Best Mobile App Development Tools in 2023 [Native + Cross-platform]Home » App Development » Mobile App Development Tools Published On: September 9, 2021 Last Updated: April 18, 2023 Developing a successful mobile app obviously requires effort, and on the other end gives you fruitful results as well. According to Statista, global mobile app revenue will reach 935.2 million by 2023.Image Source: StatistaYou might have an app idea that you want to make successful. However, you might have faced these questions:How to develop a mobile app without coding?Which platforms are used to develop native mobile apps?Which are the best no-code platforms to develop a native or cross-platform mobile app?When should you choose a native mobile app building tool?When should you choose a cross-platform app-building tool?As a leading custom mobile application development company in Canada, we have in-house Android and iOS mobile app developers. We met some of these senior developers, asked them about the app development tools we are using currently, and the best app development tools in the market. We curated all the answers and wrote this guide so that you can learn about the best mobile app development tools available in the market.We have divided this guide into three main sections, native app development tools, cross-platform app development tools, and no-code app development tools. If you are a mobile app developer or an entrepreneur, this post will help you to select the best mobile application development tools.Table of ContentsNative Mobile App Development ToolsXcodeAppCodeAndroid StudioIntelliJ IDEAFree Cross-Platform Mobile App Development ToolsFlutterReact NativeIonicCordovaNo-Code App Development ToolsAppSheetAppy PieQuick BaseFAQ About Mobile App Development ToolsHow to select the best app development tools for your project?What are the best app development tools for creating Android applications?Which is the best app development tool for creating iOS applications?ConclusionNative Mobile App Development ToolsHere’s the list of best native mobile app building tools:LogoNameFree TrialPricingXcodeNoFreeAppCode30 days$19.90/monthAndroid StudioNoFreeIntelliJ IDEA30 days$49.9/monthXcodeXcode is a freely available integrated development environment (IDE). It is used to develop software for macOS operating system platforms, such as iOS, iPad, watchOS, and tvOS. Basically, it is a tool for developers to write code and compile applications that can be used on Apple’s different devices and operations systems.Xcode software supports different programming languages to create iOS apps, and it becomes easy for developers to choose anyone from them and start coding on.Image Source: XcodeWhy Choose Xcode?To develop apps on the iOS platform, Xcode is the only official supported tool by Apple.Xcode provides reliable debugging tools for developers to solve the problem in a faster way.It also has an in-built project management tool to manage your project assets and code files properly.Core Features of XcodeBasic and advanced editorIn-built Interface builderStatics analyticGraphical debuggerPowerful LLVM open-source compilerXCTest APIsNow, let’s have a look at the advantages and disadvantages of using Xcode for iOS app development services.AdvantagesLimitationsEasy to use UINot suitable for distributed teamworkProvides best-level of code completionXcode can only work on the Apple OS systemXcode’s simulator lets you test apps easilyXcode lacks behind in providing features like refactoring tools and static code analysisAppCodeAppCode is built by Jetbrains and specifically designed to develop iOS applications. It is an IDE like Xcode used to develop iOS and macOS apps. AppCode enables developers to build, test, and enhance the codes efficiently by saving time for development. On top of that, AppCode supports multiple development languages to create the applications.Image Source: AppCodeWhy Choose AppCode?AppCode offers customization by allowing developers to use stylish fonts, colours, and code style, powerful features.It helps developers to write flawless code by providing recommendations with code completion of mobile apps.It provides a refactoring process option to change the internal software program without affecting the external behaviour by improving the non-functional property of the application.Core Features of AppCodeSupports different programming languagesIn-built tools to test, analyze, and debugIntelligent code assistanceSupports XcodeIntegrationsRefactoringHere are the advantages and disadvantages of using AppCode for creating iOS native apps.AdvantagesLimitationsIt has powerful search and replaces featureThere are some chances when developers had to kill the process due to recurring flashes in the application during developmentWrite better native app development codesIt lacks behind in storyboards which makes developers use Xcode parallelly to work on the graphics partIt has a better refactoring option to help developers while app developmentAppCode heavily relies on the Xcode and cannot run without XcodeAndroid StudioAndroid Studio is the official IDE used for Google’s Android operating system. This is the perfect mobile app development tool to create Android apps. It is built by Google and helps developers to create application interfaces using drag and drop features. This tool reduces the time required by developers to create Android applications.Image Source: Android StudioWhy Choose Android Studio?It is an advanced code editor which auto-completes the code written in Java and Kotlin.Google offers many SDK and gradles to develop to meet the requirements of the latest Android system and build