Tablet VS. Mobile Gaming – The Two Gaming Platforms Of The Future Compared
While you may think of tablets and mobile as interchangeable when it comes to playing online games, they couldn’t be more different! Besides the obvious difference in screen size, there are specific features that set them apart from each other.
With online games continuing to grow in popularity, let’s explore how these two devices can support your online gaming experience and which may be best for you.
How you play
The first noticeable difference between playing a game on a tablet vs mobile is how you play the game. Sure, they’re both touchscreens, but you might be surprised to realize you subconsciously use this feature in different ways. On a tablet, you tend to use your fingertips to play the game, whereas on a mobile device, you’re more likely to only use your thumbs.
For example, when playing shooter games like Call of Duty, you would likely prefer using a controller grip, which means using your thumbs on the screen. For these kinds of games, it’s better to use a mobile due to the smaller screen size that makes this kind of grip more comfortable.
Rhythm games are better suited to the larger screens of tablets because the moving targets are enlarged and easier to spot. Likewise, arcade or live casino games on https://time2play.com/ca-en/casinos/mobile/ would be easier to play on a tablet because of better graphics and streaming capabilities.
Level of competitiveness
Are you a highly competitive gamer who takes every game seriously? Or are you a casual gamer who simply enjoys the entertainment it can provide? If you’re a casual gamer, your comfort is key!
If the game is simplistic and convenient to play on your phone while you’re on your morning commute, for example, stick to mobile. If it’s a highly visual game, then switching over to a tablet may be more enjoyable for you.
Competitive players should prioritize using a device that enhances their performance. Many competitive mobile gamers tend to stick to playing on their phones because it reduces the reaction time – and in these fast-paced kinds of games, every millisecond counts!
Immersion
Do you enjoy becoming fully absorbed in your games? Then you’ll likely prefer playing on tablets, seeing as the screen size takes up more of your field of vision. Tablets also tend to have better built-in speakers than mobile phones, adding to the immersive experience.
However, don’t discount phones just yet! They can do something tablets can’t, which is being used in conjunction with VR headsets for a truly immersive gaming experience.
Location
Where do you find yourself playing games most often? Do you tend to pass the time on your morning train commute with games on your phone, or do you play competitively at home? If you’re looking to play games casually on the go, then a phone would make the most sense to play online games.
Even though a tablet is also extremely portable, it is a bit bulkier to carry around, especially on public transport. That makes it a better choice to play games at home or during your lunch break at the office.
Tablets can make it possible to play your PC games from anywhere in your home by using integrations like Stream Link to stream your PC games to your tablet. Play from your couch, bed or even poolside!
The games you play
Your choice will also be led by the kinds of games you enjoy playing. Most gamers can enjoy their games and actually do really well no matter what device they’re playing on.
But some games are designed for specific devices because of higher performance demands, which means you’ll get to try new games you may not have had a chance to had you just stuck to mobile gaming.
How to choose?
There isn’t a hard and fast answer when it comes to which one is right. Games evolve and change all the time, as does technology, so what may be more convenient for you now may change six months down the line.
Most of us already have smartphones, which makes them the first port of call for most novice gamers. However, if you want to enjoy a higher resolution and immersive experience, then it may be worth getting a tablet for your mobile games.
Some games are only available on tablets and not on mobile app stores, which means tablets may give you a wider variety of games to choose from.
You don’t have to only use your new tablet for gaming! Tablets are handy for note-taking, keeping track of your calendar and acting as a mini laptop on the go for professionals too.
Conclusion
Mobile games continue to grow and outpace the popularity of PC games – in fact, 46% of gamers are mobile gamers only.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or mean serious business, both tablets and mobile phones are high-performing and immersive gaming platforms. You may choose to stick to one or the other, or make use of both.
Whichever you choose, remember gaming is all about fun at the end of the day, so enjoy it and don’t take it too seriously.

Jim’s passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”