Founders ask for an app when they need a website, and a website when they need an app. Here is how to tell the difference.
Build a mobile website when
You need discovery and reach. Websites are found on Google; apps are not. If a new customer has to install something before they can evaluate you, most will not.
Build an app when
You need repeat usage, offline access, push notifications, device hardware (camera, GPS, biometrics) or you are building a habit product used weekly or more.
The middle path: PWA
A Progressive Web App installs to the home screen, works offline and sends push notifications on Android — at roughly a third of native cost. For many businesses this is the right first step.
The real cost nobody mentions
An app is not a one-time build. Two app stores, OS updates twice a year, and a review process for every release. Budget for maintenance or do not start.
Our usual advice
Launch the mobile website first. Measure whether people come back weekly. If they do, build the app — and you will build a much better one, because you will know what they actually use.