SMS Notifications And Push Notifications: How Do They Differ?

Every second counts in customer communication. Whether it’s a payment reminder, a security alert, or a promotional message, businesses rely on text message notifications to keep customers informed and engaged. 

Two of the most effective notification methods are SMS notifications and push, which serve different purposes.

According to the stats, 90% of SMS messages are read within three minutes. Meanwhile, when used effectively, push notifications can increase app engagement rates by 88%.

But which one should your business use? This blog breaks down the key differences between SMS and push notifications, helping you determine the best fit for your communication strategy.

Let’s get started!

What Does SMS Notifications Mean?

SMS (Short Message Service) is a text-based communication method sent over cellular networks. Unlike some messaging platforms, SMS does not require an internet connection with accessibility, even in areas with limited data coverage. Each message typically has a 160-character limit.​

Additionally, you can try SMS Blast and send a single text message to a large group of recipients. It will also help you reach your target customers instantly.

How SMS Notifications Work?

• Sent via telecom providers using phone numbers.​
• It can originate from short or long codes or toll-free numbers.​
• User opt-in is mandatory to comply with regulations such as the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).​

Common Uses of SMS Notifications

• Appointment Reminders: Industries like healthcare and personal services utilize notification text to remind clients of upcoming appointments, reducing no-show rates.​
• Order Confirmations and Delivery Updates: E-commerce platforms send SMS notifications to inform customers about order statuses and shipping details.​
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Financial institutions and online services send verification codes via SMS, enhancing account security.​
• Emergency Alerts: Governments and organizations send SMS messages to disseminate urgent information, such as weather warnings or security alerts.​

What Are Push Notifications?

Push notifications are messages sent from applications to users' devices. They require the user to install the specific app and consent to receive notifications. 

Unlike SMS, push notifications can include rich media elements such as images, videos, and call-to-action (CTA) buttons.​ Additionally, the text message notification system works smoothly.

How Push Notifications Work?

• Sent from app servers through push notification services like Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or Apple Push Notification Service (APNs).​
• Delivery is contingent upon the device having an active internet connection.​
  

Common Uses Of Push Notifications

• App Updates and Feature Alerts: Notifying users about new features or updates to improve engagement.​
• Personalized Marketing Campaigns: Providing tailored promotions based on user behavior and preferences.​
• Cart Abandonment Reminders: E-commerce apps prompt users to complete purchases by reminding them of items left in their shopping carts.​
• Breaking News Information: News outlets and media apps provide immediate updates on significant events.​

Key Differences Between SMS And Push Notifications

Best Tool For SMS Notifications

Selecting the best tool that perfectly suits your business and provides results according to your goals. So, let’s check out this easy plus reasonable tool that suits your business.

HelloSend - Your All-In-One Solution

HelloSend is an all-in-one solution for your business. If you are looking for the most reasonable tool for your business, you must try this best CRM messaging tool.

It offers an easy-to-use platform with the best features. With a simple design, HelloSend makes SMS marketing smooth and fast. 

With its capability to send customized messages and quick updates, you can engage customers at the perfect moment, boosting high response rates and loyalty.

Book a free demo now to understand and explore HelloSend.

Key Features

• Text Automation: Schedule and send automated SMS messages to customers for reminders, updates, and promotions.
• Personalized SMS Campaigns: Create messages tailored to individual customer needs, improving engagement rates.
• Personalized Templates: Utilize customizable templates to maintain consistency and professionalism in communications.
• Unified Inbox: Manage all customer interactions from a single interface, ensuring no message goes unnoticed.
• Holistic Insights: This tool's insights will provide you with details. Gain insights from SMS and CRM data to view campaign performance.
  

Integration

HelloSend integrates easily with top CRM providers like:-

• Pipedrive
• Zoho CRM
  

You don't need to switch between different tools to send a text SMS to your contact. HelloSend sits inside your CRM and works closely with any workflow you create.
Click on Hellosend integrations to explore everything about HelloSend integration.

Affordable Pricing Plans:-

• Monthly: $15 per user/month - Min 3 users
• Yearly: $9 per user/month - Min 3 users
  

To learn more about it, please visit HelloSend pricing plans.

When To Use SMS Notifications?

• Urgent Messages: Situations like one-time passwords (OTPs) or fraud alerts necessitate swift delivery and high open rates.​
• Works Without Smartphones or Specific Apps: SMS ensures that users receive messages regardless of device type or installation.​
• Appointment Reminders: Ensures timely communication for scheduled services or transaction confirmations.

When To Use Push Notifications

• Engaging App Users with Updates: Push notifications notify users about special discounts, flash sales, or exclusive in-app events. They keep customers engaged without incurring additional costs. 
• Non-Urgent Messages that Improve User Experience: Businesses can use push notifications for loyalty rewards, gamification incentives, and periodic updates that don’t require immediate attention.
• Personalized Recommendations Based on User Behavior: E-commerce and streaming apps leverage push notifications to suggest relevant products, shows, or services, improving user retention and experience.

Best Practices For Push And SMS Notifications

For SMS Notifications:-

1) Follow Compliance Regulations

Businesses must adhere to TCPA, GDPR, and carrier regulations to avoid legal penalties and maintain consumer trust.

2) Provide a Clear Opt-in and Opt-out Process

Users should have control over receiving SMS notifications. Providing an easy opt-out option improves trust and compliance.

3)Avoid Spam and High-Frequency Messaging

Sending too many messages can lead to opt-outs and brand dissatisfaction. Limit texts to crucial, time-sensitive communications. Moreover, to understand more about SMS, check out master SMS marketing.

For Push Notifications:-

1) Allow Users to Customize Notification Preferences

Let users select which notifications they want to receive to enhance user engagement without being intrusive.

2) Keep Messages Concise and Valuable

Short, action-driven messages perform best. Cluttered or vague notifications may lead to app uninstalls.

3) Avoid Overloading Users with Notifications

Excessive push notifications can be perceived as spam, leading to notification fatigue and lower engagement rates.

Winding Up!

There is no one-size-fits-all solution in the battle of SMS vs. push notifications. SMS notifications excel in urgent, time-sensitive communication, while push notifications improve app user engagement. Businesses should assess their audience’s behavior, preferences, and message urgency when deciding between them.

Tools like HelloSend provide seamless integration, real-time analytics, and automated messaging solutions to simplify SMS notification service. This makes it easier for businesses to communicate effectively with customers.

Try HelloSend today for an optimized messaging strategy that improves engagement and customer satisfaction. Connect with us!