Progressive Web App vs. Native App: What is Best for E-commerce, SaaS, and Beyond in 2025?

The Progressive Web App vs Native App debate has sparked considerable discussion among developers and businesses. As mobile usage continues to grow, the question arises: Is PWA better than native apps for businesses? What is PWA? 

As businesses evaluate which solution is best for their needs, the decision becomes more complicated. The advantages and limitations of both PWAs and native apps vary depending on business goals and the target audience. 

In our blogpost, we’ll explore these differences in-depth and help you choose which method best suits your product, whether it’s for e-commerce, SaaS, or beyond in 2025. Keep reading to find out how these two methods compare and which one will be the right fit for your business.

What Is A Progressive Web App (PWA)?

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are web applications that use modern web technologies to offer a native app-like experience directly from a web browser. 

Unlike traditional mobile apps, which need to be downloaded from an app store, PWAs can be accessed through a URL and installed on a user’s home screen. PWAs leverage technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and service workers to deliver fast, reliable, and engaging experiences even in low or offline conditions.

Some examples of PWAs include Twitter Lite, Pinterest, and Flipkart.

• Twitter Lite, for instance, improved its engagement by 75% and reduced bounce rates by 20% after transitioning to a PWA. (source)
• Pinterest also saw a 60% increase in core engagements and a 44% increase in ad revenue after launching their PWA. (source)
• Flipkart, an e-commerce platform, reported a 70% increase in conversion rates and a 40% re-engagement rate after adopting PWA technology.

In the e-commerce sector, PWAs like Alibaba and Trivago also have made waves by offering smoother and faster shopping experiences, resulting in a significant boost in user engagement and sales. Alibaba has reported that its PWA contributed to 76% more conversion rates on mobile than its regular mobile site.

With the rise of native apps and advanced frameworks, some may wonder, does the PWA still exist today? The answer is yes, PWAs continue to be a viable solution for businesses looking for a cost-effective and platform-independent alternative to traditional mobile apps. 

What Is Native App?

Native apps is software application developed specifically for one platform, such as iOS or Android. These apps are installed directly on a user’s device from the app store. 

Unlike PWAs, native apps are built using platform-specific programming languages such as Swift and Objective-C for iOS, and Java or Kotlin for Android.

Native apps are often the go-to choice for industries that require high performance and deep integration with device features. 

For example, Uber, a leading ride-hailing platform, relies on a native app for providing seamless GPS functionality, mobile payments, and push notifications, all of which are critical to its user experience. 

Another example is Spotify, the music streaming service, which also benefits from the ability to integrate with device hardware for offline listening, push notifications, and media controls.

In the e-commerce world, Amazon and eBay deliver a smooth shopping experience in mobile apps with features like real-time inventory management, mobile payment, and barcode scanning, which are made possible through native app development.

For SaaS products, native apps are ideal when offering advanced features that require deeper device integration, such as advanced analytics, live collaboration, and data-intensive processing.

What Are The Differences Between PWA and Native Apps?

Both progressive web apps vs native app solutions have their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s explore how the native vs progressive web app comparison stands in terms of cost, performance, and usability:

Cost

When it comes to cost, PWAs are more affordable to develop and maintain than native apps. PWAs only require a single codebase that works across multiple platforms. . 

Developers can use standard web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which reduces both development time and the need for specialized expertise in different programming languages for iOS ios pwa wrapper and Android.

On the other hand, native apps are platform-specific and require separate development for iOS and Android such as Swift (for iOS) and Java (for Android). This leads to higher upfront costs and additional resources to maintain both versions. 

This difference makes PWA vs native app an important factor for businesses aiming for rapid development and cost savings.

Programming Language

The programming languages and frameworks used to develop progressive web app vs native app differ significantly. Native apps are created using platform-specific languages like Objective-C and Swift for iOS, and Java or Kotlin for Android. This platform-dependence requires specialized knowledge for each operating system.

In contrast, PWAs rely on common web technologies, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which are widely known among developers and support cross-platform compatibility. This also means that PWAs are easier to update and maintain with a single codebase that works across devices. 

