In modern society, there is a tired debate about whether playing games on a desktop or on mobile is better. In the context of online gaming, both means provide accessibility to players who either like to play on the big screen or the smaller screen.
Mobile gaming has grown into a multi-million pound industry, with accessibility worldwide improving because of new apps and methods of optimisation. This is especially true in the realm of casinos, as apps and mobile versions of online casinos are trendier than ever. There are even pay-by-mobile casino sites where you can use your phone to deposit in online casinos.
However, some people prefer the old-school version of online casino gaming through desktop computers. Playing at online casinos became popular in the 2000s with the rise of the internet and the growth of the online entertainment industry. Many people still choose to play on a desktop setup because they’re familiar with it, and when customers have issues, accessing support online is easy.
This is why there are both desktop and mobile casinos. Desktop casinos are exclusive to users of computers and laptops and aren’t made for mobile use, while mobile casinos prioritise on-the-go gameplay on the smaller phone screen.
No matter the reason, there is a constant debate between whether online or mobile casinos are better, and today, we will settle that debate.
What Is A Desktop Casino?
If you’re sitting reading this, thinking, ‘What is a desktop?’, let me explain. A desktop is a type of computer. We refer to it as a desktop computer because it is something typically you will use in an office or at home. If you play at an online casino on a desktop, you will be playing on a bigger screen or on a laptop of some kind.
The first desktop computer was created in 1964 and was named the Programma 101. As computer technology advanced, the use of desktop computers changed from work to leisure. The boom of computer games encouraged the development of the online gaming boom that occurred in the 2000s, making online casinos a noteworthy form of entertainment.
So, what is a desktop casino in relation to that? Well, it is not an official type of casino, but it is a casino you access and play on a computer. You will log in to the website and will have access to the casino’s features on one web browser on your screen. The account you sign up for and use will link all of your transactions and game history together for you to view in one place.
Although this sounds efficient, there are some downsides to the desktop casinos.
Desktop Casinos: Pros And Cons
Pros
- Desktop casinos are accessible worldwide.
- Have better graphics for casino gameplay.
- Full game selection is usually available.
- User interface is smoother.
Cons
- Not accessible on the go.
- Can be slow due to energy usage.
- No push notifications for rewards, promos, or bonuses.
What Is a Mobile Casino?
A mobile casino is self-explanatory, but it is a casino that is designed for mobile customers and is played on a smartphone. Sometimes a mobile casino will be designed as an app with exclusive offers and rewards. The design will incorporate elements of mobile gaming, such as the smaller and thinner screen, the mobile phone operating system, and playing on the go.
Sometimes you will just access the same features on the desktop as the mobile and will have to log in on your mobile browser if the casino doesn’t have an app. You are more likely to get push notifications for marketing offers of new promotions, bonuses, or new games landing on the site.
Although mobile casinos are very popular, they do have drawbacks, which you should be aware of.
Mobile Casinos: Pros And Cons
Pros
- Allow players to play on the go.
- Enables notifications about casino updates and news.
- Mobile payment options are available.
- Interactive through mobile game controls/touchscreen optimisation.
Cons
- Limited screen size – hard to see graphics and details.
- Can cause lag due to slower processing speeds.
- No multitasking – cannot play multiple games.
- Eats into battery life and mobile data.
Differences Between Mobile and Desktop Casinos
While we have acknowledged the pros and cons of both casino types, there are some clear differences between the two, which we will outline.
| Feature | Desktop | Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | Large, wider screen view with clear graphics. | Small – Smaller, less-detailed graphics for playing on the go. |
| Accessibility | Limited but worldwide: Can be accessed worldwide digitally, but limited to the physical location of the device. | Everywhere: Can be accessed on the go worldwide because mobiles are portable. |
| User Interface | Controlled by a mouse with keyboards and commands, menus, and options are larger. | Controlled via touchscreen through actions and movements like touches and taps. |
| Banking | Includes multiple payment options for deposits and withdrawals. | Usually focused on mobile payment options, payment options may be limited. |
| Gameplay | Sessions are longer and more focused. | Casual gameplay sessions in the player’s spare time and while doing other things. |
Mobile Or Desktop Casinos: Which Is Better?
To summarise, neither mobile nor desktop casinos are better than the other. Desktop casinos are better for strategic and long gaming sessions. Desktop casinos usually have the full range of casino games available, which may be limited on mobile. Their menus and features are more detailed and provide a thorough gaming experience.
However, mobile casinos are better for convenience. They are not limited by location because they can be played on the go as long as players have an account and an internet connection. On the other hand, they do not always have all of the features of a desktop casino because they cannot always run on mobile devices.
Which you prefer depends on how and when you like to play.
