SMS is one of the most effective ways for small businesses to connect with customers. From order confirmations and booking reminders to special offers and updates, texts are far more likely to be read than emails. With SMS Fast, you get the right tools to send messages quickly and efficiently, taking your customer communication to the next level.
SMS marketing apps simplify the process, letting you send messages directly or automate communication based on booking calendars, marketing lists, or other integrated apps. They also allow customers to text you back, enabling two-way conversations.
As a tech writer with over a decade of experience, I’ve tested dozens of SMS marketing apps for small businesses. Based on my research, here are the best tools you can use:
1. SimpleTexting
Pros:
- Easy setup and management of marketing lists;
- Built-in tools for surveys and automation.
Cons:
- Sending individual messages can be clunky.
SimpleTexting is great for businesses running efficient campaigns. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to get started. The Campaigns tab lets you launch campaigns quickly, while the Keywords tab helps grow your contact list with unique keywords (e.g., customers texting “SAUSAGE” to 555888 join your deals list).
SMS app
Other features include autoresponders, marketing tools for surveys and polls, and robust analytics tracking subscriber growth, keyword performance, and more. SimpleTexting even supports team collaboration with features like conversation notes and user assignments. It’s a top pick for marketing-focused SMS campaigns.
For added privacy or testing purposes, you can also consider using a temporary phone number to manage communications without sharing your personal or business line.
2. Textmagic
Pros:
- Easy-to-use web app;
- Flexible pay-as-you-go pricing.
Cons:
- Limited automation.
Textmagic is perfect for small businesses seeking a no-frills SMS solution. Its interface gets straight to the point: sending texts. You can send messages using the platform’s number (with replies handled there) or your own number (so replies go directly to your phone).
Build contact lists by importing from Excel, adding numbers manually, or saving numbers from incoming texts. The Scheduled tab lets you plan recurring messages, and pre-made templates simplify repeated texts like appointment confirmations.
With pay-as-you-go pricing, you’re not locked into contracts. Buy credits, get a virtual number for $10/month, and send texts starting at $0.049 each. For flexibility and simplicity, Textmagic is a great choice.
3. Textla
Pros:
- Affordable pricing;
- Simple to use.
Cons:
- No native integrations (only via Zapier).
Textla is budget-friendly and easy to use. Its onboarding survey helps set up campaigns, and customer support is prompt — I received a follow-up text and voicemail within a day.
The app is straightforward, with tools to manage campaigns, contacts, and analytics. Pricing starts at $19/month, with texts costing just $0.005 each (one cent for every 20 texts) — far cheaper than most competitors.
While simple, Textla delivers solid functionality, making it a great option for businesses on a budget.
4. SlickText
Pros:
- Great tools for collecting numbers via forms and pop-ups;
- Comprehensive features like loyalty programs and contests.
Cons:
- May feel excessive for basic texting
SlickText is versatile and full of features, from marketing tools to an inbox for one-on-one conversations. Its Marketing Tools section is especially strong, offering web forms, text surveys, coupons, contests, and loyalty programs.
Message
Sending messages is easy — just choose your list, compose your text, and send it immediately, schedule it, or set it to repeat. SlickText’s polished templates make it quick to collect numbers and start campaigns.
With its ease of use and creative tools, SlickText is ideal for businesses looking to grow their SMS lists and engage customers.
Comparison Table: Best SMS Apps for Small Businesses
| App | Best For | Price Highlights | Pros | Cons |
| SimpleTexting | Marketing campaigns & automation | Custom pricing | – Easy setup
– Survey & poll tools – Autoresponders |
Clunky for sending 1-on-1 messages |
| Textmagic | No-frills, pay-as-you-go texting | $10/month + $0.049/text | – Intuitive web app
– Flexible usage |
Limited automation |
| Textla | Budget-conscious businesses | From $19/month, $0.005/text | – Very affordable
– Fast support |
Lacks direct integrations (Zapier only) |
| SlickText | List building, loyalty & engagement | Custom pricing | – Rich marketing tools
– Forms, coupons, contests |
Too feature-heavy for basic needs |