functionality.It has an easy-to-use interface and provides a drag and drop feature to place most elements of the UI.Android Studio offers rich tips on finding the bugs in the codes and helps to debug the errors faster.What are the Core Features of Android Studio?Intelligent code editor to ease the work.Android emulator.Tools and frameworks for testing.Visual layout editor.Supports Java and Kotlin.Code templates.Compatible to develop all devices app.Here are the advantages and disadvantages of one of the most popular app development tools Android Studio to create Android native apps.AdvantagesLimitationsIt is an open-source platformUI is not beginner-friendlyProvides plugins and features for specific needsIt cannot be used on low configurational PCsProvides drag and drop GUI to ease the work of developer on designing UI of the appThe emulator takes time to get started and works slowIntelliJ IDEAIntelliJ IDEA is an Integrated Development Environment tool to enhance the productivity of developers. It supports JVM languages and helps developers in static code analysis, refactorings, and code completion. A cross-platform IDE allows developers to create an application for different platforms like macOS, Windows, and Linux.Image Source: IntelliJ IDEAAdditionally, it also supports various software and mobile app programming languages like Kotlin, Java, Scala, and Groovy, which you can use to create mobile apps and application software. IntelliJ IDEA provides the use of Android SDK and other tools, libraries, and frameworks to create mobile apps.Why Choose IntelliJ IDEA?It is a complete tool for developers who are looking to manage all the tasks in one place from design to refactoringDue to its feature-rich and cross-platform development facility for developersFor businesses who want to develop applications for multiple platforms, IntelliJ IDEA becomes a better choice due to its support.What are the Core Features of IntelliJ IDEA?Smart code completionAdvanced chain code completionData flow analysis of codeRefactoring of cross-languageDuplicate detectionShortcuts of everything to ease work of developersTest runner tools and DecompilerHere are the advantages and disadvantages of Android app development using IntelliJ IDEA.AdvantagesLimitationsThis IDE has a good code analyzerThis IDE uses a lot of computer resourcesSupport multiple platform developmentDevelopers face the issue of understanding error messageIt is better and easier to use than Eclipse IDE–Want to Develop an Native Mobile Application For Your Business?Our experienced mobile app developers will help you to build Android or iOS mobile apps. Book Your Free Consultation Free Cross-Platform Mobile App Development ToolsHere’s the list of cross-platform mobile app-building tools.LogoNamePercentage of Developers UsingApp ExamplesFlutter42%ByteDanceGoogle AdsReflectlyReact Native38%Facebook AnalyticsInstagramUberEatsIonic16%DayClocksSanvelloSworkitCordova16%PacificaFanreactJustWatchFlutterFlutter is a mobile development software toolkit developed by Google. According to a report by Statista, Flutter is the most used cross-platform mobile framework used by around 42% of global developers to create a single codebase application for different platforms.Image Source: FlutterThe programming language used to create Flutter is Dart and Google claims it as the client-optimized and suitable language for building fast mobile apps. On top of that, Flutter performs well in comparison to other cross-platform mobile app development frameworks due to Dart’s native compilers and its own set of features. Are you confused between cross-platform vs native mobile app development? Check out our Flutter vs Native blog.Why Choose Flutter?When you want to launch your app in the market within a short period.If you are looking to develop an application with high performance across multiple platforms.If you want to launch your app in the market with reusable code to scale your application in the future.What are the Core Features of Flutter?Hot reloadingShare the UI code and UI itself395 widgets’ libraryNative features and SDKFlutter FixFlutter DevToolsLet’s check the advantages and disadvantages of Flutter for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsWrite your code once and deploy it anywhereFlutter has the inability to access the native APIs directly from DartIt allows you to carry out rapid mobile app developmentThere are complaints from developers it lacks behind in providing instantly code push without releasing the new version of the appIt becomes easier for you to release updates for iOS and Android at one timeFlutter is not a stable framework it’s continuously updating and changingWant to know more about the Flutter cross-platform mobile app development framework? Check out our blog – What is Flutter to get a complete overview of this framework.React NativeReact Native is an open-source JavaScript library used to develop native-based mobile apps. It is based on the React library developed by Facebook. You can call it a native mobile app development tool and allows you to create pure native apps without compromising the user’s experience.Image Source: React NativeReact Native is the second most popular framework among developers to create cross-platform native mobile apps. Similar to Flutter, it allows you to create a single codebase application that can run on multiple platforms.Why Choose React Native?If you are limited on budget and want to develop a native mobile applicationIt becomes the best choice for cross-platform app development due to its low cost of development and maintenance.What are the Core Features of React Native?Code