React Native CLI vs Expo: Which Should You Choose in 2025?

When starting a React Native project, the first question is always the hardest: "Should I use the React Native CLI (Bare workflow) or Expo?"

Years ago, the answer was "Use CLI if you need native modules, Expo for simple apps." In 2024, that advice is outdated. Let's compare the two modern approaches.

The Expo Ecosystem

Expo is a set of tools built around React Native. It acts as a layer that abstracts away the complex iOS (Xcode) and Android (Android Studio) configuration.

Pros of Expo

1. Zero Native Config: You write JavaScript/TypeScript. You rarely touch ios/ or android/ folders.
2. Expo Go App: You can run your app on a physical device immediately by scanning a QR code. No compiling required.
3. Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Push bug fixes to users instantly without waiting for App Store review using EAS Update.
4. Expo Router: A file-based routing system similar to Next.js, making navigation intuitive.

Cons of Expo

1. App Size: The initial bundle size is slightly larger than a bare CLI app.
2. Historical Limitations: Previously, you couldn't use custom native code (like a specific Bluetooth SDK). However, keep reading...

The "Bare" React Native CLI

This is the "pure" way. You generate a project that gives you full access to the native code.

Pros of CLI

1. Full Control: You have direct access to AppDelegate.m and AndroidManifest.xml.
2. Bleeding Edge: If a new React Native version drops today, you can use it immediately.

Cons of CLI

1. Environment Hell: Setting up Ruby, CocoaPods, Java JDK, Android SDK, and Gradle paths can be a nightmare for beginners.
2. Build Times: You must compile the native app every time you add a native dependency.

The Game Changer: Expo "Prebuild" (CNG)

This is why the debate has shifted. Expo now supports Config Plugins and Prebuild.

You can start with Expo. If you eventually need a specific native library (e.g., a specific Stripe SDK implementation), you can run:

npx expo prebuild

This generates the ios and android folders for you, injecting the native code automatically based on your config. This is often called CNG (Continuous Native Generation).

The Verdict

Choose Expo if:

• You are building a startup MVP.
• You come from a Web/React background.
• You want to develop on Windows but deploy to iOS (using EAS Build).
• You want easy CI/CD setup.

Choose React Native CLI if:

• You are integrating React Native into an existing native iOS/Android app (Brownfield app).
• You are building a library for other React Native developers.
• You need to modify the React Native core engine itself (very rare).

Summary

For 95% of new projects in 2025, Expo is the correct choice. It removes the friction of mobile development while no longer locking you out of native capabilities thanks to Prebuild.