So you’ve decided to get an event app—great move. But now you’re stuck with the big decision:
Should you build a Progressive Web App (PWA) or go with a native mobile app in the App Store?
In 2025, the lines have blurred. PWAs are more powerful than ever, native apps are still popular, and event organisers are left wondering what actually delivers the best ROI, speed, and attendee experience.
In this guide, we’ll break it all down in plain English—with no tech jargon and zero sales hype.
What Is a PWA vs a Native App?
Let’s quickly define both:
- Progressive Web App (PWA): A mobile-optimised web app that works in any browser, with app-like features (push notifications, offline access, etc.). You access it via a URL or QR code—no app store required.
- Native App: A traditional mobile app built for iOS or Android, downloaded through the App Store or Google Play. Offers full integration with device features but requires separate builds, app store approval, and ongoing updates.
Why This Matters for Event Organisers
Your attendees expect a seamless mobile experience—event schedules, live updates, networking tools, ticket access—all at their fingertips.
But not all app platforms are created equal. And as an organiser, your time, budget, and adoption rates are on the line.
Let’s compare PWA and native app options based on the metrics that matter:
Deployment Speed and Update Flexibility
Native apps go through a lengthy app store submission process—every update must be reviewed and approved. If your speaker lineup changes the night before your event, you’re at the mercy of Apple or Google.
PWAs? You hit "publish" and it’s live. No app store approval. No waiting. Every attendee sees the update instantly next time they open the app.
✅ Winner: PWA — faster updates, full control
Installation and Adoption Rates
Here’s the cold hard truth: not everyone wants to download another app for a two-day event.
Native apps require attendees to:
- Visit the app store
- Search for your app
- Download it
- Create an account or log in
That’s a lot of friction—and it shows. The average native event app adoption rate is around 63%.
With a PWA, attendees can access the app instantly from a QR code or link. No install needed.
✅ Winner: PWA — near 100% adoption possible with QR distribution
Monetisation and Costs
Native apps come with platform fees:
- Apple can take up to 30% of any in-app purchase revenue (like ticket sales or premium access)
- You pay annual developer fees just to stay listed
PWAs don’t have these limitations. Use any payment gateway (Stripe, PayPal, etc.), keep your revenue, and avoid the App Store’s rules.
✅ Winner: PWA — more profit, fewer restrictions
Device Features and Offline Capabilities
It’s true—native apps offer the deepest integration with hardware (like Bluetooth, NFC, and background processing).
But in 2025, PWAs have caught up:
- Push notifications now work on iOS and Android
- Offline access is possible with caching
- QR code scanning, GPS, and real-time chat are all supported
Unless your event requires niche features (like AR navigation or Bluetooth beacon check-in), a PWA can handle it.
⚖️ Winner: Tie — PWA covers most use cases, native wins for hardware-heavy features
Cross-Platform Reach
A PWA is built once and works everywhere—iPhone, Android, tablets, laptops. Perfect for hybrid events and remote attendees.
Native apps require:
- Two separate builds (iOS + Android)
- Double the maintenance
- More budget
✅ Winner: PWA — one build, all platforms
When Native Apps Still Make Sense
We love PWAs, but we’re not blind to the value of native apps. Here’s when they’re still a smart choice:
- You need deep hardware access (Bluetooth/NFC/AR)
- You want a highly polished app store presence
- You’re building for a recurring flagship event with budget to match
In these cases, a native or hybrid approach (native + PWA) could be worth the investment.
Real-World Examples
🟢 Eventbrite: Offers a full PWA experience for attendees to access tickets and schedules without installing an app.
🟢 Whova: Provides both a native app and a browser-based web app for flexibility.
🟢 Hopin: Started as web-only, then added native apps later for feature depth.
🟢 EventMobi: Uses a PWA-first strategy to reduce friction and maximise access.
The trend is clear: even major platforms are leaning into the web for reach and convenience.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
👉 Choose a PWA if:
- You want fast launch and instant updates
- You need high adoption with minimal friction
- You want to avoid app store rules and fees
- You need a mobile event app that just works across all devices
👉 Choose a native app if:
- Your event depends on device-level features like Bluetooth or NFC
- You want to showcase a premium, branded app store presence
- You’re building a long-term solution for recurring events with larger budgets
🚀 Pro Tip: You Don’t Have to Choose Just One
Many smart organisers use both:
- A native app for those who want the full-featured experience
- A PWA version for speed, accessibility, and reach
That way, you cover all attendee types without compromise.
💡 Need Help Choosing or Building Your Event App?
At Presso Network, we help organisers like you make smarter decisions about event tech—whether that means launching a stunning PWA, a custom native app, or a hybrid strategy that fits your goals.