Widgets vs. Gadgets

Widgets and gadgets are lightweight apps that allow users to interact with other apps or websites. The only difference between the two is that widgets are designed to work on multiple platforms, while gadgets are typically limited in functionality. We compared both to help you understand the difference between these two types of apps.

The terms widget, gadget, and app are often used interchangeably. In the context of software, both gadgets and widgets can be considered apps, but these aren't like traditional stand-alone programs. Instead, most widgets and gadgets provide a simplified graphical user interface (GUI) through which users can interact with other programs and online services. Many apps for iOS and Android are technically widgets or gadgets, but not all applications fall into one of these categories.

Widgets Pros and Cons

A widget is a piece of reusable code that you can plug into any website or operating system. If you run a blog, for example, you might use WordPress widgets to design the layout of your website. You can also add widgets to your blog or personal website (in the form of HTML code) so that users can share your content on social media.

RSS feed readers that provide news headlines, stock quotes, and other information from various sources are widgets. Smartphones support widgets for weather apps that offer real-time updates and alerts on the home screen. Some GUI elements, such as pop-up windows, dialog boxes, and toggle switches, can also be classified as widgets.

Gadgets Pro and Cons

A gadget acts just like a widget and often fulfills the same purpose. The only difference is that gadgets are proprietary, which means that these only work on certain devices, websites, or operating systems.

If you're a developer, there are benefits and drawbacks to making gadgets geared toward a specific platform versus making widgets that anyone can use. Gadgets give you greater control over how your program looks and operates, but widgets make your apps more accessible.

Other Meanings for Gadget

The word gadget is also used to describe any small, physical device like a fitness tracker. To make matters more confusing, some physical gadgets rely on software gadgets to work in conjunction with an application. For instance, the Raymio is a wearable device that helps you stay safe in the sun. The device and its interface can both be considered gadgets since each relies on a separate app that runs on a smartphone.