In the native vs progressive web app debate, the ability to use a unified tech stack for PWAs makes them a practical choice for developers looking for flexibility and efficiency.

Security

Both progressive web app vs native app are secure, but native apps offer more robust options for data protection. Native apps can integrate advanced security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, certificate pinning, and encryption that is closely tied to the mobile operating system. 

App stores like the Apple App Store and Google Play Store also perform their own security checks, which add an extra layer of trust for users.

On the other hand, PWAs run within web browsers, which are inherently more secure than traditional web apps due to the HTTPS protocols they use. PWAs also rely on service workers to provide offline functionality and background tasks, making them relatively secure but not as tightly controlled as native apps. 

Performance

Performance is often one of the main deciding factors in the PWA vs native app debate:

Native apps offer superior performance because they are specifically designed for mobile devices and can directly access the device's hardware and software. They can perform complex tasks like advanced graphics rendering and real-time computations more effectively.

PWAs are restricted by the browser they run in. While they can perform well for many basic tasks and are significantly faster than mobile websites, they may not offer the same level of speed or responsiveness as native apps. 

PWA mobile applications do have certain advantages, such as offline capability and quicker loading times thanks to service workers.

Discoverability

Native apps need to be published on app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This provides a built-in audience and can boost visibility through App Store Optimization (ASO) strategies. 

However, this requires meeting the app store’s submission guidelines and waiting for approval, which can delay the process.

PWAs can be indexed by search engines like any regular website. This makes them easier to discover through SEO efforts. Businesses looking to reach a broader audience without relying on app stores may find PWAs more advantageous in terms of SEO optimization and direct traffic. 

PWA mobile applications are more adaptable in this regard and can be shared through a simple URL.

Offline Capability

Native apps are more reliable as they store their core functionality and data locally on the device. This means that native apps can run even when there is no internet connection. This is particularly useful for apps that need to function seamlessly without interruptions, such as games, maps, or productivity tools.

Progressive web apps (PWA) rely heavily on an internet connection to retrieve most of their data from a server, just like websites. While PWAs can offer offline functionality through cached content or service workers, their performance and functionality are limited when there is no internet. 

For example, if a PWA is not cached properly or if there are issues with the service worker, it might fail to load, resulting in a poor user experience.

Functionality

In terms of functionality, native apps have the advantage. Because native apps are built specifically for the platform (iOS or Android), they can access a wide range of device-specific features that PWAs cannot.:

• Push notifications: Native apps can send push notifications even when the app is running in the background. On the other hand, PWAs can send push notifications but with more limitations, especially when the app is not actively in use.
• Geo-location: Native apps can access geo-location services with little to no user intervention. This makes it ideal for apps that require real-time location tracking, like ride-sharing or food delivery apps. While PWAs can use geo-location features through the browser, they are not as seamless and may require permission every time the user opens the app.
• Mobile payments: For mobile payments, native apps provide a more secure and reliable solution. Native apps are capable of interacting directly with the phone's hardware (e.g., NFC chips), making them ideal for mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. While PWAs can integrate payment systems, their interaction with hardware is often limited, and compatibility may vary across devices and platforms.
• Device features: Native apps have full access to a wide variety of device features, such as the camera, microphone, accelerometer, NFC, and Bluetooth, enabling more complex functionalities like video recording, voice commands, or contactless payments. PWAs, while evolving, still face limitations in accessing certain device features, which restricts their use in certain scenarios, like augmented reality (AR) or complex multimedia apps.

PWA vs. Native App: Pros and Cons

When comparing progressive web app vs native app, it's important to weigh their respective strengths and weaknesses to determine which is best suited for your business needs. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of web based app vs native to help guide your decision.

For Progressive Web Apps

Pros

• Cost-effective: PWAs are cheaper to develop and maintain, as they only require one codebase for multiple platforms.
• Fast and responsive: They provide quick loading speeds and smooth user experiences due to service worker technology.
• Cross-platform compatibility: PWAs work across various devices and browsers, including desktops, mobiles, and tablets.
• Lower storage requirements: Unlike native apps, PWAs take up less space on users' devices.
• SEO-friendly: PWAs are indexable by search engines, helping boost visibility and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs).
• Secure: PWAs follow HTTPS protocols to ensure secure data transmission and protect user information.

