SMS
SMS vs WhatsApp: Which Channel Converts Better?
G
Growth TeamThe comparison
Both SMS and WhatsApp are high-performing messaging channels — they simply excel in different situations.
| Metric | SMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Open rate | Very high | Very high |
| Media support | No | Yes |
| Two-way conversation | Basic | Rich |
| Reach | Every phone | WhatsApp users |
When to use SMS
- Global reach — SMS works on every phone, no app required
- Transactional messages — OTPs, alerts, and reminders
- Markets where WhatsApp usage is lower
When to use WhatsApp
- High-engagement markets — South Asia, MENA, Latin America, South-East Asia
- Rich content — product images, catalogues, and documents
- Two-way conversations — support, sales, and AI replies
The smart answer: use both
With WaSMS you do not have to choose. Connect your own WhatsApp number through the free local gateway, and your own SIM through the WaSMS Android app, and manage both channels from one shared inbox. WhatsApp through your own number has no per-message fee, and SMS simply uses your SIM's normal carrier rate.
Start free — and grow when you're ready
WaSMS has a free-forever Connect plan — no trial timer, no credit card. Ready for more? Reach at $10/mo is our recommended plan for small businesses, and Grow scales with bigger teams.