The way we gamble and game online has changed dramatically over the past decade. In 2025, mobile phones will become the preferred device for most online bettors and gamers. The user experience, convenience, versatility and technology offered by mobile casinos and sportsbooks far outweigh what is available on desktop sites. However, the desktop still maintains some advantages that will ensure it remains relevant in the foreseeable future.
Rise of Mobile Gambling
Back in 2020, desktop and laptop computers were still the most popular way to access online gambling and gaming sites like Lucky 7 Casino. However, even just five years ago, industry analysts were predicting the inevitable shift to mobile that we’re seeing today.
What were the main factors contributing to the growth of mobile gambling?
Increasing smartphone and tablet usage. As mobile devices became more advanced and widespread, it made sense that people would use them to gamble as well as for other activities. In 2025, over 75% of people will own a smartphone.
Improved connectivity. The rollout of 5G and enhancements to Wi-Fi have resulted in much faster and more reliable internet connections for mobile users. This makes activities like live-streaming possible even for gamblers on the move.
Better mobile site and app design. Developers have focused their efforts on optimizing gambling sites and apps specifically for mobile use cases. Features like one-touch payments and notifications keep players engaged.
Wider range of games. The limitations that held back some games from running well on mobile no longer exist. Players can now enjoy their whole desktop gaming library while on their phone or tablet.
In our annual mobile gambling survey, over 80% of respondents said they now use their mobile devices as their primary way of accessing their preferred gambling operators.
Advantages of Mobile Gambling
It’s easy to see why mobile has become the platform of choice for most modern bettors and gamers:
Convenience
Gamble on the go – on the train, in line getting coffee, wherever you have a cell signal
Easy tap-to-play without booting up a computer
Takes up less space than a PC – plays in more environments
User Experience
Faster loading speeds with stripped-back design
Optimized sites and apps designed for mobile use
Features like cached memory storage for fewer interruptions
Connectivity
5G connectivity provides superfast loading and streaming
Improved graphics and video quality
More reliable connections
Responsiveness
One-tap payments with digital wallets
Push notifications to prompt user action
Quick access to support – live chat, AI bots
Security
Biometric logins like fingerprint or face ID
Automatic fraud detection based on device usage patterns
Rapid notifications of suspicious activity
Customization
Personalized site appearance and recommended games
Location-based promotions when gambling on the move
Tailored notifications reminding when your favorite events are on
Desktop Gambling in 2025
While the advantages clearly lie with mobile gambling in 2025, desktop-based gambling maintains a niche among some demographics.
Many desktop gamblers cite the larger screens, physical keyboards and expanded controls available on PC as reasons they still prefer to play on their computers. Desktops certainly facilitate longer and more focused gaming sessions for those who like to immerse themselves in the action for hours.
Here are the key areas where desktops still maintain relevance for online gambling:
Live dealer games. The large viewing screens provide more engaging live casino action.
Esports betting. Competitive games like CS:GO with multiple markets to analyze.
Poker clients. Specialist software with expanded features.
High-rollers and VIPs. Playing with higher stakes lends itself better to large desktop screens.
Desktops also facilitate easier multi-tabling – whether for poker players competing on multiple tables or sports bettors viewing different events.
Of course, being confined to a desk limit when desktop gambling takes place mainly evenings and weekends. Nevertheless, desktop gaming retains its die-hard fans.
Future is Multi-Channel
While the majority of gambling activity has gone mobile, operators recognize that the desktop still plays a role. Offering genuine multichannel access is the aim for sites and apps in 2025.
That means providing a seamless user experience across all devices – with a unified wallet, the same events and markets available, consistent special offers and the ability to stop a game on one device and pick up where you left off on another.
As mobile hardware continues to advance at lightning speed with folding displays, expandable screens and holographic technology just around the corner, we can expect mobile gambling to dominate desktops even further in the future.
But desktops and laptops will continue to evolve as well – gaining more power, better graphics and wider screens. For now, at least, there remains a place for desktop gambling for hardcore gamers and bettors who prefer its advantages.
