23 January 2025
Boost Your Business Growth with Expert App Development Services Read More
You dreamt up a ground-breaking mobile application that will revolutionise the market and alter how consumers engage with your company. However, a major issue must be answered before your vision can take off: Which is better, developing native apps or hybrid mobile apps?
As more and more companies realise the benefits of hybrid apps, the market is already expected to grow and succeed.
We’ll go into the specifics of the technical aspects, break down the financial considerations, and give you the information you need to choose wisely for your app.
The global mobile app market is projected to reach $756 billion by 2027, with a steady Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.58% from 2022 to 2027. This growth is driven by the increasing use of smartphones and the rise in demand for mobile-based services. Additionally, advancements in technologies like 5G and AI are expected to further fuel market expansion. As businesses prioritize mobile apps for customer engagement, the market will continue to evolve rapidly in the coming years.
Very remarkable, isn’t it?
Given these figures make hybrid app development a game-changer for your business.
Because companies don’t have to spend a lot of money to use their app on many platforms, hybrid mobile app development is becoming more and more popular among enterprises.
It is the making of a single software that works on several operating platforms, such as Windows, Android, and iOS.
To put it another way, hybrid apps combine native mobile apps with online apps. A single codebase is used across all platforms when a software development company produces hybrid software. This implies that they can run the code anywhere and only need to write it once.
The main difference between Native is platform-specific (you need to develop a separate app for Android and iOS users) while the hybrid is a multi-platform approach.
A combination of technologies, including HTML5 and JavaScript, are used to create hybrid applications. These apps have the appearance and feel of native programming since they are housed inside a native container.
As we previously explained, a native app is platform specific. You will develop a specific application for users of iOS or Android. The development team will utilise Swift or Objective-C for iOS solutions and Java or Kotlin for Android projects.
The table briefly contrasts the main distinctions between hybrid and native apps.
| Core Difference | Hybrid Apps | Native Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Technologies Used | HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Frameworks: PhoneGap, Ionic | iOS – Swift, Objective C Android – Kotlin, Java |
| Development Approach | Used for multiple operating systems. It develops a codebase and shares it over all the platforms (iOS, Android, Windows). | Native is platform specific. Needs separate app development for individual platforms. |
| Cost of Development | It is cost-effective. Only one codebase is used across platforms. A single framework and resource can help maintain the application. | Cost is higher, as it is developed for individual platforms. Also you need separate infrastructure for maintenance of the applications. |
| Performance | Shows dependable performance. But may not match the performance level of native apps. | These are high-performing apps because they are developed specifically for the platform. |
There are several reasons that may impact the hybrid app development cost. You may still be in the dark even after using internet calculators and researching the typical cost of developing an app. Although these numbers can give you a ballpark estimate, they rarely represent the actual cost of developing a mobile app.
The cost of developing a mobile app is influenced by numerous factors. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.
| App Type | Estimated Cost | Time | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Hybrid App | $10,000-$50,000 | 1-3 months | To-do list, calculators |
| Medium Hybrid App | $20,000-$100,000 | 3-6 months | E-commerce apps, social media integrations |
| Complex Hybrid App | $40,000-$200,000 | 6-12 months | Real-time tracking, advanced AI features |
First and foremost, the complexity of your app determines how much it will cost to design a hybrid. For example, the cost of your software may range from $10,000 to over $40,000 if it has a simple to minimalist design, features, and restricted functionality.
However, it would cost more, between $30,000 and $100,000+, if you choose to develop cross-platform applications and want to incorporate high-end features and capabilities.
The cost of developing an app is directly impacted by how sophisticated its functionality is, such as requiring real-time data synchronisation or integrating many features.
More development, testing, and optimization work is required for more complex apps.
The choice ultimately rests with you. Select the option that best suits your spending limit.
Additionally, contact Dev Story if you would like to know the exact costs for your project.
| Complexity | Startups | SMEs | Enterprises |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-complexity Hybrid App | $10,000-$40,000 | $10,000-$50,000 | $10,000-$60,000 |
| Basic Complex Hybrid App | $40,000-$90,000 | $45,000-$100,000 | $50,000-$120,000 |
| High-complexity Hybrid App | $100,000-$200,000 | $150,000-$250,000 | $250,000 or more |
The other factors that affect the hybrid mobile app development cost is app features and functionalities. The time and effort required to build and test each feature increases with the number of features an app offers.
Features that increase the app’s complexity and, hence, its price include user authentication, geolocation, social media integration, Login/Authentication, Push notifications, Payment gateways, AR/VR integration or AI integrations and in-app transactions.
