For most projects, the choice between a mobile app and a web app depends on your budget, required features, and the importance of native device integration. Mobile apps offer better performance and functionality, while web apps are more cost-effective and have broader accessibility. A third option, a Progressive Web App (PWA), can offer a hybrid approach with some benefits of both. 

Mobile apps

Mobile apps are downloaded from app stores (Google Play, Apple App Store) and installed directly onto a mobile device. 

• Pros
  • Superior performance: Since they are specifically designed for the device's operating system, mobile apps are faster, more responsive, and better suited for heavy computing tasks.
  • Offline functionality: Many mobile apps can be used with limited or no internet access, storing data locally on the device.
  • Device feature access: Mobile apps can fully leverage device capabilities like the camera, GPS, microphone, and push notifications for a richer user experience.
  • Higher engagement: Features like push notifications and a persistent home screen icon can drive higher user retention and engagement.
• Cons
• Higher cost: Developing and maintaining separate apps for iOS and Android requires more time and resources, leading to higher costs.
• App store process: Updates and releases must go through an app store's approval process, which can cause delays and complicates maintenance.
• Adoption barriers: Users must download and install the app, which can be a point of friction. 

Web apps

Web apps are accessed through a web browser and don't require any installation. They use standard web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and are designed to be responsive on all screen sizes. 

• Pros
  • Broader reach: Since they work on any device with a browser, they offer wider accessibility across different operating systems.
  • Lower cost: With a single codebase, web apps are generally cheaper and faster to develop and maintain.
  • Instant updates: Updates are deployed instantly from the server, so all users see the latest version immediately without any action.
  • SEO-friendly: Web apps can be found through search engines, which helps with discoverability.
• Cons
• Dependent on internet: A constant internet connection is required for most web app functionality.
• Limited features: Web apps have restricted access to native device features like GPS and the camera.
• Performance: Performance may be slower or inconsistent depending on internet speed and browser limitations.