Web developer vs. software developer: Who should you hire?

Starting a new venture isn’t easy. If you want to compete with other businesses, you’d want a site where people can find you or an app that customers can use to make their experience easier. Deciding between a web developer vs. software developer to help you out can make you reach your goals faster.

We’ll walk you through the differences in terms of what they do and how they work. With a better understanding of their skills and services, you’ll be better equipped to choose whether to hire a software developer vs. web developer for your project.

What is a web developer?

Web developer on his laptop. (Source: iStock)

A web developer specializes 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 conceptualization 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 optimization. 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,  organizational,  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 specialized 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 specialized skills. Hourly rates for a junior developer for web start at $20 to $50 while for software, it’s $35 to $55.

Explore web developers and software developers on Airtasker

From the niche expertise of web developers to the general capabilities of software developers, you’ve familirized yourself with their roles through this guide. You learned about the types of projects they engage in, the skills and platforms they work with, as well as the cost of their services.

Check out web and software devs on Airtasker to help you look for the best web expert for your project. Whether you need a Tasker for website maintenance or app creation, you can find a talented professional to get the job done. You’ll also see their skills, rates, and ratings on their profiles to give a better idea of their offerings.