Which One Should You Choose?
Posted: Tue May 20, 2025 4:45 am
Cost: Unlike the free app, using the WhatsApp Business Platform involves costs per conversation.
Technical Expertise: Requires developer resources or a partnership with a Business Solution Provider for integration and setup.
Message Template Approval: Proactive messages list of lebanon whatsapp phone numbers require WhatsApp's approval.
Opt-in Requirement: For both promotional and non-promotional messages initiated by the business, users must have provided their explicit consent (opt-in).
Key Differences Summarized:
Feature WhatsApp Business App WhatsApp Business API (Platform)
Target Audience Small businesses Medium to large businesses
Cost Free Per conversation-based pricing
Interface Mobile App APIs for integration
Number of Users
Limited (up to 5 linked devices) Unlimited
Automation Basic (greeting/away messages) Advanced chatbots and automation workflows
Integrations
Limited Extensive with CRM, etc.
Bulk Messaging Limited (256 contacts, opt-in & saved) Higher limits (opt-in required)
Verified Profile No official green tick Eligible for green tick verification
Message Templates Not supported Required for proactive notifications
Interactive Messages Limited support Full support for buttons and lists
Scalability Limited Highly scalable
Export to Sheets
Choose WhatsApp Business App if: You are a small business owner or solopreneur managing a limited number of customer interactions and need basic business features without complex integrations.
Choose WhatsApp Business API (Platform) if: Your business has a growing customer base, requires advanced automation, needs to integrate WhatsApp with other business systems, and wants to provide efficient, scalable customer support. The "coexistence model" might also be beneficial if you like the app interface but need more advanced features gradually.
By understanding these differences, you can select the WhatsApp Business solution that best aligns with your business size, communication needs, and growth objectives.
Technical Expertise: Requires developer resources or a partnership with a Business Solution Provider for integration and setup.
Message Template Approval: Proactive messages list of lebanon whatsapp phone numbers require WhatsApp's approval.
Opt-in Requirement: For both promotional and non-promotional messages initiated by the business, users must have provided their explicit consent (opt-in).
Key Differences Summarized:
Feature WhatsApp Business App WhatsApp Business API (Platform)
Target Audience Small businesses Medium to large businesses
Cost Free Per conversation-based pricing
Interface Mobile App APIs for integration
Number of Users
Limited (up to 5 linked devices) Unlimited
Automation Basic (greeting/away messages) Advanced chatbots and automation workflows
Integrations
Limited Extensive with CRM, etc.
Bulk Messaging Limited (256 contacts, opt-in & saved) Higher limits (opt-in required)
Verified Profile No official green tick Eligible for green tick verification
Message Templates Not supported Required for proactive notifications
Interactive Messages Limited support Full support for buttons and lists
Scalability Limited Highly scalable
Export to Sheets
Choose WhatsApp Business App if: You are a small business owner or solopreneur managing a limited number of customer interactions and need basic business features without complex integrations.
Choose WhatsApp Business API (Platform) if: Your business has a growing customer base, requires advanced automation, needs to integrate WhatsApp with other business systems, and wants to provide efficient, scalable customer support. The "coexistence model" might also be beneficial if you like the app interface but need more advanced features gradually.
By understanding these differences, you can select the WhatsApp Business solution that best aligns with your business size, communication needs, and growth objectives.