LinkedIn can be accessed both on mobile devices and desktop computers. Both platforms offer the core LinkedIn experience but have some differences in features and usability. Determining whether LinkedIn is better on mobile or desktop depends largely on a user’s preferences and needs.
Key differences between LinkedIn mobile and desktop
Here are some of the main differences between the LinkedIn mobile app and LinkedIn on desktop:
- Design and layout – The mobile app has a streamlined interface optimized for smaller screens. The desktop site has more screen real estate and navigation options.
- Features – The desktop site offers some features not available on mobile, like customized URLs and analytics.
- Messaging – Messaging works differently on each platform. The mobile app has native messaging while the desktop site relies on LinkedIn’s messaging software.
- Notifications – Mobile push notifications keep users updated in real-time. The desktop site relies on in-site notifications.
- Profiles – Profiles are viewable on both platforms but editing options are more limited on mobile.
- Search – The desktop site offers more advanced search filters and operators.
- Apps and integrations – The desktop site allows additional apps and integrations for services like G Suite and Outlook.
Advantages of LinkedIn mobile
Here are some of the advantages of using LinkedIn on mobile devices:
- Convenience – The app allows access on the go from anywhere.
- Speed – The app is fast and optimized for mobile data speeds.
- Notifications – Push notifications keep users updated on new messages, connections, etc.
- Messaging – The mobile messaging experience is user-friendly.
- Lite version – A slimmed-down LinkedIn Lite app is available for areas with limited data.
- Ease of use – The app has an intuitive mobile interface.
- Camera integration – Mobile makes it easy to take photos to share natively.
- Networking events – The app identifies nearby events to potentially attend.
Disadvantages of LinkedIn mobile
Here are some of the disadvantages of using LinkedIn on mobile:
- Limited features – Some LinkedIn features are not available on mobile, like analytics.
- Smaller interface – Mobile screens limit the amount of information viewable at once.
- Typing difficulties – Typing long messages or posts can be difficult on a small touchscreen.
- No browser plugins – Browser plugins for saving jobs, etc. only work on the desktop site.
- Advanced searches – Search is more limited on mobile than desktop.
- Limited profile editing – Users cannot customize their profile as much while on mobile.
Advantages of LinkedIn desktop
Here are some of the advantages of using LinkedIn on desktop:
- Full features – The desktop site offers LinkedIn’s full suite of features.
- Better analytics – The desktop site provides analytics on post engagement.
- Custom URLs – Users can get a unique LinkedIn URL on desktop.
- Search capabilities – Desktop search is more advanced with robust filters.
- Full profile editing – Profiles can be customized extensively on desktop.
- Additional apps – Desktop allows integrations with apps like calendar and email.
- Bigger interface – The desktop site displays more information on screen.
- Easier typing – Writing long posts and messages is easier with a full keyboard.
Disadvantages of LinkedIn desktop
Here are some disadvantages of using LinkedIn on desktop:
- Less convenience – Access is limited to being in front of a desktop computer.
- No push notifications – Users must check the site for notifications.
- Less intuitive – The desktop interface has a learning curve.
- Too many features – The abundance of features can overwhelm some users.
- No native messaging – Messaging requires use of LinkedIn’s software.
- Events not highlighted – Nearby networking events do not appear automatically.
- Fewer visuals – The desktop site is more text-heavy and less visual.
Key factors when choosing platform
When deciding whether LinkedIn is better on mobile or desktop, here are some key factors to consider:
- Job search activity – If actively applying to jobs, the desktop site may be better suited.
- Messaging needs – Those who regularly exchange messages may prefer mobile.
- Posting frequency – Frequent posters may want access to analytics on desktop.
- Location – Mobile works better for posting at events or from changing locations.
- Profiles – More robust profile management requires desktop.
- Time on site – Power users on the site for hours find desktop more suitable.
- Interface needs – Users wanting a simple interface may prefer mobile.
Use cases better suited for LinkedIn mobile
Here are some examples of use cases typically better suited for LinkedIn’s mobile app:
- Casual networkers – Those focused on connecting versus more intensive functions.
- Social media managers – Quick monitoring of notifications and messages is easier on mobile.
- Event attendees – Easily network and share content from events on the go.
- Remote workers – Stay connected while traveling or working remotely.
- Minimalists – Prefer the clean, stripped-down interface of mobile.
- Networking from home – Check for nearby events to potentially attend after work.
- Students – Quickly connect with classmates or professors while on campus.
Use case examples
A social media manager at a conference checks notifications and messages on LinkedIn mobile between sessions. She quickly connects with other attendees and posts photos captured directly from her smartphone.
A remote account manager uses LinkedIn mobile while traveling for work. He messages clients, accepts new connections, and browses job postings from hotel rooms or airport lounges.
A nursing student uses LinkedIn mobile between classes. She sends connection requests to speakers from a recent health care conference and confirms upcoming meetings for a student nurses association.
Use cases better suited for LinkedIn desktop
Here are some examples of use cases typically better suited for LinkedIn’s desktop website:
- Active job seekers – Manage job applications and create customized profiles.
- Recruiters – Search profiles extensively and message candidates.
- Writers – Write long posts and analyze performance metrics.
- Entrepreneurs – Manage business pages and build thought leadership.
- Academics – Share detailed research and manage profile content.
- Freelancers – Promote services through long-form content and customized profiles.
- Product marketers – Create extensive content and integrate with other apps.
Use case examples
A marketing manager writes weekly blog posts and analyzes view and share metrics through LinkedIn’s desktop site. She monitors engagement across an extensive content calendar.
A recruiter uses LinkedIn desktop to search profiles with boolean search operators, saving candidates to organized project folders. He messages potential hires through integrated email.
A PhD student manages her academic profile on LinkedIn desktop. She shares published research, customizes her profile summary, and connects with others in her niche.
Conclusion
In summary, both LinkedIn mobile and desktop platforms have their own advantages and disadvantages. Mobile offers more convenience for casual use cases but is limited in features. Desktop provides LinkedIn’s full functionality but lacks the on-the-go accessibility of mobile.
For intensive LinkedIn use like job searching, writing, or managing business pages, LinkedIn’s desktop site is likely the better fit. But for quick, convenient access and networking, the LinkedIn mobile app excels.
Ultimately, evaluating personal use cases and needs is key in determining whether the mobile or desktop LinkedIn platform is a better fit for any given user.