Unlike HTML5 apps, native apps are based on the native language of the platform the app runs on. And therein lies the challenge with native apps — each platform requires its own app, and some platforms require different versions of an app to support different devices on that platform.

HTML5 is platform agnostic. As long as users access the app through a browser that supports each language’s capabilities, the app should perform the same across platforms. In addition, administrators have only one code base to maintain and one package to deploy with HTML5. They can deliver bug fixes and updates whenever necessary and even perform live testing with their users without the distribution headaches of native apps.

Although HTML5 has come a long way, it cannot compete with all native capabilities, such as multi-touch gestures and seamless integration with built-in device components, such as GPS. Native apps usually win out when it comes to performance too, because they’re part of the machine code. HTML5 apps can experience lengthy load times if they have not been carefully designed.

In addition, HTML5 apps are subject to the same risks as any Web app. Developers must guard against cyberattacks, improper API usage and malicious code accessing the device through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or text messages.