desktop apps
At Brighton Bytes, we build desktop applications that give your team serious power—native performance on Windows, macOS and Linux, plus cross-platform Electron apps from a single codebase. From data-heavy internal tools to polished consumer software, we engineer desktop apps that are fast, secure and a genuine pleasure to use, all from our studio in Brighton.
what we build
power on every desktop
Some jobs need the full horsepower of a desktop machine. We build applications that make the most of it—responsive, reliable and tailored to how your team works.
windows, macos & linux
Reach every user with cross-platform Electron apps or go fully native where it counts. One team, every operating system, a consistent experience throughout.
native performance
For processing-heavy tools, offline workflows and hardware access, desktop wins. We build apps that harness local compute for speed the browser can't match.
secure & offline-ready
Keep sensitive data on-device with secure local storage, code signing and offline-first workflows—ideal for regulated industries and disconnected environments.
tools built for how your team really works
Generic software forces your team to bend around its limitations, costing time and patience every single day. We build bespoke desktop tools that fit your exact workflow—handling large datasets, integrating with local hardware and running reliably whether you're online or off. The result is software that feels like it was made for your business, because it was, giving your Brighton team a real productivity edge.
our process
from concept to install
We follow a proven, iterative process that takes your desktop app from idea to a signed, installable release—on time and on budget.
discovery & strategy
We learn how your team works and what the software needs to do, then define a focused scope that delivers real value from the first release.
design & prototyping
Our designers prototype the interface and key workflows so you can validate the experience with your team before development starts.
build & test
We develop in fast iterations with clean, tested code, delivering working builds you can install and try on your own machines throughout the project.
package & support
We handle code signing, packaging and installers for each platform, then support your app with auto-updates and improvements as your needs evolve.
investment options
desktop apps built to last
Transparent, fixed-scope pricing with no hidden costs. Every engagement includes UX design, testing, code signing and installers as standard.
MVP
A focused first release
- Single platform build
- Core feature set
- Custom UX/UI design
- Signed installer
- 8-10 week delivery
- 30-day support
Cross-Platform
A full app on every OS
- Windows, macOS & Linux builds
- Advanced feature set
- Backend & API integration
- Auto-update system
- Code signing for each platform
- 12-16 week delivery
- 90-day support
Enterprise
Complex, mission-critical tools
- Fully bespoke architecture
- Native modules & hardware access
- Enterprise security & compliance
- Dedicated delivery team
- Managed deployment & rollout
- Ongoing maintenance & SLAs
- Priority support
All prices are rough estimates until we've fully scoped and quoted your project, and exclude VAT.
desktop app development faqs
Everything you need to know about building a desktop application with our Brighton team.
Why choose a desktop app over a web app?
Desktop apps shine when you need heavy local processing, offline access, deep hardware integration or the tightest possible performance. If your users work with large files or disconnected environments, desktop is often the right call—we'll help you decide.
Do you build native or Electron apps?
Both. Electron lets us ship to Windows, macOS and Linux from one codebase quickly and cost-effectively, which suits most business tools. Where raw performance or platform-specific features are critical, we build fully native. We'll recommend the right approach for you.
Which operating systems do you support?
We build for Windows, macOS and Linux, and handle the code signing, packaging and installers for each so your users get a smooth, trusted installation experience on their platform of choice.
How do updates get delivered?
We build in auto-update systems so new versions roll out to your users automatically. That means bug fixes and new features reach everyone without manual reinstalls or IT headaches.
Do you work with businesses outside Brighton?
We're based in Brighton and love supporting local businesses, but we build desktop software for clients across the UK and internationally, working remotely with regular check-ins.
still have questions?
Tell us about the desktop tool you need and we'll give you honest, practical advice on how to build it.
ready to build your desktop app?
Let's create powerful, reliable software your team will love using every day. Book a call with our Brighton team to get started.