Is React Native Better Than Expo?
They're not competitors. React Native is the foundation, Expo is the framework on top. Here's why the question itself is outdated in 2025.
This is actually the wrong question. React Native is the core technology. Expo is a framework built on React Native that adds tooling, services, and a better developer experience.
Think of it like this: asking "Is React Native better than Expo?" is like asking "Is JavaScript better than Next.js?" They work together.
What Expo adds to React Native:
- Pre-built APIs for camera, notifications, file system, etc.
- EAS Build for cloud builds (no Mac required for iOS)
- OTA updates to ship fixes without app store reviews
- Expo Go for instant testing on your phone
When to use "bare" React Native CLI:
- You need extremely custom native modules
- You're integrating with legacy native codebases
- Your team has dedicated iOS/Android developers
For 90% of apps—especially if you're a solo founder or small team—Expo is the answer. The speed boost is massive, and you can always add custom native code later using Config Plugins.
VibeFast Pro uses Expo because that's what lets you ship fast without sacrificing quality.
Start Building
꿈의 앱을 구축할 준비가 되셨나요?
VibeFast Pro는 vibecoders를 위한 궁극의 보일러플레이트입니다. 'vibes'를 현실로 바꾸는 데 필요한 프로덕션 준비 코드를 받으세요.
VibeFast Pro 받기 →