Flutter vs React Native comparison

Introduction

Flutter and React Native are two popular tools to build mobile apps. Knowing their differences helps you pick the best one for your project.

You want to build a mobile app quickly for both Android and iOS.

You want a smooth and fast app with beautiful design.

You prefer using Dart language or JavaScript/TypeScript.

You want to reuse code between mobile and web apps.

You want strong community support and many ready-made components.

Syntax

Flutter

Flutter uses Dart language and widgets to build UI.
React Native uses JavaScript/TypeScript and components to build UI.

Flutter apps use a rich set of customizable widgets for UI.

React Native apps use native components and can use React hooks.

Examples

This Flutter code shows a simple app with a text widget.

Flutter

Flutter example:

import 'package:flutter/material.dart';

void main() => runApp(MaterialApp(home: Text('Hello from Flutter')));

This React Native code shows a simple app with a text component.

Flutter

React Native example:

import React from 'react';
import { Text, View } from 'react-native';

export default function App() {
  return <View><Text>Hello from React Native</Text></View>;
}

Sample App

This Flutter app shows a simple screen comparing Flutter and React Native in text.

Flutter

import 'package:flutter/material.dart';

void main() {
  runApp(const MyApp());
}

class MyApp extends StatelessWidget {
  const MyApp({super.key});

  @override
  Widget build(BuildContext context) {
    return MaterialApp(
      home: Scaffold(
        appBar: AppBar(title: const Text('Flutter vs React Native')),
        body: const Center(
          child: Text(
            'Flutter uses Dart and widgets.\nReact Native uses JavaScript and native components.',
            textAlign: TextAlign.center,
            style: TextStyle(fontSize: 18),
          ),
        ),
      ),
    );
  }
}

Important Notes

Flutter compiles to native code, which can make apps very fast.

React Native uses a bridge to communicate with native code, which can affect performance in complex apps.

Flutter has a consistent look on all devices, while React Native uses native UI components, so apps look more like the platform.

Summary

Flutter uses Dart and widgets; React Native uses JavaScript and native components.

Flutter apps are fast and consistent; React Native apps feel more native to each platform.

Choose based on your language preference, app needs, and design goals.