Any app’s success depends on having a user interface that is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. It is considered as one of the major factors affecting the hybrid application development cost.
| Design Level | Description | Avg Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Standard design with basic element and layouts | $3,000 to $8,000 |
| Custom | Design customized to brand identity | $8,000 to $30,000 |
| Complex | Premium, unique designs with animations | $30,000+ |
Understanding human behaviour is essential for UI/UX specialists to design an interface that is both aesthetically beautiful and easy to use.
Their experience raises the cost of development.
Our UI/UX designers are efficient in Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch. Get in touch with us and know the core difference they are showcasing in their design.
Hybrid application development cost is also influenced by the location of app development and the state of the economy.
More highly qualified developers in more costly areas, which typically results in a higher project cost overall.
Regional cost differences
| Region | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| USA | $130-$160 |
| Canada | $100-$140 |
| UAE | $40-$70 |
| India | $20-$40 |
| Singapore | $50-$80 |
| Eastern Europe | $30-$60 |
| Western Europe | $80-$110 |
| Australia | $100-$130 |
| United Kingdom | $80-$120 |
Henceforth the expertise and location of the team have a big influence on the development cost.
There are several methods for developing mobile apps, including cross-platform frameworks and native programming.
Cross-platform solutions speed up development, while native apps perform better. The method selected has an impact on the amount of time, money, and resources needed.
Don’t worry we have also covered the best hybrid app development framework in the same blog piece to give you better understanding.
| QA Level | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Standard testing procedures | $3000-$5000 |
| Comprehensive | Extensive testing across devices and scenarios | $5000-$10000 |
| Continuous | Continuous testing and updates post-launch | $10,000+ |
To find and fix bugs, malfunctions, and performance concerns, mobile apps must be thoroughly tested.
Processes for quality assurance, such as beta testing and incorporating user feedback, guarantee that the program runs smoothly.
Nevertheless, these procedures use resources and time, which affects the price.
Knowing these elements will help you set reasonable goals for your mobile app development project and guarantee that quality and cost are balanced.
This investment is secret to a smart and successful app launch.
Whether you’re a business owner seeking to launch a mobile application or an entrepreneur with a game-changing idea, understanding the app development timeline is crucial for planning and success.
For critical projects with limited schedules, extra resources are often required to speed up work.
Developers and designers could have to work longer hours, which could result in higher costs.
If you want to accelerate the development life cycle of your mobile application, there are a number of strategic ways that may be used. These techniques are designed to help you reduce the amount of time you spend developing software and improve the overall efficacy and efficiency of your app development project. Techniques such as white-label solutions, agile development, cross-platform development, hiring a professional vendor, MVP development, prototyping, etc.
Working with a seasoned hybrid app development company will expedite the process and guarantee that your app meets its objectives in the time limit you have specified. Our extensive array of development services, which includes Android and mobile app development, can offer the know-how and assistance required to make your app idea a reality.
| Security Level | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Basic and standard security measures & encryptions | $5000-$7000 |
| Enhanced | Additionally security layers and compliance checks | $7000-$15000 |
| Advanced | Robust security protocols & ongoing monitoring | $15000+ |
Security measures make a major impact on hybrid mobile app development costs by requiring more resources to establish strong protocols, carry out exhaustive security audits, and guarantee adherence to industry rules, security measures. This covers the cost for implementing encryption algorithms, incorporating safe authentication techniques, carrying out penetration tests, and setting up safe data storage procedures.
In general, putting security measures first when developing apps results in greater initial and ongoing costs to protect user data and prevent breaches.
When your app is prepared for release, it’s critical to conduct extensive testing to make sure it’s operating as intended.
Verify that there are no significant dangers or defects in your program that could impair its functionality.
In addition, we advise you to choose maintenance and support services for the first six months or so to check if it performs exceptionally well.
Hence support and maintenance services also impact hybrid app development costs.
Nearly 20% to 30% of your total expenditure, or between $20,000 and $40,000, goes into testing. In contrast, 30% to 40% of the app’s cost—roughly $30,000 to $60,000+—is paid to support and maintenance services.
The numbers provided are only estimates. Work with the best hybrid mobile application development company right now to find out the exact cost associated with your hybrid app.
Choosing the right development partner is a crucial step that significantly impacts the mobile app development cost. You generally have two options: Hiring app developers Outsourcing an app development company.
Collaborating with a development company offers greater technological knowledge and assets than freelancers, guaranteeing an improved result. While freelancers may decrease costs, they often lead in limitations such as postponed schedules, restricted assistance and lack of thorough source code ownership. For long-term achievement, working with an experienced app development company is a smarter commitment despite the higher cost.
