Flutter vs. React Native: In a nutshell
|
Criteria
|
Flutter
|
React Native
|
|---|---|---|
|
What is it?
|
A portable UI toolkit for building natively-compiled apps across mobile, web, and desktop* from a single codebase
|
A framework for building native applications using React
|
|
Official release
|
December 2018, Google I/O
|
March 2015, F8 Conference
|
|
Created by
|
Google
|
Facebook
|
|
Free and open source
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Programming language
|
Dart
|
JavaScript
|
|
Popularity
|
120,000 Stars on Github (May 2021)
|
95,300 stars on Github (May 2021)
|
|
UI
|
Flutter apps look as good on the up-to-date operating systems as they do on older versions.
Since they only have one codebase, the apps look and behave similarly across iOS and Android – but thanks to Material Design and Cupertino widgets, they can also imitate the platform design itself. How’s that possible?
Flutter contains two sets of widgets which conform to specific design languages: Material Design widgets implement Google’s design language of the same name; Cupertino widgets imitate Apple’s iOS design.
This means that your Flutter app will look and behave naturally on each platform, imitating their native components.
|
Application components look just like native ones (e.g. a button on an iOS device looks just like a native iOS button, and the same on Android).
The fact React Native uses native components under the hood should give you confidence that, after any OS UI update, your app’s components will be instantly upgraded as well.
That said, this can break the app’s UI but it happens very rarely.
If you want your app to look near-identical across platforms – as well as on older versions of an operating system (as Flutter achieves) – then consider using third-party libraries (like this one). They will enable you to use Material Design components, in place of native ones.
|
|
Sharing code
|
With Flutter 2 (announced in March 2021), we can use the same codebase to ship native apps to five operating systems: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux; as well as web experiences targeting browsers such as Firefox, Chrome, Safari, or Edge.
Flutter can even be embedded in cars, TVs, and smart home appliances. (source).
Perhaps the single largest announcement in Flutter 2 is production-quality support for the web. It can be used for:
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) that combine the web’s reach with the capabilities of a desktop app,
Single Page Apps (SPAs) that load once and transmit data to and from internet services.
Existing mobile apps – allowing Flutter apps to be run on a desktop.
|
iOS and Android – but there are select libraries that allow you to use the same code to build iOS, Android, web, and Windows10 apps.
You can also extract shared code in mobile, desktop, and web apps, to a separate repository; treat it as a separate project; then inject it in the same way as another dependency.
This allows a developer to focus on writing code for a specific platform without having to consider compatibility with another one.
Top apps made with this technology Xianyu app by Alibaba, Hamilton app for Hamilton Musical, Google Ads app, Philips Hue, My BMW Instagram, Facebook, Facebook Ads, Skype, Tesla
Time-to-market Typically much faster than native development. Possibly as fast as development with Flutter.
However…
React Native uses bridge and native elements, so it may require separate optimization for each platform – a problem that widget-based Flutter doesn’t run into. It may make the app development with React Native longer.
Competitive advantage
Great look and feel thanks to rich widgets;
Rapidly growing community, and popularity;
Excellent documentation with strong support from the Flutter team (which makes it easy to start developing with Flutter);
Improving Flutter for Web, offering the potential for one codebase across mobile and web platforms
Difficult to beat time-to-market length
Stability (5+ years on the market);
Many successful, prominent market players using React Native;
Mature, vast community;
Easy-to-learn technology;
Plenty of tutorials and libraries, which allow quick and easy development;
Code can be easily reused for both web app and desktop app development.
When it is not the best fit If…
• Your app needs to support 3D Touch (for now, Flutter doesn’t support 3D – but it features on the Flutter team’s long-term roadmap)
• The design of your app is platform-specific
• Your app requires multiple interactions with an OS; or requires rare, little-known native libraries
• You need a minimalistic UI, but rely on significant use of the phone hardware (e.g. an application that plays music, or only takes pictures)
• You want to create an instant app (small-sized app)
If your app sounds like any of the above, it’s probably better you choose native app development.
Read more about these cases here >>
If…
• Your app needs to handle less common, or ultra-specific tasks (like calculations) in the background
• You require custom communication via Bluetooth (which can be tricky to implement using React Native)
• You want to create an app for Android only
In truth, if you want to build an iOS app and you know JavaScript, consider React Native – but if you want an Android-only app, it’s likely better to build natively with another team. Why? Right now, iOS has better support than Android.
If your app sounds like any of the above, it’s probably better you consider choosing native app development.
|
|
Competitive advantage
|
Great look and feel thanks to rich widgets;
Rapidly growing community, and popularity;
Excellent documentation with strong support from the Flutter team (which makes it easy to start developing with Flutter);
Improving Flutter for Web, offering the potential for one codebase across mobile and web platforms
Difficult to beat time-to-market length
|
Stability (5+ years on the market);
Many successful, prominent market players using React Native;
Mature, vast community;
Easy-to-learn technology;
Plenty of tutorials and libraries, which allow quick and easy development;
Code can be easily reused for both web app and desktop app development.
|
Pros and cons of Flutter
Pros of Flutter
We’ll start with the pros that make Flutter the best choice for the developers. Here’s the list of advantages of Flutter over React Native:
- It looks great!
