Twitch App vs Browser Performance [Useful Comparison]

Some gaming browsers have built-in Twitch integration

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Key notes

  • With the release of Twitchโ€™s mobile and desktop app, deciding between Twitch app vs browser performance can be confusing.
  • Twitch app brings a lot of flexibility to vloggers and mobile users who can watch and stream on the go.
  • Twitch web app on the browser offers better reliability, more features, and excellent viewing and streaming experience.
  • Learn more about the best medium to watch and stream to Twitch with this quick comparison guide.
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Choosing between the Twitch app and the browser-based web app may have been confusing for the uninitiated.

While the desktop client and mobile app offer flexibility, the browser version is still the preferred medium for many users.

In this quick comparison, we try to compare the Twitch app vs browser performance to help you find the best medium to stream Twitch content.

Alternatively, check out the best browsers to stream Twitch effortlessly if you want to enhance your Twitch web experience.

Is Twitch app better than the browser?

We will explore this further in the article, but a tell-tale sign is that Twitch has gotten rid of the Twitch Desktop app.

Is the Twitch App good?

While it lasted, it was the preferred means of using Twitch for some users. It came with its advantages; for instance, app users donโ€™t have to worry about the usual problems associated with streaming and viewing live feeds through a web browser.

But far more users stream on the web application, making it a more appealing option.

Is the Twitch desktop app faster?

For app users, their primary argument is that while playing games and viewing broadcasts, the app lags less than Twitchโ€™s online version. Hence it may have had a slight speed advantage over the web version. So the web app is an excellent Twitch desktop app alternative.

What browser should I use for the Twitch web version?

If you are looking to switch to Twitch app due to browser issues, try Opera GX – A special version of the Opera browser built specially to enhance your browser gaming experience.

Built-in Twitch integration in your sidebar makes it easy to see the channel you follow, whoโ€™s online, and receive notifications.

With this browser, youโ€™ll be able to control your privacy and security with the free integrated browser VPN.

Also, youโ€™ll have fewer headaches in your browsing experience. In addition, websites will load much faster with the built-in ad blocker.

Check out some additional Opera GX tools that you should try out:

  • Completely customizable
  • Works on mobile and delivers free games
  • Fast Action button

Opera GX

Enjoy all gaming features in the browser and access your Twitch content in a second.

How is the Twitch app vs browser compared in performance?

For streamers and creators 

The most apparent difference between the Twitch app and the browser-based web app is the number of features for streamers that are missing on the mobile app.

Limited chat and stream customization features are annoying for avid streamers. In addition, the app lacks customized sound alerts for new subs, hosts, and raids in the chat.

On the other hand, the Twitch web app offers unlimited customization options, including those mentioned earlier. 

Intrusive ads 

While pre-roll ads are integral to Twitch streaming, browser ad blockers can help you block intrusive ads easily.

However, with the Twitch desktop or mobile app, you donโ€™t have the luxury of using ad blockers. Even more, ads on the Twitch app cannot be skipped as of now. So you would have to wait till the ad is completed to watch the video.

Another annoying fact is that if you accidentally click out of the video and reenter, you will have to go through the pre-roll ad again.

Intrusive ad issues can be negated to an extent in the Twitch web app. There are plenty of ad blockers for browsers that can block both pre-roll and on-page ads successfully.

Accessibility and Portability 

The Twitch app shines when it comes to accessibility and portability. For example, if you are a streamer, you can use the smartphone camera to stream and not be dependent on an external imaging device.

The Twitch app is a boon for vloggers who stream on the fly. While the customization options are limited and some features can be buggy, it offers a lot of flexibility for vloggers.

Performance and experience 

The Twitch app does many things right, especially for the vloggers who fancy streaming on the fly.

Regular users can chat with any twitch users they have added as friends, make voice and video calls, and even share their screens.

However, it is not ideal for game streamers due to its lack of customization options and occasional performance issues. The app also lacks add-on enhancements that come with BetterTV and FrankerFaceZ add-ons.

While the Twitch app is prone to occasional glitches and performance issues, the popular streaming platformโ€™s web app offers better performance to streamers and viewers. 

Why is Twitch getting rid of the app?

The Twitch app offers flexibility to users who want to watch streams and vloggers on the go. It also comes with voice chatting, text, and video calling options.

However, if you are a streamer who streams from home or office, the Twitch web app on the browser offers more features and reliability than the mobile or desktop app.

Twitch decided to remove the desktop app after considering many usersโ€™ feedback. The move also means that Twitch users can expect more and better features on the web app since the area of concentration is narrowed down.

There you have it, our Twitch app vs browser comparison. We would have said the decision comes down to your specific situation, depending on what you value most, but since there is no longer a desktop app for PC use, you are stuck with the browser web app.

Feel free to share your opinions with us in the comment section below.

More about the topics: Twitch issues