Nowadays mobile phones have become a part of a human extension where people like to spend their time on the internet. The growing demand for mobile access is making every business and corporation offer a mobile interface to users worldwide. While the earlier debates were revolving around the offline and online marketplace, nowadays it is completely based on only the online approaches. In the case of mobile phones, the medium is mostly divided into two terms mobile websites vs mobile apps or applications.
While some claim that having a mobile application is more beneficial than having a mobile website, both of the mediums have their own perks and drawbacks. Recent reports show that mobile users are increasing drastically. After the tragic event of a global pandemic, the number of users has increased by more than 5.07 billion. While many will be confused about whether to go for a website or an application, there is no definite answer to it. If seen from the perspective of a startup company, it’s better to know the wider side.
Pros and Cons of Mobile Websites
Pros
• Reach
Websites are tending to get more reach than applications for their multi-device support feature and access from everywhere. It does not even require much effort to gain reach as it generally targets the potential target audience.
• Compatibility
Mobile websites have accessibility in multiple devices which offers more compatibility to worldwide users. Since mobile applications are typically based on smartphones only it hampers the overall user experience considering a larger audience.
• Maintenance
It does not require any download and installation. It can be accessed from any browser without waiting for a new patch to update.
Cons
• Convenience and comfort
Mobile websites are not very convenient when it comes to additional features. Apps have the capability to sync with the camera, mic, GPS, and other features that provide more accuracy but websites are made for that.
• Experience
Everybody knows how it feels like to use an application whereas mobile websites try to fit a huge webpage on a smaller screen. It does not even provide any customizable options.
• Offline
Mobile websites do not provide any offline access as it requires constant and steady internet connection in order to interact.
Pros and Cons of Mobile Apps
Pros
• Convenience and comfort
Mobile apps have been reigning in the world for more than a decade and it has taken over everyone with their convenience and comfort of use. It can have access to multiple features of mobile phones and provides a more user-friendly experience.
• Personalization
Based on UI and UX, apps are built in a different way that can boost the users’ activity with the app. Providing a more smooth and soothing user experience, it also offers customizable options that enhance individual user activity. It also contains social sharing options to make sure users get to share their choice.
• Both online and offline
Mobiles apps have recreated the meaning of entertainment by offering an enjoyable user experience to all. Though most apps need to require an internet connection there are also many offline apps to interact with that do not let get bored.
Cons
• Compatibility
The apps are purely compatible with particular mobile operating systems and of particular versions which makes them less diverse in use.
• Maintenance and support
Apps require to get downloaded and installed to provide access and also should update with the latest patch in order to work. There are regular updates and many bug fixes in order to keep it running.
As the bottom line, mobile apps and mobile websites both are great for the growth of a startup company but it depends on how a company wants to reach its audience. In order to reach a larger audience, mobiles websites are the best. For those who are seeking more engagement and long-lasting impact, mobile applications could be the solution. It solely depends on how your company strategizes your business progress and target audience.
