What's the difference between a website, a web app, and a mobile app?

If you're looking to build an online presence, you might wonder: should I create a website, a web app, or a mobile app? These terms can used interchangeably, but they're pretty different. This guide will break them down in clear, easy-to-understand terms, helping you choose the right option for your project.

A website is a collection of pages people can visit online using a web browser such as Chrome, Safari, or Edge. Every website has its own unique address which takes the form of a domain name, like www.bbc.co.uk.

• Sharing information – News websites, blogs, or company pages.
• Promoting businesses – Online shops, portfolios, and service pages.
• Easy access – Can be viewed on any device with an internet connection.

Some websites are simple and don't change much (static websites), while others update automatically with new content (dynamic websites). Many modern websites use a content management system (CMS) like Contensis to help businesses easily manage and update their content.

A web app is like a website but with more interactive features. Instead of just displaying information, it allows users to do things online. You access it through a web browser, just like a regular website, but it works more like software.

• Google Docs – You can type, edit, and save documents online.
• Netflix – You can log in, browse movies, and stream content.
• Online banking – You can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills.

• More interactive than a website – users can log in, save settings, or edit content.
• Runs on the internet – no need to install anything.
• Often, it needs an account or login to access personalised features.

A mobile app is a program you download and install on your phone or tablet. Unlike websites and web apps, which you access through a browser, mobile apps run directly on your device.

• Instagram – A social media app you install on your phone.
• WhatsApp – A messaging app that works with your contacts.
• Google Maps – A navigation app that helps you find directions.

• Works without the internet (sometimes) – you can still use certain features offline
• Uses phone features – like the camera, GPS, or push notifications
• Requires installation – downloaded from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android)

✅ You want to share basic information, like a company page or blog.

✅ You need an easy, cost-effective way to be found online.

✅ You don't need advanced features like logins or personalisation.

✅ You need users to interact with your platform (for example, to upload files, or create accounts).

✅ You want an app-like experience without needing users to install anything.

✅ Your service works best when accessed on different devices (computers, tablets, phones).

✅ You need offline access or features that use a phone's hardware (camera, GPS, notifications).

✅ Your audience will use your app regularly and benefit from quick access on their device.

✅ You want to offer a smooth, app-like experience without relying on a web browser.

If you're targeting mobile users, you might wonder whether you need a mobile-friendly website or a dedicated mobile app.

• Mobile-friendly websites are cheaper to build and easy to update. Users don't need to install anything – they just visit your website in a browser.
• Mobile apps provide a smoother and more interactive experience, but they take more time and money to develop.

A mobile-friendly website will do the job if you just need to share information. However, a mobile app might be worth the investment if you want advanced features.

Websites, web apps, and mobile apps each serve different purposes. The best choice depends on what you need:

• A website is great for sharing information.
• A web app is best for interactive experiences.
• A mobile app works well when users need quick, easy access on their phones.

In some cases, combining these options works best – for example, a business might have a website for general information, a web app for online services, and a mobile app for frequent users.

By understanding the differences, you can make the right choice for your project and audience.