SMS vs MMS: What's the Difference?

What Is MMS Messaging?

MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) is a text marketing term for an SMS text message that also includes an image, video, audio, contact, or GIF file. Adding imagery to a text message can improve engagement rates by as much as 250%, with 61% of consumers saying they’re more likely to click and purchase a product via text when promoted with an image.

Most MMS text messages can contain up to 500 KB of data, enough for a 30-second audio or video file. Emoji can be used in regular SMS messages and are not specific to MMS marketing messaging.

Learn more about the difference between SMS and MMS 

The differences between SMS and MMS are easy to decipher:

• SMS is primarily for text-only messages up to 160 characters and are sent over cellular networks.
• MMS requires a data connection and allows for multimedia content like a picture, a short video, or audio. MMS messages also allow for messages longer than 160 characters.
• Another key difference between MMS and SMS is price. At EZ Texting, one SMS costs 1 credit to send, while MMS messages cost 3 credits per message.
• Finally, while SMS may be the right channel for convenience messaging, like reminders and notifications, MMS messages are often a better fit for promotional and marketing messages, where an image can make all the difference.

Compare SMS vs MMS

SMS Overview

• Character Count: 160 limit and can contain links and emoji
• Cost: 1 credit
• Use Cases: Critical Alerts, Instant Reminders, Notifications

• Data Connection: SMS does not require a data connection 

   

MMS Overview

• Character Count: MMS has no character count limit and can contain links and emoji, as well as an image, short video, or audio file
• Cost: 3 Credits
• Use Cases: Marketing, Promotions, Customer Support, Onboarding, Delivery Confirmations
• Data Connection: MMS does require a data connection to transmit 
   

Pros of SMS

The primary advantages of implementing SMS for reaching your audience include:

• SMS Messages are short and simple and can be read quickly and easily
• All native texting applications on mobile devices can receive SMS messages
• SMS is low cost and can be
• You can easily automate SMS to save time
• It’s easy to create and send SMS messages quickly with a message generator, like AI Compose
• SMS does not require an internet connection or cellular data, ensuring deliverability even when internet connectivity is impaired and allowing you to communicate with your audience anytime, anywhere

Cons of SMS

• SMS messages can fail to convey the excitement of a new product or service
• Each SMS message is limited to under 160 characters
• No or few formatting options
 

Pros of MMS

The advantages of using MMS to communicate with your audience include:

• MMS allows you to use images, video, and audio to communicate
• Including an image in MMS texts can improve engagement rates by more than 60%
• MMS messaging have no character count limits
• EZ Texting offers a best-in-class MMS experience with millions of images and a dynamic image editor powered by Shutterstock

Cons of MMS

• Sending an MMS costs more than sending an SMS
• MMS messages require a data connection to send and receive
• May not be supported by older mobile devices
• Slower to send and receive compared to SMS

Choosing between SMS and MMS depends on your business, product, and the goals of your message. Here’s when each strategy is best:

When to Send MMS

Use MMS when your message can benefit from a visual element—like showcasing products or services that catch the eye. MMS is perfect for engaging your audience with images, videos, or promotions that are visually compelling.

Example:
A bakery might send an MMS to showcase a new batch of freshly baked pastries with a photo to entice customers. 

When to Send SMS

Send SMS when you need a concise, to-the-point message—such as confirmations, alerts, or directing customers to a website. SMS is best for sending brief text instructions or time-sensitive information.

Example:
A clothing store might send an SMS to confirm a customer’s order.

Key Differences:

• MMS: Visual, great for engaging product photos, promotional content, and high-impact messaging.
• SMS: Short, efficient, and perfect for quick updates, alerts, or simple directions.

Important Considerations

• Cost: MMS tends to cost more than SMS, so be strategic about when to use it.
• Character Limit: SMS has a character limit, so it’s best for short, direct messages.
• Engagement: MMS tends to get more attention, especially when visual appeal can drive action, like making a purchase.
   

Start a free 14-day trial today and see how MMS and SMS can work for your business!