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Desktop Application Vs Web Application: Making The Right Choice
In this blog, we delve into the world of Desktop Applications vs. Web Applications, exploring their cost, key differences, accessibility, and development tools. Whether you're seeking robust functionality, offline access, or flexibility across devices, we provide insights to guide your choice. By the end of this article, you'll have a clearer understanding of the pros and cons of each app, enabling you to make an informed decision for your business's success.
Last Updated On : 27 February, 2024
7 min read
Table of Contents
In the never-ending battle of desktop application vs web application, businesses find themselves grappling with a crucial question: Which is the perfect fit for their needs?
The quest for effectiveness and cost-friendliness intensifies, leading to a long-standing dilemma. Yet, the heart of the problem lies in the lack of understanding between these two powerhouses.
But fear not! This blog will unveil the core differences between web applications and desktop applications, give a cost comparison, their unique abilities and specifications, in addition to their super examples.
So get ready to discover the ideal solution that will revolutionize your business! Let’s kick off with their basic definitions.
A Quick Overview Of Desktop Application
You might want to know what is a desktop application, well desktop applications are programs constructed to run on a computer and utilize system resources to fulfill their functions. These programs perform on operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Desktop applications for comprehension can be simply defined as
Desktop applications are software programs that run locally on computer devices. They are inaccessible from a browser and require proper deployment on a laptop or a personal computer.
Examples of Desktop Applications
Famous examples are
- Microsoft Office applications
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Media Players
Now some bits about the web application!
A Quick Overview Of Web Application
The web app is an application program stored on a remote server & delivered over the internet via a browser interface. In simple terms, its definition below can be helpful for you to understand
A web application is software that does not require installation and can be accessed from a remote server through a web browser.
Examples Web Applications
Examples of web applications are
- Netflix
- Trello
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Office,
- Uber.
So now is the time for their key difference, which will help you decide which one is the best for your business. Is it a desktop app or a web-based application?
Contact Us For Expert Advice On Web App Development
Let’s ConnectDesktop Application vs. Web Application: Top 10 Differences
Digital computers and computer apps are inseparable companions for the growth of the business. The true query is web application vs desktop application which one is the best? Then the answer lies in how better you understand your business needs.
Yet you need to have an excellent understanding of desktop vs. web application or desktop app vs. web app.
There are key differences between web applications and desktop applications that will help you decide.
-
Connectivity
The desktop apps do not have connectivity issues, whereas the web application works faster upon the internet connection.
Desktop Application | Web Application |
Desktop apps can work locally-users can perform various tasks such as storing and retrieving data. | Web Apps are highly dependent upon internet connectivity to perform functions upon users' demand. |
-
Installation & Update
This is one of the key differences that goes more in favor of web apps and is one of the key reasons that web applications have become common.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
The users have to download or install the app before using it. |
Web apps do not require any installations or device updates since they can be accessed via the browser. |
-
Accessibility
Desktop apps are older than web apps and utilize system resources to perform their functions.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps are platform-specific- an executable package must be installed for them to function. |
Web applications, on the other hand, can be quickly accessed with the help of a specific URL |
-
Security
In desktop apps, unlike web apps, the data is not uploaded to the cloud, making them safe. But web apps with their security protocols are now more secure than at their time of origin.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps are safeguarded by system-specific policies, and users or administrators have better control. |
Web applications are a little difficult to secure and can become subject to vulnerabilities such as SQL injections, broken authentication, and malicious file execution. |
-
Development tools
Today, most languages can be used for both web and desktop application development. For instance, Python can be utilized for the development of data science desktop apps as well as backend API for front-end web applications.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Not long ago, desktop applications were developed using high-end languages such as C, C++, Java, Pascal, Swift, Go, and Ruby. |
In contrast, web apps use languages such as JavaScript, PHP, CSS, and HTML. |
Want to read about tools and platforms that support instant web app development? Click here
-
Types
In desktop applications vs. web applications, web applications take the lead with their different types in comparison to desktop apps. However, businesses can choose one depending on their needs.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop applications are not as diverse as web apps. |
Web applications have different types, such as single-page web apps or progressive web apps, etc. |
Read More: Top 10 Types of Web Applications
-
Mobility
Mobility or portability is one of the biggest reasons behind the widespread use of web apps, and they can be used anywhere at any time. It's worth noting that there are many other types of applications. One example is mobile apps, which have become an integral part of our lives. They often share similarities with web and desktop applications, allowing you to easily install and use the best apps on your phone.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Most desktop apps are not portable at all, but they can be installed and operated on other laptops whenever required. |
Web apps are extremely portable and can be opened on a personal computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. |
-
Speed
The advantages of web apps include their “speed”. Web apps, as well as desktop apps, have good speed, yet for desktop apps, the speed is the same everywhere.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop applications do not require the Internet, so they have the same speed everywhere. |
Web applications are dependent upon an internet connection & increase in the number of users may slow down their speed. |
-
Cost
The desktop apps, after their development, do not require monthly or annual subscription renewal, whereas the web apps do. Also, desktop apps can be expensive because of their complexity.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps can be costly to develop also, depending on the features required. |
Web applications are cheaper to develop- a top-notch one can be developed for $15,000-$50,000. |
-
Hardware specifications
In this whole discussion of desktop vs. web applications, the web apps beat the desktop apps because of the hardware specifications required.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps need proper installation and updated versions as per the system a user might be using. |
Web apps do not depend upon system or hardware specifications to function. They just require internet access to run. |
How InvoZone Serves Your Web App Development Needs
Invozone is your ultimate application development partner to achieve all the success in the IT industry. With our expertise, we've empowered countless clients to conquer markets with super web apps.
