Mobile website or Mobile App? An overview of the differences
Are you hesitating between a mobile website or a mobile app?
Both are great tools and offer advantages and features.
We can help you identify which solution is the best according to your goal. Have a look at the differences between mobile websites and applications:
| You can access it directly with a browser, no installation is required. | You need first to download the app and to install it on your phone. |
| You have to go through the browser every time you want to access the mobile site, and type the URL or find the bookmark. | The access after installation is quick and easy with just an icon to tap. |
| It works from any platform and device with a browser: one version will work for iPhone, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phones… | It works only for the platforms and device your app has been built for: you will need to build several app if you want users to access it from any device. |
| For a simple mobile website, cost is cheaper than for a simple app and you will only need one development. | App is expensive to develop and you will need more than one development if you want your app on different devices. |
| No submission needed, the mobile website is independent. |
You need to submit your app to the App Store and to follow their requirements. |
| Easy to make the mobile website evolving: you can upgrade it as much as you want and users will automatically access to the new version. | You will have to submit your app updates to the App Store and users will have to download the version. |
| An Internet connection is required to access it. | You can access it offline, no internet connection is needed. |
| Limited: no access to phone features. | The app can interact and interface with the phone features (GPS, Bluetooth, Camera…) and you can use Push Notifications and In-App purchase. |
| Fast to use. | Very fast to use. |
Which one is better than the other?
This is impossible to say: it really depends on your goal and objectives and on the content and features you want to offer. Both usage are rising and in many cases, a mobile website and a mobile application are complimentary.
Do you want to go a step further and have a mobile solution for your business?
If you go for a mobile application, check out our series of article starting with a process to help you develop your app!
From the compatibility of your website on mobile devices to the creation of a dedicated application, we have solutions for you and we can help you for your project. Do not hesitate to contact us!