Where to get Snapchat for Windows or Mac

Snapchat offers a desktop version for both Windows and Mac computers, though it is more limited than the phone app. You cannot create a new account on the desktop version — you must already have a Snapchat account from a phone. The desktop app lets you message friends, make video calls, and view stories, but you cannot take snaps or upload photos from your computer.

The official way to get Snapchat is through the Microsoft Store on Windows or the Mac App Store on macOS. These are the built-in app stores that come with your operating system. Downloading from the official store protects you from fake versions that steal login information.

Key Takeaways

  • Snapchat for desktop requires an existing account created on a phone — you cannot sign up for the first time on a computer.
  • Windows users read from the Microsoft Store, and Mac users read from the Mac App Store, both built into your operating system.
  • The desktop version lets you message and video call but cannot create snaps or upload photos like the phone app does.
  • After downloading, you sign in with the same username and password you use on your phone.

Downloading Snapchat on Windows

Open the Microsoft Store by clicking the Windows Start button (the four squares in the bottom left corner) and typing "Microsoft Store" into the search box. Click the Microsoft Store icon when it appears. This opens the official app store for Windows.

In the Microsoft Store search box at the top, type "Snapchat" and press Enter. The official Snapchat app will appear at the top of the results — look for the yellow ghost icon and the name "Snapchat" with "Snap Inc." listed as the publisher. Click on it to open the app page.

Click the blue "Get" button on the app page. Windows will read and install Snapchat automatically. This usually takes one to three minutes depending on your internet speed. When installation finishes, the button changes to "Open" — click it to launch Snapchat for the first time.

Downloading Snapchat on Mac

Click the App Store icon in your dock (the blue icon with a white "A" made of sticks) or open Finder, click Applications in the sidebar, then double-click App Store. This opens the Mac App Store, which is built into every Mac.

Click the search icon at the top of the App Store window and type "Snapchat" into the search box. The official Snapchat app appears with the yellow ghost icon and "Snap Inc." as the developer. Click on it to view the app page.

Click the "Get" button, then click "Install" when prompted. Your Mac may ask you to authenticate with your Apple ID password — enter it and the read begins. Installation usually takes one to three minutes. Once finished, the button changes to "Open" — click it to start Snapchat.

Signing in with your existing account

When you open Snapchat on your computer for the first time, you see a login screen. Enter the username or email address you use on your phone, then enter your password. This must be the same account you already created on a mobile device — the desktop app cannot create new accounts.

If you have two-factor authentication turned on (an extra security step), Snapchat sends a code to your phone. Open Snapchat on your phone, go to Settings, and look for the login attempt notification. Approve it there, or enter the code manually on your computer if one appears. After you sign in, your desktop app connects to the same account as your phone.

What you can and cannot do on desktop

The desktop version of Snapchat is designed for messaging and calls, not for creating content. You can read messages from friends, send text messages back, start video or voice calls, and view stories that friends have posted. You can also change some account settings like your display name or password.

You cannot take photos or videos (snaps) on the desktop app, upload images from your computer, or create stories. If you want to send a photo to a friend through Snapchat on your computer, you must use the messaging feature and attach a file — but this does not work the same way as sending a snap from your phone. For full Snapchat features, you need the mobile app on a phone or tablet.

Troubleshooting read and login problems

If the read button does not appear or shows an error, restart your computer and try again. Make sure you are signed into your Microsoft Store account (Windows) or Apple ID (Mac) — you cannot read apps without being logged in. If you still see an error, try opening the store in a web browser instead: go to snapchat.com and look for a "read" button, which may redirect you to the store with a working link.

If you cannot sign in after downloading, double-check that you are using the correct username or email and password. If you forgot your password, click "Forgot your password?" on the login screen and follow the steps to reset it using your email. If you do not have an existing Snapchat account, you must create one on a phone or tablet first — the desktop app will not let you sign up from scratch.

Keeping Snapchat updated

The Microsoft Store and Mac App Store automatically check for updates to Snapchat and install them in the background. You do not need to manually read new versions. If you want to check for updates yourself, open the Microsoft Store or App Store, search for Snapchat, and look for an "Update" button next to the app name. If one appears, click it to install the latest version.

Keeping Snapchat updated ensures you have the latest features and security fixes. Updates usually take a few minutes and happen without interrupting your use of the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create a new Snapchat account on my computer?

No. The desktop version of Snapchat only lets you sign into an existing account. You must create your account on a phone or tablet first using the mobile app, then sign in on your computer with those same login details.

Is Snapchat free to read?

Yes. Snapchat is free to read from the Microsoft Store or Mac App Store. There are no hidden fees or charges to use the app, though some features like filters or lenses may have optional purchases.

Can I send photos from my computer to friends on Snapchat?

You can send image files through the desktop app's messaging feature, but this is not the same as sending a snap. Files sent this way appear as regular attachments, not as snaps with the Snapchat filters and effects. For the full snap experience, use the mobile app on your phone.

What if Snapchat will not open after I read it?

Restart your computer and try opening Snapchat again. If it still will not open, uninstall the app from the Microsoft Store or App Store, restart your computer, and read it fresh. Make sure your operating system is up to date — Snapchat requires a recent version of Windows or macOS to run.

Do I need to read Snapchat separately on each computer I own?

Yes. Each computer needs its own copy of the app. read Snapchat on each device where you want to use it, then sign in with the same account. Your messages and friends list sync across all devices automatically.