Need proof? Just take a peek at our impressive portfolio of 300+ projects completed worldwide in just eight short years. Click to view here.
From planning to deployment, we're with you at every step of the way. Share your idea, and let us take your business to new heights, expanding your customer base and boosting your profits. It's time to make your app dreams come true!
Conclusion
Every technology has its pros and cons, but web applications are gaining a healthy edge over desktop apps here.
But ultimately, all that matters is personal taste and priorities. So, if you think desktop applications are right for you, just give it a shot.
Still, if you see any confusion, or could use some more understanding of web app development, feel free to reach out. Being experts in the field of software development, InvoZone can help you with the greater details of web app solutions and tailor them according to your needs.
Maximize Your Business With Dependable Web Apps
Our Expert Web Apps Builder Will Ensure You Get Ultimate Results In Each Step Of The Process
Book My Free Call
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Table of Contents
In the never-ending battle of desktop application vs web application, businesses find themselves grappling with a crucial question: Which is the perfect fit for their needs?
The quest for effectiveness and cost-friendliness intensifies, leading to a long-standing dilemma. Yet, the heart of the problem lies in the lack of understanding between these two powerhouses.
But fear not! This blog will unveil the core differences between web applications and desktop applications, give a cost comparison, their unique abilities and specifications, in addition to their super examples.
So get ready to discover the ideal solution that will revolutionize your business! Let’s kick off with their basic definitions.
A Quick Overview Of Desktop Application
You might want to know what is a desktop application, well desktop applications are programs constructed to run on a computer and utilize system resources to fulfill their functions. These programs perform on operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Desktop applications for comprehension can be simply defined as
Desktop applications are software programs that run locally on computer devices. They are inaccessible from a browser and require proper deployment on a laptop or a personal computer.
Examples of Desktop Applications
Famous examples are
- Microsoft Office applications
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Media Players
Now some bits about the web application!
A Quick Overview Of Web Application
The web app is an application program stored on a remote server & delivered over the internet via a browser interface. In simple terms, its definition below can be helpful for you to understand
A web application is software that does not require installation and can be accessed from a remote server through a web browser.
Examples Web Applications
Examples of web applications are
- Netflix
- Trello
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Office,
- Uber.
So now is the time for their key difference, which will help you decide which one is the best for your business. Is it a desktop app or a web-based application?
Contact Us For Expert Advice On Web App Development
Let’s ConnectDesktop Application vs. Web Application: Top 10 Differences
Digital computers and computer apps are inseparable companions for the growth of the business. The true query is web application vs desktop application which one is the best? Then the answer lies in how better you understand your business needs.
Yet you need to have an excellent understanding of desktop vs. web application or desktop app vs. web app.
There are key differences between web applications and desktop applications that will help you decide.
-
Connectivity
The desktop apps do not have connectivity issues, whereas the web application works faster upon the internet connection.
