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10+ Best Cross-Platform App Development Tools & Frameworks

Niamh Conneely

Marketing Executive

Read Time: 13 minutes

Posted on February 22, 2024

Best Cross Platform Development Tools & Frameworks Featured Image

The challenge with app development isn’t just about building a great app, but making sure it works everywhere. That’s where cross-platform app development comes in. It’s all about efficiency and reaching as many users as possible, without having to build separate versions for each type of device.

In this guide, we’re diving into what cross-platform mobile development really means, its pros and cons, and the top tools and frameworks that make a developer’s life easier. Whether you’re building your first app or looking to streamline your development process, this is where you’ll find the info you need.

What is cross-platform mobile development?

Cross-platform mobile development is a process where developers create a single application that is compatible with multiple mobile operating systems. Unlike native development, where you build separate apps for each platform, cross-platform development allows for one version that works across different devices.

This method is increasingly popular for its resource efficiency and wider market reach. It is especially beneficial for businesses that want to target both Android and iOS users without investing in separate development projects. As the mobile app market continues to grow, cross-platform development offers a practical solution for reaching a diverse user base with less duplicated effort.

The need for cross platform mobile development

Historically, the challenge in mobile app development was the requirement to develop distinct back ends for each operating system. This often led to choosing native development, where apps were specifically designed for each platform like iOS or Android. However, this method was not only resource-intensive but also limited the ability to leverage code across different platforms.

Cross-platform development offers a strategic solution to overcome these limitations. By adopting this approach, developers can use the source code across various platforms. This efficiency is a major shift from the traditional native development model. It simplifies the development process by reducing the need for separate coding efforts for each platform. The implication of this is profound, it significantly reduces development time and costs, while also ensuring a more consistent user experience across different devices.

This shift to cross-platform development is driven by the need for greater efficiency and broader market reach in the mobile app sector. It reflects a growing trend towards more streamlined, agile development processes that can accommodate the rapid pace of change in mobile technology and user expectations.

Cross platform app development for Google

A distinct set of advantages is introduced by concentrating on Google’s ecosystem, specifically Android, for cross-platform app development. Because of Google’s wide selection of Android devices and versions, developers have to make sure their apps work with a wide range of hardware. In this situation, cross-platform technologies are really helpful. They make it possible to create apps that work with both the most recent version of Android and previous versions of the operating system. This is essential given the fragmented nature of the Android market.

Cross platform app development for iOS

Similarly, for iOS, cross-platform development has simplified the process of creating apps that run smoothly on Apple’s range of devices. Using cross-platform tools, developers can create applications that are not only compatible with iOS but also maintain the high standard of user experience that Apple users expect. This method negates the need for iOS-specific coding, which can be particularly intricate due to Apple’s stringent app guidelines and the unique features of iOS. Cross-platform tools ensure that the apps maintain their functionality and aesthetic appeal across all devices, whether it’s an iPhone or iPad.

Cross platform desktop app development

Cross-platform development is not just limited to mobile devices. It extends to desktop applications as well. This is particularly relevant in an era where users expect seamless integration and similar experiences across their mobile and desktop devices. Developing desktop applications that work across various operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux can be a daunting task. However, with cross-platform development tools, this process becomes more manageable. These tools enable developers to create applications that can run smoothly on different desktop operating systems from a single codebase. This approach ensures consistency in user experience and functionality across all platforms, while significantly cutting down development time and costs.

Native vs. cross platform development

Native applications are designed specifically for one operating system. For instance, apps built for Android won’t work on iOS, and those for iOS won’t function on Android. This is because native apps are coded in languages specific to each platform, like Objective-C or Swift for iOS and Java or C for Android.

Advantages of native apps

  • Higher performance on its specific OS
  • Full utilization of the device’s features and capabilities
  • More responsive user experience
  • Generally provides a better overall user experience

Disadvantages of native apps

  • Increased development time due to separate versions for each platform
  • Higher costs associated with multiple development streams

In contrast, cross-platform app development offers a more streamlined approach. It involves writing a single codebase that works across multiple platforms. This method is faster and more cost-effective, as it eliminates the need to write different codes for each operating system

Advantages of cross platform app development

  • Faster development as the same code is used for all platforms
  • More cost-effective due to reduced need for separate coding
  • Broader reach across different platforms with a single effort

Disadvantages of cross platform app development

  • May not match the performance of native apps
  • Limited access to certain device-specific features and capabilities

Benefits of cross-platform mobile development

Cross-platform mobile development stands out for its practicality and effectiveness. It allows for the creation of applications that work across multiple operating systems using a single codebase. This approach not only simplifies the development process but also offers significant advantages in terms of cost, time efficiency, and market reach.