- It’s rich in widgets;
- The community is rapidly growing
- Well-structured documentation
- Permanent improvements for web development
- It requires less testing
- The apps are fast
- It helps to create the same UI for older devices
- Flutter 2 helps to build apps for the web!
Cons of Flutter
Even though the list of Flutter advantages is impressive, some disadvantages are still important to consider.
- It is not native
- The apps are bigger than native ones
- It still has a limited set of tools and libraries comparing to native apps
These disadvantages are minor, and they do not interfere with app development. However, in some cases, the cons of Flutter may be decisive when choosing a cross-platform development framework.
Flutter Apps Examples
Applications are written in Flutter:
- Google Ads.
- Alibaba.
- Square.
- eBay.
- Hamilton Musical.
- Reflection.
Which one to pick for your next project?
As we can see now, Flutter and React Native have many things in common. First and foremost, they are both open-source frameworks that anyone can use. They both are developed by leading companies: Google created Flutter vs React Native was created by Facebook. To compare basic info about Flutter and React Native, you can check this info by NIX.
Flutter is easier to use as it is more resistant to system updates. It means that when iOS or Android update the OS, the app will remain the same. On the contrary, React Native depends on native elements, so when the update is released, some problems may appear in the launch app. Currently, Flutter supports Android 4.1+ or iOS 8+, while React Native supports Android 4.1+ and iOS 10+.
The biggest difference between React Native and Flutter is that Flutter has plugins developed by the Google team, like geolocation and mapping. Unfortunately, React Native app works better with apps with a one-time location and does not require tracking.
All in all, Flutter and React Native are great choices to save time and money on mobile app development. What framework to choose will depend on the preferences of the developer and the company.
Imagine your business scaling rapidly, only to face sluggish application performance and unpredictable cloud expenses. In today’s digital landscape, scaling…
We are delighted to announce that Slitigenz has been recognized as the top IT outsourcing firm by the esteemed SoftwareOutsourcing…
2022 sparked the AI revolution, 2023 saw it infiltrate the business world, and now, in 2024, we’re at the brink…
Hey there! Ever wondered what the buzz around MLOps is all about? Let’s break it down! MLOps, short for Machine…
English 
Vietnamese
14 Comments
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I enjoy reading through a post that will make people think. Also, thank you for allowing me to comment.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you penning this article and the rest of the site is also very good.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hi, I do believe this is a great site. I stumbledupon it 😉 I am going to return yet again since i have book-marked it. Money and freedom is the greatest way to change, may you be rich and continue to guide other people.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Excellent site you’ve got here.. It’s hard to find high-quality writing like yours these days. I seriously appreciate individuals like you! Take care!!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday. It will always be interesting to read articles from other authors and use something from their web sites.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
When I initially commented I appear to have clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and from now on each time a comment is added I get four emails with the same comment. Is there a means you are able to remove me from that service? Kudos.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Having read this I thought it was extremely enlightening. I appreciate you spending some time and energy to put this informative article together. I once again find myself personally spending a significant amount of time both reading and leaving comments. But so what, it was still worthwhile.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I’d like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in penning this blog. I really hope to check out the same high-grade blog posts from you later on as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my very own website now 😉
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
For instance, if you’re feeling bloated, are experiencing breakouts, えろ 人形or have cramps that make you want to curl into a ball, you probably don’t want to be having sex.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Good post. I learn something new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday. It will always be interesting to read content from other writers and practice something from their websites.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hi, I do think this is an excellent web site. I stumbledupon it 😉 I may come back once again since i have bookmarked it. Money and freedom is the greatest way to change, may you be rich and continue to help other people.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
This is a topic that is near to my heart… Thank you! Where are your contact details though?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I have to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in penning this site. I am hoping to check out the same high-grade blog posts by you later on as well. In truth, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own site now 😉
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
An interesting discussion is definitely worth comment. I believe that you should write more on this issue, it may not be a taboo matter but usually people don’t speak about such issues. To the next! All the best!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Good post. I am going through a few of these issues as well..
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
It’s nearly impossible to find knowledgeable people about this topic, however, you seem like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I couldn’t resist commenting. Perfectly written.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Spot on with this write-up, I honestly think this site needs a lot more attention. I’ll probably be back again to see more, thanks for the info!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
they will look for any reason possible—aside from their own contributing behaviors—to explain the end of the relationship.ダッチワイフUsually,
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
You’re so awesome! I do not believe I’ve read something like that before. So nice to discover another person with unique thoughts on this subject. Seriously.. thank you for starting this up. This website is something that is needed on the internet, someone with a little originality.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Spot on with this write-up, I actually believe this amazing site needs much more attention. I’ll probably be returning to see more, thanks for the advice!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Howdy, There’s no doubt that your web site could possibly be having web browser compatibility problems. Whenever I look at your site in Safari, it looks fine however, if opening in Internet Explorer, it’s got some overlapping issues. I merely wanted to provide you with a quick heads up! Apart from that, excellent site.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Great post. I’m experiencing a few of these issues as well..
