With mobile internet becoming the most used facet of business online, capturing a user’s attention and offering a seamless user experience have become increasingly challenging. Two technologies that aid in meeting the aforementioned challenges are Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP). Each possesses a distinct set of benefits that make each unique, but which one is more beneficial for a mobile user? Let’s delve into the core differences, pros, and use cases for each technology to make a better choice.
Learning the Basics of AMP: Speed Comes First
Accelerated Mobile Pages, or AMP, is an open-source HTML framework built by Google to improve page load speed on mobile devices. Its main mandate is the speedy delivery of content, and, when necessary, this is achieved by AMP enabling lightweight versions of web pages, referred to as AMP Pages, to be stripped of scripts and styles.. With AMP, content is available almost instantaneously, particularly on slower internet connections.
The most important benefits of using AMP are:
- Usually loading below one second to ensure fast loading times
- They have increased visibility on Google
- Improve the performance of low-bandwidth internet connections
- They are listed first on Google News and the top stories carousel
AMP will suit best publishers and content-based websites, especially those looking to prioritize speed and reach over interactivity. Media companies, blogs, and news platforms highly benefit from supportive delivery.
Understanding PWA: App-Like Experiences
An app-like experience that uses modern web capabilities to deliver PWAs or Progressive Web Apps would work on any platform that supports a compliant web browser. Furthermore, it can be easily added to the app user’s home screen, functioning like a native app. PWA apps also use modern web capabilities to deliver an app-like experience.
Key Features of PWA:
- Syncing in the background while offline
- Responsive mobile-first design
- Camera, GPS, and other hardware devices are available to the user
- Native application feel and function
Service providers, social networks, and e-commerce platforms, as well as businesses with complex needs, are better suited to PWAs as they require a richer and more engaging customer experience.
Comparing AMP and PWA
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Performance and Speed:
It is already well known that AMP pages are accessed at a near instant as they are heavily cached, whereas PWA pages use cached data, minimally speeding up access times. This gives the advantage in raw loading speed to AMP.
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User Engagement:
Extensive optimizations are required to achieve faster speeds than those of AMP, but with PWAs, an entire industry standard of seamless interaction is offered through features like offline support, home screen installation, and commanding handheld devices via push notifications.
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Functionality:
Since AMP restricts JavaScript and other third-party elements, it has minimal interactivity. On the other hand, PWAs are much more functional and can implement sophisticated features like user accounts, shopping carts, and even real-time updates.
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Ease of Development:
Because of its coding structure, implementing AMP is straightforward and quick. PWAs require more technical skill in programming and ongoing maintenance, especially if you want to simulate the features of a native app.
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SEO and Discoverability:
Google favors AMP pages, and they frequently appear in the “Top Stories” section of search results. In addition to that, they are more likely to be indexed in a timely manner. PWAs can be indexed by search engines, but do not enjoy the same priority.
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Offline Access:
An internet connection is required for the operations of AMP. PWAs, on the other hand, can operate without an internet connection or in unstable networks, thus making them more versatile for a global audience.
Use Cases: When to Use AMP or PWA?
Choose AMP if:
- Your focus is largely on content delivery (e.g., news articles and blogs).
- SEO performance requires fast loading.
- You want to reach users on dial-up or low-bandwidth connections.
Choose PWA if:
- You want to provide a rich, interactive, app-like experience.
- You require capabilities such as offline mode, background sync, or push notifications.
- You are developing an e-commerce website, a service application, or a social media platform.
Is There a Way to Combine AMP and PWA Together?
It is of note that AMP and PWA do not contradict each other. In reality, you have the option to create an AMP page, which serves as the “gateway”, and then subsequently shift users to the PWA environment for fluent navigation. This method combines the advantages of both rapid loading times and high levels of functionality.
Final Thoughts
When considering mobile optimization, AMP and PWA differ in their level of support, but the most optimal choice heavily relies on the specific business objectives, demographics, and content plan. In short, balance is required while AMP is most suitable for high-speed delivery and increased visibility on search engines, PWA focuses on delivering engaging experiences and retention.
At FSAL Technologies, we know that businesses differ in nature. Thus, we offer complete digital solutions that include speed optimization through AMP development, as well as a dynamic mobile experience through custom PWA development. As a leading provider of digital marketing services in the Tricity region, we make sure that your mobile presence is competitive and compelling.
Regardless of whether you want to enhance user experience, increase engagement, or drive conversions, FSAL Technologies will assist you in developing a mobile strategy that is innovative and dependable. Allow us to assess your situation and assist you in deciding whether AMP or PWA makes more sense, or even help you combine both features to maximize the utilization of your resources.
Interested in leveling up your mobile experience? Contact FSAL Technologies today.
