What is the difference between Expo and React Native CLI?

Expo and React Native CLI are two popular options for developing mobile applications using the React Native framework. Let’s explore the differences between them:

Expo:

Expo is a comprehensive set of tools and services built around React Native, designed to make the development process more accessible and efficient. It provides a higher level of abstraction, allowing developers to focus on building the app logic without worrying about the underlying native code.

One of the main advantages of Expo is its simplicity and ease of use. Developers can quickly set up a new project using the Expo CLI, which abstracts away the complexities of native development environments like Android Studio and Xcode. Expo also offers a range of pre-built UI components and libraries, making it easier to create beautiful and functional interfaces.

However, Expo does have some limitations. Since it abstracts away the native code, certain advanced features and integrations may not be available out of the box. For example, if an app requires access to low-level device APIs or native modules, Expo may not be the best choice. In such cases, developers may need to detach the Expo project and use the React Native CLI.

React Native CLI:

React Native CLI is the traditional and more customizable approach to React Native development. It provides direct access to the native code and development environment, allowing for more control and flexibility.

With React Native CLI, developers have full access to the entire React Native ecosystem, including all native modules and APIs. This enables them to build highly performant and feature-rich applications, tailored to their specific requirements.

However, using React Native CLI requires more setup and configuration compared to Expo. Developers need to install Android Studio or Xcode, set up the build environment, and manage the native dependencies manually. The learning curve for React Native CLI is also steeper, as it involves understanding and working with more complex native code.

Which one to choose?

The choice between Expo and React Native CLI depends on the specific needs and constraints of the project. If simplicity, speed of development, and access to pre-built components are the priorities, Expo can be a great option. It is especially suitable for prototyping, smaller projects, or when time-to-market is critical.

On the other hand, if the project requires advanced customization, access to native APIs, or integration with existing native code, React Native CLI is the better choice. It provides the flexibility to fine-tune every aspect of the application, but at the cost of additional complexity and setup requirements.