The Difference Between Converting Mobile vs. Desktop Traffic

Mobile users have become the leading type of traffic on a global scale, accounting for approximately 55% of all online interactions. And, even though this number varies depending on the region, there’s no denying that the adoption of mobile devices is still growing. Add to this the development of faster wireless technologies like 5G and it’s easy to see why mobile traffic is growing at such an alarming pace.

With the above in mind, it’s worth noting that one type of traffic is not better than another. Instead, you need to develop a balanced mix that allows you to take advantage of both mobile and desktop affiliate offers. That said, you need to know the difference between these types of traffic and how their nuances affect your conversion flow.

Below, we’ll go over the differences between converting mobile and desktop traffic. We’ll also go over tips to help you increase both desktop and mobile conversions to help you build better campaigns.

Comparing Mobile and Desktop Traffic

Instead of choosing one, the best approach affiliates can take is to master both of these types of traffic. For example, mobile traffic is more common and it’s easier to convert certain types of offers when consumers are on smartphones and similar devices. For example, single opt-in offers. Desktop campaigns, on the other hand, tend to provide better performance when promoting expensive goods like luxury watches or jewelry.

Furthermore, some of the basic differences between mobile and desktop traffic include:

Volumes

The raw volume of desktop versus mobile traffic is very similar on a global scale, but the devices preferred by users depend greatly on the location being analyzed. For example, In Africa and South America, mobile traffic accounts for more than 65% of all interactions. Higher-tier GEOs, like the US or Europe, usually boast of a higher number of desktop users.

Engagement

Engagement metrics are similar to raw volume in the sense that, when analyzed generally, these numbers are similar for desktop and mobile traffic. That said, the time of day directly impacts how engaged users are on each device. Users tend to be more engaged and active on mobile during the middle of the day, between 9 in the morning and 6 in the evening. After this time, most consumers are at home, which boosts activity on desktop devices.

GEOs

As a general rule of thumb, tier-2 and tier-3 countries tend to have a higher number of mobile users. This is because people rely on more affordable wireless connections that often don’t require long-term commitments. Desktop traffic is more common in tier-1 countries where most people have internet access at home and use desktop computers to read long articles, shop online, much more.

Tips on Converting Mobile Traffic

Part of the reason why mobile users are more engaged is that their screen size is much smaller, so they don’t need to absorb as much information to understand your message. Because of this, the content development stage tends to be much shorter for mobile, giving you more time to focus on other areas of your campaign. 

Keep in mind that mobile attribution works differently than conventional desktop tracking, so you need to find a reliable provider that offers accurate data. Not only this, but also keep upcoming changes in mind to make the right adjustments. For example, the end of IDFA tracking on iOS 14 devices.

Additionally, some steps you should follow to improve mobile conversion rates include:

• Create light content that loads quickly and uses little data
• Develop content for small screen sizes
• Select offers from mobile-friendly industries
• Ensure that the publishing platforms displaying your ads are responsive
• Be more casual with your CTA language

How to Convert Desktop Traffic

Desktop users make up the oldest type of internet traffic, but this doesn’t mean that it’s not a great alternative. Consumers still use desktop devices to perform extensive research and make expensive purchases because they are more practical. It’s also easier to get a feel for a product on desktop devices, which makes this type of traffic perfect for any offer that’s looking to generate sales.

• Leverage larger graphic elements
• Run ecommerce campaigns (because they convert better on mobile)
• Test out different CTA button shapes, colors, and sizes
• Target higher-tier GEOs
• Focus on push, pop, and domain redirect ads 

Want to Find Out More? Contact ActiveRevenue Today

Although they are often painted as counterparts, mobile and desktop traffic represent two sides of the same coin. The only way to produce a truly wholesome affiliate plan is to target both of these using two separate, but equally important campaigns.

Ready to make the most of both mobile and desktop traffic? Contact ActiveRevenue today and our team will be glad to help.