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Right here is the right blog for everyone who wishes to find out about this topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I actually would want to…HaHa). You definitely put a fresh spin on a subject that’s been discussed for a long time. Great stuff, just wonderful.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
It’s nearly impossible to find knowledgeable people about this topic, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Sustainable Fashion and Ethical PracticesTraveling often involves experiencing the natural wonders of the world,which has led to a growing awareness of environmental issues and sustainable practices.ラブドール 無 修正
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Good blog you’ve got here.. It’s hard to find high quality writing like yours nowadays. I seriously appreciate people like you! Take care!!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Right here is the perfect site for anybody who hopes to find out about this topic. You know so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I personally will need to…HaHa). You certainly put a brand new spin on a topic that’s been discussed for a long time. Wonderful stuff, just great.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I blog often and I truly thank you for your information. This article has truly peaked my interest. I’m going to book mark your site and keep checking for new information about once a week. I opted in for your Feed as well.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Introducing to you the most prestigious online entertainment address today. Visit now to experience now!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Greetings! Very useful advice within this post! It is the little changes which will make the greatest changes. Thanks a lot for sharing!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Right here is the perfect blog for anybody who hopes to find out about this topic. You realize so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I really would want to…HaHa). You certainly put a brand new spin on a topic which has been discussed for a long time. Wonderful stuff, just great.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I could not refrain from commenting. Perfectly written!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
There’s certainly a lot to find out about this issue. I love all the points you’ve made.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Right here is the perfect blog for anyone who wishes to understand this topic. You understand so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I really will need to…HaHa). You certainly put a brand new spin on a topic that’s been written about for a long time. Great stuff, just great.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
When I originally commented I appear to have clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now each time a comment is added I receive 4 emails with the exact same comment. Perhaps there is an easy method you can remove me from that service? Thanks.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
and even making sure your choice drink is waiting on the porch upon returning each day.ランジェリー エロApart from the lodge,
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Oh my goodness! Awesome article dude! Thank you, However I am experiencing issues with your RSS. I don’t know the reason why I am unable to join it. Is there anyone else having similar RSS problems? Anybody who knows the answer can you kindly respond? Thanks.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
nothing shimmies quite like decadent layers of frilly silk ruffles! Fastened with functional silk bows at both sides to be undone just as slowly as you like,velma cosplay sexythese knickers are popular with many of our burlesque performer clients,
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Introducing to you the most prestigious online entertainment address today. Visit now to experience now!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Excellent blog you have here.. It’s hard to find high-quality writing like yours these days. I seriously appreciate individuals like you! Take care!!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
sexy velmaIn the lingerie world,a romper is basically a cami and tap shorts in one (or a one-piece with short shorts attached).
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
explore their desires and boundaries. The love dolls can also help people セックス ボットcommunicate about their sexual desires and boundaries,leading to improved communication in real-life relationships.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Watch our exclusive Neerfit sexy bf video on neerfit.co.in.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon everyday. It’s always exciting to read articles from other writers and use something from other web sites.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hi there! This article couldn’t be written much better! Looking at this article reminds me of my previous roommate! He constantly kept preaching about this. I will forward this information to him. Fairly certain he’s going to have a good read. Thanks for sharing!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I’m impressed, I have to admit. Seldom do I encounter a blog that’s both educative and engaging, and let me tell you, you have hit the nail on the head. The problem is an issue that too few men and women are speaking intelligently about. Now i’m very happy I came across this during my hunt for something regarding this.
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Thanks for paying attention to our blog. Our consultation is free so you can leave your questions here and we will try to answer them asap
I am currently writing a paper and a bug appeared in the paper. I found what I wanted from your article. Thank you very much. Your article gave me a lot of inspiration. But hope you can explain your point in more detail because I have some questions, thank you. 20bet
Thanks for paying attention to our blog. Our consultation is free so you can leave your questions here and we will try to answer them asap.
Your article gave me a lot of inspiration, I hope you can explain your point of view in more detail, because I have some doubts, thank you.
Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I’ve really enjoyed browsing your blog posts. In any case I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write again soon!
I may need your help. I tried many ways but couldn’t solve it, but after reading your article, I think you have a way to help me. I’m looking forward for your reply. Thanks.
Thanks for paying attention to our blog. Our consultation is free so you can leave your questions here and we will try to answer them asap.
I am a student of BAK College. The recent paper competition gave me a lot of headaches, and I checked a lot of information. Finally, after reading your article, it suddenly dawned on me that I can still have such an idea. grateful. But I still have some questions, hope you can help me.
Thank you so much for paying attention to our blog. Feel free to ask if you have any doubts so we will try to give you some advice asap!
Your article made me suddenly realize that I am writing a thesis on gate.io. After reading your article, I have a different way of thinking, thank you. However, I still have some doubts, can you help me? Thanks.
It’s our pleasure to help you with your problems. Just leave your question so we will try to give some advice. Thanks for your attention!
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
It’s our pleasure to help you with your problems. Just leave your question so we will try to give some advice. Thanks for your attention!