What is the difference between React Native and React?

React and React Native are both popular JavaScript libraries used for building user interfaces. While they share similarities, they are designed for different purposes. In this article, we will explore the differences between React and React Native, and when to use each one.

React

React, also known as React.js or ReactJS, is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces for web applications. It was developed by Facebook and is widely used by developers around the world. React follows a component-based architecture, where the UI is divided into reusable components. These components are written in JavaScript and can be rendered on the server side or the client side.

React uses a virtual DOM (Document Object Model) to efficiently update and render components. It updates only the necessary parts of the UI, resulting in better performance compared to traditional JavaScript frameworks. React also supports server-side rendering, which improves the initial load time of web applications.

Here’s an example of a simple React component:

import React from 'react';

class App extends React.Component {
  render() {
    return (
      

        
Hello, React!
        This is a React component.
      
    );
  }
}

export default App;

React Native

React Native, on the other hand, is a framework for building native mobile applications using JavaScript and React. It allows developers to write mobile apps using the same principles and components as React, but with a different target platform. React Native uses native components instead of web components, resulting in a more native look and feel.

With React Native, you can build mobile apps for both iOS and Android platforms using a single codebase. This means you don’t have to write separate code for each platform, saving time and effort. React Native also provides access to native APIs, allowing you to use device-specific features in your app.

Here’s an example of a simple React Native component:

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

const App = () => {
  return (
    
      Hello, React Native!
      This is a React Native component.
    
  );
}

export default App;

When to use React or React Native?

React is typically used for building web applications, while React Native is used for building mobile applications. If you are targeting multiple platforms or want a more native experience, React Native is the way to go. However, if you are building a web application and don’t need to target mobile platforms, React is a great choice.

It’s worth noting that React Native has some limitations compared to native app development. If you require extensive use of platform-specific features or have complex UI requirements, native development might be a better option.

In conclusion, React and React Native are both powerful tools for building user interfaces. React is ideal for web applications, while React Native is a great choice for mobile app development. Understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the right tool for your project.

Happy coding!