React vs React Native

The React and React Native frameworks are two of the most popular. Their names are similar except for the extra word between them. At first glance, this could lead to confusion. To unravel the mystery behind them, you are at the right place if you have the same confusion.

Currently, React and React Native power up some of the most widely used and popular mobile applications. The tools both have similar names, were launched by Meta, and have maintained large fan bases since their launch.

Though these two technologies are similar in their core, the differences between them are significant.

In the ecosystem, many are still unsure of the simple differences between React and React Native. One is a web development framework, while the other is a mobile app development framework.

We will cover how React is different from React Native in this article.

What is React?

React is an open-source JavaScript library that allows you to design and build user interfaces using component-based UI components. The library is developed by Meta and maintained by a community of developers. A single-page web application can be built with React as its base. You might also hear its name ReactJS.

It was developed by Jordan Walke, a software engineer at Meta. In the beginning, it was developed and maintained by Meta, and later it was integrated into its products like WhatsApp and Instagram. The Facebook newsfeed section began using React in 2011, but the public release occurred in May 2013.

Advantage of React

1. Easy to Learn and Use
2. Creating Dynamic Web Applications Becomes Easier
3. Reusable Components
4. Performance Enhancement
5. Support of Handy Tools

Disadvantage of React

1. The high pace of development
2. Poor Documentation
3. View Part
4. Known to be SEO Friendly
5. Scope for Testing the Codes

What is React Native?

React Native is an open-source UI software framework developed by Meta Platforms, Inc. By combining React with native platform capabilities, developers can develop applications for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, tvOS, Web, Windows, and UWP.

React Native uses native components as building blocks instead of web components, so it is like React. Mobile platforms are its target instead of browsers.

As part of an internal hackathon, Meta developed React Native in 2013. Meta announced in March 2015 that React Native is open and freely available on GitHub. It was originally developed to enhance iOS applications. Several years ago, it was added to Android platforms.

Advantages of React Native

1. Cross-Platform
2. Class Performance
3. Hot Reloading
4. Improving with Time
5. Native Components

Disadvantages of React Native

1. Learning is tough
2. Security Robustness
3. More Time to Initialize

React Vs React Native

The bottom line

React and React Native differ in terms of the end product and the application platforms. The application development process is similar for both. Besides the many features that these frameworks provide, it is important to recognize that both React and React Native are significant focal points for web and app development. Since both platforms offer flexible functionalities, their popularity is growing daily.

Interested in some sound advice regarding your project? Our recommendation would be to go with an expert app development company rather than one that may be proficient in one framework but isn’t able to help you make a sound decision.