React vs React Native: Hiring Insights for Recruiters

React and React Native, both developed by Facebook, serve different purposes. React, also known as React.js, is a JavaScript library focused on building UI components for web applications. React Native, on the other hand, is a framework that enables the development of mobile applications for iOS and Android using JavaScript and React.

Professionals skilled in React are typically adept at building web applications with a focus on performance, SEO, and responsive design. They are familiar with web-specific technologies such as HTML, CSS, and RESTful APIs. React Native developers, however, must understand mobile-specific challenges, such as handling device-specific features, optimizing performance for mobile, and managing mobile-specific UI layouts.

While both roles require a strong grasp of JavaScript and React principles, React Native developers often need additional skills in native mobile development, such as knowledge of Swift or Kotlin for deeper integrations.

Deciding between hiring a React or React Native developer depends largely on your project requirements. If you are developing a web application, a React developer is your go-to choice. They are experts in creating dynamic, high-performance web interfaces that function seamlessly across all modern browsers.

For mobile applications, a React Native developer is ideal. They can create cross-platform apps that maintain native performance and appearance. If your goal is to reach both iOS and Android users without maintaining separate codebases, React Native provides a cost-effective solution.

Consider hiring React developers when you have an existing web product that needs expansion or a new web-focused project. React Native developers are suitable when your focus is on launching new mobile apps or extending web functionality to mobile platforms.

Salaries for React and React Native developers can vary based on location, experience, and demand. In general, React developers' salaries are competitive with those of other web development roles. As of 2023, a mid-level React developer in the UK might earn between £40,000 and £60,000 annually, while senior developers can command £70,000 to £90,000.

React Native developers often earn slightly more due to the additional complexity of mobile development. Mid-level React Native developers can expect salaries ranging from £45,000 to £65,000, with senior roles offering £75,000 to £100,000.

The market availability for both roles is robust, though demand can often outstrip supply, particularly for experienced developers. Companies may need to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent in both fields.

Both React and React Native require a solid understanding of JavaScript and core React concepts. However, the technical depth can vary based on platform-specific demands.

React developers need to master web technologies. They should understand the Document Object Model (DOM), CSS Flexbox, and CSS Grid for responsive designs. Proficiency in tools like Webpack and Babel is also crucial for optimizing web applications.

React Native developers, while sharing the foundational React knowledge, must also grasp mobile-specific nuances. This includes understanding the native modules, managing app performance on mobile devices, and potentially integrating native code using Swift (for iOS) or Kotlin (for Android) when necessary. Familiarity with tools like Xcode and Android Studio is often required to emulate and test mobile applications.

The career paths for React and React Native developers can diverge based on specialization. React developers often progress into roles such as Frontend Architect or Full Stack Developer, leveraging their web-centric expertise to influence broader application design and architecture.

React Native developers might evolve into Mobile Lead or Senior Mobile Developer roles, focusing on optimizing mobile app performance and user experience across multiple platforms.

Both paths offer opportunities for growth into leadership positions, such as Development Manager or CTO, especially if the individual possesses strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of software development processes. Entry-level positions typically require a solid portfolio and demonstrable experience with personal or open-source projects.

When reviewing CVs for React and React Native roles, certain patterns can indicate a strong candidate.

For React developers, look for experience with modern JavaScript frameworks, a history of building responsive web applications, and familiarity with tools like Redux for state management. Contributions to open-source projects or a portfolio of personal projects can also be a strong indicator of passion and expertise.

React Native candidates should demonstrate experience with cross-platform app development, knowledge of native app features, and a history of deploying apps to both iOS and Android platforms. A candidate with a strong grasp of integrating third-party libraries and managing app performance on mobile devices is also desirable.

In both cases, soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork should not be overlooked, as they are crucial for successful project execution.