Web app vs. website: what's the difference?
Many business owners use the terms "website" and "web app" interchangeably. But there are important differences that determine which one you need.
What is a website?
A website is primarily informational. Visitors consume content: they read text, look at images and navigate through pages. Examples:
Company website
Blog
Portfolio
Landing page
What is a web application?
A web app is interactive. Users perform actions: they log in, fill in forms, manage data and communicate. Examples:
Online accounting software (Exact Online)
Project management tools (Trello, Asana)
E-commerce platforms with a customer portal
CRM systems
The key differences
| Characteristic | Website | Web app |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Inform | Interaction/functionality |
| User interaction | Low (reading) | High (performing actions) |
| Authentication | Usually not | Yes (login/accounts) |
| Complexity | Low-medium | Medium-high |
| Cost | €2,000 – €10,000 | €5,000 – €100,000+ |
| Maintenance | Little | Regular |
When do you need a web app?
You need a web app when:
Users need to log in and manage their own data
There is dynamic interaction (sending messages, placing orders)
You want to automate business processes
You want to offer a SaaS product
When is a website enough?
A website is enough when:
You mainly want to inform people about your business
No user accounts are needed
The content is relatively static
Your budget is limited
Not sure? Get in touch and we'll help you make the right call.