SMS Notifications vs. Push Notifications: Key Differences and Best Use Cases

 In mobile communication, businesses have two main ways to connect with their audience: SMS and push notifications. While both methods aim to deliver messages straight to users, they differ in how they work, how users engage with them, and which business needs they best serve.

Delivery Mechanism

  • SMS Notifications: These are text messages sent over cellular networks, meaning they can be accessed on any mobile device without needing an internet connection or extra apps.

  • Push Notifications: These messages are delivered to users with a specific app installed and opted-in for notifications through the internet. They require an active data connection and are tied to particular platforms, working only within specific operating systems.

User Engagement and Visibility

  • SMS Notifications: With an impressive 98% open rate, SMS messages are usually read within minutes of being received, making them perfect for urgent communications. They stay in the recipient's messaging app until they're manually deleted, ensuring they remain visible longer.

  • Push Notifications: On the other hand, push notifications have an average open rate of just 7.8%. They can be fleeting and may vanish from the user's screen if not interacted with quickly. While they're great for sharing timely updates, they might not be the best choice for messages that need to be seen for an extended period.

Content and Customization

  • SMS Notifications: Limited to 160 characters, SMS messages are mostly text-based but can include links to encourage further engagement. They're not tied to any specific platform, allowing businesses to reach a wider audience without needing to customize for different operating systems.

  • Push Notifications: These provide more creative freedom, allowing for images, videos, and interactive elements. However, they are platform-dependent, meaning they must be tailored to work smoothly across various operating systems.

Opt-In Requirements

  • SMS Notifications: To receive SMS messages from businesses, users must give explicit consent, which is often governed by telecommunications laws. This process ensures that the recipients are genuinely interested in the messages, which can lead to better engagement rates. ​

  • Push Notifications: Users can opt-in by downloading the app and turning on notifications. They can also customize or withdraw these permissions anytime through their device settings.

Cost Implications

  • SMS Notifications: Sending SMS messages usually comes with a cost per message, which can accumulate based on the volume and the recipient's location. However, since they don't require an app to be developed, they're an excellent option for businesses that don't have a dedicated application. ​

  • Push Notifications: After users develop and install an app, sending push notifications is free. That said, the initial investment in app development is significant, and the success of push notifications relies on users downloading and keeping the app. ​

Choosing the Right Channel for Your Business

When deciding between SMS and push notifications, consider the message type, your target audience, and your available resources. SMS notifications are an excellent choice for urgent alerts, appointment reminders, or reaching a broad audience without needing an app.


On the other hand, push notifications are the way to go if you want to engage users with rich content, promotions, or updates within a specific app. ​

HelloSend: Bridging the Gap

Platforms like HelloSend offer comprehensive solutions for businesses leveraging SMS and push notifications. By integrating with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, HelloSend enables the seamless dispatch of SMS, WhatsApp, and voice messages, ensuring that businesses can effectively reach their audience through multiple channels.


This integrated approach allows for tailored communication strategies that align with user preferences and behaviors, maximizing engagement and operational efficiency.​


In conclusion, understanding the distinctions between SMS and push notifications empowers businesses to select the most appropriate communication channel for their objectives.


By leveraging platforms like HelloSend, companies can harness the strengths of both channels, delivering timely and relevant messages that resonate with their audience.

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