Desktop Application | Web Application |
Desktop apps can work locally-users can perform various tasks such as storing and retrieving data. | Web Apps are highly dependent upon internet connectivity to perform functions upon users' demand. |
-
Installation & Update
This is one of the key differences that goes more in favor of web apps and is one of the key reasons that web applications have become common.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
The users have to download or install the app before using it. |
Web apps do not require any installations or device updates since they can be accessed via the browser. |
-
Accessibility
Desktop apps are older than web apps and utilize system resources to perform their functions.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps are platform-specific- an executable package must be installed for them to function. |
Web applications, on the other hand, can be quickly accessed with the help of a specific URL |
-
Security
In desktop apps, unlike web apps, the data is not uploaded to the cloud, making them safe. But web apps with their security protocols are now more secure than at their time of origin.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps are safeguarded by system-specific policies, and users or administrators have better control. |
Web applications are a little difficult to secure and can become subject to vulnerabilities such as SQL injections, broken authentication, and malicious file execution. |
-
Development tools
Today, most languages can be used for both web and desktop application development. For instance, Python can be utilized for the development of data science desktop apps as well as backend API for front-end web applications.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Not long ago, desktop applications were developed using high-end languages such as C, C++, Java, Pascal, Swift, Go, and Ruby. |
In contrast, web apps use languages such as JavaScript, PHP, CSS, and HTML. |
Want to read about tools and platforms that support instant web app development? Click here
-
Types
In desktop applications vs. web applications, web applications take the lead with their different types in comparison to desktop apps. However, businesses can choose one depending on their needs.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop applications are not as diverse as web apps. |
Web applications have different types, such as single-page web apps or progressive web apps, etc. |
Read More: Top 10 Types of Web Applications
-
Mobility
Mobility or portability is one of the biggest reasons behind the widespread use of web apps, and they can be used anywhere at any time. It's worth noting that there are many other types of applications. One example is mobile apps, which have become an integral part of our lives. They often share similarities with web and desktop applications, allowing you to easily install and use the best apps on your phone.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Most desktop apps are not portable at all, but they can be installed and operated on other laptops whenever required. |
Web apps are extremely portable and can be opened on a personal computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. |
-
Speed
The advantages of web apps include their “speed”. Web apps, as well as desktop apps, have good speed, yet for desktop apps, the speed is the same everywhere.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop applications do not require the Internet, so they have the same speed everywhere. |
Web applications are dependent upon an internet connection & increase in the number of users may slow down their speed. |
-
Cost
The desktop apps, after their development, do not require monthly or annual subscription renewal, whereas the web apps do. Also, desktop apps can be expensive because of their complexity.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps can be costly to develop also, depending on the features required. |
Web applications are cheaper to develop- a top-notch one can be developed for $15,000-$50,000. |
-
Hardware specifications
In this whole discussion of desktop vs. web applications, the web apps beat the desktop apps because of the hardware specifications required.
Desktop Application |
Web Application |
Desktop apps need proper installation and updated versions as per the system a user might be using. |
Web apps do not depend upon system or hardware specifications to function. They just require internet access to run. |
How InvoZone Serves Your Web App Development Needs
Invozone is your ultimate application development partner to achieve all the success in the IT industry. With our expertise, we've empowered countless clients to conquer markets with super web apps.
Need proof? Just take a peek at our impressive portfolio of 300+ projects completed worldwide in just eight short years. Click to view here.
From planning to deployment, we're with you at every step of the way. Share your idea, and let us take your business to new heights, expanding your customer base and boosting your profits. It's time to make your app dreams come true!
Conclusion
Every technology has its pros and cons, but web applications are gaining a healthy edge over desktop apps here.
But ultimately, all that matters is personal taste and priorities. So, if you think desktop applications are right for you, just give it a shot.
Still, if you see any confusion, or could use some more understanding of web app development, feel free to reach out. Being experts in the field of software development, InvoZone can help you with the greater details of web app solutions and tailor them according to your needs.
Maximize Your Business With Dependable Web Apps
Our Expert Web Apps Builder Will Ensure You Get Ultimate Results In Each Step Of The Process
Book My Free Call
Frequently Asked Questions
Desktop vs Web application, what’s better?
This is an age-old debate: desktop application or web application, but it all boils down to your specific needs. Desktop apps offer robust functionality and offline access, while web apps offer flexibility and accessibility from any device. The choice is yours, based on what truly matters to your business.
What are desktop application examples?
Desktop applications are software programs that run locally on computer devices. They are inaccessible from a browser. Examples of desktop applications are
- Microsoft Office applications
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Media Players
What is an example of a web application?
A web application is software accessed from a remote server through a web browser. The best example of a web application is Netflix.
How InvoZone can help with my App Development?
With our time-tested solutions and deep understanding of the latest technologies, we can help you get the best app development solutions. Our vetted engineers will realize your web app development vision and add value to every task they do.
Are web apps more successful than desktop apps?
Web app vs desktop app is a long debate and only the unique requirements & objectives of the company can tell us whether web apps or desktop apps are more successful. Desktop apps are more suited for applications that require better security, faster performance, and optimal resource utilization, whereas web apps are somewhat better for applications that need cross-platform interoperability, automated updates, and resource-friendly performance.
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