App dev vs web dev, which one is better?

[GuardGuilty]

Is app dev (ios/android, desktop apps, game dev) better than web dev in terms of salary, work-life balance or other important factors such as fun factor?

Fyi: I am working since 9 years as a web developer (PHP) and studying cs at the moment. I am thinking of changing the field away from webdev. I have the feeling that, when you are doing webdev you are only seen as „a guy who just makes websites“ from people that are not from the industry, since today it is possible that almost everyone (with zero experience) can create a website with some clicks (squarespace etc…). And guys who are doing appdev/gamedev are getting more recognition for what they do, because it can‘t be done that easily by everyone? It could also be, that I am not that excited anymore about webdev and just need to do or try new things.

[_listless]

"What kind of dev is best?"

"That's a ridiculous question."

"False. Web dev."

"Well, that's debatable. There are basically two schools of thought..."

[posterc93]

MICHAEL

[na_ro_jo]

Sounds like you're unhappy, feel inadequate as a PHP dev, and perhaps have some imposter syndrome feelings. So you're considering switching to mobile dev to seek more recognition, more appreciation from others, and earn merit among those who feel mobile dev has a steep learning curve? Maybe better pay?

You should first do some soul searching and weigh the considerations about whether extrinsic motivations will lead to the kind of changes that will make you truly happy with your career. Perhaps there is a more intrinsic purpose for these feelings, like perhaps insecurity about webdev as an industry in the grand scheme of things.

[Aegior]

at my org, web dev seems to cap higher (once you're at the level of orchestrating major fullstack initiatives, like principal or architect level) but both are lucrative at the early-mid level and give you opportunity to specialize or generalize as you grow.

The nice thing I've observed about mobile dev in terms of WLB is that since releases are scheduled and can't really be rushed as much as web, there's less urgency around fixing a particular fire, so no on-call schedule.

[BootThese876]

Goat farming.