As of the beginning of 2021, 14% of app developers across the globe used Xamarin for cross-platform development.
But, does this make Xamarin the right choice for you? Read on for our Xamarin review…
Xamarin Explained:
Xamarin is comprised of a series of tools that allows mobile app development for Windows, iOS, and Android – allowing development in just one type of programming.
It makes things simpler and less multi-layered.
90% of the same code can be reused across these platforms. Therefore, Xamarin app development is often the go-to for experts. So what are the pros and cons of Xamarin?
Pros of Xamarin App Development:
The reputation of Xamarin was greatly helped by Microsoft’s investment in it. But what makes it stand out?
Write Once, Run Anywhere
Xamarin mobile development uses the C# Language. The Mono framework allows the code to run on the 3 operating systems listed above.
High-performing apps are able to be created in this language for all mobile platforms. It takes much of a hassle away from building an app, all the while giving apps a native feeling missing amid competitors.
Combine this with a .NET framework, and you’re onto a winning recipe.
Speed
The cleaner coding means that those building an app with Xamarin won’t find the process as frustrating as supporting two platforms with different coding languages.
Using the C# Language, you develop your app in the Xamarin Studio – all in one place.
This removes the need to switch from various windows or programs and makes the process quick and clean.
As well as this, crashes and glitches are far less common. This is thanks to Xamarin’s native development standards. The framework is frequently updated, meaning top-notch performance on newer devices.
This is helped by the fact that updates only require source code changes. Code is then built all at once, across all platforms, removing the need to switch and update between them.
Wearable App Devices Compatible
Even wearable devices are supported by Xamarin – including Android Wear and Apple Watches.
This makes it even more impressive – given your customer doesn’t solely have to access your app via a mobile phone or tablet.
Cons of Xamarin App Development:
As with anything, there are a few downsides to mobile development with Xamarin.
Cost of Licensing
While there is a $25 per month charge for indie companies, Xamarin is expensive for enterprises, who will need to invest in a license for Microsoft’s Visual Studio.
The simplest version of this, minus Azure DevOps features or cloud services, comes in at $499 per user. But it can reach $2,999 per user for an annual subscription to Visual Studio Enterprise for the more advanced version.
Smaller Open-Source Library and User Community
Xamarin’s library is less extensive. Although it offers thousands of customization options, other programs out there are better when it comes to their open-source library choices.
Being that it is still a young development program, there is a smaller community of users, which can be tricky for newcomers.
There are support forums out there, but these may not provide the extensive knowledge you need.
Xamarin Developed Apps are Larger Than Native Apps
The larger size of Xamarin developed apps might not sit well with some users. Especially those with limited space on devices.
This can be amended with extra tweaking of the code optimization but that takes added time and effort.
What Next?
Now you know the pros and cons of Xamarin app development, you may have further questions.
If you are looking to start a project at WeGotCode.com, feel free to get in touch. We are ready and able to work on growing your business.