Smartphones have made online casinos more accessible, and many consider them the ideal platform for playing. However, others believe desktop computers provide the best experience, even when the platform’ s functions are identical. Read our article to learn the benefits of each d evice.
Rise of Phone Gaming
Since the late 2000s, smartphones have been able to run online casinos. That has made online gaming very accessible, as you can now play the best mobile casinos in Canada from anywhere. Most modern games are also created with HTML5, making them compatible with any device. A few of the other benefits of mobile gaming include:
- Portability
- More Privacy
- Touch Interface
- Multiple apps
While being able to play anywhere is a bonus, privacy is another major advantage, according to some players. Ope ning and closing a session is easier as you don’t have to wait for a computer to boot up. Some modern casino games are also designed for touchscreen interfaces, so they’re better suited for smaller screens.
Native Apps or Browsers
When playing on mobile, you should also consider whether to play u sing your browser or a native app. Most sites have strong encryption technology, allowing you to play comfortably from your browser. However, it’s worth comparing browser apps to native ones, so you can be certain you’re having the best experience:
| Browser Apps | Native Apps |
|---|---|
| No download required | Faster load times |
| No need to grant storage access | Less intensive battery usage |
| Automatic updates | Improved log-in security |
Native apps can also have limited offline capabilities, including demo modes, and utilize push notifications to inform you about new bonuses. The UI has added convenience, as using customer support doesn’t redirect you to a new page and reduces load times. However, ensure that your geolocation tools are functioning correctly to avoid being blocked.
Desktop Casinos
While mobile casinos have been gaining popularity, desktop is still preferred by many players. Desktop casinos have been around since the 1990s, and modern technology has allowed them to improve significantly with faster load times and better graphics. You don’t need to download a separate app and can benefit from things like:
- Better controls
- Improved account management
- Higher definition
Many table game players prefer using a mouse and keyboard, as it helps when navigating the options. The larger screen also makes it easier to see cards and numbers, which can help you fare better against the casino RNG. Higher processing power also means better graphics and performance, even on lower-end laptops.
Flash Games
Another benefit of playing on a desktop is the ability to try older games. Many of them use Flash, which is no longer supported by most devices. However, some sites have tools to emulate Flash on desktops, allowing you to play these titles anytime. Some of the most popular old Flash titles include:
- Book of Ra
- Break Away
- 50 Fortune Fruits
While the graphics aren’t as impressive as those in modern titles, they still feature colourful themes and include elements like wild reels. Some older games even allow you to adjust paylines for an extra challenge. Some developers also remake older titles or create spin-offs to keep the games up to date.
Mobile vs Desktop Statistics
The argument for which device is better is usually a matter of personal preference; however, some organizations, such as the UKGC, have studied people’s preferences. In a 2020 survey about online gambling behaviour it was found that desktop gaming was declining until it stabilized in 2020. Meanwhile, phone usage increased dramatically and has only become more prevalent.
| Year | PC usage (last 4 weeks) | Phone usage (last 4 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 38% | 23% |
| 2016 | 34% | 29% |
| 2017 | 32% | 39% |
| 2018 | 28% | 44% |
| 2019 | 26% | 50% |
| 2020 | 26% | 50% |
The survey also found that phones were more popular among young people. Many players also preferred using laptops over PCs or phones, likely because they are portable yet retain the benefits of a desktop. Interestingly, some people have even used Smart TVs to play at online casinos, demonstrating their increasing accessibility.
Conclusion
According to later UKGC surveys, 60% of people used phones to gamble in 2021, and this number has likely increased since then. However, the desktop is still a preferred option for many players and can provide access to older titles, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Meanwhile, we hope developers continue to make games accessible to all devices and produce some dream licensed games.