Knowing clear variables like developer costs and design difficulties when calculating mobile application development prices, multiple buried aspects can greatly influence your endeavor’s budgetary constraints. Knowing these overlooked issues, from hosting and domain expenditures to continuing maintenance costs, is important for precise spending and project preparing.
If you want your app to have its own domain name, you’ll need to budget for domain registration and management fees, which include purchasing the domain name itself and renewing it annually to maintain ownership of it. Additionally, you may incur additional fees for domain privacy protection and premium domain extensions.
Average cost: $10-50 per year for domain registration, with extra fees for privacy protection and premium extensions.
Hosting and server costs are frequently underestimated, yet they can significantly influence the total expenses associated with your application. Based on the specific needs of your app, it may be necessary to allocate funds for cloud hosting services, dedicated servers, or infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) options. The expenses associated with these services fluctuate according to factors such as storage capacity, bandwidth consumption, and scalability features.
Typical Monthly Expense: Ranges from $50 to $500, contingent upon the hosting provider and the specifications of the server.
Numerous applications depend on external services such as payment processors, mapping solutions, or analytical tools. The seamless integration of these services necessitates extra development work and may incur licensing fees, which can affect the total expenditure.
Average Cost: This can vary significantly based on the service provider and specific usage needs, with costs ranging from $0 to $1000 per month.
It is essential to obtain the necessary licenses and permissions if your application incorporates proprietary software, copyrighted materials, or licensed content. The specifics of the agreement may dictate whether you are required to pay a one-time licensing fee or ongoing royalties. Adhering to licensing regulations is crucial to prevent legal complications and unforeseen expenses.
Average Cost: The cost fluctuates based on the licensing agreement and can range from $100 to $1000.
Hybrid app development offers significant advantages for businesses, particularly for start-ups, enabling them to enter the mobile market across all major platforms at the same time.
The following are the primary benefits of hybrid app development.
A notable advantage of hybrid app development is that developers are not required to seek out additional specialized libraries, SDKs, APIs, or other tools. The same SDK and API libraries are adequate for the creation of hybrid applications. Applications built on hybrid platforms effectively navigate rigid conditions due to their straightforward integration and compatibility across multiple platforms.
Numerous resources exist to enhance the user interface and experience in hybrid app development. Hybrid applications exhibit superior performance and faster operations, thereby elevating the user experience. Additionally, the utilization of a consistent set of features and code contributes to efficiency across various platforms. Furthermore, hybrid applications are characterized by their lightweight nature and quick loading times.
One of the key benefits of hybrid app development is its simplified maintenance. When separate versions of an application are created for various platforms, it often requires additional resources, financial investment, and time for testing each version. Maintaining a single application presents its own challenges, so the difficulties of managing multiple applications can be significant. Hybrid app development addresses this issue by utilizing a unified codebase. Consequently, maintenance becomes more straightforward, and the process of implementing new versions and updates is expedited.
The development timeline is considerably shortened in comparison to native app development, as the hybrid app framework allows mobile app developers to leverage a substantial amount of shared code. Furthermore, the emergence of technologies such as React Native, Flutter, and Ionic has greatly simplified, expedited, and enhanced the efficiency of hybrid app development.
Finally, hybrid app development allows for the creation of an application that operates across various platforms using a unified codebase, resulting in significantly reduced development time. Consequently, the application can be introduced to the market more swiftly.
The initial phase involves assessing whether this solution aligns with the requirements of your project. If you are confident that a hybrid application is the most suitable option for your business, it is essential to identify the features that should be incorporated into the app. Additionally, selecting the appropriate technology stacks for the app’s development is crucial. Generally, the discovery phase accounts for approximately 10-15% of the overall cost of mobile app development. The duration for completing this stage usually ranges from 20 to 200 hours, contingent upon the project’s scope.
The design phase represents a crucial component of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). During this phase, software architects create a detailed product architecture informed by stakeholder feedback and a thorough analysis of business requirements. Typically, this phase constitutes approximately 20-25% of the total cost associated with mobile app development. The total hours required are contingent upon the complexity of the app’s design.
After determining the desired appearance and features of your application, the subsequent phase involves coding to develop a high-performing, resilient, and secure back end. This phase also encompasses the creation of an aesthetically pleasing user interface. Generally, this stage accounts for 40-55% of the overall cost of mobile app development.
Following the completion of the coding process, developers must conduct testing to verify that the application meets the intended design and performance criteria established in the initial phase. This process encompasses both front-end and back-end testing, along with the resolution of any identified issues. It is estimated that around 15-20% of the overall budget is designated for this phase.
The concluding phase of your hybrid mobile application development involves deploying the application across various platforms. It is essential to ensure that users can easily access, download, and install the application on their devices.
