The app development platforms of ReactJS and React Native are the two most popular development services available to developers today. Both the services share similar names and have been floated by Facebook or the new Meta. The two can often be mistaken for each other by novices in the development sector. Although both the services’ creator and core are the same, there are many differences between ReactJS and React Native. In this article, we talk about the differences between ReactJS and React Native with a comparative purpose.
What is ReactJS?
ReactJS is a popular JS library platform used to make single-page applications for companies and corporations. Facebook and Instagram are apps based on ReactJS in their mobile versions. As an app development framework, ReactJS is an efficient platform for development. The framework is particularly made for developing the layout of mobile and web apps. ReactJS development services have been active since 2011 when Facebook made the platform public for developers. However, the leap between Facebook and Instagram essentially led to the development of React Native.
Benefits of ReactJS
There are many benefits of using React JS like:
Reusable components
The ReactJS library has reusable components that help with seamless and fast development. The reusable codes of the library are easy to use for the development of apps for different operating systems. Cross-platform development apps are easily done with the help of ReactJS. The development costs and pace for different apps in a similar line reduce with the library’s help.
The component-based architecture helps create an efficient app that does not need frequent debugging and fixes. Because the architecture is component-based, the developer does not have to change the entire framework for editing. Similarly, the testing part is also very easy with the help of the ReactJS development framework.
Faster speed
The virtual DOM offered by ReactJS increases the speed of app performance after launch. The Virtual DOM feature is easily used to generate and reconcile HTML with front-end features. The library also supports the development speed.
Code stability
The ReactJS library supports unidirectional dataflow, which supports the integration of the components into the app framework without any residual necessities arising after the integration. There is smooth data flow after the integration of the individual components. The code stability is enhanced, which makes later changes easy and not challenging and voluminous. The maintenance part of ReactJS apps is easy to follow up.
SEO boost
ReactJS development services also make the web app framework SEO friendly, apart from supporting the mobile app framework. This makes the ReactJS apps are faster and more efficient in customer acquisition. Proper SEO helps make the app easily marketable and visible to potential users. Additional tools allied with React JS help create SEO-friendly web apps.
What is React Native?
React native app development services are based on the React Native framework. React Native was developed by Facebook after ReactJS, only for mobile apps. The framework is used to create multi-platform apps that run on multiple operating systems. The framework is used to create native apps for smartphones. React Native used ReactJS as a fundamental, but the components are different.
Benefits of React Native
The development of React Native apps has multiple benefits like:
Cross development of apps
The React Native app framework can develop platform-specific code for cross-platform apps. The React Native platform is suited for mobile apps made for different devices of different brands. In today’s world, when people are using multiple devices, cross-platform app development with React Native framework is very relevant for developers.
Faster development
The react native app development services are an upgrade on ReactJS with its hot reload combined with upgraded UX design services. Combining these services increases the efficiency of the app development process and amplifies its speed. The use of React Native saves a lot of time for developers.
Extensive community support
React Native is a very popular app development platform. A community of expert mobile app developers is already associated with the React Native framework. The community helps new users and developers learn the basics and minute points of the React Native development process. The developers can easily explore troubleshooting tips given by the community. An extensive network of developers that fosters fruitful professional conversations around development services helps budding developers learn and hone their skills.
An accessible UI library
UI is very important for mobile app development because it determines the user’s experience and feedback for your app users. Therefore, mobile app development frameworks need to be highly efficient on UI/UX design. The React Native app development framework is a complete solution for creating mobile apps with its ready-to-use UI element library. The developer can easily use the library to create a good UI design. The accessible UI library helps developers save time on development because the elements do not have to be developed from scratch.
Drawbacks
Like benefits, each of the app development frameworks also has drawbacks. For example, the React JS framework has the drawback of a steep learning curve for developers. The ReactJS framework also has gaps in libraries where it depends on external libraries. On the other hand, React Native has the drawbacks of a haphazard abstraction layer for integration. The RN framework also has drawbacks of compatibility issues that need fine-tuning with particular operating systems.
The discussion concludes that the ReactJS vs React Native framework is both frameworks have areas of efficiency and drawbacks. A professional must balance both areas to create apps according to project requirements as a developer.
