Picking a mobile framework is one of the biggest decisions you'll make as an indie dev. Here's the unvarnished truth.
When to Pick React Native
- Your team already knows JavaScript/TypeScript
- You need deep native integrations quickly
- You're building a startup MVP and speed matters most
- You want to share code with an existing web app
React Native's ecosystem is massive. If you need it, someone's probably built it.
When to Pick Flutter
- Performance is your top priority (gaming, heavy animations)
- You want a single codebase for iOS + Android + Web + Desktop
- Design consistency across platforms matters to you
- You're starting fresh with no JS debt
Flutter's widget system means you get pixel-perfect control across every platform.
The Real Difference in 2026
Both frameworks have closed the performance gap for most use cases. The real differentiators are:
| Factor | React Native | Flutter |
|---|---|---|
| Learning curve | Lower (JS devs) | Steeper |
| Code sharing | Web + Mobile | All platforms |
| Ecosystem | Massive | Growing fast |
| Dev tools | Excellent | Good |
My Take
If you're an indie dev, pick what your team knows. If you're starting fresh and want maximum platform reach, Flutter is the more future-proof bet. When you're ready to launch on app stores, use ExtensionBooster's launch checklist to avoid common pitfalls.
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