If you work in customer support, sales, or any role where you guide clients through web-based processes, chances are you’ve used web browser screen sharing at some point. It’s familiar, easy, and gets the job done – mostly.
But as customer expectations grow and security standards tighten, traditional screen sharing tools are starting to show their limits. That’s where co-browsing, sometimes called browser sharing software, comes in.
So how do these two client collaboration tools really compare? And when does one work better than the other?
Let’s take a closer look.
What is Screen Sharing?
Screen sharing allows one person to broadcast their screen, either the full desktop or a specific application window, to others in real time. It’s commonly used for things like presentations, demos, or basic tech support.
You’ve probably seen it in tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet. But while it’s useful for showing information, web browser screen sharing is mostly one-way: the person sharing presents, and the others watch.
What is Co-Browsing?
Co-browsing (short for “collaborative browsing”) is a more interactive approach. Instead of broadcasting a screen, co-browsing lets two or more users interact with the same webpage in real time through a remote browser connection.
There’s no need for downloads or installations – just a browser. You and your client can click, scroll, and input information together, as if you’re sitting side by side.
It’s particularly useful in support or onboarding scenarios, where customers are navigating complex forms or digital processes and might need a helping hand.
Side-By-Side: Co-Browsing vs Screen Sharing
Feature
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Interaction
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Setup
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Security
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Performance
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Use case
Screen Sharing
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One-way
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Often requires a meeting tool
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Shows everything on screen
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Can lag or blur
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Presentations, Demos
Co-Browsing
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Two-way, real-time collaboration
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Browser-based, no downloads
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Masks sensitive info, limits view
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Fast, high-quality browser sync
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Customer support, web guidance
Side-By-Side: Co-Browsing vs Screen Sharing
Why Co-Browsing is Better For Client Collaboration
When you’re working directly with customers – especially in industries like finance, insurance, or healthcare – the difference between co-browsing and screen sharing can have a big impact.
Here’s why more teams are choosing browser sharing software:
Faster Issue Resolution
With co-browsing, agents and customers can interact on the same webpage at the same time. That means less explaining, fewer misunderstandings, and a faster path to resolution.
Improved Privacy And Control
Screen sharing shows everything, including browser tabs, notifications, and potentially sensitive information. Co-browsing only shares a specific browser tab, with features like data masking to keep private information hidden.
More Secure, More Compliant
If your team handles personal or financial data, co-browsing provides built-in security features that help meet compliance requirements, without the risks of exposing unrelated content.
Higher Engagement
Co-browsing makes support feel more collaborative. Customers aren’t just watching; they’re participating. That hands-on experience builds trust and leads to better outcomes.
When To Use Each Tool
Both screen sharing and co-browsing have their place among client collaboration tools. It really depends on the type of interaction.
Use web browser screen sharing when:
- You’re delivering a one-way presentation or demo
- You need to show software or content outside of a browser
- Real-time interaction isn’t necessary
Use a co browsing app when:
- You’re helping clients complete a process on your website
- Security and privacy are important
- You want a seamless, no-download support experience
- You’re looking to improve customer satisfaction
Customer-Focused Browser Sharing
Choosing the right client collaboration tools isn’t just about features – it’s about giving customers a smoother, more secure, and more human experience.
If you’re still relying solely on traditional web browser screen sharing, it might be time to explore what browser sharing software or a co-browsing app can do for your team. For many companies, especially in regulated or high-touch industries, it’s a smart upgrade.
If you’re curious to see how co-browsing works in action, Surfly is a great place to start. It’s a lightweight, no-download co-browsing app that lets you instantly connect with customers inside the browser – securely and interactively. Whether you’re guiding someone through an application or supporting a client in real time, Surfly makes the experience faster, easier, and more personal. Give it a try and see how it compares to the way you’re collaborating today.