Desktop

2 Min. reading time Betriebs-Systeme / Plattformen

Desktop apps are software applications that are installed directly on Windows, macOS, or Linux—ideal when features need to run offline, locally, or outside the browser. At piparo, we develop modern desktop applications using Tauri or Flutter, depending on the use case. They are particularly in demand as complementary tools for web or mobile projects or for specific requirements in a B2B context.

💡 When desktop apps make sense

Not every app needs to run in a browser. If you want to process files locally, control devices, use system-level functions, or ensure offline functionality, a desktop app is often the better choice—especially in enterprise environments, for admin tools, or as a complement to a cross-platform product.

🛠️ Our desktop tools

🦀 Tauri

  • Lightweight, fast, secure
  • Ideal for apps built with web technologies (React, Remix, etc.)
  • Small footprint, native look and feel
  • Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux

💙 Flutter (Desktop)

  • Good choice for existing Flutter projects
  • Consistent UI across mobile and desktop
  • Direct rendering via Skia
  • Good integration with Google services, Firebase, and others

✅ Use Cases for Desktop Apps

  • Dashboard tools with local access (e.g., for IoT, control, visualization)
  • Media apps or file management with native file system integration
  • Client apps for web backends for admins, support, or editorial teams
  • Installer-based tools for customers with offline or remote use cases
  • Cross-platform apps (web + desktop) with a shared codebase

❓ FAQs on desktop development

Do I have to choose between Tauri and Flutter? Not necessarily—we recommend Tauri if you have web expertise or are already using React/Remix. Flutter is a good fit if you have an existing Flutter team or need powerful UI animations. Can I also work offline with these? Yes—desktop apps are fully offline-capable, with local storage (e.g., SQLite) and access to device features. How is it different from Electron? Tauri is significantly leaner than Electron (smaller bundle, faster startup time, better security). We prefer Tauri because it’s easy to maintain and close to the system. Can you make my web app run on the desktop as well? Yes—with Tauri, we can convert existing web applications into native desktop apps without having to rewrite everything from scratch.