Web developer vs software developer: Who should you hire?

Developing a new product or service is a major undertaking. Deciding whether to hire a web developer vs software developer for your project could be tough with so many different skills, tools, and tech to consider. It’s easy to get confused about who does what and who you actually need to bring your idea to life.

Let us help you make the right choice without diving too deep into tech jargon. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between a software developer vs a web developer to help you understand their roles and what they bring to the table.

What is a web developer?

Web developer on his laptop. (Source: iStock)

A web developer specialises in building and maintaining websites and web applications. They work primarily with the frontend (what users see) and backend (how the website functions behind the scenes) components of websites.

Web developers often collaborate with designers and content creators to bring a website to life, focusing on performance and user experience. Whether it’s an e-commerce platform, a corporate site, or a simple blog, they’re key to making sure everything works seamlessly online.

What is a software developer?

Software developer working on his code. (Source: iStock)

A software developer is a professional who designs, builds, and maintains a wide range of software applications, from desktop programs to mobile apps. They work on software that operates on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems like iOS and Android.

Software developers solve complex problems to ensure that their program runs efficiently. They’re also involved in every stage of product development, from conceptualisation to testing and deployment. Their work spans everything from productivity tools and games to financial software and operating systems.

Software developer vs web developer: How do these roles differ?

Although software and web developers work and interact a lot in various tech industries, there are actually crucial differences in their roles. Their work often deals with varying products and platforms that require different skills and tools to accomplish.

In terms of project scope

A web developer focused on her work. (Source: iStock)

Web developers’ projects revolve around designing and maintaining platforms that function within a browser. This means they deal with web design, user interfaces, page layouts, interactive elements, and server-side functionality for a smooth online experience. Having their work restricted to web environments, the scope of their work tends to be narrower.

On the other hand, software developers typically handle a broader range of projects. They create software that can run on various platforms, such as desktop computers, mobile devices, or even custom-built systems. As professional app developers, their work isn't limited to the web—they can develop anything from a standalone application to complex system software.

In terms of the products they create

When comparing software development vs web development in terms of products they create, web devs are more limited than software devs.

The work of web developers in terms of products ranges from simple landing pages and blogs to complex e-commerce platforms and social media sites. Their products are built with web-specific tools and are designed to be responsive on both desktop and mobile browsers.

Meanwhile, software developers create a wider variety of products that can run on multiple platforms. Their products might include desktop applications like word processors, mobile apps, games, or even operating systems.

In terms of the programming languages

A software developer coding a program. (Source: iStock)

The languages used by web developers depend on the type of work they do to build and maintain web pages and apps. Front-end web developers typically use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the visual and interactive elements users see in a browser. Back-end web developers often work with PHP, Python, Ruby, or Java to handle databases and security.

Similarly, software developers use languages depending on the type of software being built and the platform it’s intended for. For example, mobile app developers might use Swift or Kotlin, while system software developers may rely on C# or C++. Their work requires a more varied toolkit to cater to the complexity and diversity of software projects across different platforms.

In terms of skill set

Web developers need strong skills in web technologies, user experience (UX), and web performance optimisation. They also need a keen eye for web design to create visually appealing and user-friendly websites. Web developer skills also include familiarity with content management systems (CMS) and experience in website and app testing and debugging for multiple browsers and devices.

Software developers, on the other hand, need to understand complex algorithms, data structures, and software architecture to build powerful applications. They also need strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of how software interacts with hardware, operating systems, and networks. These software development skills ensure efficient and scalable performance across various devices.

Beyond these technical skills, both web and software developers also need to master soft skills to be successful. According to studies, these soft skills include communication,  teamwork,  analytical,  organisational,  and interpersonal skills.

In terms of tools and technologies

Showcasing teamwork at work. (Source: iStock)

A web application developer commonly uses code editors like Visual Studio Code (VSCode) or Sublime Text, and various frontend frameworks like React or Angular. For backend development, they may use server-side tools like Node.js, PHP, or Django, alongside databases like MySQL or MongoDB. Web devs also frequently use content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, and version control systems like Git to manage code efficiently.

In contrast, software developers use Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) like IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, or Xcode to write and test code. They may also use specialised tools for debugging, testing, and software performance analysis, as well as Git. Since software devs work on more varied projects, their toolkits often include platform-specific technologies, like mobile development platforms or game development engines.

In terms of cost

The cost of hiring a web developer is slightly lower than that of a software developer, primarily due to the scope and complexity of their respective projects. Web developers often work on projects with a more defined structure, which can typically be completed within a shorter timeframe. 

In contrast, software developers tend to handle more complex and custom-built projects, which may require longer development times and more specialised skills. Hourly rates for a junior developer for web start at £20 to £40, while for software, it’s £35 to £45.

Explore web developers and software developers on Airtasker

Now that you have a clearer understanding of the differences between web developers and software developers, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision for your project. Whether you need a stunning website or a sophisticated software application, Airtasker offers a diverse pool of talented web developers and software developers ready to help bring your vision to life.

Take a moment to explore the profiles, skills, and rates of web professionals and software developers on Airtasker, and find the perfect match for your needs. Then, hire a dedicated Tasker to help turn your ideas into reality.