It is almost impossible for a student to decide whether to become a software developer or a web developer. The majority of their tasks are the same, but they differ in the environment where they are performed. Each day, they may have different tasks, depending on its complexity. Consequently, students get confused about the differences between a software developer vs web developer because of the similarities. 

A software developer works in technical departments like data science, research, and machine learning, while web developers work in marketing and business departments. Developers for IT departments and marketers work with software developers for marketing departments. The work of web developers is shorter compared to that of software developers. Hopefully, you now understand what these two terms mean and what their working platform is like.

We try to explain all your doubts about these two and their differences. Let's start with the question: 

Who is a software developer? What are the roles to perform?

Computer programmers design, manage, and optimize computer applications for desktop, laptop, and mobile platforms. The task of writing code for desktop applications is to ensure that the application runs properly. Writers can use a variety of coding languages, including Java, Python, C#, and SQL. Software developers are usually employed by large corporations such as Microsoft, Oracle, etc. 

Who is a web developer? What are the roles to perform?

Developers create applications that meet customers' requirements in terms of look and functionality. Basically, their job is to lay out the user interface on the web page and to develop the back-end system for collecting data. Developing engaging and unique websites is one of the responsibilities of web developers hired by companies.

Let's explore the difference between software developer vs web developer

As you all know, there is a difference when it comes to selecting a field you are interested in. There is equal importance in IT industries for software and web development. Choosing the right career for a student is based on their interest or which is more suitable for them based on the difference.

Function Software developer Web developer
Meaning All computer programs are created by software developers.  Those who design websites or web applications are known as web developers.
Work-on Developers of software develop applications that are based on clients or client-server models Client-server applications are all that are developed by web developers.
Programming Among the languages they develop in are C++, Java, Python, etc. Among the languages used to develop are HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.
Hosting The software which is developed does not need to be hosted. Internet or intranet hosting is required for web applications.
Platform A variety of operating systems can be used with the applications we develop. Almost all browsers are compatible with the web applications that are developed.

Which one is on-demand in the industry?

It is mainly the website and web applications running on browsers that concern web developers. The focus of a software developer is on the programs they work on or try to develop for desktop and mobile platforms.

Both career paths require programming experience, focus on your studies, and problem-solving skills. These skills come with practice and experience. To maintain them and to be able to handle their complexities, you must understand their various workflows.

Which is the better career option as a software developer or web developer?

The advantages and disadvantages of every profession are different. Comparatively to software developers, the demand for web developers is always high. Web developers are employed on a demand basis, so they can earn a higher salary. Web developers have an easier time finding work than software developers. This job offers the advantage of working remotely or from home. 

On the other hand, Software developers have knowledge of computer science. They often work for big companies or governments. Software developers have more difficulty finding employment than web developers.

Conclusion

Each field has its own working criteria and knowledge requirements. It is important to identify which option is a better fit for you. Developers who work on the front-end of a website are responsible for designing its look and feel. Based on client site development, it puts the focus on what customers see as soon as they enter a search query. You stay if the vision seems attractive, otherwise you move on.

 This free site is ad-supported. Learn more
​