Native vs. Hybrid – How Can a Business Owner Choose Their App Type

Many business owners and companies are facing an important dilemma: what app to build for their brand.

The two most common types are the native app development and hybrid app development.

Each of them brings some benefits for both app users and owners.

However, each of these types has certain restrictions.

In this guide, you can find out more about them and see which one suits your business needs.

Hybrid apps development

Hybrid apps can work on different platforms. They contain some features of web apps, as well as some elements of native apps.

This makes it possible for business owners to have only one app made for different operating systems. Here’s why it can be a good solution.

• Affordability. Since hybrid apps can function in different environments, clients don’t have to hire multiple developers or developing teams. This one-size-fits-all solution will keep a few cents more in your pocket.

• Speed. Hybrid apps are a great option for people who want their app to become available to users as soon as possible. That way, you won’t fall behind your rivals in a lively and competitive market.

• Updates. Given that hybrid apps are basically web apps based on a native shell, it’s easier to add updates to them. As a result, the maintenance and all the changes will be performed in a fast and cheap manner.

Why not hybrid apps?

A hybrid app can’t provide the same level of user experience for all the types of users it caters to.

For instance, if your developers focus more on Android-powered devices, the iOS crew won’t get the same quality and vice versa. Of course, if you just need a basic app, they probably won’t be able to notice the issues, especially if your goal is to reach as many people as possible.

Also, some security features of hybrid apps might be less reliable than those of native apps.

Furthermore, hybrid apps contain an additional layer between the mobile system and the source code. This hybrid framework isn’t the most responsible feature when it comes to app development.

As a result, there might be more bugs and issues with some functions. All this could lead to unsatisfactory performance and user’s dissatisfaction with the app functionality.

Native app development

A native app is developed strictly for one operating system. Be it iOS, Android or Windows, every native app complies with the code requirements of the given platform.

Since every native app is built specifically for one operating system, it usually works in a fast and reliable way. What’s more, there are normally fewer bugs and glitches once everything is properly tested and put to work.

Why native apps?

A company or a small business should opt for a native app if they have a particular plan about the goals they want to achieve with their apps. For instance, if they aim only at Apple users, they’ll need a native app for that platform.

The following features show why choosing a native app over a hybrid make sense-

• User experience. Native apps are usually more oriented to users’ more specific needs. For instance, these apps include more detailed visuals and animation, as well as enhanced scrolling and custom-made effects. As explained by the Houston-based logo and design pundits, native apps can be enriched with numerous visual additions that make a difference.
• Flexibility. Native apps make it possible for developers and designers to put to practice every single function that’s technologically possible. With these apps, users can access some widgets and integrated solutions more easily.
• Customization. In native apps, everything is usually built from scratch. As a result, it’s much easier to customize the app elements. On the one hand, developers can adapt the features tothe client’s needs and include a variety of special elements. On the other, it’s possible to include a variety of adaptable elements for different screen sizes.
• Security and privacy. When building a native app, developers can implement a wide range of protective features. What’s more, the privacy settings can be scaled so that they meet the client’s demands.

Why not native apps?

Even though native apps bring many benefits for small businesses and large companies, there are some drawbacks.

For starters, native apps aren’t cost-effective solutions. Since most app developers are proficient only in one platform, it’s necessary to hire more developers or teams if you need three different native apps for your business.

What’s more, all the updated and changes might incur some additional costs.

Moreover, it takes much more time to build a native app. In case a business owner needs to launch their app quickly, it’s almost impossible with native apps.

Conclusion

If you want to launch your app as soon as possible to address many mobile users, it’s better to go for a hybrid app. The expenses will be much lower and you can juggle between the users of different platforms.

However, if you want to focus on a narrow target audience and offer them some tailor-made solutions, a native app is a wiser choice. Not only that you’ll be able to ensure higher performance and reliability, but you’ll also look more professional.

To conclude, the choice of the app type will depend on your budget and your potential clients.

So, take all the considerations into account and see what option makes more sense for your business needs.

Author Byline: Liam Collins is a tech pundit and Web enthusiast working at TuiSpace.com. He spends most of his time reading and writing about the current affairs in the world of information technology. When he isn’t working, he likes going for long bike rides and walks in nature.