Google Cloud Messaging vs Pusher Mobile Push Notifications API: What are the differences?

Introduction

Before discussing the key differences between Google Cloud Messaging (GCM) and Pusher Mobile Push Notifications API, it is important to understand their basic functionalities. Both GCM and Pusher provide push notification services that enable developers to send messages to users' mobile devices in real time. However, there are distinct differences between the two platforms that impact their performance and capabilities.

1. Implementation and Integration: GCM is specifically designed for Android devices and tightly integrated with the Google infrastructure, making it the default choice for Android app developers. On the other hand, Pusher offers cross-platform support for both Android and iOS devices, providing more flexibility and broader reach to developers.

2. Message Delivery: GCM uses Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) as its latest version. It provides reliable and efficient delivery of messages, even in cases of poor network connectivity. In comparison, Pusher uses WebSocket technology that offers real-time bidirectional communication and ensures immediate message delivery to connected devices, regardless of network conditions.

3. Capabilities and Functionality: GCM primarily focuses on sending push notifications to devices, providing a basic set of functionalities. Pusher, on the other hand, offers a broader range of features beyond push notifications, such as real-time data synchronization, chat functionality, and event triggering, making it a versatile platform for various application needs.

4. Scalability and Infrastructure: GCM leverages Google's extensive network infrastructure, enabling high scalability and reliability. Pusher also provides a scalable infrastructure, but it relies on its own network infrastructure and server infrastructure to deliver messages, which might have limitations compared to Google's resources.

5. Ease of Use and Development: GCM offers extensive documentation and resources specifically tailored for Android developers, making it relatively easier to integrate and implement for Android apps. Pusher, however, provides comprehensive documentation and resources for both Android and iOS developers, making it equally approachable for developers of both platforms.

6. Pricing and Cost Model: While GCM offers a free tier and a pay-as-you-go model, Pusher also offers a free tier but follows a different pricing structure based on the number of active connections and features used. This difference in pricing models means that developers need to consider their specific requirements and usage patterns to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of each platform.

In Summary, Google Cloud Messaging (GCM) is more focused on Android devices, tightly integrated with Google's infrastructure, and provides reliable message delivery. On the other hand, Pusher Mobile Push Notifications API offers cross-platform support, extensive functionality beyond push notifications, and flexibility in usage with its WebSocket technology. The choice between GCM and Pusher depends on the specific needs and requirements of the application, the target platforms, and the desired functionalities beyond basic push notifications.