Highlights

1. React Native uses JavaScript to render native components directly for iOS and Android.
2. Native development needs separate applications for each platform using Objective-C, Swift, Java, and Kotlin technologies.
3. Native development offers superior performance, full device integration, and quick access.
4. React Native allows cross-platform compatibility with a single codebase, supports hot reloading, and enables native modules.

Over the past four years, the React Native and Native framework has expanded into a huge community with over 2,000 contributors. Major companies like Facebook, Pinterest, Skype, Uber, and Brex have adopted React Native and Native, attracted by its cross-platform capabilities and innovative technological approach.

Despite its success, many argue that traditional native mobile apps remain superior. Both approaches have their trade-offs, requiring careful consideration when deciding between them. So, in this article, we will explore the React Native vs Native difference and the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Also, we’ll provide the essential information needed to make an informed decision.

Difference Between React and React Native Development?

Native Development

Native development involves creating separate applications for each platform using specific native technologies. For Apple’s iOS, this means using Objective-C and Swift, while for Google’s Android, it involves Java and Kotlin. Native apps work exclusively on the operating systems they are developed for. Consequently, to reach both iOS and Android users, developers need to create two distinct versions of the same application.

React Native Development 

React Native is a JavaScript-based framework developed and maintained by Facebook. It enables the development of cross-platform mobile applications with a shared codebase for iOS and Android. Unlike earlier technologies like PhoneGap or Cordova, which essentially converted web pages into mobile apps using WebView, React Native does not rely on WebView. 

Instead, it uses JavaScript to render native components directly, avoiding the limitations associated with loading web pages into mobile apps. This approach allows React Native to deliver better performance and a more native user experience.

Pros and Cons of React Native vs. Native App Development

Both React Native vs Native have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s crucial to evaluate each applicant’s strengths and weaknesses based on your application’s needs and your organization’s structure.

Native Frameworks Pros

• Performance: Native development excels in performance, especially for resource-intensive applications using 3D, AR, VR, or heavy animations and data processing. Native frameworks offer the highest efficiency and speed.

• Device Integration: Native development provides full access to all device capabilities, including hardware, sensors, SDKs, and platform-specific features, giving developers more power to create advanced and highly integrated applications.

• Access to New Features: Native developers can quickly leverage new capabilities introduced by Android or iOS platforms, often before these features are publicly released. This can give your app a competitive edge.

Native Frameworks Cons

• Logistics: Developing for both Android and iOS requires separate codebases, development teams, and testing and deployment processes. This duplication increases time, effort, and costs. Keeping the two versions in sync demands meticulous planning and coordination.

• Cost: Due to the need for parallel development streams, native development generally incurs higher costs in terms of time, resources, and finances than hybrid solutions like React Native.

React Native Pros

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: By using React Native, you can develop applications for Android and iOS with a single codebase. This simplifies planning, development, testing, and deployment processes, reducing costs and time to market.

• Native Modules: To enhance performance or support platform-specific features, developers can use native modules within React Native apps.

• Hot Reloading: React Native supports Hot and Live Reloading, enabling developers to see and test changes instantly without manually reloading the app. This boosts productivity and streamlines the development process.

React Native Cons

• Performance: While React Native performs well for many use cases, it may not be suitable for graphically intensive or data-heavy applications. Performance concerns can be mitigated with native modules or the JavaScript Interface (JSI), but this remains a primary consideration.

• Developer Expertise: Although React Native is seen as an alternative to hiring native developers, a good understanding of the bridge between React Native and the underlying platforms is essential. Developers still need knowledge of the submission, review, and deployment processes of Google and Apple stores.

• Reliance on Maintainers: Developers depend on the React Native maintainers to address issues and support new features. For instance, ongoing problems with specific functionalities like audio recording can be problematic for apps that rely on them.

When to Choose Native vs React Native?

When deciding between React Native vs Native app development, consider the nature and requirements of your project. Read the features mentioned below that will help you make an informed choice:

Use Native App Development For

• High-Performance Needs: Opt for native development if your project demands superior performance. This is particularly important for games (excluding those using engines like Unity), applications utilizing 3D/AR/VR capabilities, or any complex, resource-intensive apps.

• Resource Availability: Choose native if you have the resources and processes to manage the logistics of running two separate development streams (for Android and iOS) and keeping them synchronized.

• Single Platform Target: If your app is intended for a single platform—either Android or iOS—and you do not plan to expand to the other platform, native development is suitable.

• Direct Device Access: Native development is ideal when you need direct access to device capabilities and features not fully supported by hybrid frameworks.

Use React Native For

• Cross-Platform Requirements: Use React Native to build a cross-platform app with a relatively straightforward use case. React Native enables you to develop for both Android and iOS with a single codebase.

• Rapid Prototyping or MVP: React Native is excellent for quickly creating prototypes or minimum viable products (MVPs). Even if you plan to switch to native development for the final product, React Native allows you to test your concept and evaluate its viability swiftly.

• Logistical Benefits: If you seek the logistical advantages of a hybrid framework—such as a single codebase and streamlined development processes—React Native can help reduce costs and simplify project management.

Final Words

The debate between React Native vs Native apps remains crucial when selecting the best technology for your project. Ultimately, the decision depends on your goals. Both React Native and native development offer unique advantages, depending on the context of your software product. However, if you need to create an app for iOS and Android, native development might still be the best option due to its performance and integration capabilities.

Are you stuck between React Native and native app development for your next project? Let’s narrow down the best option for you. At Tambena Consulting, we ask the right questions to understand your goals and needs. 

Whether you’re aiming for top-notch performance and seamless integration or need to reach both iOS and Android users efficiently, our expert team is here to help. 

We specialize in custom web development and iOS and Android app development, ensuring your project benefits from the most effective technology choices. Contact us to make the right decision and bring your vision to life.

FAQs

Is React Native similar to React?

Yes, React Native is similar to React regarding syntax and development principles because both are based on React’s component-based architecture. However, React Native is specifically designed to build mobile applications using JavaScript and React concepts.

How different is React Native from React?

React Native and React differ primarily in their target platforms and use cases. React is used to make web applications that run in the browser, while React Native is used to build native mobile applications that run on iOS and Android devices. React Native also provides components and APIs specific to mobile development, unlike React, which focuses on web development.

Which is easier: React or React Native?

React might be easier for web developers familiar with JavaScript and HTML/CSS. At the same time, React Native could be easier for those looking to build mobile apps without learning native languages like Swift or Java.