Mobile App vs. Mobile-Friendly Website: Which is Best for Your Brand?

Mobile app or mobile version of the website — what to choose for brand promotion? Both options have strengths and weaknesses and solve certain tasks. The main thing is that the platform for business is fully functional and has good technical support.

Today, modern businesses should pay attention not only to website development but also to adaptation to mobile devices (mobile applications). A significant portion of users use internet capabilities every day. If a potential client has access to your resources at all times, right in their pocket, they will return to you and will not want to go to competitors. So, adaptive design or mobile app – which option will be more convenient and profitable specifically for your business?

Adaptive Website and Its Features

What is an adaptive website (correct display of the site on different devices), and why is it needed? We are talking about an adapted version of the website that runs only in the browser. Unlike standard websites, a mobile resource is developed specifically for smartphones and tablets.

An adaptive website is characterized by fast loading and lightweight design. The page will open in the size that the user needs — there is no need to resize it. This is a convenient solution for providing access to the resource through mobile devices.

What is a Mobile Application

Let's look at what a mobile app is and what differences it has from the adapted browser version of the website. An app is software designed to work on smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices developed for a specific platform. Software must be downloaded to a tablet or smartphone.

Apps are downloaded to the App Store, Google Play Store, and some other resources. Downloading can be paid or free; programs are usually free, but they support in-app purchases (paid features).

Mobile software is developed for specific versions of operating systems, requires installation, and guarantees fast access to content. Like adapted website versions, it has its strengths and weaknesses.

Advantages of a Mobile-Friendly Website

A mobile adaptive website has several advantages:

• Good compatibility: such a website is suitable for all types of tablets and smartphones, and developing a separate version for each operating system is not required. Mobile sites support integration with features like text messaging and QR codes.

• Wide reach: apps have an impressive target audience. By supporting multiple devices at once, the widest possible range of users is attracted. This is an undeniable plus for any business.

• Simple support and maintenance: improving adaptive websites is much easier and cheaper than native apps.

Developing a mobile version of the website is a relatively cheap way to expand the audience. Its advantages outweigh the disadvantages by far.

Disadvantages of adaptive development

There are drawbacks to this solution too:

• Medium level of convenience: the website cannot utilize all smartphone features (such as cameras, calls, etc.).

• Difficulties with offline access: it is only possible with caching. Full functionality requires an internet connection.

Mobile Application: Features

Mobile apps are developed for different types of operating systems. Their advantages include:

• Ease of use: Compared to websites, apps are becoming more popular every day. They guarantee optimal interaction and create conditions for fast and trouble-free content loading. They also have push notifications.

• Presence of personalization: apps are suitable for constant use, allow creating accounts, and store data on smartphones.

Software drawbacks

Disadvantages of mobile applications that clients need to know and consider:

• Possible compatibility issues: For a native app to operate normally, full compliance with the requirements of a specific operating system is important. Separate versions of the program are needed for each platform.

• Need for constant support and maintenance: If the app is developed for different platforms, its support requires more money and time. Regular updates and compatibility issue fixes will be needed. Support for a mobile app and ongoing improvements require certain investments; this expense item should be included in the advertising budget.

Conclusions

Apps are perfect for interactive games, solving specific business tasks, etc. Creating such software costs more than developing an adaptive website version. Mobile design is suitable for all types of operating systems and does not require complex support, which cannot be said about downloaded apps. Mobile software can be made paid and free, but keep in mind that in the first case, the audience will noticeably decrease. Your task is to increase user loyalty and provide them with maximum convenience.

Are you still considering whether to develop an adaptive website or a mobile app? Contact us for consultation, and our specialists will outline all the advantages, costs, and development deadlines of your idea in the shortest possible time!