With Ticketmaster being one of the largest primary ticket outlets for major sporting events, concerts, theater shows and more, it’s an important question whether the browser or app version is better for purchasing tickets. There are pros and cons to each platform, and the right choice often depends on personal preference and needs.
Ease of Use
One of the most important factors to consider is overall ease of use. The Ticketmaster app provides a streamlined mobile experience that fits in your pocket and is designed specifically for smaller screens. It’s optimized for quickly finding events, seating options and making purchases using your thumbs. Everything is a tap or swipe away without having to navigate complex menus with a mouse.
The browser experience on a laptop or desktop allows for a larger screen, but often at the cost of more clicks and scrolling to find what you need. However, some users may prefer using a mouse/trackpad and keyboard shortcuts for faster navigation. The browser also makes it easier to access more detailed information all on one page.
Features
Both the Ticketmaster browser and app allow you to search events, view seat maps and pricing, complete purchases, access tickets and more. However, there are some differences in features between the two platforms:
Feature | Browser | App |
---|---|---|
Seat maps/pricing | Yes | Yes |
Event recommendations | Yes | Yes |
Saved payment info | Yes | Yes |
Mobile tickets | No | Yes |
Notifications | No | Yes |
As you can see, the app includes some additional features like storing tickets directly on your phone and enabling push notifications for event reminders. The browser is fully functional but doesn’t include enhancements specifically designed for mobile.
Speed
When tickets go on sale for major events, speed is everything. Being able to complete transactions quickly gives you an edge over the competition. Here the app has a slight advantage, due to optimizations like storing payment info and touch ID login. The app also tends to suffer less from crashing and bottlenecks that sometimes occur on the browser when traffic is high.
However, if you have fast wi-fi and a modern device, there may not be a noticeable speed difference. Both platforms utilize the same Ticketmaster processing system. Yet the convenience factors on app provide small efficiencies that can make a difference when racing against the clock for coveted tickets.
Ticketing Options
Ticketmaster offers several different ticketing options like standard tickets, VIP packages, travel packages and more. The availability of these options is the same whether you use the browser or app. You’ll have access to all the same events, seating selections and special offers.
One minor difference is that some very limited quantity high-end packages like meet and greets may only be available over the phone. But for most common ticketing needs, the options are identical cross-platform.
Dynamic Pricing
Both browser and app use Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing model. This means ticket prices can fluctuate over time based on demand. If an event is selling particularly well, prices may increase leading up to the on-sale date. You’ll find the same ticket prices regardless of how you access Ticketmaster.
Fees
The infamous Ticketmaster fees also apply equally whether you complete a purchase on browser or app. You’ll pay the same convenience fees, order processing fees, delivery fees and other charges on top of the ticket face value. There is no way around these fees unless Ticketmaster is running a promotion.
Security
Security is paramount when purchasing tickets online, and you want to be sure your financial and personal information is protected. Ticketmaster utilizes top-grade encryption and security protocols on both browser and app to keep your data secure.
One advantage of the app is the ability to store payment information and login credentials to expedite the checkout process. This data is encrypted locally on your device. Using Touch ID and Face ID helps prevent unauthorized access.
The browser requires manually entering payment info each time you checkout. But your data is still encrypted in transit and at rest within Ticketmaster’s systems. As long as you access Ticketmaster through their official website or app, your info should be safe.
Customer Support
If any issues come up with your Ticketmaster account, there are a few ways to get assistance. You can access the Ticketmaster help center with FAQs and support articles on both browser and app. There is also a messaging feature to communicate directly with customer service agents.
Phone support is available for more urgent issues. Phone support functions the same way regardless of how you initially accessed your account. The only advantage of the app is the ability to message support directly instead of having to look up a separate number.
Conclusion
In most cases, the Ticketmaster app provides a superior user experience compared to the browser in areas like mobility, speed and feature set. However, the browser has the advantage of a bigger screen and may suit some users’ preferences better. You really can’t go wrong with either option.
For most situations, the app is recommended as the easiest way to quickly purchase tickets. Features like stored payment methods, Touch ID, mobile tickets and notifications give it an edge. Yet the browser still allows full access to all events and ticket options if preferred.
In the end, it comes down to convenience and what works best for each individual. With Ticketmaster’s user base split nearly evenly between browser and app, both platforms deliver solid performance. Focus on choosing the purchasing method you find simplest and fastest.
Some tips if going the app route:
– Download ahead of time so you’re ready when tickets go on sale
– Set up an account with saved payment info and Touch ID enabled
– Allow notifications so you don’t miss out on presales or time-sensitive offers
– Use high-speed wi-fi for smoother processing
Whichever option you choose, Ticketmaster makes accessing incredible live experiences as simple as the click of a button or tap of the screen.