OTP vs. Password: What’s Better for Your Dispensary App?

In this post, we’ll break down the most common login methods used in dispensary apps—and explore why rethinking your login experience could be one of the easiest ways to increase conversions.

Common Types of App Logins in Cannabis Retail

Cannabis mobile apps typically offer one or more of the following login options:

• Email and Password: Traditional login method that’s familiar, but not always convenient.
• Social Logins (Google, Apple, Facebook): These can simplify login but only if users have accounts linked and are comfortable sharing their data.
• OTP (One-Time Password): A code sent to your email or phone number. It doesn’t require remembering a password and is very fast.

Comparing Login Methods

Here’s a quick breakdown of the three login types based on key factors:

OTP wins for speed and ease, making it ideal for retail and loyalty-based apps like those used in dispensaries.

Why a Smooth Login Experience Matters

You might think a few extra seconds don’t matter. But in retail, especially mobile retail, they matter a lot. Here’s why:

• Customer Drop-Offs: Users abandon apps when login feels like a hassle. If they can’t remember their password, they might just give up.
• Missed Sales: A failed login = one less order. That means lost revenue every time someone gets stuck.
• Brand Damage: Confusing login processes can make your brand feel outdated or frustrating. And that perception sticks.
• Support Costs: Password resets and login issues increase support tickets and eat into your margins.

The login experience is small, but mighty. So if it feels like being locked out of your own store, customers will simply go elsewhere.

The Verdict

OTP is the Fast Track to Loyalty

If you’re building or updating a cannabis mobile app, make the login process a no-brainer. OTP login via SMS or email takes just five seconds, doesn’t require memorizing anything, and creates a seamless experience especially for returning customers who just want to reorder quickly.

At Digital Awesome, our cannabis retail apps feature lightning-fast OTP login that gets customers into your storefront in seconds. No more abandoned carts. No more frustrated users. Just a better experience, from first tap to final checkout.

Want to see how it works? Let’s chat about building a cannabis app that actually gets used.