Build mobile apps that also work as websites
Expo makes React Native easier, but you still can't share code with your web app. NextNative lets you build iOS, Android, and web apps from one Next.js codebase—using the same code everywhere.
Quick Answer
If you need both web and mobile apps, skip Expo. Use NextNative to build with Next.js + Capacitor—your web app becomes your mobile app. One codebase for all platforms.
NextNative vs Expo
Expo simplifies React Native development but still requires maintaining separate codebases for web and mobile. With Next.js + Capacitor, you build once and deploy to web, iOS, and Android from the same codebase.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | NextNative | Expo |
|---|---|---|
| Code Sharing (Web + Mobile) | 100% shared codebase | Separate web app needed |
| Development Language | React + Web APIs | React Native API |
| Backend/API | Built-in (Next.js API routes) | Separate backend |
| SEO Support | Excellent (Next.js) | Requires separate web app |
| UI Framework | Any (Tailwind, MUI, etc.) | React Native components |
| Hot Reload | Instant (web dev server) | Fast |
| Debugging | Browser DevTools | React DevTools |
| Learning Curve | Use existing web skills | Learn React Native APIs |
| Over-the-Air Updates | Yes (web updates) | Yes (EAS Update) |
| Performance | Near-native (WebView) | Native |
| Complex Animations | CSS/Framer Motion | Reanimated (better) |
| Development Cost | Lower (web developers) | Higher (mobile specialists) |
Choose NextNative if:
- You need both web and mobile apps
- You have web developers on your team
- You want to share 100% of your code
- You already have a Next.js website
- You need SEO for your web version
- You want API routes in the same codebase
- You prefer Tailwind CSS or web UI libraries
- You're building content-heavy or SaaS apps
- Your budget requires using web developers
- You want faster development and deployment
Stick with Expo if:
- You're building mobile-only apps
- You don't need a website
- You're using Expo's managed workflow
- You need complex mobile animations
- You're already invested in React Native
- You prefer React Native's ecosystem
- Mobile is your primary platform
How to Move from Expo to Next.js + Capacitor
Extract your business logic and state management - these will work in Next.js
Rebuild your UI using React and web technologies (HTML, CSS, Tailwind) instead of React Native components
Set up Next.js with App Router for your application
Configure Next.js for static export (required for Capacitor)
Install Capacitor to wrap your Next.js app
Replace Expo modules with Capacitor plugins (camera, notifications, etc.)
Set up Firebase Auth for authentication instead of Expo AuthSession
Use RevenueCat for in-app purchases instead of Expo IAP
Test on iOS and Android using Capacitor's tools
Deploy your web version and publish to stores
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Next.js match Expo's mobile experience?
For most apps, yes. With Capacitor and proper mobile UX design, Next.js apps feel very native. Expo has an edge for graphics-heavy apps and complex animations, but the difference is negligible for standard business apps.
Which is cheaper to develop?
Next.js + Capacitor is generally cheaper because you share code 100% between web and mobile. With Expo, you still need a separate web app. Plus, web developers are more abundant and often cost less than React Native specialists.
Will I lose Expo's easy setup?
NextNative provides the same level of setup convenience. Everything is pre-configured: Capacitor, Firebase Auth, RevenueCat, push notifications, and deployment guides. You get Expo's ease without the mobile-only limitation.
Can I still use over-the-air updates?
Yes! Since your app is web-based, you can deploy updates instantly without app store review. Your mobile app loads the latest web version. This is even faster than Expo's EAS Update.
What about Expo's native modules?
Capacitor has plugins for most native features: camera, push notifications, GPS, biometrics, file system, etc. The Capacitor ecosystem is mature and covers typical app needs.
Can I build for web and mobile simultaneously?
Yes! That's the main advantage. Your Next.js app IS your web app AND your mobile app. No separate codebases. Build once, deploy everywhere. Expo can't do this.
Conclusion
Expo is great for React Native development, but if you also need a web app, you'll maintain two codebases. Next.js + Capacitor gives you web, iOS, and Android from one codebase. For web-first businesses or developers who want maximum code sharing, Next.js + Capacitor is the clear winner.
Build once, deploy everywhere
NextNative provides everything Expo does—plus a web version. Get the boilerplate and start building for all platforms today.
🎁50% off for the first 40 customers, 5 left
Ready to Get Started?
Follow these step-by-step tutorials to build your mobile app
How to Convert Your Next.js App to iOS & Android
30 minutes • beginner
Learn how to transform your Next.js web application into fully functional iOS and Android mobile apps using Capacitor. This guide covers installation, configuration, and deployment to app stores.
How to Add Push Notifications to Your Next.js Mobile App
45 minutes • intermediate
Implement push notifications in your Next.js mobile app using Capacitor's Push Notifications plugin and Firebase Cloud Messaging. Send notifications to iOS and Android users.
How to Add In-App Purchases to Your Next.js App
60 minutes • intermediate
Monetize your Next.js mobile app with in-app purchases and subscriptions using RevenueCat. This guide covers setup, implementation, and testing for both iOS and Android.