React vs. React Native? What's the Difference?

What is React?

If you think about the websites you use every day, the fast ones that update instantly and feel smooth to navigate, there’s a good chance React is powering them.

React, sometimes called React.js, is a JavaScript library used to build user interfaces. In simple terms, it controls the parts of a website that people actually see and interact with.

It’s commonly used for:

• Web applications
• Interactive websites
• SaaS platforms and dashboards
• Complex front-end systems

What makes React stand out is the way it builds websites using small, reusable building blocks called components. Instead of reloading an entire page when something changes, React updates only the specific part that needs to change.

The result is a smoother, faster experience that feels modern and responsive rather than clunky or static.

React runs in the browser and ultimately outputs HTML, CSS and JavaScript, which makes it ideal for building dynamic web experiences that users access through a standard website rather than downloading an app.

What is React Native?

If React powers fast, modern websites, React Native is designed to power mobile apps.

React Native is a framework used to build applications for iOS and Android. Instead of creating websites that run in a browser, it allows developers to build fully functional mobile apps using JavaScript and the same core principles as React.

It’s commonly used for:

• iOS and Android mobile apps
• MVPs and startup apps
• Cross-platform products with shared functionality
• Apps that need near-native performance

One of the biggest advantages of React Native is that it allows teams to build for both iOS and Android without maintaining two completely separate codebases. That can speed up development and reduce initial build costs.

Unlike React, which outputs HTML for the browser, React Native renders real native mobile components. That means the app behaves like any other mobile application and can access device features such as the camera, notifications and GPS.

React Native apps are installed directly onto a device, just like apps built with Swift or Kotlin, and are distributed through the App Store or Google Play.

Can React and React Native Share Code?

One of the most common questions is whether you can use the same codebase for both web and mobile. The short answer is yes, but only to a certain extent.

Both React and React Native use:

• JavaScript
• React concepts (components, hooks, state)

That shared foundation makes it easier for teams to work across platforms and reuse certain parts of a project.

However, not everything is interchangeable:

• User interface code is not directly shared
• Styling works differently between web and mobile
• Platform-specific logic and integrations are still required

In real-world projects, teams often share business logic and data handling while building separate user interface layers for web and mobile. This approach keeps the experience optimised for each platform while still gaining efficiency where it makes sense.

Which Is Better: React or React Native?

Neither is “better” overall. The right choice depends on what you’re building.

Choose React if:

• You’re building a website or web platform
• SEO is important
• The product will be accessed mainly via browsers
• You don’t need app store distribution

Choose React Native if:

• You’re building a mobile app
• You want one codebase for iOS and Android
• You need access to mobile device features
• Performance matters more than SEO

In some cases, businesses use both. React for the web platform and React Native for the mobile app.

Is React Native Cheaper Than Building Two Apps?

Often, yes, but with caveats.

React Native can:

• Reduce development time
• Lower initial build costs
• Speed up MVP launches

However:

• Complex apps may still need native code
• Platform-specific features add cost
• Long-term maintenance still requires expertise

It’s cost-effective when used strategically, not as a shortcut.

Do You Need a Specialist Development Team?

Absolutely.

While React and React Native share similarities, they are very different in practice. Choosing the wrong technology, or the wrong implementation, can lead to performance issues, scalability problems, or unnecessary rebuilds.

A good development partner will:

• Help you choose the right framework for your goals
• Explain trade-offs clearly
• Build with long-term scalability in mind

Planning a Web or App Project? Let’s Talk

React and React Native are built for different purposes. The right choice depends on the product you are building and the experience you want to deliver.

React powers modern, scalable web platforms. React Native drives high-performance mobile apps across iOS and Android.

Making the right decision early saves time, budget and future rebuilds.

At NPK Media, we design and develop robust digital products using both technologies. Explore our React web development services or our React Native app development services or get in touch with our team to discuss your project and define the right technical direction from the outset.