React and React Native are both popular JavaScript frameworks that are used to develop web and mobile applications. While they share similarities, there are also several key differences between the two.

React is a Javascript library for building user interfaces. It is primarily used to create single-page applications and allows developers to build reusable UI components. React uses a virtual DOM (Document Object Model) to improve performance and can be used with other libraries and frameworks.

React Native, on the other hand, is a framework for building mobile applications using JavaScript and React. It uses native components instead of web-based components, allowing developers to create apps that look and feel like native iOS or Android apps. React Native is used to build cross-platform mobile applications and can save time and resources by allowing developers to write code once and deploy it on multiple platforms.

One of the main differences between React and React Native is the target platform. React is primarily used for building web applications while React Native is used for building mobile applications. React Native allows developers to build applications for both iOS and Android platforms, making it an ideal choice for companies that want to reach a wider audience.

Another difference between the two is the development environment. React Native requires a different set of tools and libraries than React. Developers need to install React Native CLI, Xcode, and Android Studio. This can be challenging for developers who are new to mobile app development. React, on the other hand, requires fewer setup steps and can be easily integrated into existing projects.

Performance is also an important point of difference between the two frameworks. React Native offers better performance than other hybrid mobile app development frameworks since it uses native components instead of web-based components. This makes it possible to build high-performing mobile applications that feel snappy and responsive.

In conclusion, while React and React Native share many similarities, they are different in terms of their target platforms, development environments, and performance. React is ideal for building web applications, while React Native is the preferred option for building cross-platform mobile applications. As a developer, it is important to understand these differences and choose the right framework based on project requirements.