What's the best way to develop mobile apps: frameworks or libraries?

1 Frameworks explained

A framework is a set of tools and components that provide a predefined structure and functionality for your app. You can think of it as a scaffold that helps you build your app faster and easier, without having to worry about the low-level details. Some popular frameworks for mobile app development are React Native, Flutter, Ionic, and Xamarin. These frameworks allow you to write your app in one language, such as JavaScript or Dart, and compile it to native code for different platforms, such as Android or iOS.

2 Libraries explained

A library is a collection of reusable code that you can import and use in your app. Unlike a framework, a library does not impose a specific architecture or design pattern on your app. You have more freedom and flexibility to use the library as you wish, and to combine it with other libraries or tools. Some common libraries for mobile app development are Firebase, Lottie, Retrofit, and Realm. These libraries help you with specific tasks or features, such as authentication, animation, networking, or data storage.

3 Advantages of frameworks

One of the main advantages of using frameworks is that they save you time and effort. You don't have to write the same code for different platforms, or deal with the complexity and diversity of native APIs. You can use the same code base and tools for your app, and leverage the features and components that the framework provides. Another advantage of frameworks is that they offer a consistent and coherent user interface and user experience across platforms. Your app will look and feel similar on different devices, and follow the best practices and guidelines of each platform.

4 Disadvantages of frameworks

However, frameworks also have some drawbacks that you should consider. One of them is that they add an extra layer of abstraction and dependency to your app. You have to rely on the framework's performance, stability, and compatibility with the native platforms. You may also encounter some limitations or bugs that are specific to the framework, and that may require workarounds or patches. Another drawback of frameworks is that they may not support all the native features or functionalities that you need for your app. You may have to use native modules or plugins to access them, which can increase the complexity and maintenance of your app.

5 Advantages of libraries

On the other hand, using libraries gives you more control and customization over your app. You can choose the libraries that suit your needs and preferences, and use them in the way that you want. You can also mix and match different libraries and tools, and create your own architecture and design for your app. Another benefit of libraries is that they are more lightweight and modular than frameworks. You only include the code that you need for your app, and avoid unnecessary overhead or bloat. Libraries also tend to be more updated and compatible with the native platforms, as they are focused on specific functionalities or domains.

6 Disadvantages of libraries

However, libraries also have some challenges that you should be aware of. One of them is that they require more skill and knowledge from you as a developer. You have to understand the native APIs and platforms, and how to integrate and use the libraries in your app. You also have to manage the dependencies and versions of the libraries, and ensure that they work well together. Another challenge of libraries is that they may not offer a consistent and coherent user interface and user experience across platforms. Your app may look and feel different on different devices, and not follow the best practices and guidelines of each platform.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?