Website or web app — the difference and the cost
When you only need a website, when you need a system with logins and data, and why the difference changes cost and SEO.
Both open in a browser and look similar. But one presents you and the other does work for you. The difference sets the scope, the price and how it’s found on Google.
Website
Content visitors read: who you are, what you offer, how to reach you. The main goal is to be found on Google and bring enquiries.
- A company or product presentation
- A blog and guides
- A contact or quote form
- An online store with a catalogue
Web app
A tool with logins, users and data that changes. The main goal is to save work.
- A customer portal (orders, documents, status)
- A booking or scheduling system
- An internal tool — work orders, stock, reports
- A management dashboard
Comparison
| WEBSITE | WEB APP | |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | to be found | to make work easier |
| Users | all visitors | logged-in users |
| Data | content | a changing database |
| SEO | essential | usually irrelevant |
| What drives cost | pages, languages, design | features, roles, integrations |
When you need both
A common combination: a fast website that brings in customers, and a web app behind a login for customers who already work with you. They can share a domain and design but are built separately — the site for speed and SEO, the app for functionality.
Questions before you ask for a quote
- Do visitors need to log in?
- Does anyone enter data that others see?
- Does it need to connect to another system?
- How many languages?
Not sure what you need? Describe the problem and we’ll suggest the right approach. More about websites →