Progressive Web App (PWA): benefits, costs and examples

What is a Progressive Web App?

A PWA is a website that behaves like a native app. Users can install it on their phone, use it offline and receive push notifications — without the App Store.

Benefits of a PWA

1. No App Store needed

No review process, no commission (Apple takes 30%), no waiting. Users install your app straight from the browser.

2. One codebase

A PWA works on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS and Linux. One codebase for every platform.

3. Offline functionality

Thanks to service workers your app keeps working without an internet connection. Content is cached and synchronised when the connection returns.

4. Lower cost

A PWA is 50-70% cheaper than native app development for two platforms.

5. Better SEO

A PWA is a website — Google indexes all the content. Native apps are invisible to search engines.

When to choose a PWA?

You want an app-like experience without App Store hassle

Budget is a consideration

SEO matters

Your content is text-based (news, e-commerce, tools)

Offline access is a nice-to-have

When to choose native?

You need hardware access (Bluetooth, NFC, advanced camera)

Heavy 3D graphics or gaming

Push notifications on iOS are essential (iOS support is improving)

The App Store is a marketing channel

Cost comparison

Solution	Cost
PWA	€5,000 – €25,000
Cross-platform app	€15,000 – €60,000
Native iOS + Android	€40,000 – €120,000

Wondering whether a PWA fits your project? Get in touch.