Native or hybrid app? What you should know before deciding

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Two roads, one goal

‍

If you are thinking of launching an app for your online store, you are probably facing this key question: native app or hybrid app? Both options can take your ecommerce to the mobile channel, but the technical, functional and strategic differences are key to make the right choice.

In this article we analyze the difference between native app and hybrid app for ecommerce, its advantages, limitations and performance, with current data, real examples and the success case of Juguettos, which opted for Reskyt' s native technology to improve its sales and loyalty.

‍

What is a hybrid app?

‍

A hybrid app is built with web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and "wrapped" to work on iOS and Android. It uses a single code base, which reduces initial development costs. It relies on frameworks such as Ionic or React Native.

‍

What is a native app?

‍

A native app is developed directly for each operating system (Swift for iOS, Kotlin for Android), allowing you to take full advantage of device performance, system functionality and a superior user experience.

In platforms such as Reskyt, a native app is generated from a central base, without the need for parallel development.

‍

‍

Comparison: native app vs. hybrid app

‍

Appearance	Hybrid App	Native App
Performance	Correct, but limited in complex processes.	High performance and fluidity.
Access to functionalities	Limited or requires plugins.	Full access to camera, push, GPS, biometrics...
User experience	Less integrated with the system.	Smooth interface, native animations.
Maintenance	Simpler if only one base is used.	Automated on SaaS platforms such as Reskyt.
Development time	Fast, but limited in scalability.	4 weeks with specialized platforms.

‍

Key market data

‍

IAB Spain's Ecommerce Spain 2024 Study estimates that native apps have a 48% higher conversion rate than hybrid apps in Spanish ecommerce.
According to Sensor Tower's State of Mobile 2024, native apps double retention by day 30 over hybrid apps.
The user experience in native apps has an average rating of 4.5 stars in App Stores, compared to 3.7 for hybrid apps (according to AppFigures app study, 2023).

‍

When to choose a hybrid app

‍

Projects with a very tight budget.
Rapid validation of a minimum viable idea.
Static or not very interactive content.

‍

When to choose a native app

‍

You need fluidity, performance and scalability.
Your app will include features such as advanced notifications, maps, scanner or biometrics.
You are looking to improve conversion and loyalty of regular customers.
Your brand takes care of the visual experience in detail.

‍

Juguettos: native technology for the demanding customer

‍

Juguettos, one of the most recognized toy chains in Spain, needed a mobile channel to offer:

A smooth and engaging experience for families.
Ability to segment by interests and age.
Automation of promotions and launches.

‍

With Reskyt, they created a native app in less than a month, connected to their ecommerce and adaptable to any device.

‍

‍

Results:

+42% conversion rate compared to a responsive website.
+38% recurring usage in periods of high demand (Christmas, sales).
50% reduction in the cost of loyalty compared to email marketing.

‍

The Juguettos app has become one of the main communication and repurchase channels for its most loyal customers.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

Is there much difference in cost between a hybrid app and a native app?

With traditional developments yes, but with SaaS platforms like Reskyt, you can have a native app from 350 €/month with maintenance included.

‍

Is it difficult to maintain a native app?

No. If you use Reskyt, all updates, support and upgrades are included in the service.

‍

Can I have a native app without having two devices for iOS and Android?

Yes, with Reskyt, a single base generates both apps without the need to duplicate technical resources.

‍

Which is better for SEO or visibility?

Both apps are positioned in the App Store and Google Play. The native app tends to have better ratings and retention, which improves visibility.

‍

Which is more scalable in the medium term?

The native app allows the incorporation of complex functionalities without performance limitations, which is why it is the preferred option for growing ecommerce.

‍

Conclusion: performance, experience and results

‍

If your priority is to improve conversion, build customer loyalty and offer the best possible experience, the native app is the winning option. And today, thanks to platforms like Reskyt, you can have it ready in weeks and without disproportionate costs.

‍

Want to see what your native app would look like? Request a demo and discover why more and more Spanish ecommerce are betting on mobile technology that converts.

‍