Mobile vs Desktop Zillow: Features You Miss on Your Phone

Zillow's app is great for alerts and quick looks, but some research is much easier on a computer. Here's what each one is better at, so you can use both.

What's easier on a computer

• The big map. A large screen shows more of the map and the list side by side, so it's easier to see how homes compare across streets and neighborhoods.
• Comparing listings. Open several homes in tabs and switch between them, which is clumsy on a phone.
• Reading the details. Price history, tax history, facts and features, and school information are easier to scan on a big screen.
• Extensions. Desktop Chrome can run extensions that add information to Zillow. Zillow Price/SqFt shows each home's price per sq. ft. right on the listing cards in your search, so you can compare homes of different sizes at a glance.
• Printing and saving listing pages for your notes.

What the app does better

• Instant notifications for new listings and price changes on saved searches. See how to set up Zillow alerts.
• Searching where you are while you drive or walk around a neighborhood.
• Photos and tours on the go, and quick messages to agents.

Opening Zillow's desktop site on a phone

If you need the full site on your phone, open zillow.com in your phone's browser instead of the app, and ask for the desktop version:

• Chrome on Android: tap the three-dot menu and tick Desktop site.
• Safari on iPhone: tap the Aa (or page menu) button in the address bar and choose Request Desktop Website.

It's small but works for a quick look at something the app hides. Extensions don't run in phone browsers, so the price per square foot cards are desktop only.

Zillow in dark mode on desktop

Zillow's website doesn't have a dark mode. In Chrome, a dark mode extension such as Modern Dark Mode darkens Zillow while keeping listing photos in their real colors.

A good routine

• Let the app catch new listings and price drops.
• Do your shortlisting on a computer, comparing price per square foot, history and taxes.
• Use the app again when you're out viewing homes.