Every web developer has faced this issue: your local website works perfectly on a desktop, but on a mobile device, layout issues, slow load times, and content misalignment start appearing.
What’s the solution? Of course, you could deploy the site to a test server. But that takes time, requires extra resources, and is often inconvenient.
In this article, we’ll explore several quick methods to help you test your local web apps on mobile devices without deploying! 🔥
🔹 1. Connecting via Local IP
🔹 How does it work?
Your computer and smartphone are on the same Wi-Fi network. You can access your local site using your computer’s local IP address.
✅ How to find your local IP?
On Windows / Mac / Linux, run:
ipconfig (Windows)
ifconfig (Linux/Mac)
Then enter http://192.168.x.x:3000 in your phone’s browser.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
Only works on the same network.
May be blocked by firewalls.
🔹 2. Using ngrok – Instant Public Access
Ngrok creates a temporary public URL that redirects to your local server.
✅ How to set it up?
Install ngrok:
npm install -g ngrok
Start your local server (for example, on port 3000):
ngrok http 3000
You’ll receive a unique URL to open on your phone.
🔥 Pros:
✅ Works from anywhere, even over the internet.
✅ Can be shared with teammates for testing.
⚠️ Cons:
Sometimes requires restarting.
Free version doesn’t support custom domains.
🔹 3. Using LocalTunnel
An alternative to ngrok that also allows public access to your local server.
✅ Setup (if you have Node.js installed):
npx localtunnel --port 3000
This will generate a unique URL that can be accessed from any device.
🔥 Pros:
✅ Free to use.
✅ Minimal setup.
✅ Good alternative to ngrok.
⚠️ Cons:
Connection may sometimes drop.
🔹 4. Direct Connection via USB
If your local server runs in a browser, you can connect your phone to a PC via USB and use Chrome DevTools.
✅ How to set it up?
Connect your Android phone via USB.
Open Chrome DevTools → Remote Devices.
Enable port forwarding (e.g., 3000 → 3000).
Open http://localhost:3000 on your phone.
🔥 Pros:
✅ Most reliable method.
✅ Allows debugging through DevTools.
⚠️ Cons:
Only works for Android.
Requires a USB cable.
Top comments (0)