Website Development vs. App Development: Which One Fulfills Your Business Need?

Wondering whether to build a website or an app? You’re not alone. Many startups and businesses face this dilemma when planning their online presence. 

Over 70% of users prefer mobile-friendly websites, but 90% of mobile time is spent on apps!  So, should you invest in website development or app development for your business?

At Techo Lab, we often get this question from businesses: ‘Should we invest in a website or build an app?’ The answer isn’t always straightforward-it depends on your business goals, audience, and budget. If you’re a startup, small business, or entrepreneur, this decision can impact your growth, customer experience, and revenue. In this blog, we’ll compare websites vs. apps, highlight their benefits, and help you choose the right one!

 

Quick Read:

1.  What is Website Development? (Pros, Cons & When to Choose)
2.  What is App Development? (Pros, Cons & When to Choose)
3.  Websites vs. Apps: Side-by-Side Comparison
4.  Real-World Business Examples
5.  SEO-Optimized Strategy for Your Business

1. What is Website Development? 

Think of a website as your digital storefront—anyone can visit, browse your services, and learn about your business anytime, anywhere.

Example: A restaurant might have a website for online reservations, a menu display, and contact details.

Benefits of a Website

• Accessible Anywhere: No need to download an app; users can visit your site from any device.
• SEO Visibility: Websites appear on Google Search, attracting organic traffic from potential customers.
• Lower Cost: Web development is usually cheaper than app development.
• Easy Updates: Modify content and features without requiring user downloads.

Limitations of a Website

• Limited Personalization: Websites offer a one-size-fits-all experience, whereas apps can provide a customized user experience.
• Requires Internet: Unlike mobile apps, websites need an internet connection to function.
• Lower Engagement: Users spend more time on apps than websites.

Do I Need a Website for My Business?

1. If you need global reach and SEO traffic
2. If you run an eCommerce store (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
3. If you want a cost-effective solution
4. If your business is informational (blogs, company sites, news portals)

For example, a local bakery wanting to showcase their menu and accept online orders should go with a website. But a food delivery startup like Swiggy or Zomato benefits more from an app to provide real-time tracking and notifications.

2. What is App Development? 

A mobile app is a software application that users install on their smartphones or tablets (iOS & Android).

Example: Swiggy & Zomato use mobile apps to enhance food ordering experiences, making them more interactive and engaging.

Benefits of an App

• Better User Experience: Apps offer faster, smoother, and interactive experiences than websites.
• Push Notifications: Send instant updates, promotions, and alerts to users’ devices.
• Offline Access: Apps work even without the internet, unlike websites.
• Higher Retention: 90% of users prefer engaging with brands through apps over mobile sites.
• Device Integration: Mobile apps can use GPS, camera, and contacts for enhanced functionality.

Limitations of an App

• Higher Cost: App development requires separate versions for iOS and Android, increasing costs.
• Requires Installation: Users must download and install the app, adding friction to access.
• Limited SEO Benefits: Unlike websites, apps don’t rank on Google Search unless supported by App Store Optimization (ASO).

Do I Need an App for My Business?

1. If your business requires frequent user engagement
2. If you need offline functionality
3. If you want to leverage push notifications
4. If your service depends on real-time updates (e.g., Uber, Zomato)

Example:
Spotify offers a website, but its mobile app provides better performance, personalized recommendations, and offline music streaming.

3. Websites vs. Apps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Website	Mobile App
Accessibility	Works on all devices via a browser	Requires download & installation
Development Cost	More affordable	Higher cost for iOS & Android apps
User Experience	Limited by browser capabilities	Smooth, fast, and personalized
Offline Access	Requires internet	Can work offline
SEO & Discoverability	Search engine visibility	Only available on app stores
Engagement & Retention	Lower compared to apps	Higher due to push notifications & personalization

Conclusion: If you need SEO visibility, go for a website. If you need high engagement, go for an app.

4. Can Your Business Benefit from Both? 

Ever wondered why some businesses only have a website while others build an app? Think about your own browsing habits—do you prefer Googling a service or using an app for it?

Real-World Examples:

• Amazon – Uses a website for online shopping and an app for better engagement.
• Netflix – Has a website for browsing but an app for streaming offline.
• LinkedIn – Users can browse LinkedIn on the web but get enhanced engagement via the mobile app.

Pro Tip: If your business needs both, start with a website, analyze user behavior, and later invest in an app!

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5. SEO & Lead Generation Strategy for Websites & Apps

Boost Website SEO:

• Use SEO-friendly keywords: (“website development services”, “custom web development”, “best app development company”)
• Optimize for mobile responsiveness 
• Publish blog content targeting long-tail keywords
• Use internal linking and backlinks for higher rankings

Boost App Visibility (ASO – App Store Optimization):

• Use keyword-rich app titles (e.g., “Best Food Delivery App – Swiggy”)
• Add engaging app descriptions with user benefits
• Encourage positive reviews & ratings for higher rankings
• Promote on social media, website & email marketing

You may use this Google’s SEO starter guide to optimize your website.

6. Common Business Concerns: Which One Will Benefit You the Most?”

We often hear from business owners who worry about making the wrong investment. Here are some common concerns:

• ‘I don’t have a big budget—should I start with a website or an app?’ → A website is more affordable and a great starting point. You can add an app later as your business grows.
• ‘I want to engage users more. Is a website enough?’ → If you need push notifications and real-time engagement, an app is better.
• ‘Do I need both?’ → Some businesses, like Amazon, have both a website and an app. If your users need flexibility, this could be the best strategy.

7. Final Decision: What’s Right for Your Business?

Choose a Website If:

1. You need a cost-effective and SEO-driven online presence
2. You are an eCommerce business, blog, or service provider
3. You want to attract customers organically through Google

Choose an App If:

1. You need high engagement, push notifications & offline access
2. Your business relies on user retention and interaction
3. You want to offer a seamless, personalized experience

Still unsure whether a website or an app is right for your business? At Techo Lab, we help businesses like yours make the right choice. Contact us for a free consultation!

Let’s bring your business to the digital world!