What is the difference between the APK version and the Google Play version?

Both are official ways to get an Android app — but the path to your device is different. With the APK version, you download the installable file directly from the manufacturer and install it manually. With the Google Play version, Google Play handles the installation and updates for you. Technically, an important difference is that Google Play often works with App Bundles today and generates the appropriate APKs for the specific device, whereas with a direct download you receive an APK straight from the manufacturer.

For users, the decision is simple:

• Google Play = more convenient and usually easier,
• direct APK download = useful if you intentionally want to install directly from the manufacturer.

If your device blocks installations from unknown sources, the Play version is usually the easier option.