WhatsApp desktop is the desktop client for the popular messaging application WhatsApp. It allows users to access WhatsApp on their computers and laptops, providing the convenience of chatting through a bigger screen and keyboard. WhatsApp desktop works by mirroring the WhatsApp account on your mobile device, so your entire chat history is synced between devices.
Before downloading and installing WhatsApp desktop, it’s important to understand the system requirements and ensure your computer meets them. This will guarantee a smooth and optimal experience using the desktop application. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the requirements for running WhatsApp desktop on your PC or Mac.
System Requirements
WhatsApp desktop is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems. The minimum system requirements are similar but there are some differences to be aware of between the two platforms. Here are the basic requirements for using WhatsApp desktop:
Windows
- Windows 8 or newer version
- Intel Core i3 2.4 GHz or AMD Athlon x64 2.8 GHz processor
- 4 GB RAM
- 512 MB VRAM
- 1 GB free disk space
- DirectX 11 compatible graphics card
For optimal performance, a more powerful configuration is recommended. A good target would be a PC with Windows 10, Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM and 1GB dedicated graphics memory. The application will run on entry level machines but may have performance issues with video calls and delays.
Mac
- macOS 10.13 or newer
- Intel Core i5 1.6 GHz processor
- 4 GB RAM
- 512 MB VRAM
- 1 GB free storage space
- OpenGL 2.0 graphics card
Again, a higher spec Mac will provide better responsiveness and capabilities for multimedia messaging. Aim for at least a MacBook Pro or iMac from the last 3-4 years for flawless WhatsApp desktop usage.
Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is one of the most important requirements for WhatsApp desktop. Without an active internet access, the application will not be able to sync messages between your mobile and PC. Here are some internet connection requirements:
- Broadband wired or wireless internet connection
- Minimum speed of 128 Kbps or higher preferred
- Low latency and ping times below 150 ms
Wired ethernet connections are generally the most reliable for stable messaging performance. But a good WiFi connection from a modern wireless router will also suffice. Avoid using WhatsApp desktop on slow or congested public WiFi networks.
Also make sure to disable any VPN or proxy services and allow WhatsApp desktop access through Windows Firewall for unfettered connectivity.
Supported Browsers
WhatsApp desktop runs as a web application within your system’s default browser. It needs an up-to-date browser with WebSocket support for real-time message syncing. These browsers are officially supported:
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
- Google Chrome
- Opera
- Safari (Mac only)
For best compatibility, use the latest available version of one of the above browsers. Safari is only supported on macOS. Outdated browsers like Internet Explorer are not supported.
Some key browser settings required:
- JavaScript enabled
- WebRTC enabled
- Cookies allowed
Without proper browser configurations, WhatsApp web will face connection issues or audio/video call glitches.
QR Code Scanner
To link WhatsApp on your phone to the desktop app, you need to scan a QR code during setup. This requires a working camera on your computer or phone camera.
Most modern laptops have an inbuilt webcam that can scan the code. For desktop PCs without a webcam, use your phone camera to scan the code and link the app. Make sure proper permissions are provided to the browser for accessing the camera.
Multi-device Support
WhatsApp recently introduced multi-device support allowing use of WhatsApp desktop without your phone being actively connected to the internet. To use this feature:
- Update WhatsApp on your phone to the latest version
- Turn on multi-device beta from WhatsApp settings
- Use WhatsApp desktop on your PC and scan the QR code
With multi-device, you can continue chatting on desktop even if your phone loses internet connectivity. It removes the limitation of your phone needing to stay online to sync WhatsApp across devices.
Windows and Mac Versions
There are specific WhatsApp desktop applications optimized for Windows and macOS:
Windows App
- Designed for Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11
- Installs like regular Windows software
- Sets up start menu shortcut and desktop icons
- Gets regular app updates from Windows Store
Mac App
- Made for macOS 10.10 and above
- Downloadable DMG package to install
- Integrates with dock and launchpad
- Updates automatically from Mac App Store
For convenience, use the platform-specific apps. But the web version also works fine across operating systems.
Mobile Phone Requirements
Although WhatsApp desktop mirrors chats from your mobile, the phone itself must meet these requirements:
- Android OS 4.1 or iOS 10 and later versions
- Verified phone number for activating WhatsApp
- Latest WhatsApp version installed
- Connected to internet for initial QR code sync
Make sure your phone’s WhatsApp meets the criteria above for pairing with desktop. Android phones need OS Jellybean 4.1+ while iPhones require at least iOS 10.
Conclusion
WhatsApp desktop provides the convenience of WhatsApp messaging and calls on your bigger computer screen. Just ensure your PC or Mac meets the minimum hardware, software and internet requirements detailed above. Also have the latest phone OS and WhatsApp version installed to seamlessly sync your chats across mobile and desktop apps. With these basics covered, you can enjoy a superior WhatsApp messaging experience on desktop.
| System | Minimum Requirements | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Windows 8, Core i3 CPU, 4GB RAM, 512MB VRAM | Windows 10, Core i5 CPU, 8GB RAM, 1GB VRAM |
| Mac | macOS 10.13, Core i5 CPU, 4GB RAM, 512MB VRAM | Recent MacBook Pro/iMac, Extra RAM and VRAM |
| Internet | 128 Kbps, Low latency | Broadband wired connection |
| Browser | Latest Edge/Chrome/Firefox/Opera/Safari | Enable JavaScript and WebRTC |
| Phone | iOS 10+/Android 4.1+, Verified number, Latest WhatsApp | Android 6.0+, iOS 12+, Consistent Internet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WhatsApp desktop work on Windows 7 or 8?
WhatsApp dropped support for Windows 7 and 8. You need Windows 10 or 11 for the latest desktop version. The web app may work but with limited features.
Can I use WhatsApp desktop without my phone connected?
Earlier, your phone had to stay connected for syncing. Now with multi-device support, WhatsApp desktop works independently without needing your phone online.
Is there a Mac app for WhatsApp desktop?
Yes, there is an optimized Mac app for macOS available. Get it from the Mac App Store for easy install and updates.
Does WhatsApp desktop work on Linux or Chromebook?
There are no native apps for Linux or Chrome OS. But you can use WhatsApp desktop on them through the web browser.
Can I use WhatsApp desktop on multiple devices?
With multi-device enabled, you can stay logged in and use WhatsApp desktop on up to 4 devices simultaneously.
Conclusion
WhatsApp desktop provides a seamless messaging experience across your phone and computer. Check that your Windows PC or Mac meets the minimum hardware, software and browser requirements. Also ensure your mobile has the latest OS and WhatsApp version. With these covered, you can enjoy WhatsApp’s robust messaging capabilities on your desktop.