Do You Play Better on Desktop or Mobile? The Data’s Surprising

Most gamblers opt ot play games on their mobile devices these days. But does playing on your smartphone or tablet increase your chances of winning? Not necessarily.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of playing on your mobile device versus a laptop or desktop computer – and determine which device will actually help you win more.

Reasons Why Desktop Players May Win More at Online Casinos

When push comes to shove, playing at online casinos on a desktop computer can actually increase your chances of winning.

Let’s look at the top reasons why the odds are better if you play on a stationary computer rather than a smartphone.

Desktops Can Offer More Reliable Bandwidth

If you’re playing on a desktop computer or a laptop, you’re more likely to be playing at home (or at least a location with a stable wifi connection).

Smartphone gamblers often play in public (i.e., when using cellphone data), and connections may not be as stable as a home wifi connection.

When you’re spinning the reels or playing live dealer games, you must have a solid connection – something that’s not always available if you’re on the go.

You’re More Likely to Gamble on Your Phone Aimlessly

Most of us are better at skill-based games when we’re paying attention. That’s less likely to happen if you’re using a smartphone.

The ability to play wherever, whenever is extremely convenient, yet you’re more likely to mindlessly play casino games or place sports bets if you’re on a phone than when you’re playing at a stationary computer.

Smartphone Gamblers May Be More Impulsive

Some research suggests that gamblers are more impulsive when playing on their smartphones instead of a stationary computer.

A 2023 study found that gamblers who bet on daily fantasy sports or make other sports bets on their mobile devices are more likely to bet impulsively. Researchers followed 267 participants over the course of 10 weeks and discovered that the participants were more likely to adopt unhealthy gambling habits.

Even aside from problem gambling, impulsive betting is never a good idea – especially when it comes to sports betting. The more informed you are about sports bets, the more likely you are to walk away with positive results.

Desktop Gameplay Can Be More Informed

When you’re placing strategy-based bets, such as sports bets, you want to make informed decisions.

It’s harder to be informed when you’re betting on a mobile device, as you may be less likely to leave the sports betting app to research players' stats, performance histories, weather conditions, and other factors that can impact performance.

When you place bets on a desktop or laptop computer, it’s easier to open multiple tabs (while keeping the sportsbook website open) to do this research. It’s also easier to consult the lines and prices of multiple sportsbooks at the same time.

Push Notifications May Make You Gamble More

There’s a reason online casinos and sportsbooks want you to download their apps. They can more closely monitor your betting habits and send you push notifications.

Online gambling has increased since the introduction of mobile sportsbooks. Yes, it’s more convenient to play wherever, whenever. But it’s also easier for sportsbooks to ensure you don’t forget to bet or to send you messages that entice you to log into your account regularly.

Smartphone Gamblers Can Get Distracted

Whenever you’re betting in public (or away from home), you’re more likely to get distracted.

Whether you’re in a waiting room, a car, a train, or anywhere else in public, you’re more likely to get distracted than if you were sitting in a quiet home office or living room.

For skill-based bets, such as sports bets or some card games, you could end up making mistakes. Even for luck-based bets like slots, you could lose track of time or end up playing for longer than you intend to.

Do You Play Better on Mobile or Desktop? The Verdict

Most bettors simply make better decisions when using their desktop computers – especially if they’re in a quiet or private location with reliable internet.

Though it’s tempting to want to play casino games or place sports bets on a mobile device, it’s not always the most opportune method of gambling.