RESPONSIVE WEBSITES VS. MOBILE APPS, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

When we look at mobile apps and responsive websites with the slider features, we usually think they’re the same thing. However similar they seem to be, they are actually quite different. Both of them have their own features and purpose, depending on the specific use they are required for.

To help you understand the difference between a mobile app and mobile website, we’ll be taking a closer look at the key features of each and their respective pros and cons.

RESPONSIVE WEBSITES VS MOBILE APPS

What is a Responsive Website?

A responsive website is a very minimalistic and simple website that showcases minimal functions so that it can easily adapt to the screen size of any device, which is why it fits perfectly on mobile devices. So, when we say responsive web design, we are referring to a design that responds accordingly to the device that it is being used on with regard to size and look.

A responsive website often makes use of big layouts and versatile grids. It also makes heavy use of simple CSS media functions. Responsive websites usually use slider functions and interactive features to make it easier for the user to navigate.

Key Features and benefits of Responsive Websites

• Instantly available– As long as you type the URL on your mobile browser, you can access the mobile website.
• Compatible across devices– You don’t need specific requirements to access a mobile website since you just input the URL in a browser.
• Can be updated instantly– Unlike apps, you don’t need to keep on updating the site.
• Can be found easily– You don’t need to search for it in an app store.
• Broader Reach– Brands can reach broader audiences since mobile websites aren’t hard to access.
• Less time and cost of making– Brands don’t have to spend so much in creating a responsive website.

Cons:

• Limited Functionality- It won’t be able to contain all the functions an app does.
• Not so fast- The responsive website still heavily uses bandwidth and may lag a bit.
• The interface is not so good- The interface of an app is still better than that of a responsive website.

What is a Mobile App?

Mobile apps are computer applications that are designed specifically for mobile phones. A mobile app is generally smaller in memory size as compared to a mobile website and sports more functions and information. A mobile app is also specific to one OS. Different mobile apps have to be created to run in two different OS’s (ex. Android and iOS)

What makes a mobile app different is its functionalities. As compared to desktop apps, mobile apps only scroll up and down. Mobile apps are also optimized to give good readability and aesthetic appeal as compared to desktop apps. Finally, mobile apps are built to be more interactive so that users will get hooked on using mobile apps.

Key Features and benefits of Mobile Apps

• Regular Usage and personalization– Apps can be used anytime you want since they are installed on your phone. Also, some apps can be personalized with your own customizations and information, unlike mobile websites.
• Offline Usage– Unlike a responsive website, some apps may be used offline. However, some functions may only be accessed with an internet connection.
• More functionalities– In an app, you get to have the complete functions that a responsive website doesn’t include.
• Ability to connect with other apps and functions in Mobile– Through Wifi or Bluetooth, you can connect with other apps to share pictures, videos, etc.
• Speed– Apps have a better loading speed as compared to mobile websites.
• Brand Recognition– For brands, apps give better brand recognition since people can frequently see a visual representation of your brand on their smartphone.
• Better Interface– Apps are designed to have better interfaces than their mobile website counterparts.
• More Opportunities for Purchases– Brands have the opportunity to make more money through apps because of in-app purchases. Usually, customers won’t mind making in-app purchases as compared to purchasing from a mobile website.

Cons:

• More time and money required– Brands who want to make an app will need more effort from a development team, as well as more budget.
• Requires Maintenance– App creators will also need to maintain the app regularly to keep it working properly.
• Takes up space– For users, downloading an app means taking up more space on the phone.
• More Updates– Users have to constantly update the app to get all the new features and functionalities.

Conclusion

Mobile website and mobile app are different in their own fields of functionality but both serve their own specific purpose. None can replace the other. So, if you’re a brand, how do you choose between Web vs Mobile App Development? First, define the purpose of creating an app or mobile website. After that, look at the pros and cons of each to see which one best suits your purpose. Or if you can, make both so that you can give your followers an overall good experience.