You can use WhatsApp on your laptop in two main ways:
1. WhatsApp Web (Browser-Based)
- Open your preferred web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, or updated Safari).
- Go to web.whatsapp.com.
- You will see a QR code on the screen.
- Open WhatsApp on your smartphone, go to the menu, select "Linked Devices," and scan the QR code.
- Your WhatsApp messages will sync, allowing you to send and receive messages directly from the browser.
- WhatsApp Web does not require installation and works as an extension of your phone app, syncing messages in real time
2. WhatsApp Desktop App (Windows or Mac)
- Download the WhatsApp Desktop app from the official WhatsApp website or Microsoft Store for Windows, or from the Mac App Store for macOS.
- The desktop app requires Windows 10.1 64-bit 1903 or later, or macOS 12.1 or newer.
- After installation, open the app and scan the QR code with your phone to link your account.
- The desktop app allows you to use WhatsApp without a browser, supports notifications directly from your system, and can be set to start automatically with your computer.
- You can make voice and video calls through the desktop app if your device has a microphone, speakers, and camera.
- The desktop app uses the same end-to-end encryption as the mobile version
Summary
Feature| WhatsApp Web| WhatsApp Desktop App
---|---|---
Access| Browser (no installation)| Installed app
OS Support| Any with supported browser| Windows 10.1+ (64-bit), macOS 12.1+
Notifications| Browser notifications| System notifications
Calls (voice/video)| No| Yes
Offline use| Limited (needs phone connection)| Works independently after
linking
Auto-start| No| Yes
Both options require your smartphone to initially link via QR code, and messages synchronize between devices. WhatsApp on laptop offers a convenient way to chat, send files, and make calls while working on your computer
