In this post, I want to show you how to use WhatsApp on your computer using a PC or a Mac. I find it far easier to use WhatsApp on a PC than on a phone, especially if you prefer a full keyboard, a larger screen, or you use speech software like I do.
There are two main ways to use WhatsApp on a computer:
- WhatsApp Web (in your browser such as Chrome)
- The WhatsApp desktop app (a Windows or Mac application)
They are very similar, but the desktop app offers extra features such as voice calls and video calls.
What You Need Before You Start
- A phone with WhatsApp installed and logged in
- Your computer (Windows or Mac)
- An internet connection on both devices
How to Use WhatsApp Web (Browser Version)
If you want to use WhatsApp in your browser, WhatsApp Web is the quickest way to get started.
- Open your browser (for example, Chrome).
- Go to WhatsApp Web and you will see a QR code on the screen.
- On your phone, open WhatsApp.
- Go to Linked devices (the wording can vary slightly depending on your phone).
- Tap Link a device and confirm with your PIN/fingerprint/Face ID if prompted.
- Scan the QR code shown on your computer screen.
Once you scan the code, your messages will sync and you can use WhatsApp on your computer straight away.
Why the Desktop App Can Be Better
WhatsApp Web is excellent for messaging, but it does not always include every feature.
If you want to make voice calls or video calls from your computer, you will usually need the WhatsApp desktop app. On Windows, once you are logged in, you can often click the call button and choose:
- Voice call
- Video call
This is ideal if you prefer using your computer microphone, speakers, and webcam.
How to Link the WhatsApp Desktop App (Windows or Mac)
The login process is basically the same as WhatsApp Web.
- Open the WhatsApp desktop app on your computer.
- You will be shown a QR code.
- On your phone, go to Linked devices.
- Tap Link a device.
- Scan the QR code on your computer screen.
Once you are in, you should see the call options (voice and video) on chats that support it.
Why I Prefer Using WhatsApp on a Computer
For me, it is simply quicker and easier. A computer makes it much simpler to:
- Type longer messages without battling a small phone keyboard
- Copy and paste links and text
- Send files and photos from your PC
- Use speech-to-text on a proper setup
A Quick Security Tip
If you ever use WhatsApp Web or the desktop app on a shared computer, remember to log out afterwards. You can also remove linked devices from within the WhatsApp settings on your phone.
Troubleshooting (If It Doesn’t Work First Time)
- QR code won’t scan: Clean your phone camera lens and make sure the QR code is fully visible on screen.
- It keeps logging out: Check your internet connection on both devices.
- No call options: Use the desktop app rather than the browser version.
Related Posts on RoyBrettonOnline
If you enjoy practical computer tips like this, you may also find these helpful:
- How To Stop Google Chrome Splitting Into Two Windows
- How to Refresh All Chrome Tabs at Once (Quick Guide)
- How To Send Any PDF Or E-Book To Kindle
- How To Set Up A Linktree Account (And Which Plan To Choose)
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp Web is a great option if you simply want to message from your computer. But if you want the full experience (especially voice and video calls), the desktop app is usually the better choice.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I will do my best to help.