20+ Difference between Texting And Messaging (Explained)

Texting and messaging are two popular modes of communication, but their underlying technology and functionality differ.

Texting is the exchange of short textual messages via cellular networks, most commonly via SMS, while instant messaging includes a greater range of communication techniques, such as SMS, instant messaging apps, and social media platforms, and provides more diverse capabilities, such as multimedia sharing and group conversations.

Texting vs Messaging – Comparison

ParameterTextingMessaging
DefinitionTexting electronic composition that transmits messages between devices.Messaging composing digital messages and transmitting them via an app.
Time of usageTexting quick & convenient communication, enabling real-time messaging.Messaging is a relatively newer form of communication and has gained popularity recently.
Type of messagesText messages sent with alphanumeric characters, limited to text-only communication.Messaging allows a sender to send messages containing media files and text messages. 
Method of communicationFor texting, no additional applications are required for transmitting.Texting electronic composition transmitting messages between devices
The necessity of the internetFor this method of communication, an internet connection is not required.Messaging requires an internet connection mandatorily.
Type of deviceA smartphone or gadget is not necessary for texting. Any two compatible devices can be used.For messaging, a smartphone is necessary.
difference between texting and messaging

What Is Texting?

The act of sending and receiving textual messages via mobile devices or computers is referred to as texting.

Texting often entails typing messages on a keyboard or touchscreen, which are subsequently delivered via cellular networks or internet connections. Because of its convenience, speed, and universal availability, this mode of communication has grown in popularity.

Abbreviations, emoticons, and other symbols are frequently used in text to indicate emotions or condense texts.

features of texting

Types Of Texting

There are several types of texting, each serving different purposes and contexts. Here are some common types:

  • 1 Personal texting: Casual conversations between friends and family, sharing updates, and making plans.
  • 2 Business texting: Professional communication for colleagues, clients, and customer support.
  • 3 Group texting: Coordinating activities and discussions among multiple individuals.
  • 4 SMS (Short Message Service): Standard texting using mobile devices for short text messages.
  • 5 MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service): Sending multimedia content like pictures and videos along with text.
  • 6 Instant Messaging (IM): Real-time text-based communication over the internet with features like read receipts and multimedia sharing.
  • 7 Online Chat: Text-based communication on websites and applications for customer service or discussions.

What Is Messaging?

The act of exchanging written or multimedia messages between individuals via various platforms or applications is referred to as messaging.

It includes methods of communication other than text, such as instant messaging, internet chat, and social media messaging.

Messaging enables individuals to send and receive messages, share data, and engage in discussions across several devices and platforms, allowing for real-time or asynchronous conversations.

features of messaging

Types Of Messaging

There are various types of messaging used for communication purposes. Here are some common types:

  • 1 Text Messaging: Exchanging written messages via mobile devices or computers, including SMS and MMS.
  • 2 Instant Messaging (IM): Real-time text-based communication over the internet with features like multimedia sharing.
  • 3 Social Media Messaging: Sending direct messages on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
  • 4 Email Messaging: Sending and receiving written messages and files over the internet.
  • 5 Video Messaging: Exchanging recorded video messages through messaging apps or video platforms.
  • 6 Voice Messaging: Sending audio recordings as messages.
  • 7 Enterprise Messaging: Secure and collaborative communication platforms for businesses and teams.

Difference Between Texting And Messaging

Texting relies on cellular networks, while messaging requires internet connectivity. Messaging provides greater flexibility in message length and multimedia capabilities compared to texting.

Equipment required:

  • Texting – Any two compatible devices that can be used to transmit texts. A smartphone or a piece of modern equipment is not mandatory. All devices allow texting by default, but messaging might not be possible.
  • Messaging – For messaging, a smartphone is essential. A modern laptop or desktop with an internet connection can also be used.

    This type of communication is not set up in any device by default. Users must install and sign up on a common platform or application to communicate. 

Internet:

  • Texting – For texting, an internet connection is not necessary.
  • Messaging – Having a stable internet connection to send messages is compulsory

Platform:

  • Texting – For texting, no particular platform is necessary. The two devices being used for communication need to be compatible with each other. Thus, it can be said that this form of communication is independent. 
  • Messaging – Messaging always requires a platform or application for transmitting messages. Both the receiver and the sender must use the same platform. Otherwise, the receiver will be incapable of accessing the message. 

Limit:

  • Texting– A major drawback is that all texts have a character limit. Therefore, a long message that crosses the allowed limit will not be transmitted. 
  • Messaging – In contrast to texting, messaging has no character limit. Thus, a person can send a message of any length. 

Security:

  • Texting– In comparison to messaging, texting is much less secure. There are no encryption protocols that can safeguard the conversation.
  • Messages – Most widely used messaging applications or platforms contain strong encryption protocols that provide greater security.

Distance: 

  • Texting – Additional packages must be installed to send texts overseas to allow message transmission.
  • Messaging- All messages can be sent effortlessly from anywhere in the world. Additional costs or charges are not applied. 

Cost:

  • Texting – Texting applies charges to each message sent. Domestic texts cost lesser, whereas international texts are costlier.
  • Acoustic – The process of sending messages does not require any additional cost. The sender can send a message to one or multiple people worldwide. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Are texting and messaging the same?

No, texting and messaging are not the same. Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are very distinctive differences between the two methods of communication.

Q2. What is the average word limit of text messages?

Although the number can vary depending on the device, text messages generally allow only 160 characters per text.

Q3. Which one is faster, texting or messaging?

Messaging is much faster than text.

Q4. What is the preferred mode of communication for international purposes?

For sending a message internationally, instant messaging is the preferred mode of communication. This is because this process is faster and does not incur additional expenses for transmission. 

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