.
Web App
A web app works in a browser and users don’t have to download it from an app store.
Pros
- Simple to manage its common code used on multiple platforms.
- Initial cost to develop a web app is less expensive than the cost to build other app types.
- Doesn’t need to be approved by the marketplace.
- Can be launched whenever desired.
- App updates automatically experienced by all users.
Cons
- Limited access to device features and hardware.
- Users must take additional steps to open the app.
- KPIs may be distorted due to differences in how users behave on different browsers.
- Mediocre performance.
Native App
Native apps are designed for specific platforms. A different version must be created for each platform the app will be offered on.
Pros
- High-quality performance.
- Operates efficiently.
- Support from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
- Can use ASO strategies that help users find the app.
- Access to the operating system’s available features.
Cons
- More difficult to develop and requires more experience.
- Most expensive type of app to build.
- Can be overly complex for simple apps.
- Requires more time to build each version for each platform.
Hybrid App
A hybrid app works on multiple platforms and is basically a web app with a wrapper that connects it to different platforms. Think of it as a mixture of the two app types described above.
Pros
- Doesn’t require a web browser to run.
- Connects to APIs and device hardware.
- Faster to build because one version works on multiple platforms.
- Can use ASO strategies that help users find the app.
Cons
- Works at a slower speed.
- Requires a third-party platform to utilize the app’s wrapper.
- More difficult to fix bugs.
- User experience may be lacking.
Which is the best app type for you?
The type of app you choose must line up with your business goals. You also need to ask yourself the following questions:
- How soon does the app need to be launched? Remember, a native app takes more time to develop, while a web app and a hybrid app take less time.
- What kind of user experience do you want to provide? Native apps tend to give the best performance.
- What kinds of features does your app need?
You must also consider the following points:
Reliability
No matter what type of app you chose, users must be able to rely on it and the app should be fairly easy to use. The last thing you want is frustrated users who aren’t able to access all of your app’s features!
User Experience
Although it may be tempting, don’t let cost be the single deciding factor when trying to choose the best app type. Instead, prioritize user experience.
This should be your top concern when developing your app. So make sure to choose the type of app that will satisfy your users and meet their expectations.
Cost
Remember, just because an app is cheap to develop doesn’t mean it will save you money in the long run. A hybrid app might have more technical issues down the road, adding to your expenses. Plus, those issues might cause some users to abandon your app, leading to a decrease in revenue.
When considering which of the three app types is right for your business, you must look at the whole picture, keep your business goals in mind, and weigh the pros and cons of each decision. If you do this, it should become clear which is the best app for you.
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