If you're planning to publish your first mobile game or app, your choice between Google Play (Android) and the App Store (iOS) will impact more than just where your app shows up—it will affect your tools, budget, and workflow.
Many developers focus on the store fees, but there are significant hidden costs that are often overlooked. Let’s break down what you really need to know.
The most obvious difference is the cost to register as a developer:
Google Play charges a one-time fee of $25.
Apple App Store requires a $99/year subscription to their Developer Program.
While Google’s approach is more indie-developer-friendly, Apple’s yearly fee can add up over time, especially for solo devs or hobbyists.
Android development is highly flexible. You can build apps on:
Windows
macOS
Linux
This means you can get started with a mid-range PC or laptop for as little as $300–$400, and you’re good to go.
On the other hand, iOS development is limited to macOS only. You’ll need to purchase a MacBook, Mac Mini, or iMac, with the most affordable new option (a MacBook Air or Mac Mini with M2 chip) starting at $999.
You’ll also need real devices to test your apps, especially for performance and user experience.
For Android, you can find new smartphones for as low as $100, and most will be sufficient for testing.
For iOS, you'll need a physical iPhone, and even the most affordable new models start at $599.
This is where Apple’s closed ecosystem becomes more costly.
While not a financial cost, the app publishing process is also very different:
Google Play has faster and more flexible app reviews. You can usually get your app live within a few hours to a day.
App Store reviews can take 1–3 days, and Apple is known for its strict guidelines and higher rejection rate.
This may not affect your wallet directly, but it can slow down your development and launch timeline.
Here’s a rough comparison of the minimum cost to get started with new hardware and testing devices:
| Platform | Development Device | Testing Device | Store Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Android | ~$300–$400 (PC) | ~$100–$200 (Phone) | $25 (One-time) | ~$500–$650 |
| iOS | ~$999 (Mac) | ~$599 (iPhone) | $99/year | ~$1,600+ |
If you're just starting out or working with a tight budget, Android is clearly the more accessible platform. It offers:
Lower upfront costs
Greater flexibility in tools
Cheaper devices for testing
However, if you're targeting iOS users—or aiming for a presence on both platforms—you’ll need to invest more time, money, and planning.
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