once and run anywhereCapacitorHot ReloadOpen SourceNative modulesFaster app developmentLet’s check the advantages and disadvantages of React-Native for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsReact Native has reusable components for faster developmentPerformance is low compared to native mobile appsIt enables your development team to create applications fasterIt has been experienced by developers they face debugging React Native harderMany popular apps are using React Native like Bloomberg, Walmart, and SalesforceIntroducing new features in React Native takes time by FacebookIonicIonic is an open-source, free SDK used for cross-platform app development to make native mobile applications. It is simply used to develop hybrid mobile applications, web applications, and progressive web apps. Native vs hybrid mobile applications have major differences in performance and user experience.Image Source: IonicThis mobile app development framework supports web development languages like HTML, CSS, Angular, and Typescript and enables you to create mobile apps. Ionic has UI components and minimum DOM manipulation that helps in adding the functionality used in native mobile applications.Why Choose Ionic?If you want to create your cross-platform app with customization using different buttons, colour schemes, and menus.If you’re looking to build a cross-platform mobile app that requires multiple third-party integrations.If your mobile application specifically relies on the device’s core functionalities. Then Cordova plugins in Ionic become the best choice for you.What are the Core Features of Ionic?Ready to use UI componentsIt is a free and open-source platformLive reloadCode once and run anywhereIonic Command Line InterfaceLet’s check the advantages and disadvantages of Ionic for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsIt provides different native compatible front-end UI componentsIonic mobile apps code can’t easily access native applications functionalitiesUsing Ionic you get the advantage of building native apps with web flexibilityYou can’t develop a high-end graphical-based mobile application using IonicIonic is the most preferable choice for rapid prototyping of applications due to its ready-to-use componentsIonic uses Live Reload instead of Hot Reload which eventually affects in the speed of developmentCordovaApache Cordova formerly known as PhoneGap is an open-source hybrid mobile app development framework. It uses standard web development technologies HTML, CSS and JavaScript.Image Source: CordovaThe advantage of using this framework is creating a single codebase application that works on all mobile devices. Since Cordova works using JavaScript you aren’t required to learn any platform-specific language to develop hybrid mobile apps.Why Choose Cordova?When your project requirement is converting your web application into a mobile application.When you want to cover a large audience of different platforms like Windows, iOS, Android, and Blackberry.Your application specifically doesn’t rely on the native functionalities.What are the Core Features of Cordova?Cordova Command-Line InterfacePlugins APIsAndroid WebViewsiOS WebViewsApp templatesNow, let’s check the advantages and disadvantages of Cordova for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsWith Cordova, you can build an app for multiple platformsIt has been observed by developers that plugins have compatibility issues with different platforms and devicesIt has access to all libraries of JavaScript to use in your mobile applicationIt is not optimal to use Cordova for large applications that require data and functionalityDeploy your app in the market fasterCross mobile app browsers have compatibility issuesLooking to Create a Cross-platform Mobile App and Confused on Which Framework to Choose?Discuss your queries with our experienced mobile app developers. Get your free consultation.Book Your Consultation No-Code App Development ToolsLogoTool NameRatings and Reviews (Capterra)Plans and PricingAppSheet4.8 out of 5.0Team – $600/monthBusiness – $2000/monthEnterprise – CustomAppy Pie4.6 out of 5.0Standard – $9.99/monthProfessional – $29/monthBusiness – $79/monthEnterprise – $199/monthQuickbase4.5 out of 5.0Starter – $5/monthCore – $10/monthEnterprise Standard- CustomEnterprise Plus – CustomAppSheetAppSheet is one of the top mobile app tools to develop the application without coding a single line. It allows you to create a custom mobile application for your business using its basic app editor. According to the Forrester report, AppSheet is the leader in the low-code development platforms for business persons.Image Source: AppSheetFurthermore, you can even create mobile applications with powerful technologies like Machine Learning. Not only this, but you can also develop desktop applications using this platform. Ultimately, it is a complete tool to go from idea to develop a complete solution.Why Choose AppSheet?If you want to create mobile and desktop versions of your application.If you want to create apps without learning to code or writing a single line of code.If you want a mobile app development tool with rich features to integrate into your app.What are the Core Features of AppSheet?Basic and advanced editorTrack data changesCodeless app developmentDate import facilityOffline access of mobile appMultiple platforms supportHere are the advantages and disadvantages of AppSheet for creating mobile without writing a single code.AdvantagesLimitationsAppSheet is a one-step solution from ideation to developing a solutionAs the number of tables increases in the application, the performance degradesYou can