Having web and mobile apps that make a lasting impact is a must. However, when business owners choose applications development services, they need to make an important decision: to build a Progressive Web App (PWA) or a native mobile app.
Both have things they do better, so to choose one over another, you’ll need to understand what it does best. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about PWAs.
Defining a Progressive Web App (PWA)
PWA is a web app that professional teams like Implex build using standard web technologies. Those include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. PWAs have the best of both worlds: the web and mobile apps. You’ll have a similarly great experience using it no matter the platform, unlike native apps that are designed to fill a certain mold.
PWAs differ from normal mobile apps. A user needs to install the usual ones from app stores, but anyone can access PWAs through a browser, which makes them easier to use. This is what made them so popular in the niche of development services for apps.
Key characteristics of PWAs include:
- Responsive Design. PWAs adapt to different screen sizes, from desktop screens to mobile phones.
- Offline Capability. PWAs can preload and function even without an active internet connection.
- App-like Experience. PWAs feel like you’re using an app from a browser—they’ll have push notifications and home screen icons, for example.
- Quick Loading Times. Caching helps PWAs load quickly, even if the connection is slow.
Many companies use PWAs because they offer users a smooth, mobile-optimized experience without forcing them to download anything.
Benefits of PWAs Over Mobile Apps
When deciding between a native mobile app and a PWA, it’s important to consider the advantages of PWAs. Many strong reasons make it the best choice for a business, including:
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Cost-Effectiveness
Developing a native mobile app for both platforms (iOS and Android) can be expensive and time-consuming. PWAs, on the other hand, need only a single version to run on different platforms.
This can reduce development and maintenance costs when ordering services from expert teams like Implex. Moreover, PWAs don’t need app store fees and approvals that would add up to more money and time.
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Cross-Platform Compatibility
PWAs function on any device that has an up-to-date browser be it a smartphone, tablet, or computer. When it comes to developing apps and similar services, this cross-platform functionality means devs don’t need to create several versions of the app, as they would with a native mobile app. The users can open a PWA from any browser.
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No App Store Dependency
Native apps need app store approval, which is time-consuming and can result in rejection if an app doesn’t meet guidelines. Users can open PWAs, on the other hand, through a simple URL, which removes the need for app store submissions.
This means users can reach the app straight away without going to an app store, which makes it a more efficient and convenient option.
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Faster Load Times
PWAs are designed with performance in mind. With the use of service workers and caching, they can load content quickly even on low-bandwidth networks. This is an improvement over mobile apps, which load slowly, especially after an update or initial download.
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Offline Functionality
Yes, PWAs can work offline. Thanks to the way they function, PWAs can cache data and keep some functionality even if there’s no internet. This proves useful when the connection is poor.
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SEO Benefits
Compared to native mobile apps, PWAs are search engine indexable. They can show up in search engine results. This gives them an advantage over native applications when it comes to discoverability. You can drive more organic traffic to your app, which is a big advantage, particularly for content-driven businesses.
When to Choose a PWA Over a Mobile App
Since PWAs have many benefits, there are plenty of situations where choosing a PWA instead of a mobile app is the best course of action. Below are some of the main factors to consider when deciding:
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If You Have Budget Constraints
A native mobile app can cost a lot of money. You’ll need several versions for different platforms. You’ll also need to pay for regular updates, not to mention manage the whole ordeal with app stores and their submission. Needless to say, if you don’t have a big budget, PWAs might be a better solution.
With a single codebase for all devices, you can save on development, testing, and maintenance. You’ll still deliver a great user experience but at a lower price.
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If You Want to Reach a Wider Audience Quickly
PWAs are available through a basic URL. This means users don’t need to download anything to view them. This eliminates the need to download anything and the friction that goes with it, which may prevent some users from using a mobile application.
If you need to get the eyes of as many users as possible as quickly as you can, a PWA will give you that with fewer barriers.
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If Your App Is Content Delivery-Oriented
For businesses that are content delivery-based, like news websites, blogs, and online shopping sites, a PWA is a wonderful choice. PWAs are built to deliver content quickly and effectively, and search engines can crawl them, increasing your visibility online.
If your app’s primary function is delivering content, and you don’t need heavy native functionalities, a PWA could be the way to go.
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In Case You Need an SEO-Compatible Solution
When search engine visibility is important for your business, PWAs are the natural choice. Because search engines can crawl them, you can drive organic traffic directly to your app.
While search engines cannot crawl mobile apps, PWAs provide you with an opportunity to boost your web presence and attract more users via SEO.
Conclusion
No one solution fits everything, which is why it’s important to understand your priorities. PWAs offer a low-cost, quick, and easy answer for businesses that need to reach big audiences quickly and rely on SEO.
Of course, your individual needs, budget, and goals will also influence the final decision. Considering your requirements thoroughly can help you in making the best choice so you can provide a great user experience while making it as efficient as possible.