Cons

• Limited access to native device features: PWAs cannot access all features of a device, such as the camera, GPS, and accelerometer.
• Limited discoverability: iOS PWA limitations are not available on app stores like  Apple App Store, making them harder to discover.
• Security risks: While PWAs are secure, they are more vulnerable to cyberattacks than native apps
• Limited user engagement: PWAs may not achieve the same level of user engagement or interaction such as social sharing or user-generated content features.

For Native Apps

Pros

• Fast & efficient: Native apps are optimized for specific platforms, which results in better performance and speed.
• Better user experience: These apps provide superior user experiences by leveraging the full capabilities of the device, such as hardware features and sensors.
• High performance: Native apps offer excellent performance, including offline functionality
• Offline mode: Native apps can operate fully offline, with features like push notifications and offline data storage.
• Accessible: Native apps are easy to download and install from app stores, which increases their visibility and user acquisition.

Cons

• Slow time to market: Native apps take longer to develop because separate versions need to be created for each platform (iOS and Android).
• Frequent upgrades: Native apps require frequent updates for each platform, which can increase maintenance costs and effort.
• Higher cost: The development and maintenance costs of native apps are higher, especially for apps targeting multiple platforms.
• Lengthy downloading process: Users must download and install native apps, which can be a barrier, especially for those with limited storage or poor internet connections.

When Should You Opt for a PWA vs. a Native App?

Choosing between a progressive web app vs native app depends on your business goals, the type of app you're building, and your target audience. If you're looking to launch an app quickly and on a limited budget, a PWA might be the right choice. 

PWA mobile applications are faster to develop and update, allowing businesses to gather user feedback quickly before committing to more significant investments. A PWA is ideal if you don’t need access to advanced mobile features and are more focused on reaching a wide audience with SEO benefits. 

For startups and businesses with a limited budget, PWAs provide a cost-effective solution to establish an online presence and build brand authority.

On the other hand, if your app requires more advanced features like native vs progressive web app functionalities such as geolocation, NFC, or offline capabilities, native apps are a better fit. 

Additionally, if you need robust security features, native apps offer a higher level of protection, making them the right choice for industries like banking or healthcare. Native apps also benefit from greater discoverability through app stores, where you can tap into a ready-made audience. I

If your goal is to build trust with users and provide a seamless experience that leverages hardware capabilities, investing in a native app will help you meet those needs more effectively.

Industries Use PWA and Native Apps

Both progressive web app vs native app have distinct advantages across various industries. Here's how each option fits different use cases: 

Use Cases for Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

• E-commerce: PWAs are excellent for eCommerce businesses looking to enhance user experience without incurring high development costs. For instance, Alibaba uses PWA technology to increase mobile conversions, resulting in a 76% increase in mobile traffic. PWAs are ideal for businesses targeting users across multiple platforms with a single codebase. They offer offline functionality, fast loading times, and seamless performance, even on low-quality networks.
• News and Media: PWAs provide an efficient way for news platforms like Forbes and The Washington Post to deliver fast, responsive, and interactive experiences.. PWAs help media platforms reach a wider audience by being discoverable through search engines, unlike native apps which rely solely on app stores.
• Travel and Hospitality: MakeMyTrip and Trivago have adopted PWAs to improve the booking experience for users. The PWA technology enables travel companies to offer real-time updates on flight statuses, gate changes, and hotel availability. 
• Banking and Finance: Financial institutions, such as PayPal, use PWAs to offer secure transactions and account management features without requiring users to download and install an app. PWAs are perfect for industries that need to provide seamless user experiences while maintaining security standards, and they work efficiently across all devices.