make apps for Android and iOS platformsA tier-based pricing structure will ultimately add to the cost of app developmentIt is a completely mobile and desktop application development tool for small, medium and enterprise-level businessFor beginners, it takes time to understand how does the platform workAppy PieAppy Pie app development tool to help small and large businesses to create iOS and Android apps. It is a no-code app development platform that allows you to use the drag and drop app feature. Appy Pie is a simple and beginner-friendly platform that enables you to create native mobile apps, cross-platform mobile apps, hybrid mobile apps, and progressive web applications.Image Source: Appy PieWhy Choose Appy Pie?If you don’t want to make complex enterprise-level mobile applications then Appy Pie is the right choice for you.If you want to make an application for a small business within a limited timeframe.If you’re a non-technical person and want to create an application by yourself.What are the Core Features of Appy Pie?Drag and drop app builderPush notificationsIntegration with CRM systemsAnalytics integrationChatbotsAugmented RealityAPI integrationsData importing and exportingDeployment functionalityDebugging moduleLet’s check the advantages and disadvantages of Appy Pie for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsYou can develop applications for multiple platformsAdvanced features are available in the paid versionIt is a feature-rich tool to create applications for different businesses like e-Commerce, restaurants, and small businesses.A few of customers have complained about the customer supportThis platform is easy-to-use and beginner-friendlyWithout opting the subscription you won’t be able to publish your app on Google Play Store and Apple App StoreQuick BaseQuickbase is an application development tool that enables you to create a mobile app for business requirements. It provides enterprise-level solutions that include workflow automation, real-time insights, task management, and team collaboration.Image Source: Quick BaseWhy Choose Quick Base?If you are looking for a solution from which you can keep track of your projects.If you are looking to develop a mobile application to streamline your business processes.What are the Core Features of Quick Base?No-code developmentIntegration with third-party appWorkflow automationPre-builts templatesDrag and drop interfaceForm builderIntegrations with databasesLet’s check the advantages and disadvantages of Quickbase for creating mobile applications.AdvantagesLimitationsIt easier and affordable option to create applications based on cloud platformQuickbase use interface is not flexibleQuickbase is easy to learn for developing applicationsLack of API integrations that increase the work of developers while integration app with third-party serviceIt provides you option scale your application as organizations growsA few of users have faced lack in the customer supportFurthermore, we have described the frequently asked questions section that will help you to make decisions and clear your doubts if you have any.FAQ About Mobile App Development ToolsHow to select the best app development tools for your project?To identify the mobile apps development tools the process is divided into four steps:Step 1: Identify your business requirements. Step 2: Choose a platform native or cross-platform. Step 3: Make a decision as per your investing budget. Step 4: Take a trial or demo of the tool and finalize it.What are the best app development tools for creating Android applications?The best mobile app development tools for making Android applications based on functionalities, features, and support. Here are the two tools:Android Studio – Officially backed by GoogleIntelliJ IDEA – Developed by a well-known app development company JetBrainsWhich is the best app development tool for creating iOS applications?One of the ideal mobile app development tools for making iOS applications based on functionalities, features, and support is list below. Here’s the name of the tool.Xcode – Officially backed by AppleConclusionSelecting suitable tools for mobile app development from the different available options is tough.You’ve to pick the right tool because it will give you advantages likeSpeed of development,Codebase,Cost-saving,ScalabilityIt helps in making your app successful in the market. Therefore, the above list of smartphone app development tools will help you to choose a reliable option.Being a premier mobile app development company in Canada, we offer a free consultation to all our clients who fill the following form. We have experience in developing different mobile applications solutions, such as an on-demand photographer app, Youtube intro maker app, an expense tracker app. To get your free consultation, fill the following form.Subscribe2 Written byRakesh PatelRakesh Patel is the Founder and CEO of Space-O Technologies (Canada). He has 28 years of IT experience in business strategies, operations & information technology. He has expertise in various aspects of business like project planning, sales, and marketing, and has successfully defined flawless business models for the clients. A techie by mind and a writer at heart, he has authored two books – Enterprise Mobility: Strategy & Solutions and A Guide To Open311 ×WAIT!Do you know we offer FREE 30-min consultation?If you have a project in mind, let’s talk.We are here in Canada. If required, we can meet in person. Click Here To Get Started Trusted by Leading Brands in Canada ×Join our subscribers' list now! Get top insights and news on latest technologies and trends right to your inbox.