SMS messaging is one of the most famous ways to communicate worldwide. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require interrupting what you’re doing, like phone calls.
We understand that many people still prefer human contact to talking on the phone, and we respect that. But let’s face it: Most people are texting today.
Let’s take a look at the best SMS messaging apps for Android. That space hasn’t changed much over the past couple of years, so many apps are still the best, even if not the most recent.
SMS Messaging Apps for Android
Our smartphones allow constant and instant communication with family, friends, and colleagues. However, the out-of-the-box built-in options aren’t always the best.
New messaging apps have sprung up that fully offer services offering all kinds of talking with others, from free SMS messaging to voice & video calls to sharing photos and files with the added benefit of encryption.
We have tried many different options. So here are the best SMS messaging apps for Android.
1. Google Messages
Google Messages is a free messaging application from Google and one of Android’s best SMS messaging apps. In terms of features, Android messaging keeps it light.
It will have light-themed options, organization and backup features, and a decent search function.
The design is entirely Material Design. This means that it is beautiful and easy to use.
Google also has huge plans for this app, including RCS support and other cool features. This also has a web version for sending messages to your computer.
However, this is a reasonably massive battery drain, making it a characteristic of the unpredictable type.
2. Chomp SMS
Chomp SMS has been in existence since Android’s good days and was one of the first and best SMS messaging apps for Android.
Since then, it has become an application that accepts Material Design and, at the same time, is rich in features.
Some of them include SMS blocking, emojis, quick response to notifications, MMS, and group messages.
You can even stop sending an SMS message if needed. It also supports Android Wear and Pushbullet. There are plenty of other customization features if you want them.
3. Handcent Next SMS
Handcent and Chomp SMS were the first two outstanding and top-rated third-party SMS apps available on Android.
Handcent is a powerful and challenging messaging app with many features. Some of them include themes, a privacy box to store private conversations, SMS backups, email cards, emojis, etc.
One of the most convenient features is Handcent Anywhere, which allows you to send SMS to your computer and tablet.
It’s had its pros and cons regarding bugs, but it is generally pretty reliable.
4. Mood SMS
Mood Messenger is an above-par SMS app, making it the best list of SMS messaging apps.
It does all the usual things like messaging, MMS, themes, emojis, and other basics. You also get dark mode, spam blacklists, and more.
The premium version is a one-time payment (OTP) of $10.99 or a subscription model.
Includes backup and restore, SMS encryption, multiple themes, and a private locker to keep people out.
The premium version is a bit costly, but overall it’s a positive experience for most.
5. Pulse SMS
Pulse SMS is one of the unique and best SMS messaging apps for Android on the list. For the most part, it’s like any standard SMS app.
However, a back end will also allow you to send SMS messages from computers, tablets, and other devices.
Besides, it supports dual SIM devices, phone number blacklists, backup messages, and much more.
The messaging app that is part of it is entirely free. Those who also want to send SMS from computers, tablets, etc., can pay $0.99 per month or a one-time fee of $10.99. This is an excellent way to kill two birds with one stone.
6. QKSMS
QKSMS is among the easiest and best SMS messaging apps for Android. It’s open-source and always a good idea. Also, the application is equipped with many features.
Some of them include privacy features like blacklisting, Android Wear compatibility, and even a few accessibility features. Usage is what you would expect.
Given some messaging apps ‘ cumbersome nature, it won’t surprise you, but its simplicity is appreciated. It’s free with no ads. There are also optional in-app purchases, such as donations.
7. Textra SMS
Textra SMS is one of the most powerful and best SMS messaging apps on the Android list. This popular and modern SMS app is also one of the top-rated on the list.
It’s preinstalled with a theme selector (you select the colors yourself), dark mode, floating notifications, delayed send, swipe to delete, and many other features.
It also directly supports MightyText, Android Wear, Pushbullet, and others. You can use most of the features for free. There is an in-app purchase of $2.99 to unlock the pro version.
8. YAATA SMS
YAATA SMS is one of the few excellent pop-up messaging apps. It has many features, including support for group chat, sending scheduled messages, and full MMS support.
If one pays for the premium version, you’ll also get a blacklist for SMS, auto-reply, auto-forward, and the ability to backup and restore settings if you buy a new device.
It uses the material design and looks pretty good. It also has widgets and even chat heads similar to Facebook Messenger. There are errors, but many of them are not severe.
Conclusion
You don’t have to use all the best SMS messaging apps for Android for Android on your phone while choosing from a host of stellar apps on the Google App Store.
These alternative programs give you better functionality, look better, and are easy to install and uninstall. So, liven up your conversations with one of the above apps.