Let’s explore these benefits in detail:

  • Shared codebase: Most of the code can be reused across different platforms, reducing the need to write unique code for each operating system
  • Cost-effective: Lower development costs since the same code is used for multiple platforms, reducing the resources required for separate builds
  • Faster development and time to market: Speedier development process due to code reusability, leading to quicker launches
  • Efficient resource utilization: Development teams can be more effectively managed as there’s no need for platform-specific specialists
  • Reduced bugs and security risks: Fewer lines of code mean fewer chances of bugs and potential security issues, easing the process of testing and maintenance
  • Standard language requirements: Developers often need to be proficient in standard languages, with tools and frameworks handling the more complex tasks
  • Broader audience reach: Apps can cater to users across different devices and operating systems, expanding market coverage

These benefits highlight why cross-platform development is a compelling choice for many projects, balancing efficiency, cost, and reach to meet the needs of a modern mobile audience.

Disadvantages of cross-platform app development

While cross-platform app development offers numerous benefits, it’s important to also consider its drawbacks. These limitations can impact the overall quality and functionality of the apps. Understanding these disadvantages is crucial for developers and businesses to make informed decisions about their development strategy.

  • Performance issues: Cross-platform apps can sometimes experience performance glitches, especially when compared to native apps
  • Limited access to device features: These apps may not fully support certain native-only functions of mobile devices, like advanced graphics or specific hardware capabilities
  • Potential design challenges: Achieving a design that looks and feels good on multiple platforms can be challenging, which might result in a compromised user experience (UX)
  • Dependency on development tools: The quality and capabilities of the app are often tied to the development tools and frameworks used, which may have their own limitations

Despite these drawbacks, advancements in development technologies and frameworks are gradually addressing these issues. Modern cross-platform apps are increasingly becoming:

  • Flexible: Able to adapt to different platforms and devices
  • Adaptable: Capable of incorporating new features and updates
  • Stable: Offering consistent performance across different platforms
  • High performing: Closing the gap with native apps in terms of speed and responsiveness
  • Highly functional: Supporting a wider range of device-specific features
  • Able to deliver good UX: Improving in design to offer a more engaging and intuitive user experience

11 Best cross-platform mobile app development frameworks and no code software

The choice of the right cross-platform mobile app development framework is crucial for creating efficient, native-like applications. Take a look at these top cross-platform mobile app development frameworks:

Best cross-platform development platform: Fliplet

Fliplet offers a unique solution for cross-platform mobile app development, focusing on simplicity and efficiency. It enables users to build and launch apps on various platforms, including web, iOS, Android, and private apps.

Key features:

  • Drag and drop app builder
  • Integrate with your existing platforms.
  • Build and launch on iOS, Android, web, and private platforms
  • Enterprise grade security features
  • App analytics
  • Sixteen pre-built solutions to help you get started right away

Benefits:

  • Ease of use: User-friendly interface, allowing quick prototyping and app building without the need of any coding skills
  • Cost-effectiveness: Offers unlimited app creation with a single subscription, making it highly economical
  • Range of solutions: Suitable for a range of applications, from internal communications tools to complex enterprise solutions
  • Quick deployment: Enables fast development and deployment, ideal for urgent project requirements
  • Excellent customer support: Highly rated customer service, ensuring reliable assistance
  • Integration capabilities: Seamless integration with existing databases and enterprise mobile distribution platforms
  • Instant updates, easy maintenance: Updates are effortless with Fliplet Studio. Fliplet handles maintenance and over-the-air updates so that you can focus on content.
  • Publish on all devices: Create one app and publish it on mobile, tablet and web.

Pricing:

  • Free Plan: Begin your journey with Fliplet’s free plan. This plan offers a fully functional team chat app in a web environment.
  • Public Plan: From $9.90 /month
  • Private Plan: From $19.90 /month
  • Private Plus Plan: From $29.90 /month
  • Enterprise Plan: For organizations with more extensive requirements, Fliplet offers a customizable enterprise plan. Details can be obtained through a demo.

