1. Slow Loading Speed

One of the most damaging mobile design mistakes is slow speed. Large images, poorly optimized code, and heavy plugins can make your site drag. When users wait, they leave, and when they leave, your competitors win.

How to Fix:

• Compress images using tools like TinyPNG.
• Use a content delivery network (CDN).

• Audit plugins and remove unnecessary ones.

For a deeper guide on performance, check out our earlier post on Core Web Vitals and eCommerce speed optimization.

2. Poor Touch Targets

Buttons that are too small or links that are too close together frustrate mobile users. People interact with their thumbs, not a mouse, so you need to design for comfort and precision.

How to Fix:

• Ensure tap targets are at least 44×44 pixels.
• Add enough spacing between interactive elements.
• Test your site on different screen sizes.

3. Intrusive Pop-ups

Pop-ups that block the main content create friction and hurt the user experience. They are also penalized by Google’s mobile-friendly guidelines.

How to Fix:

• Use exit-intent pop-ups instead of immediate ones.
• Keep them small and easy to dismiss.
• Only show relevant offers.

4. Ignoring Accessibility

Accessibility is not optional in 2025. Overlooking features like screen reader compatibility, color contrast, and keyboard navigation excludes a portion of your audience. This is not only a mobile design mistake but also a legal risk.

How to Fix:

• Use alt text for images.
• Check contrast ratios.
• Ensure ARIA labels are present.

For more on accessibility, visit the W3C Accessibility Guidelines at w3.org.

5. Cluttered Navigation

Mobile screens are small, so complicated menus overwhelm users. If customers can’t find what they need quickly, they will leave.

How to Fix:

• Use a hamburger menu for secondary links.
• Prioritize essential navigation.

• Add a search function.

6. Hidden Contact Information

Users want quick access to support. If your phone number, email, or chat option is buried, it creates frustration.

How to Fix:

• Place contact info in the footer.
• Use sticky buttons for “Call Now” or “Chat.”

• Make forms short and easy to complete.

7. Non-Responsive Design

A common mistake is designing only for one screen size. Mobile devices vary greatly, so a rigid layout will break your design.

How to Fix:

• Use responsive frameworks like Bootstrap.
• Test across multiple devices.

• Avoid fixed-width elements.

8. Overuse of Animations

Animations can enhance a design, but too many slow down the site and distract users. Mobile users want simplicity, not complexity.

How to Fix:

• Use animations sparingly for emphasis.
• Ensure they are lightweight and optimized.
• Avoid autoplaying animations.

9. Ignoring Dark Mode

Many users prefer dark mode for comfort, but websites that don’t support it risk creating a jarring experience.

How to Fix:

• Use CSS prefers-colour-scheme queries.
• Ensure text is readable in both modes.

• Test icons and logos for visibility.

10. Weak Call-to-Action (CTA) Placement

CTAs that are buried or hard to tap reduce conversions. A strong CTA should be visible, clear, and designed for mobile users.

How to Fix:

• Place CTAs above the fold.
• Use contrasting colors.
• Keep text short and action-driven.