The early-access FLASH APK and the normal Play Store release solve different problems. One gives testers access to a build distributed outside the standard store path; the other is designed for normal long-term installation and automatic updates.
Why use the beta APK?
The beta APK is useful when the publisher makes an early build available before the stable store rollout. It lets players test installation, performance and features while development is still active.
Why the Play Store is easier long term
Google Play can verify the app, manage updates and deliver newer versions without requiring you to locate and open a fresh installer manually. For most players, that is the simpler option once the stable release is available.
Updates behave differently
With an APK, you may need to download a replacement build and install it over the old version. With Play Store distribution, update availability appears in the store and can be automated according to your Android settings.
Beta access can still depend on the server
Possessing an APK does not necessarily mean an account is authorized for every test. Store availability and beta eligibility are separate controls.
Which one should you choose now?
If you specifically want to participate in the early-access test and have a valid official beta source, the APK is the relevant path. If you want the most straightforward stable installation, remain pre-registered and use Google Play when the public version becomes available.
Do not install both just to compare file sizes
Different builds can use related package data, and keeping duplicate resources can consume more space than expected. Compare published information first and only install what you actually plan to test.
For the current early-access route use the beta download guide. If you prefer the stable store path, see how to pre-register for FLASH.
Security and convenience are part of the comparison
Direct APK distribution can be legitimate during testing, but it requires the user to verify the source and manually handle updates. Google Play adds store-level verification, update delivery and a familiar install history. Those conveniences become more valuable once the stable version is widely available.
What happens when the stable version arrives?
Follow the publisher’s instructions. Depending on package identity and signing, the Play Store build may update the beta directly or the beta may need to be replaced. Do not guess by installing multiple variants over one another if the store reports a conflict.
A practical rule
Use the beta APK because you intentionally want the beta. Use the store release because you want the normal supported release. The beta should not remain your default installation forever simply because you downloaded it first.