Best Microsoft cross-platform mobile app framework: .NET MAUI (formerly Xamarin)

.NET MAUI is a cross-platform framework for creating native mobile and desktop apps with C# and XAML. Using .NET MAUI, you can develop apps that can run on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows from a single shared code-base.

Key features:

  • Single codebase for multiple platforms
  • Native performance
  • Access to a rich set of libraries
  • Share code, tests, and business logic across platforms

Benefits:

  • Share code across iOS, Android, and Windows
  • Robust performance
  • Strong community and Microsoft support
  • Share UI layout and design across platforms
  • Integrate with your microsoft systems

Pricing:

  • Free to use

Cross-platform mobile app development: Flutter

Flutter is an open-source UI software development kit created by Google. It is used to develop cross platform applications from a single codebase for any web browser, Fuchsia, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Key features:

  • Hot reload: Developers can instantly see the changes they make to the code reflected in the app interface
  • Rich set of widgets: Flutter is built around the concept of widgets, which are building blocks for constructing UI elements
  • Cross-platform development: Flutter allows developers to write a single codebase that runs on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, web, and desktop
  • Access to native features: While Flutter is a framework in itself, it also provides plugins that allow developers to access native device features such as camera, location, sensors, and more

Benefits:

  • High-performance apps: Flutter doesn’t use a bridge (JavaScript or webview) for communication between the app and the platform
  • Shorter testing process: Flutter developers can perform comprehensive testing once
  • Efficient development process: Development process faster and more efficiently

Pricing:

  • Free
  • Standard: $30 /month
  • Pro: $70 /month
  • Teams: $70 /user /month

Mobile App Development Cross-Platform: Cordova (Adobe PhoneGap)

Cordova, also known as Adobe PhoneGap, is a platform for building mobile applications using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript, appealing to developers familiar with web technologies.

Key features:

  • Supports HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript for development
  • Access to native device APIs
  • Extensive plugin library for additional functionalities

Benefits:

  • Web technology utilization: Leverages familiar web technologies for app development
  • Native features access: Integrates with native device features for comprehensive functionality
  • Wide compatibility: Supports a broad range of platforms, enhancing app reach
  • Large community: Benefits from robust community support and resources
  • Open source platform: Cordova is an open-source platform that is cost-effective and flexible for developers

Pricing:

  • Free to use

Free Cross-Platform Mobile App Development: React Native

React Native, created by Facebook, is a powerful framework for building mobile applications using React and JavaScript.

Key features:

  • Hot reloading for instant updates during development
  • Large library of React components
  • Native module integration for enhanced performance

Benefits:

  • Development efficiency: Hot reloading feature speeds up the development process
  • Reusable code: Code once and deploy on both iOS and Android, saving time and resources
  • Strong performance: Integration with native modules ensures high app performance
  • Extensive ecosystem: Access to a vast range of libraries and community support

Pricing:

  • Free to use

Best cross-platform game development engine: Unity

Unity is a leading game development engine, renowned for its ability to create immersive and interactive experiences across multiple platforms. First released in 2005, Unity has evolved to support a wide array of desktop, mobile, console, and virtual reality platforms, making it a versatile tool for developers.

Key features:

  • Multi-platform support
  • High-quality assets
  • Powerful rendering engine
  • VR and AR Support

Benefits:

  • Versatility: Develop games for almost any platform
  • Community and support: Large community of developers and extensive documentation
  • Efficient Workflow: Streamlines the game development process, from conception to deployment
  • Innovative features: Continuously updated with the latest technological advancements

Pricing:

  • Student: Free
  • Personal: Free
  • Unity Pro: $1,877
  • Unity Industry: $4,554
  • Unity Enterprise: Contact Unity

Efficient JavaScript framework for cross-platform app development: Node.js

Node.js is a powerful JavaScript runtime framework that is ideal for developing efficient and responsive cross-platform applications. Built on Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine, it offers an open-source environment for server-side and scalable network app development.

