Brands often ask whether they need a native app or whether a progressive web app (PWA) is enough. Both can work. The right answer depends on what you want the channel to do.
This is a general comparison, and platform capabilities change, so verify current browser and OS support before deciding.
What Each One Is
- PWA: your website with extras like home-screen install and offline caching. Found through search.
- Native app: installed from the App Store or Google Play, with access to device features.
Push Notifications
Native apps have mature push support on iOS and Android. PWA push on iPhone is more limited: it generally requires the user to add the site to their home screen first, which most shoppers never do. If push is central to your plan, native has the edge. See abandoned cart push notifications.
See what a native app adds
30-day free trial, plans from $99/month.
Cost and Maintenance
A PWA is usually cheaper and uses your existing site. Native apps cost more but no-code builders have narrowed the gap, with MobiDrag starting at $99/month.
Discovery
PWAs rank in Google search like any page. Native apps appear in app stores but do not rank in web search. Most brands keep the website for acquisition and use the app for retention.
How to Choose
- Choose PWA if you want a low-cost improvement to mobile web.
- Choose native if you want push, loyalty and repeat purchase.
- Do both if you can: the site for acquisition, the app for retention.
FAQ
Is a PWA cheaper than a native app?
Usually yes at the start, but compare the total cost including development time and what you give up in push and retention.
Do PWAs work on iPhone?
They run on iPhone, but features like push have more restrictions than on native apps. Check Apple's current documentation.
Can a Shopify store have both?
Yes. Many brands run a website, optionally a PWA, and a native app.
Which converts better?
It depends on your audience. Test with a trial before committing.
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