App or responsive web? What you should choose to sell more

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Wednesday, November 12, 2025
App or responsive web? What you should choose to sell more

The modern ecommerce dilemma: App or responsive web?

If you have an ecommerce business, you've probably already asked yourself this question: should I invest in an ecommerce app or improve my responsive website? Both options allow you to sell online from mobile, but their results are not the same.

According to DataReportal's Spain 2024 Digital Report, 90% of Internet users access the Internet from mobile devices, and more than 75% of online purchases are made on mobile devices. However, the way in which users interact with an app and with a website is completely different.

In this article we help you make an informed decision: we analyze the key differences between an app and a responsive website, their advantages and disadvantages, and we show you a real case of success with Micolet, the online second-hand clothing store that multiplied its sales thanks to a native app developed with Reskyt.

What is a responsive website and what does it offer

A responsive website is a version of your online store designed to automatically adapt to any screen size. Its main advantage is accessibility: the user can enter from any browser without having to download anything.

Advantages of a responsive website

  • Immediate access: no download required; just type the URL or click from social networks or search engines.
  • Lower initial investment: it usually costs less to develop than an app.
  • Centralized updating: web changes are instantly applied to all users.

Disadvantages of a responsive website

  • Limited experience: because it depends on the browser, speed and fluidity are lower than in an app.
  • No push notifications: cannot send direct alerts or promotions to the user.
  • Lower retention: users visit and leave; repetition rates are much lower.

What is an ecommerce app and why is it gaining ground?

What is an ecommerce app and why is it gaining ground?

An ecommerce app is a native mobile application designed specifically to offer the best mobile shopping experience. It allows access to content in a direct, fast and personalized way. And that translates into more conversions.

In fact, studies by IAB Spain (2024) show that app users spend 37% more per purchase and repeat purchases up to 40% more than users who only browse the mobile web.

Advantages of an ecommerce app

  • Superior performance: apps load up to 5 times faster than mobile websites.
  • Active Loyalty: allows you to send push notifications and create reward programs.
  • Offline access: the user can browse and view products even without Internet.
  • Total personalization: the app adapts to customer behavior, displaying relevant content.
  • Better conversion: ecommerce apps achieve a conversion rate three times higher than responsive websites (source: Data.ai, 2024).

Disadvantages of an ecommerce app

  • Initial download: requires the user to install the app from the App Store or Google Play.
  • More specialized development: it involves design work and synchronization with the ecommerce, although platforms such as Reskyt drastically reduce times.

Comparison: ecommerce app vs responsive website

AppearanceWeb ResponsiveApp EcommerceAccessFrom browserInstalled on deviceSpeedDepends on browserFaster and smootherNotificationsNot availableCustomized pushUser experienceLimitedImmersive and smoothConversionAverage 2%Average 6-8%RetentionLowHigh

The difference is clear: if you are looking to sell more and retain customers, a native ecommerce app is the best option. However, both channels can coexist: the web is still essential to capture organic traffic and the app, to convert and retain it.

Success story: Micolet and the leap to the app channel

Success story: Micolet and the leap to the app channel

Micolet, the online second-hand clothing store, had a responsive website with good traffic, but wanted to increase purchase recurrence and direct communication with their customers. With Reskyt's help, they launched a native app connected to their ecommerce in just 4 weeks.

Project objectives

  • Increase loyalty with personalized notifications and promotions.
  • Optimize mobile navigation to reduce cart abandonment.
  • Facilitate the repurchase of favorite products.

Results

  • +45% conversion rate vs. responsive web.
  • +60% in repeat users after three months.
  • 40% higher average usage time thanks to the fluid experience.

Micolet's app demonstrates that the decision between app or responsive web depends on the objective, but if the goal is to sell more and build loyalty, the app channel offers a clear advantage.

How to decide which option is better for your ecommerce

Before investing, evaluate these key factors:

  • Mobile traffic volume: if more than 60% comes from mobile, the app is a priority investment.
  • Frequency of purchase: if your customers buy on a recurring basis, the app maximizes loyalty.
  • Budget: if you are looking for speed and control, a platform like Reskyt reduces the cost and time of development.
  • Communication needs: if you want to send direct promotions, a push app is essential.

In practice, many brands combine both channels: the web to attract and the app to retain. This omnichannel strategy is the one that best converts and reinforces the brand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it better to start with an app or a responsive website?

If you are starting out, a responsive website is a good starting point. But when your mobile traffic grows or you want to build loyalty, an app will be key to scale.

Do ecommerce apps need ongoing maintenance?

Yes, although platforms like Reskyt automate updates. Thus, any change in your ecommerce is instantly reflected in the app.

Can I integrate my website and my app?

Of course. Current solutions allow you to synchronize catalogs, prices and stock between the web and the app in real time, avoiding duplications.

Do apps really sell more?

Yes. ecommerce apps have conversion and repeat purchase rates up to three times higher than mobile websites, according to Data.ai (2024).

Which option offers better SEO positioning?

The responsive website is still essential to capture organic traffic, but the app improves ASO (App Store Optimization) and visibility in mobile stores.

Conclusion: the winning combination for your ecommerce

In the ecommerce app vs responsive web comparison, the key is not to choose one or the other, but to understand their role. The web attracts, the app converts. The web informs, the app builds loyalty.

With Reskyt, you can have both working together: an optimized website and a synchronized native app, with notifications, personalization and custom design. This way, your ecommerce adapts to every user, every time, and on every device.

Want to discover how an app can multiply your sales? Request a free demo and we will show you how your ecommerce can grow more with Reskyt.

Get your demo with Reskyt now!