Key features:

  • Asynchronous APIs for non-blocking operations
  • Speedy code execution process with Chrome’s V8 engine
  • Single-threaded model with event looping for efficient performance
  • Rich library of JavaScript modules

Benefits:

  • Efficient real-time applications: Ideal for building fast, scalable network applications like chat and gaming apps
  • Scalable: Efficiently handles numerous simultaneous connections with minimal overhead on a single process
  • Fast server-side solutions: Quick execution of code thanks to V8 JavaScript engine, ideal for data-intensive applications
  • Enhanced productivity: Simplifies development with JavaScript on both client and server sides, reducing context switching

Pricing:

  • Solid 4: Free
  • Solid 8: $99 /month
  • Solid 12: $199 /month
  • Solid E: Contact Node.js

 

Cross-platform framework for mobile development: Appcelerator Titanium

Appcelerator Titanium is a versatile tool designed to simplify mobile app development. It enables the creation of cross-platform apps with a single code base, focusing on native components present in JavaScript code.

Key features:

  • Rapid application development tools
  • ArrowDB for easy data model deployment
  • Integration with continuous delivery systems
  • Pre-built connectors for various services

Benefits:

  • Prototype rapidly: Enables quick prototyping, allowing businesses to test ideas and iterate faster
  • Efficient data handling: Streamlined approach to data storage and retrieval, enhancing app functionality
  • Broad integration: Easily integrates with existing enterprise systems, enhancing workflow and productivity
  • Rich ecosystem: Extensive collection of pre-built connectors and modules to extend app functionalities

Pricing:

  • Indie Seat: Free
  • Pro Seat: $99 /month
  • Enterprise Seat: Speak with Appcelerator

 

Advanced framework for web-based cross-platform apps: Sencha Touch

Sencha Touch is a robust framework for developing web-based cross-platform applications. It’s known for its ability to create applications using hardware acceleration techniques and to maintain large business apps effectively.

Key features:

  • Native-looking themes for major platforms
  • Agnostic backend data package
  • Supports Cordova integration for native API access
  • Customizable UI with 50+ built-in widgets

Benefits:

  • Enterprise-focused: Particularly beneficial for large-scale, complex apps requiring robust data integration and management
  • Rich UI capabilities: Offers an extensive set of UI components and tools for creating sophisticated user interfaces
  • Versatile and customizable: Highly customizable for specific business needs, with adaptability across various devices and platforms
  • Strong back-end integration: Efficiently handles backend data and integrates seamlessly with various data sources

Pricing:

  • Contact Sencha Touch for pricing

Mobile and game app development framework: Corona SDK

Corona SDK is an efficient framework for developing 2D mobile applications across major platforms. It’s known for its speed and ease of use, relying on Lua, a lightweight multi-paradigm programming language.

Key features:

  • Over 1000 APIs for comprehensive development
  • Real-time simulator for immediate feedback
  • Supports a wide range of plugins and libraries
  • Lua-based for quick and powerful development

Benefits:

  • Rapid game development: Streamlines game development, significantly reducing development time
  • Wide range of APIs: Offers extensive APIs for graphics, audio, and other essential game elements
  • Real-time testing and iteration: Facilitates immediate feedback and iteration with its real-time simulator
  • Accessible for individuals: Free and user-friendly, making it accessible for independent and hobbyist developers

Pricing:

  • Free to use

Advanced Hybrid App Framework for Creative UI Design: Ionic

Ionic stands as a prominent and highly regarded cross-platform app framework. Utilizing AngularJS, it empowers developers to create applications using a blend of widely-used programming languages such as HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS, combined with Cordova to access native platform functionalities.

Key features:

  • SAAS UI framework
  • AngularJS based
  • Cordova integration
  • Enables code modifications

Benefits:

  • Creative and interactive UIs: Ideal for crafting visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces, enhancing user engagement
  • Perfect for PWA development: Its capabilities make it an excellent choice for developing Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
  • Cross-platform performance: Ensures apps perform effectively across multiple platforms, increasing reach and usability
  • Component library: Offers a selection of pre-built components, speeding up development and ensuring a consistent look and feel
  • Native-Like Experience: Delivers apps with a feel and performance close to native applications

Pricing:

  • Free
  • Community: $49 /month
  • Basic: $499 /month
  • Enterprise: Contact Iconic

Fliplet: Cross platform app development software that needs no coding

Fliplet is revolutionizing the way apps are built and deployed. It’s not just another tool in the toolkit, it’s a game-changer for businesses and individuals looking to enter the mobile space without the need for deep coding knowledge or technical expertise. By simplifying the app development process, Fliplet opens up a world of possibilities for those who previously found app creation daunting or inaccessible.

Why is Fliplet superior to cross-platform app development frameworks?

