React and React Native: what's the difference?

Both techniques use JavaScript and work with components. As a result, the way you build logic feels familiar. Additionally, they build on the same view of front-end development, with a focus on reuse, structure, and data handling.

The difference lies not so much in how you think, but in where the application ultimately runs. And that has implications for the technology, maintenance, and further development.

React is used for web applications. Everything that runs in the browser, from dashboards to complex portals, falls within that domain. The output is HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, driven via the browser.

React Native focuses on mobile applications for iOS and Android. The code is not converted to web technology but controls native components. This means that a button or list behaves as users of the platform would expect.

The choice therefore depends on the platform you want to support and the role the application plays within the business process. Unsure about the right approach? Feel free to contact us.

In complex business processes, the technical choice has direct consequences. React is well-suited for applications that have many integrations, are used intensively, and need to respond quickly to changes.

React Native is interesting when mobility plays a significant role. Consider usage where employees work on the go or where direct interaction with a device is required. However, this requires a different perspective on testing, releases, and maintenance.

With React, you have a lot of control, but that freedom requires clear architecture. The responsibility for routing, state, and data lies with the developer, which is stable when this has been well thought out in advance.

Additionally, dependency on mobile operating systems plays a role with React Native. Updates to iOS or Android can affect the app, which requires active management and monitoring.

No. Although React Native offers many possibilities, there are situations where fully native development is a better fit. For example, when making extensive use of graphics platforms or when platform-specific functionality is the primary focus.

However, for many business uses, React Native is a useful choice, as long as the limitations are clear beforehand.

The right choice starts with the process you want to support, not with the technology itself. By first looking at usage, scale, and future plans, it becomes clear whether React, React Native, or a combination thereof fits best.