Web vs Native apps – beyond hype

I've been researching app development and evaluating when to choose a web app versus a native app. If you're an entrepreneur or investor, this is for you.

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The funny thing is that we often jump straight into thinking about technology, but that's not the right place to start. Let me explain.

First, we need to take a step back and ask ourselves some really basic questions. And I mean really basic. Like, do we even need an app at all? I know it sounds strange in today’s world, where everything seems to be an app, but trust me on this one. Sometimes, a simple spreadsheet or a well-organized Notion board might be all you need. I’ve seen startups waste a lot of money on apps that no one uses

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But let’s say you've thought it through and decided you definitely need an app. Here’s where it gets interesting. Most people ditch 77% of apps just three days after downloading them.

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This really changed how I think about app development.

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This led me to what I think is the real question: How often will your users actually need your app? I've found this to be absolutely crucial. Think about it—if you're building something people will use daily, like a fitness tracker or a messaging app, going native might make sense. But if you're creating a tool that people might use only once every few months (like a specialty calculator for your industry), do you really want to ask them to go through the whole app installation process?

Now, let’s talk money. Web apps usually cost 30-40% less to make than native apps. If you're on a tight budget or just testing ideas, that’s a big deal. Plus, it’s easier to find web developers, so you can get moving faster.

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But - and this is important - I’m not saying web apps are always the answer. Native apps are still the go-to choice when it comes to smooth UX and deep integration with device features. If your app needs to work with the camera, handle gestures, or provide real-time feedback, native might be the better option.

What I've learned is that it’s not about following trends. It’s about choosing the right tool for what you need. Sometimes, starting with a web app to test your idea and get feedback is smart. Then you can upgrade to a native app as your user base grows.

There’s no one answer for everyone. But by asking the right questions and understanding your specific needs, you can make a decision that sets your project up for success. Got any questions? Feel free to reach out!

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