  • Unparalleled simplicity: Fliplet’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes app development as easy as creating a presentation. This simplicity empowers anyone to build apps, regardless of their coding skills.
  • Speed of deployment: With Fliplet, time-consuming coding is a thing of the past. You can develop and deploy apps at a fast pace, making it ideal for projects with tight deadlines.
  • Broad accessibility: It’s designed for everyone – from small businesses to large enterprises, making it incredibly versatile.
  • Customization: Despite its simplicity, Fliplet doesn’t compromise on customization. Users can tailor their apps to meet specific business needs and branding requirements.
  • Seamless integration: It effortlessly integrates with existing business systems and data sources, enhancing functionality and user experience.
  • Enterprise-grade security: Security isn’t an afterthought; it’s built into every layer of Fliplet, offering peace of mind for businesses handling sensitive data.
  • Exceptional support and resources: Fliplet’s commitment to user success is evident in its extensive support network, from tutorials and guides to responsive customer service.
  • Continuous innovation: Fliplet is always evolving, adding new features and capabilities to stay ahead of the curve in app development.

Fliplet stands out in the world of cross-platform app development tools due to its unique approach that simplifies the app creation process. Unlike traditional cross-platform frameworks that often require a steep learning curve and extensive coding knowledge, Fliplet offers an accessible platform for all skill levels. Its intuitive interface and streamlined development process enable users to bring their app ideas to life quicker and more efficiently than conventional frameworks. This ease of use, combined with its powerful capabilities, makes Fliplet an exceptional choice for those seeking to develop cross-platform applications without the complexities and technical barriers often encountered in app development.

Fliplet is not only a boon for those with limited coding knowledge but also a powerful asset for seasoned developers. Its streamlined environment significantly accelerates the app creation process, allowing developers to focus on innovation rather than the intricacies of code. Fliplet provides the perfect blend of ease and flexibility – while its intuitive interface caters to quick app development, it also offers the option to add custom code, giving developers the freedom to fine-tune and add advanced functionalities as needed. This flexibility ensures that developers can tailor apps precisely to their requirements

Start building your apps today

As we conclude this exploration of cross-platform app development tools and frameworks, it’s evident that the landscape is rich with options, each offering unique features and benefits. However, amidst this variety, Fliplet emerges as a standout choice, particularly for its user-friendly approach and its appeal to a broad spectrum of users. Whether you’re a seasoned developer looking for efficiency and customization or a beginner aiming to bring an app idea to life without delving deep into code, Fliplet caters to all.

Niamh Conneely

Niamh Conneely is the Content Writer and Marketing Executive at Fliplet – an app building platform that enables anyone to easily create engaging and interactive mobile and web apps.

Niamh has experience in content creation and writing and has achieved two level 6 awards for The Chartered Institute of Marketing. She has developed skills to help organizations deal with the challenges of a fast-moving marketplace. Connect with Niamh on Linkedin.

FAQs

What Is Cross-Platform App Development and How Does It Work?

Cross-platform app development is the process of creating software applications that are compatible with multiple operating systems or platforms, such as iOS and Android, from a single codebase. This approach contrasts with native app development, where separate apps are developed for each platform. Cross-platform development utilizes frameworks and tools that allow code to be written once and then deployed across multiple platforms, saving time and resources while ensuring a broader reach for the app.

What Are the Key Benefits of Cross-Platform App Development?

The key benefits of cross-platform app development include cost-effectiveness, as it reduces the need for multiple development teams; time efficiency, since a single codebase speeds up the development process; wider audience reach, as the app can run on various platforms; and easier maintenance and updates, as changes need to be made only once in the common codebase.

How Does Fliplet Enhance Cross-Platform App Development?

Fliplet enhances cross-platform app development by offering an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that simplifies the app creation process, making it accessible to both non-coders and professional developers. It allows for rapid development and deployment, offers extensive customization options, and ensures seamless integration with existing systems. Furthermore, Fliplet’s robust security features and continuous innovation make it a versatile and reliable choice in cross-platform app development.

Can Beginners Use Cross-Platform App Development Tools Effectively?

Yes, many cross-platform app development tools, like Fliplet, are designed with simplicity in mind, making them suitable for beginners or non-technical users. These tools often feature user-friendly interfaces, drag-and-drop builders, and pre-built templates that simplify the development process. While some understanding of basic programming concepts can be helpful, it’s not always necessary to start building apps on these platforms.

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