In the present world of digital transformation, mobile applications are common. Thanks to the invention of the mobile phone, millions of mobile applications have been developed.
According to research by Allied Market Research, the global mobile application market is projected to reach $407.31 billion by 2026, expanding at a CAGR of 18.4% from 2019 to 2026.
Speaking of mobile app development, there’s an important question that needs to be addressed: which framework should the developers use for this purpose? Among the many available, React Native and Cordova are popular ones. Both come with their respective strengths and weaknesses.
This article offers a good comparison of the two frameworks — comparing their features and helping you decide which best suits your mobile project.
What is React Native?
React Native is an open-source framework developed by Facebook. It allows for the development of mobile apps using languages such as JavaScript and React. The framework uses the learn once, write anywhere approach to deliver native-app-like performance. It supports applications for various platforms, including iOS, TVOS, macOS, Android, Android TV, Windows, and the Universal Windows Platform.
This cross-platform framework has earned good popularity in the developers’ community. According to Statista, 31% of software developers worldwide used this platform in 2023 to build software that supports different operating systems.
What is Cordova?
Cordova is another open-source framework, React Native alternative that allows writing a single code base for its deployment to multiple platforms. The code writing is in languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Cordova allows developers to reuse the written code for cross-platform app construction.
According to Statista, 10% of software developers worldwide used Cordova in 2023 to build mobile software for multiple platforms. This suggests how commonly the framework is used to develop mobile applications.
React Native vs Cordova: Key Comparison
Let’s now compare the two frameworks to better understand which one is best for the next mobile project.
1. Performance
An app’s performance is among the major determining factors in declaring the utility of a framework.
React Native: It’s a comparatively newer framework that develops software with a smooth functionality and good responsiveness. The toolkit utilizes a native platform and not a web view, so the overhead is quite less.
Cordova: This is a comparatively better-established platform that supports a broad range of platforms. However, the developed applications are comparatively slower and less responsive.
2. Coding Method
The way a toolkit codes an application is another significant factor in determining its use by a business for software construction.
React Native: It utilizes JavaScript alongside the ReactJS library to create native mobile applications. This framework enables developers to write code just once and deploy it on both iOS and Android devices. Its primary advantage is that developers are not required to learn different coding languages for each platform.
Cordova: This toolkit employs HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript for cross-platform app development. By utilizing web technologies, the app is encapsulated within a native container. Although this approach allows the app to function on various platforms, it often necessitates extra work to maintain compatibility across different operating systems.
3. Stability
It’s important to consider a framework’s stability and consistency to ensure that the app is capable of withstanding the minor changes and disturbances.
React Native: As a newer player in the software industry, this toolkit is comparatively less mature and complete compared to the other one. Moreover, the framework’s component libraries are still undergoing the process of evolution to maintain pace with market trends.
Cordova: This one is a comparatively established toolkit for mobile application development. It includes a range of plugins, which significantly enhances functionality.
4. User Experience
Every piece of software, whether mobile or web, is always user-centric, with its development centered on customers’ needs.
React Native: React Native provides a more fluid and responsive user experience by delivering native-like interfaces. Users often can’t tell they’re using a hybrid app, which makes React Native a favorable choice for apps that require a sleek, professional appearance.
Cordova: While Cordova can also deliver quality results, the user experience from this toolkit does not match that of the native app. The web view dependency can lead to slower interactions and occasional stuttering, frustrating the users.
5. Community
Having a strong community and good documentation can significantly impact a developer’s experience with a framework.
React Native: This framework benefits from strong backing from Facebook, and its popularity continues to rise. The growing community means that developers have access to plenty of tutorials, forums, and resources to help them troubleshoot issues.
Cordova: It has been established for a considerable period, leading to a solid community and a diverse range of plugins. Nevertheless, the growth of this community has slowed compared to its earlier days, indicating that newer resources might be less frequent.
6. Learning Curve
For mastering any skill, proper learning is a must. What makes a difference is the extent and complexity of the skill-to-be-learned.
React Native: Before getting started with this framework, you need a solid grasp of React. Since mastering React takes time, developers should be prepared to put in additional effort before they can effectively use React Native.
Cordova: It is recognized for being a user-friendly and adaptable platform for developers. Typically, developers can attain proficiency within only 1 to 2 weeks. Even those with basic or entry-level development skills can easily understand Cordova.
7. Cost Considerations
Cost is always an essential factor in mobile app development.
React Native: Developing React Native applications may incur higher upfront expenses because developers must grasp both JavaScript and certain native platform principles. Nevertheless, the long-term advantages in performance and user experience often warrant these expenditures.
Cordova: Since Cordova apps can be built using web technologies, developers may find it easier to manage costs, especially if they are already familiar with JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. The overall development may require less investment in terms of hiring experts for native code development.
8. Making Your Choice
Choosing between React Native and Cordova really depends on your specific project requirements and your team’s expertise.
Opt for React Native if: You value performance, desire a native appearance, and can either learn the framework yourself or hire skilled developers. This option suits applications needing seamless interfaces and sophisticated features.
Select Cordova if: You are mainly a web developer well-versed in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s also suitable for applications that focus on content rather than requiring heavy animations or complex graphical elements.
Final Words
Choosing between React Native and Cordova depends on your project’s needs and the mobile app development lifecycle. Having a deeper understanding of your business goals is, therefore, necessary.
Ultimately, both frameworks have their place in the world of mobile development. This article gives a good comparison of the two frameworks. It helps weigh the pros and cons of using either of the two, letting you make an informed decision that fits your project’s needs.
