Should you focus on mobile-first or design for all devices? How user behaviour shapes your approach

Table of contents
People often talk about focusing only on mobile, but here’s why I don’t agree with that yet.
When deciding between a mobile-first strategy or designing for multiple devices, it’s not just about layout and design—it’s also about understanding how people interact with information on different devices. Mobile and desktop users have distinct behaviours, goals, and preferences, which should shape your approach to content delivery and user experience. You could be missing out on opportunities if you only focus on mobile.
Mobile-first strategy vs multiple devices: understanding how people access information
How people search for and use information differs on mobile phones and desktop computers, depending on what they need and where they are.

Google Search Statistics for 2024
34 Eye-Opening Google Statistics
On mobile, searches are often specific and goal-oriented. For example, many searches are location-based, like “restaurants near me,” with nearly half of all Google searches having local intent. Mobile searches are also quick and to the point, with “near me” searches growing by over 200% in recent years. People on mobile tend to adjust their search terms more often (about 29%) than desktop users, likely because smaller screens make it harder to find exactly what they need.
On the other hand, desktop searches are usually broader and more exploratory. People are more likely to spend time researching or comparing options across multiple browser tabs. Desktop sessions are longer, with people visiting more pages (4–7 per session) than mobile (around 3 pages). This makes desktops better suited for detailed research or decision-making processes.
Mobile vs desktop: how content is consumed
On mobile, people prefer short and simple content because they often have less time, shorter attention spans, and are multitasking. They tend to skim through information quickly rather than reading everything in detail. On desktops, people spend more time with content, like reading long articles or watching videos. They also visit more pages and explore content in greater depth.

Mobile vs Desktop: 13 Essential Behaviours.
Mobile vs Desktop: Use and Trends in 2024
How people shop on mobile vs desktop
Mobile users often initiate the shopping process but prefer desktops for finalising purchases due to larger screens and a sense of security.

Desktop users tend to have higher conversion rates than mobile users because they feel more confident completing transactions on larger screens. After all, it’s easier to compare products and view detailed descriptions.
Important things to think about when designing your website and writing content
For mobile users
- Prioritise speed: Make sure your website is fast as mobile users are less patient with delays.
- Make it easy to skim through: Use clear headings, short paragraphs, and bulleted lists to make content easy to skim.
- Focus on location-based features: Incorporate tools like maps or GPS-based suggestions for local relevance.
- Streamline navigation: Simplify menus and include intuitive touch-friendly elements like icons.
For desktop users
- Provide detailed content: Include comprehensive guides, product comparisons, or long-form articles that cater to deeper research needs.
- Make it easy for people to use multiple tabs on your site. Your site must work well when people open numerous tabs to compare things.
- Ensure your site search works properly: Desktop users expect advanced search tools to locate specific information quickly.
Conclusion
A mobile-first strategy can be a powerful approach, but it’s important to consider how your audience uses mobile and desktop devices. Mobile users value speed and simplicity, while desktop users engage more deeply with detailed content. By designing and tailoring your content for all devices, you can create a seamless experience that meets the needs of your audience, no matter how they choose to access your website.
If this article has benefited you, please leave a review. It will only take a minute of your time. Thank you!