SB
December 7, 2025
10 min read

Mobile App vs Web App in 2025: Which Should You Build First?

One of the most common questions we get: "Should I build a mobile app or web app first?" The answer isn't always straightforward—here's our comprehensive guide for 2025.

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The Ultimate Showdown

Quick Decision Framework

Choose Mobile App If:

  • You need device features (camera, GPS, push notifications)
  • Offline functionality is critical
  • High-performance gaming or graphics
  • Your audience primarily uses smartphones
  • You want an app store presence

Choose Web App If:

  • You need broad accessibility across all devices
  • Budget is limited (one codebase for all platforms)
  • SEO and discoverability are important
  • Frequent updates and iterations
  • Content-heavy application

Detailed Comparison

Development Cost

Mobile App

£15,000 - £100,000+

Higher initial cost. Need separate development for iOS and Android (unless using React Native/Flutter).

Web App

£5,000 - £50,000+

Lower initial cost. One codebase works across all devices and browsers.

Time to Market

Mobile App

3-9 months

Includes app store review process (7-14 days). Each update requires review.

Web App

1-4 months

Instant deployment. Push updates anytime without approval process.

User Experience

Mobile App

Faster performance
Native look and feel
Offline access
Push notifications

Web App

No download required
Works on any device
Always up-to-date
Shareable URLs

The Hybrid Approach (Best of Both Worlds)

Can't decide? Many successful businesses start with a Progressive Web App (PWA) — a web app that feels like a native mobile app.

PWA Benefits:

  • Works on all platforms
  • Can be installed like an app
  • Offline functionality
  • Push notifications (on supported browsers)
  • 70% cheaper than native apps

Success Stories:

Twitter Lite

65% increase in pages per session

Pinterest

60% increase in core engagements

Starbucks

2x daily active users

Our Recommendation

For most businesses in 2025, we recommend this approach:

  1. 1

    Start with a Progressive Web App (PWA)

    Reach maximum audience with minimum investment. Test your concept and gather user feedback.

  2. 2

    Validate Your Business Model

    Use analytics to understand how users interact. Identify which features they use most.

  3. 3

    Build Native Apps When Ready

    Once you've proven demand, invest in platform-specific apps for enhanced performance and features.

Need Help Deciding?

Book a free consultation and we'll analyze your specific needs to recommend the best approach.

Schedule Free Strategy Call