If you’re considering turning your Shopify store into a mobile app, there are several options to choose from. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the costs can vary depending on the approach you take.
Here’s an overview of the different options and their costs over the next 5 years:
Shopify App Builder: The Shopify app builder is an affordable option that allows you to create a mobile app for your store without needing any technical skills.
The cost of using the Shopify app builder is $59/month, and this includes hosting and maintenance of your app. Over the next 5 years, the total cost of using the Shopify app builder would be $3,540.
Advantages:
- No technical skills required
- Affordable
- Easy integration with Shopify
- Hosting and maintenance included
Disadvantages:
- Limited customization options
- Generic design templates
- No offline access
Third-Party App Builder: Third-party app builders like BuildFire, Shoutem, and GoodBarber offer more customization options than the Shopify app builder but may require more technical skills or knowledge of coding.
The cost of using a third-party app builder can vary depending on the provider and the features you need. Typically, prices range from $30-$300/month, with an average cost of $100/month. Over the next 5 years, the total cost of using a third-party app builder would be $6,000 on average.
Advantages:
- More customization options
- Integration with Shopify
- Advanced features like push notifications, analytics, and loyalty programs
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost
- Technical skills required
- Longer development time
Hire a Developer: If you have specific requirements or functionality that you want in your mobile app, you may need to hire a developer to create a custom app for you.
The cost of hiring a developer can vary widely depending on their experience and location. On average, developers charge $75-$200/hour, and the total cost of creating a custom app can range from $10,000-$50,000. Over the next 5 years, the total cost of hiring a developer would be $40,000 on average.
Advantages:
- Custom design and functionality
- Full control over the app
- Advanced features
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Longer development time
- Technical skills required to manage and maintain the app
Mobile App Integration Service: Mobile app integration services like Plobal Apps, Tapcart, and Shopney allow you to convert your Shopify store into a mobile app.
The cost of using a mobile app integration service can vary depending on the provider and the features you need. Typically, prices range from $99-$399/month, with an average cost of $199/month. Over the next 5 years, the total cost of using a mobile app integration service would be $11,940 on average.
Advantages:
- Customizable templates
- Integration with Shopify
- Advanced features like push notifications, analytics, and loyalty programs
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost
- Limited customization options
Longer development time of these options, using a white-label Shopify app is one of the best options for turning your Shopify store into a mobile app.
The initial setup cost for a white-label Shopify app can vary depending on the provider and the features you need. Generally, you can expect to pay between $1,000-$5,000 for the initial setup. This cost includes customizing the design and functionality of your mobile app, integrating it with your Shopify store, and submitting the app to the app stores for approval.
The ongoing maintenance and support costs for a white-label Shopify app typically range from $99-$299/month, depending on the provider and the level of support you require. This cost covers hosting, maintenance, bug fixes, updates, and customer support for your mobile app.
Over the next 5 years, the total cost of using a white-label Shopify app would fall between $6,940-$20,000, depending on the provider, the level of customization you require, and the ongoing support and maintenance costs.
However, the cost of using a white-label Shopify app may be more cost-effective compared to hiring a developer or using a third-party app builder, especially if you don’t have the technical skills or resources to create a mobile app from scratch.
Additionally, a white label Shopify app can provide a seamless and branded mobile app experience for your customers, which can help increase customer engagement, loyalty, and sales.
