Are you happier using your phone over your laptop? Or perhaps you like it the other way round? A lot of people believe the experience, though different, gives you exactly the same outcomes, but sadly this simply isn’t the case. In this blog post I am going to outline the differences and you can decide what would now better suit you.
If you have both Facebook and Instagram business pages, then you are most likely using Meta Business Suite. Its sole purpose is to provide small business owners with everything they need to manage their Facebook and Instagram accounts in one place. However, the experience within it differs slightly as well depending on which user interface you use.
Desktop Version
When it comes to functionality, the desktop version of Meta Business Suite shows a wide array of features. Naturally on your laptop, you have more visible access to tools that are designed to streamline your social media management.
• Analytics: The desktop version provides detailed insights and analytics, allowing you to view your performance metrics. This is particularly useful for creating reports or perhaps for strategising campaigns.
• Content Creation and Scheduling: Creating and scheduling posts is on the desktop. You may find the larger screen enables you to be more precise with editing and easy integration of various elements.
• Ad Management: Running ad campaigns is more efficient, with advanced targeting options and financial management features that are easier to navigate on a desktop.
• Bulk Scheduling & Editing: Easily manage multiple posts at once and access a full content library.
• Team Time: Add and manage roles or permissions for multiple team members.
Vs Mobile App
The mobile app is very handy for on-the-go management, but it does have some limitations.
• Basic Analytics: While you can view basic metrics and insights, the mobile app doesn’t provide the same level of detail as the desktop version.
• Quick Post and Schedule: Posting and scheduling content can be done swiftly, making it ideal for responding to trends or updates in real-time.
• Notifications and Alerts: The app obviously provides real-time notifications, for messages or comments.
• Stories and Reels: Easily upload Stories or short-form video content directly from your phone.
• Photo & Video Capture: Use your phone’s camera to capture and upload content instantly.
Desktop Version
The desktop experience is tailored for users who need to perform more complex tasks.
• Navigation: The layout is designed for easy navigation between multiple accounts and activities. Although it offers a myriad of functionalities, it requires a bit of a learning curve; I won’t dispute that!
• Multi-Tasking: With multiple tabs and windows, working on a desktop allows for efficient multitasking, such as cross-referencing analytics while planning content.
• Integration: Switching between Meta Business Suite and other essential tools like spreadsheets, design platforms, or file storage is actually a lot easier.
Mobile App
The mobile app is pretty simple in fairness, offering a user-friendly, intuitive interface.
• Interface: Designed with simplicity in mind, the mobile app provides a reduced version of the tools available on the desktop, allowing quick access to key features.
• User Experience: I do like the fact a lot of the taps you do on the app are one-touch to go through menus and again are pretty intuitive.
Desktop Version
The desktop version is ideal for deliberate planning and analysis. If you’re a Social Media Manager or a business owner with more than a couple of accounts to manage, you may prefer the experience here.
• Workspace Setup: Having a dedicated workspace on a desktop encourages more focused and deliberate work sessions. The larger display supports extended periods of use without straining your eyes.
• Detailed Reports & Planning: Perfect for strategy sessions, content calendars, and long-form editing.
Mobile App
The mobile app is geared towards accessibility and immediacy (Word editor suggested this word, it makes sense).
• On-the-Go Convenience: It provides flexibility for business owners who need to juggle other responsibilities and can manage their social media wherever they are.
• Spontaneity: The app allows you to connect with your audience in real-time, sharing genuine and spontaneous updates directly from the shop floor or on location.
• Real-Time Engagement: Get notified and respond quickly to DMs, comments, and mentions, keeping your engagement levels high.
Task Mobile App Desktop Version
Post quick updates & Stories ✅ Best option ❌ Less convenient
Reply to comments & DMs ✅ Push notifications ✅ Keyboard-friendly
Access detailed insights ❌ Limited ✅ Full analytics
Bulk schedule posts ❌ Hard to manage ✅ Efficient and fast
Create complex ad campaigns ❌ Basic options only ✅ Advanced targeting
Handle team permissions ❌ Not available ✅ Fully supported
Work on content strategy ❌ Not ideal ✅ Best suited
Manage on the go ✅ Ideal ❌ Location-dependent
Choosing between the Meta Business Suite on mobile and desktop depends largely on your specific needs and work habits. If you’re inclined towards detailed analytics, strategic planning, and multitasking, the desktop version will likely be your go-to. On the other hand, if you need to stay responsive and engaged on the move, the mobile app offers the immediacy and simplicity to keep your social media vibrant and immediate.
Ultimately, using both versions should provide the ideal balance for you. It helps you stay connected with your audience while managing your own social media presence. On a personal level, I create, strategise and optimise on my laptop and respond on the go using my phone.
Now that you have read this in its entirety, where do you stand now? I appreciate I have a biased opinion – but it serves me to do this as it save me time and keeps me more accountable!
Working with clients Nationwide from base in Mullingar.
