A Comparison between React Native & Flutter: Part-II!

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In Part I of this blog, we compared the frameworks- React Native and Flutter based on numerous vital parameters. You may have a glimpse at Part I here.

This blog is an extension of Part I and here too, we will be focusing on a few more significant parameters to carry out a more detailed comparative analysis of both of these technologies.

We presume that by the end of this read, you will have better clarity on which framework is the best pick for your project development requirements. You will easily be able to decide whether to go with React Native app development or Flutter app development. So let’s commence.

Comparative Analysis: React Native App Development Or Flutter App Development

Learning Curve

React Native:

The learning curve of React Native is quite easier, especially for those who are familiar with JavaScript. But working with React Native may get a bit difficult when it comes to mobile app development, though the framework has released several libraries, tutorials, documents, etc. to make the learning of this framework easier. 

Flutter:

Flutter too is not much difficult to learn. To understand this framework, developers need to learn the Dart language, which is pretty simple along with some basic knowledge of native iOS and Android development. However, this language is rarely opted by developers due to its low popularity.

The Installation Process

React Native:

Node Package Manager (NPM) is required to install the RN framework. NPM can install the packages globally as well as locally. For this, it is essential for the React Native App developers to have knowledge of the location of the binary.

Also, the Homebrew package manager is required while installing React Native on macOS. The developers need to run the desired code for installing React Native on macOS and then access it from the command line.

Flutter:

For installing Flutter, one should download the binary for a particular platform from GitHub. For macOS, the developers should download the file- flutter.zip and add it as a PATH variable and then run the desired code.

The installation method of Flutter is a bit tedious and can be enhanced by supporting package managers like MacPorts, Homebrew, APT, YUM, etc. so that users can get rid of performing the extra steps while installing.

Architecture Supported by Each

React Native:

The latest architecture of React Native is based on 3 important threads namely: Native thread (where native code is placed and executed), JavaScript thread (where complete JavaScript code is kept and compiled), and Shadow thread (where the app’s layout is calculated).

React Native has a bridge between JavaScript and Native threads. According to this feature, the JavaScript code communicates with the Native API and the platform. Also, when it comes to iOS, React Native makes use of JavaScriptCore separately for running all codes, whereas in the case of Android, it bundles the JavaScriptCore within the app. This will increase native functionality, however, it also increases the size of the app and that results in device lag or performance issues.

Flutter:

Flutter has a layered architecture. Developing a basic app in Flutter starts with platform-specific widgets or top-level root functions. Next, it is followed by basic widgets that communicate with rendering layers and the platform. Animation gestures exist just beyond the rendering layer, and this animation gesture transfers API calls to the foundation of the mobile app; also called Scaffold. It is run by a platform-specific embedder and a C/C++ engine. For separating the presentation layer from business logic, the Flutter app developers can utilize Flutter BLoC. Such architecture eases the creation of complex apps with the use of simple and small components.

Development API and UI Components

React Native:

There are very few features and functionalities available in core React Native. This framework comes with just device access APIs and UI rendering. But using third-party libraries, this shortcoming can be overcome. For accessing native modules, RN makes use of several third-party libraries. You can find the list of the best-known UI component libraries here.

Flutter:

On the other hand, the Flutter framework comes with device API access, UI rendering components, testing, navigation, stateful management, and a plethora of libraries. In Flutter, you will have access to everything required for architecting mobile apps and so, there’s no need to use third-party libraries. It also comes with widgets for Cupertino and Material Design that enable the developers to render the UI on both Android and iOS platforms with ease.

The Convenience of Maintaining Code

React Native:

It is a bit difficult to upgrade and maintain code in React Native mobile apps. One of the key reasons behind this is the dependency on third-party libraries. Usually, the libraries are old and outdated and cannot be properly maintained, thus, affecting the code maintainability. Besides, there are chances that when the developers fork the code to suit the app requirement, it may interfere with the framework’s logic and slow down the overall development process.

Flutter:

On the contrary, code maintenance in Flutter is quite easier. It has simple code which allows the Flutter app developers to easily find issues, support third-party libraries, and even source external tools. Also, the hot-reloading property in Flutter is comparatively better than that in React Native and it helps to resolve several issues quickly.

Modularity

Note: Modularity refers to the ability of a framework to enable different professionals with diverse experiences and technical skillsets to work on a single project.

React Native:

React Native offers less modularity support. At times, React developers, iOS developers, Android developers, etc. working on a project, may find it tough to match up with each other.

Flutter:

Comparatively, Flutter provides better modularity for team diversity and also supports well while dividing the project codes into separate modules with its pub package system. The teams can easily add/change a code-base or construct various modules with the plug-in ability.

Testability of Code

React Native:

In React Native app development projects, there is no official support available for integration testing and UI-level testing. It offers just a few unit-level testing frameworks. Tools like Jest can be utilized for snapshot testing. Also, there are some third-party tools like Detox and Appium that can be used for testing the React Native apps even though these aren’t supported officially by the React Native team.

Flutter:

Since Flutter functions with Dart, it provides excellent support for automated testing. Also, it offers a rich set of features for testing the applications at the integration level, unit level, widget level, etc. Furthermore, it offers detailed documentation on testing the Flutter apps.

Concluding Views:

In this fast-paced digital era, having a high-quality, user-friendly, and responsive mobile app for your business is crucial. For developing such outstanding mobile apps, both frameworks - React Native and Flutter - have proved to be apt technologies. But, which of these is the best pick for your project?

Well, we have tried to explain this aspect in this post and in Part I. We hope this post has provided you with an in-depth understanding of the good and the bad of both technologies. Also, these detailed insights will help you make an informed decision on whether to partner with a Flutter App Development Company or go for React Native App Development Company