In this article · 9 sections
Key takeaways
- A progressive web app is a website with a manifest, a service worker and HTTPS, so it can be installed from the browser and work offline.
- PWAs are usually cheaper and faster to build, update instantly and are found through search and links, with no store review.
- Native apps win for deep device access such as Bluetooth or background location, graphics-heavy games and AR, store presence and reliable push.
- PWA feature support differs between browsers and platforms, especially on iOS, so verify every capability you depend on.
- A common strategy is to validate with a PWA or responsive site first, then add native apps for engaged users.
If you want to reach people on their phones, you do not have to build an app for the app stores. A progressive web app (PWA) is a website built with extra capabilities so it can behave much like an installed app. A native app is built specifically for iOS or Android and distributed through the stores. Each approach has strengths, and the best choice depends on what your product needs.
What is a PWA?
A PWA is a web application that uses modern browser features to offer app-like behaviour:
- A web app manifest so it can be added to the home screen with an icon and name
- A service worker that caches resources, enabling offline use and fast loading
- HTTPS for security
- Optional features such as push notifications and background sync, depending on the browser and platform
Users reach a PWA with a link, and they can install it directly from the browser.
What is a native app?
Native apps are written in platform languages (Swift for iOS, Kotlin for Android) or with frameworks that produce native apps. They are installed from the App Store or Google Play and have deep access to device features and system integrations. See also native vs cross-platform development.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | PWA | Native app |
|---|---|---|
| Distribution | Link, search and optional install; no store approval | App Store and Google Play; review required |
| Discovery | Web search and sharing | Store search and charts |
| Development | One codebase using web technologies | Separate or cross-platform codebases |
| Cost and speed | Generally lower and faster | Generally higher |
| Updates | Instant, on next load | Users must update through the store |
| Device access | Growing but limited, varies by browser | Full access to sensors, files, Bluetooth and system features |
| Offline use | Possible with service workers | Strong, with local storage and processing |
| Performance | Good for most content and forms | Best for demanding graphics and animations |
| Push notifications | Supported on many platforms; support differs on iOS | Fully supported |
| Monetisation | Your own payments | Store billing rules apply to digital goods |
Browser support for PWA features changes over time and differs between platforms, particularly on iOS, so verify current capabilities for any feature you depend on.
When a PWA is a good choice
- You are building content, e-commerce, booking, dashboards or internal tools
- You want reach and speed without store friction
- Your users arrive from search or links
- You need frequent updates
- Your budget or team is web-focused
- You want a quick way to test demand before investing in native
When native is a better choice
- You need advanced device features: background location, Bluetooth, advanced camera, health sensors, deep OS integration
- You are building graphics-heavy games or AR
- Store presence matters for trust and discovery
- You rely on reliable push notifications on all platforms
- You want the best performance and smoothness
Can you do both?
Often yes, and it is a common strategy.
- Start with a PWA or responsive website to validate the idea and reach users cheaply
- Add native apps for engaged users who benefit from deeper features
- Share logic and design through a common backend and design system
Practical PWA checklist
If you build a PWA, make sure it is:
- Fast: pass Core Web Vitals
- Installable: valid manifest, icons and service worker
- Responsive: see responsive web design
- Reliable: sensible behaviour when offline or on poor networks
- Secure: HTTPS everywhere
- Accessible: see accessibility basics
- Discoverable: follow technical SEO practices
Decision questions
- Which device features are essential, and does the browser support them reliably?
- Do users find you through links and search, or through the stores?
- How often will you ship updates?
- What is the timeline and budget?
- How important is top-tier performance?
Final thoughts
PWAs are a strong option when reach, speed and cost matter, and native apps win when you need deep device integration or maximum polish. Test assumptions early, and remember you can start on the web and grow into native. For help choosing, see our web development and app development services, or contact us.
Frequently asked questions
What is a progressive web app (PWA)?
A PWA is a web application that uses a manifest, a service worker and HTTPS to behave like an installed app: it can be added to the home screen, load fast and work offline.
Is a PWA cheaper than a native app?
Generally yes. A PWA uses one web codebase and skips store review, so it is usually cheaper and faster to build and update than native apps.
When should I build a native app instead of a PWA?
When you need advanced device features, graphics-heavy games or AR, store presence for trust and discovery, reliable push notifications on all platforms, or the best possible performance.
Do PWAs work on iPhone?
Yes, but support for some features, such as push notifications, differs on iOS and changes over time. Check current capabilities for anything your product depends on.
