Comparison
| Criterion | Telegram Mini App | PWA |
|---|---|---|
| Runs in | Telegram’s in-app browser | Any browser, installable to home screen |
| Identity | Automatic, signed by Telegram | Your own auth (email, OAuth, phone) |
| Payments | Stars, cards, TON Connect | Stripe and similar; no store fees |
| Acquisition | Chats, channels, Telegram Ads, referrals | Search, social, ads, direct |
| SEO | None (not crawlable) | Full |
| Offline | Limited | Service workers, full offline |
| Push | Via bot messages | Web push (limited on iOS) |
| Device access | SDK features (QR, haptics, biometrics, location) | Browser APIs (camera, location, limited sensors) |
| Platform rules | Telegram’s terms (Stars for digital goods, no spam) | Browser and your own policies |
| Audience | Telegram users | Everyone |
When to choose the Mini App
Your audience already uses Telegram, you want zero-friction onboarding, you plan referral and community growth, or you need Stars and TON payments.
When to choose the PWA
You acquire users from search, need offline functionality, want independence from any platform, or serve markets where Telegram is not common.
When to build both
Commerce and content products often need SEO and a Telegram channel. A shared React or Vue codebase with an environment check can serve both: inside Telegram it uses the SDK, Stars and the bot; on the web it uses web login and Stripe. Budget roughly 20–30% more than a single target. The tech stack guide covers the setup; Mini App development covers the build.
* All prices and ranges on this page are indicative. The final cost is calculated for each project individually and depends on the complexity of the task, the number of developers and specialists required, and the delivery timeline you set. Use the ranges to understand the typical bracket, not as a fixed offer; the fixed price is confirmed in writing after scoping. Read our pricing terms.