Choosing the right device is critical for a smooth and compliant assessment or interview experience. While mobile devices offer convenience, certain test types require the capabilities of a desktop or laptop to meet proctoring, performance, and compatibility requirements. This article explains when and why a desktop/laptop should be used instead of a mobile device, based on the type of test you are taking.Documentation Index
Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.talview.com/llms.txt
Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
✅ Device Recommendations by Test Type
| Test Type | Recommended Device | Why This Device Works Best |
|---|---|---|
| Proctored Assessments | Desktop/Laptop | Supports webcam, microphone, screen monitoring, and browser compatibility |
| Live Interviews (One-way or Panel) | Desktop/Laptop | Stable video/audio quality and access to screen sharing and large video panels |
| Coding Simulations or Typing Tests | Desktop/Laptop | Optimized interface, keyboard efficiency, and system resource compatibility |
| MCQ-based Non-Proctored Tests | Mobile or Desktop | Simple interface that works on both, but mobile use should still ensure strong connectivity |
⚠️ Common Issues When Using the Wrong Device
| Device Mismatch | Possible Impact |
|---|---|
| Mobile used for proctored test | Camera/mic access failure or system disqualification |
| Mobile used for coding test | Interface lag, response delays, or unresponsive UI |
| Switching between devices mid-test | Test resets or session dropout |
| Using unsupported browsers | Proctoring features disabled or page not loading |
📱 Why not use a mobile?
While mobile devices offer convenience, they may lack the capabilities required for certain test types:- Limited support for screen proctoring and browser permissions
- Smaller screen size affects visibility and focus
- Restricted performance during long-form responses or coding activities
- May experience interrupted background calls or app notifications
🧪 How to Choose the Right Device?
- Check your test notification
- Look for mentions like “proctored test,” “live interview,” or “coding assessment.”
- Match your device to the recommended type (see the table above)
- Run a system compatibility check
Look for a “System Check” link in your invitation to test your webcam, microphone, browser, and internet connection strength.

