React Native vs Real Native: Choosing between Native and Cross-Platform Development

In the world of mobile app development, there are two main approaches: native and cross-platform. Both approaches have their pros and cons, and the choice between them depends on a number of factors, including project goals, budget, and timeline. In this article, we'll compare React Native and Real Native, two of the most popular tools for cross-platform and native development, respectively, and help you decide which one is right for your project.

What is React Native?

React Native is an open-source framework for building cross-platform mobile apps that was developed by Facebook. React Native allows developers to use the same codebase for both iOS and Android platforms, making it a popular choice for businesses looking to save time and resources. React Native uses JavaScript and the React library, and its core principle is that the same code can be used for multiple platforms. The main benefit of React Native is that it makes it possible to create high-quality, native-like apps in a much shorter time frame than traditional native app development.

What is Real Native?

Real Native, on the other hand, is a term that refers to developing an app specifically for one platform, using the platform's native language and development tools. Real Native development is typically more time-consuming and expensive than cross-platform development, but it offers several key benefits. The most significant benefit is that Real Native apps have better performance and a more native look and feel compared to cross-platform apps. Additionally, Real Native apps are better optimized for the platform, making them more responsive, faster, and smoother.

Which one to choose? Main factors 

When deciding between React Native and Real Native, it's important to consider the goals and requirements of your project. If you're building an app that requires high performance, native-like look and feel, and an optimized user experience, Real Native is probably the best option. If you're looking to save time and resources, and your app doesn't require advanced platform-specific features, React Native may be the better choice.

Round 1. Price and Time.

Real Native development is typically more expensive than cross-platform development, so if you're working with limited resources, React Native may be a more cost-effective option. However, if you have the budget for Real Native development, the benefits of better performance and native-like user experience may be worth the additional investment. On one of the React Native projects, it was possible to achieve 95% code reuse between iOS and Android. The second platform was obtained at the cost of testing and debugging, so the development speed on RN is higher.

Round 2. Product Maintenance and Development

Cost Efficiency

The development team aims to minimize the resources spent on maintaining the project after its release. This benefits both the customer and the developer as the cost of support is reduced. Applications built with React Native are more cost-effective as they require only one JS programmer instead of two Native programmers for maintenance.

Feature Consistency

Developing for Android and iOS using native technology is not always equal in terms of time and effort. Over time, code and architecture can diverge, making it difficult to implement new features across both platforms.

Dependency Management

React Native, as an open-source framework, is comprised of various libraries and third-party components, leading to a higher number of dependencies compared to native development. However, in recent years, stability, refactoring, and debugging issues have largely been addressed, with mature dependencies being quickly and frequently updated by developers.

Round 3. Look & Feel

React Native provides a fast and near-native user experience with its GUI, which is thrown an average of 1.5 times faster than other solutions. However, it may not appeal to all users, as the app interface will not be identical to the one in the AppStore or Play Market.

Round 4. Performance

React Native may struggle with processing large data arrays and applications built on it may run slower compared to native applications. For maximum performance, it's recommended to choose native development.

One advantage of React Native is that it's easy to convert a mobile app into a web app and run it on UWP. While experts may have differing opinions on the use of React Native, they agree that it should be used for projects that can be accomplished with its capabilities. However, for projects requiring maximum performance, native UI, or close hardware integration, native development is still the preferred choice. In conclusion, choosing between React Native and Real Native depends on your project goals and requirements, as well as your budget and timeline. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on your specific needs. Consider your project goals, budget, and timeline carefully, and choose the option that best meets your needs.