Following the deployment of your hybrid application, it is essential to engage in ongoing maintenance, which includes addressing bugs and implementing regular updates.
This practice is crucial for ensuring a superior user experience and for the introduction of new features. Additionally, it is important to keep abreast of the latest trends in app development and to adopt emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge. Generally, the annual cost of app maintenance ranges from 10% to 20% of the total development expenses.
The hybrid mobile app development framework streamlines the creation of your initial mobile application. It enables you to develop applications that are compatible across various platforms without the necessity of mastering native programming languages. Consequently, you can concentrate on delivering an exceptional user experience and enhancing the usability of your product.
Facebook introduced this framework in 2015, and it gained significant traction within a few years. Prominent companies such as Uber, Skype, Bloomberg, and Instagram have utilized React Native for their hybrid application development initiatives. This open-source JavaScript framework facilitates the creation of multi-platform user interface components using JSX, allowing for seamless integration with native code.
Key advantages of React Native include:
Flutter has emerged as a prominent framework in the realm of hybrid mobile application development, generating significant interest over the past few years. According to Statista, Flutter is recognized as the leading hybrid app development framework. Developed by Google, this open-source framework is celebrated for its speed and dependability. It empowers developers to design highly innovative user interfaces with adaptable layouts. Esteemed companies such as Amazon, Alibaba, BMW, and Toyota have leveraged this framework to create their applications.
Key advantages of Flutter include:
Xamarin is regarded as one of the premier frameworks for hybrid mobile application development. Developed by Microsoft, it utilizes C# and presents advancements that surpass those of Java and Objective C. This framework enables developers to create hybrid applications compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows operating systems.
Key advantages of Xamarin include the ability for developers to share up to 90% of their codebase across various platforms. Applications developed with Xamarin deliver exceptional performance and closely resemble native applications. Additionally, it facilitates straightforward testing, updates, and maintenance, while also providing essential testing tools and a comprehensive mobile app development toolkit.
Ionic stands out as the best hybrid app development framework. It leverages HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and offers integrated support for AngularJS, which makes it particularly appealing to front-end developers. This framework simplifies the creation of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) by providing an extensive library for front-end development along with high-quality UI design components.
Key advantages of Ionic include:
NativeScript stands out as an exceptional framework for developers creating hybrid applications using JavaScript, TypeScript, or Angular. It features a runtime bridge module that incorporates a JavaScript-based virtual machine, enabling applications developed with this framework to provide a native user experience across all mobile platforms.
Key advantages of NativeScript include:
This framework, which is both open-source and free, is designed for the development of mobile and web applications, including progressive web apps (PWAs) that emulate a native look and feel.
It provides components compatible with well-known JavaScript frameworks such as React, Vue, and Svelte. Notably, it operates independently of third-party libraries for DOM manipulation, utilizing its own custom DOM7 instead.
Developers can initiate app creation with a foundational understanding of HTML, CSS, and basic JavaScript. The framework boasts a wide array of widgets and components, enhancing its usability.
The field of hybrid application development has experienced significant growth in recent years. Consequently, numerous development teams are choosing hybrid mobile applications over native alternatives, as they offer advantages such as accelerated development timelines, simplified prototyping processes, and a potentially higher return on investment.
This is merely the beginning. Utilize the option that aligns with your business needs. Make a well-informed choice and identify the most suitable hybrid app development framework. To know more join Dev Story and get your hybrid app ready in hours.
Every year, technological advancements and varying service expenses influence development budgets. As a result, the hybrid application development cost in 2025 is expected to mirror these changing trends. Thus, prior to commencing development, it is essential to seek advice from a knowledgeable mobile app development firm. They can assist in aligning your project’s needs with contemporary trends and available resources, thereby ensuring a cost-efficient and innovative solution.
The rise of hybrid app development has undeniably gained significant traction in recent years. There are numerous compelling reasons to consider hybrid apps for your business requirements. At Dev Story, we recognize the critical need for providing exceptional hybrid app development services and solutions, all while maintaining cost-effectiveness and upholding quality standards.
Whether you are a startup aiming to carve out a niche in the mobile landscape or an established organization in search of sophisticated solutions, Trango Tech is dedicated to empowering businesses with premium mobile applications. Contact us today, and allow our experts to guide you in efficiently achieving your mobile app development objectives within your financial parameters.
Our team comprises over 100 professionals equipped to manage a wide array of app development tasks. From initial planning and design to ongoing support and maintenance, our mobile app developers are proficient in delivering effective and seamless mobile app solutions.
Reach out to us and make a significant impact. Onboard a fully equipped team within seven days with Dev Story.
