Xamarin vs React Native - Which Framework Should You Choose

 If both Xamarin and React Native claim cross-platform mastery, who’s really wearing the crown in 2025?

Let’s be honest. Choosing a mobile development framework today is like picking a streaming service—you’ve got a million options, but your decision depends on what you're really after - speed, cost, community support, or reliability.

Well, today we’re rolling out the red carpet for a head-to-head showdown: Xamarin vs React Native.

Why do you even need a cross-platform framework in 2025?

Here’s the thing. Android and iOS users are still living in parallel universes. But your app? It needs to exist in both. Native development for each platform costs a fortune. So unless you’re sitting on a Silicon Valley budget, cross-platform development is your shortcut to glory.

Enter: Xamarin and React Native—two frameworks that claim they can help you build once and deploy everywhere.

But is that really the case?

What's in The Tech Box?

Let’s get nerdy—but not too nerdy.

Xamarin

• Backed by Microsoft.
  
• Uses C# and .NET.
  
• Access to native APIs via Xamarin.iOS and Xamarin.Android.
  
• Compiles down to native code. Smooth performance, usually.
  

React Native

• Created by Facebook (aka Meta).
• Uses JavaScript (TypeScript-friendly too).
  
• Bridges native components using a virtual DOM.
• Hot Reload. Enough said.

Xamarin vs React Native: The Face-Off

So You Know It’s Not Just Hype

Alaska Airlines (Xamarin)

Alaska Airlines used Xamarin to power their customer-facing app. As a result one codebase was used across two platforms, which saved the effort, and passengers who didn’t miss flights because their app crashed.

Xamarin app development companies often pitch this type of stability when building enterprise-level apps with complex functionalities.

Instagram (React Native)

Instagram added React Native into existing native infrastructure. Key features like Post Promote were built using RN. Their devs reported faster iteration and shared business logic. A perfect cocktail of speed and reach.

No surprise that React Native app development companies love to tout Instagram as a “flex.”

Data Talks, People Listen

Let’s play with some 2025 numbers.

• According to Stack Overflow 2025 Developer Survey, React Native is used by 42% of cross-platform devs, while Xamarin clocks in at just 10%.
  
• Among the top application development companies, 70% offer React Native services, while only 30% offer Xamarin.
  
• Job listings on LinkedIn show React Native roles outnumber Xamarin by 5:1.
  

Coincidence? Nah. That’s the market talking.

Integration With Emerging Tech

AI Integration: React Native has broader libraries and community packages that simplify integrating with TensorFlow.js or GPT-based APIs. Xamarin? It’ll get you there too—especially with Microsoft Cognitive Services—but the dev path is bumpier.

AR/VR & IoT: Xamarin is better suited for complex IoT applications, especially when integrating with industrial or enterprise systems. Think smart thermostats and wearables.

React Native? More inclined toward mobile-first AR/VR use—social apps, retail AR, and interactive experiences.

So… What’s your flavor? Enterprise IoT or funky AR shopping?

Future Trends & Scope

If you’re betting on a framework, you better check if it's running the race in five years.

Xamarin: Microsoft’s focus has shifted toward .NET MAUI—a unified app platform. Xamarin.Forms is officially deprecated as of 2024. Support ends 2025. Most Xamarin app development companies are migrating clients to MAUI.

React Native: Still hot. Meta’s investing in Fabric (new rendering system) and TurboModules for performance gains. Integration with Edge AI, voice interfaces, and gesture recognition APIs is on the rise. A solid pick for the next 3–5 years, especially for startups, eCommerce, and media apps.

So, What’s Holding You Back?

Are you a C# Whiz who loves Visual Studio like it’s a warm blanket? Xamarin might still be your comfort zone.

Are you a fast-scaling startup looking to ship yesterday? React Native’s your ride.

Are you chasing enterprise-grade security, seamless Azure integration, and a Microsoft stack? Then Xamarin (or rather MAUI) is still a contender.

The Final Verdict

React Native is the stronger horse in 2025, especially for new projects.

It’s: (1) Easier to hire for, (2) Backed by a bigger community, (3) Continuously updated, and (4) Better aligned with startup culture and user-driven UX trends.

Xamarin (or MAUI)? Is good for: (1) Enterprise use, (2) Stronger backend integration, (3) Long-term .NET loyalty, (4) But if you’re starting fresh in 2025, React Native will save you time, money, and mental breakdowns.

Choosing a framework is like choosing a life partner—go with the one you can grow with, not just the one who looks good in a brochure - don’t just go with the name—go with the ecosystem, the support, and the future scope.

Whether you hire one of the  top mobile application development companies or go DIY, make sure your tech stack matches your ambition. The mobile race is still on—and you need to run smart.

Shortlist React Native app development companies if you're aiming to scale fast, experiment with emerging tech, or want a huge hiring pool. Lean into Xamarin app development companies if your current tech stack screams .NET and you’re deep in enterprise trenches.

Now, go forth and code wisely. And if you're still unsure... just flip a coin. But make sure it's a JavaScript-powered one.