SMS
SMS vs WhatsApp: Which Channel Converts Better?
G
Growth TeamThe Data
Both SMS and WhatsApp are high-performing messaging channels, but they excel in different scenarios.
| Metric | SMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Open Rate | 98% | 98% |
| Click Rate | 19–35% | 25–40% |
| Opt-out Rate | ~2% | ~1% |
| Media Support | No | Yes |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
When to Use SMS
- **Global reach**: SMS works on every phone, no app required
- **Transactional**: OTPs, alerts, reminders where rich content isn't needed
- **Markets with low WhatsApp penetration**
When to Use WhatsApp
- **High engagement markets**: South Asia, MENA, Latin America, SEA
- **Rich content**: Product images, catalogs, documents
- **Two-way conversations**: Support, sales, chatbots
- **Lower cost at scale**
The Winner?
For most businesses in markets where WhatsApp is popular: **WhatsApp wins on engagement and cost**. But the best strategy is an omnichannel approach — use both, with WaSMS managing both channels from a single platform.