TextNow vs Smart Messages: Free Texting & Calling Compared
TextNow is ideal for users who want a free phone number for unlimited calling and texting over a cellular or Wi-Fi network, with optional data plans. Smart Messages is a feature-rich SMS/MMS/RCS replacement app for those who want modern chat features like read receipts and typing indicators without changing their number. Both are free but serve different primary needs: TextNow provides a full phone service, while Smart Messages enhances your existing texting experience.
TextNow: Call + Text Unlimited
Recommended- Rating
- ★ 4.59
- Downloads
- 100,000,000+
- Developer
- TextNow, Inc.
Call and text for free with TextNow, the free phone service with over 100 million users. Get nationwide coverage with unlimited talk and text on 5G—starting at $0/month. Your phone service should work on your terms. No phone bill, no fixed contracts, no hidden fees. What makes…
Pros
- Free phone number with unlimited talk and text
- Nationwide coverage with 5G data options
- Low-cost international calling rates
- Over 100 million users, well-established service
- Works on Wi-Fi and cellular data
Cons
- Free tier includes ads
- Data speeds may be throttled on free plan
- Requires internet connection for calls and texts
Smart Messages is the Best SMS, MMS & RCS (Chat) replacement texting app for your phone, with the greatest advanced and rich chat features for a gorgeous and fast texting experience with your friends. And the best part? It’s all completely free! Rich Communication Features Smar…
Pros
- Rich RCS features like read receipts and typing indicators
- Completely free with no ads
- Gorgeous, modern interface
- Works with your existing phone number
- Supports SMS, MMS, and RCS
Cons
- Only enhances carrier messaging, not a standalone service
- RCS features depend on carrier support
- Fewer than 10 million installs, less established
Final Verdict
Our pick: TextNow: Call + Text Unlimited
For users needing a free phone number and unlimited calling/texting, TextNow is the clear winner with its nationwide coverage and low-cost international calling. Smart Messages excels as a replacement messaging app with rich RCS features, but it relies on your carrier's SMS/MMS. If you want a standalone phone line, choose TextNow. If you want to upgrade your default texting app, choose Smart Messages. Overall, TextNow offers more value for communication beyond basic texting.
TextNow: Call + Text Unlimited Screenshots
Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.
Smart Messages Screenshots
Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which app has a higher rating?
TextNow has a higher rating of 4.58 compared to Smart Messages' 4.18.
Can I use these apps offline?
Both require internet: TextNow needs Wi-Fi or cellular data for calls/texts; Smart Messages needs mobile data or Wi-Fi for RCS features, but SMS/MMS may work without data if carrier supports it.
Do these apps have ads?
TextNow has ads on the free plan; Smart Messages is ad-free.
What are the device requirements?
Both require Android 5.0 or higher. TextNow also needs a data connection; Smart Messages works on most Android phones with SMS/MMS capability.
Which app should I choose for a free second phone number?
Choose TextNow, as it provides a dedicated free phone number and unlimited calling/texting. Smart Messages only enhances your existing carrier number.
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