Use Cases for Native Apps

• E-commerce: Native apps are also widely used in eCommerce for companies like Amazon and eBay, where advanced features like personalized shopping experiences, in-app payments, and product scanning are crucial.
• Gaming: The gaming industry relies heavily on native apps for high-performance, interactive experiences. Popular games like Candy Crush and Clash of Clans require full access to device hardware for complex graphics and real-time interactions. 
• SaaS: Native apps in the SaaS industry, such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, allow for deeper integration with mobile devices and provide advanced functionalities like push notifications, real-time messaging, and offline capabilities. These apps provide users with a consistent and feature-rich experience across devices.
• Social Media: Social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are prime examples of native apps. These apps provide personalized content and ensure a smooth experience with access to mobile-specific features such as cameras, notifications, and geolocation.

Progressive Web Apps vs. Native Apps: Which To Choose for Your Product 2024?

Choosing between progressive web app vs native app is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It largely depends on the type of product you're developing and the specific needs of your users. 

The right choice can impact not only the user experience but also your development process, time to market, and long-term goals. So, the question is: which one is better suited for your product in 2024? Is there a "best" option, or is there a more strategic choice?

Let’s find your answer with these 2 cases below:

If you're building a simple app or startup product, and speed is crucial, then a PWA is likely the better choice. PWAs are quicker and cheaper to develop since they can run on any platform with a single codebase. They are ideal when you need to test an idea or reach a wide audience without a heavy investment in development time. 

PWAs also offer easier maintenance with no app store distribution requirements. This is particularly useful for businesses that are looking for quick launches, market testing, or lower budgets. If user engagement and SEO optimization are important for your business, a PWA can help achieve these goals efficiently by being indexed by search engines.

However, if you're asking yourself, “Can PWAs ever become as good as native apps?”, the answer might be “good enough” for many products. PWAs provide a solid user experience for many industries, including eCommerce, media, and SaaS, without the need for app store listings or multiple versions for different platforms.

Native apps shine when your product requires hardware access, such as sensors, cameras, or NFC. These apps are also beneficial for businesses aiming for a premium user experience that leverages full device functionality. 

Native apps are trusted more by users because they go through the app store’s vetting process, providing an extra layer of security and credibility. If your business falls into industries like banking, healthcare, or gaming, where security, offline usage, and advanced features are crucial, a native app is likely the way to go.

However, for eCommerce or SaaS products, consider the question: “Does your business really need the full scope of native app features?” While native apps offer an edge in performance and device integration, many businesses have found success by choosing PWAs first and opting for native apps later when they’ve fully established their presence and brand. You might even find that a PWA could be enough to serve as the foundation for your product while you gradually expand your features over time.

Summary 

When choosing between progressive web app vs native app, the decision boils down to your product’s needs, user expectations, and long-term goals. 

PWAs offer cost-effective, cross-platform solutions ideal for businesses looking to quickly scale and gain market feedback without a huge upfront investment. Native Apps provide a more powerful, feature-rich solution when you need deeper integration with device functionalities.

At Golden Owl Solutions (GOS), we specialize in website development and app development, including building both PWA and native apps tailored to your business goals. With a strong focus on eCommerce and SaaS products, we provide end-to-end services, from initial concept to development and deployment. 

Whether you're looking to build a scalable eCommerce platform or a SaaS product, our team has the expertise to help you create the perfect app, combining the best of both PWA and Native App solutions to meet your needs.

FAQs

Q1. What is the main difference between a PWA and a Native App?

PWAs are web-based apps that can run on any device with a browser, while Native Apps are platform-specific and need to be installed from an app store.

Q2. Is PWA better than Native Apps?

PWAs are more cost-effective and easier to deploy, making them great for startups or businesses testing a new product. However, Native Apps are better for products that need advanced device features or a premium user experience.

Q3. Can PWAs replace Native Apps completely?

While PWAs can meet many business needs, especially in eCommerce and SaaS, Native Apps may still be necessary for products requiring heavy hardware integration, superior performance, or specific platform features.

Q4. Which is better for my eCommerce site, PWA or Native App?

For eCommerce, PWAs provide fast loading, easy updates, and SEO benefits, making them an excellent choice. However, if your business requires advanced features like augmented reality or NFC payment systems, Native Apps could be more suitable.