SlickText Alternatives: 9 Top Business Messaging Platforms

SlickText is an SMS marketing platform that helps businesses grow subscriber lists, send bulk messages, and run automated campaigns. Its opt-in forms and keyword campaigns are especially popular with small and medium-sized businesses seeking to engage customers via text.

Many customers seek alternatives to SlickText due to the following issues:

• Costs increase significantly as subscriber numbers grow, making pricing less predictable and more expensive for larger lists.

• Personalization options are limited, so you can't easily customize messages for specific customer groups.

• You can't manage campaigns from a mobile app.

• International messaging isn't available, since the platform only works in the U.S. and Canada.

• The platform doesn't include a built-in CRM for managing contacts or campaigns.

This article highlights SlickText alternatives with advanced messaging features, broader international reach, and pricing models that scale with your marketing needs.

A quick feature comparison of SlickText alternatives

Below is a side-by-side feature comparison of each SlickText alternative to help you evaluate your options.

Key features to look for in a SlickText alternative

If you are looking for an alternative to SlickText, consider your unique messaging needs. Be it SMS marketing, customer support, or appointment reminders, the choice of platform should be driven by your business objectives and growth goals.

Reliability and deliverability will also be important, so choose a platform with a proven track record of delivering messages, especially for critical communications like appointment reminders, confirmations, and authentication codes. Also, look for a platform that offers fallback options to ensure your messages reach your customers.

Scalability and pricing effectiveness can also be important attributes. Use a platform with clear, predictable pricing and no hidden fees. Pay-as-you-go plans are good for occasional, low-volume messaging, while volume-based subscriptions are better for regularly sending bulk SMS.

Automation capabilities can also clearly distinguish between basic and advanced platforms. Your ability to develop drip campaigns, automated workflows, and triggered messages will surely boost customer engagement and save you and your team time. Look for tools that let you schedule messages, personalize texts at scale, and automate message generation based on customer actions.

If you want to send more than just SMS, choose a platform that also supports MMS, email, WhatsApp, or voice messages.

Easy-to-use platforms and responsive customer support help your team work better. If the software is intuitive, anyone can run campaigns without training. It's also essential to have fast support, ideally by phone or live chat, which is available when you need help.

Make sure you also check the platform’s ability to integrate with existing tools, such as a CRM or business software. Look for good features in the platform, such as customizable web forms, integrations, and/or API access to ease your existing processes.

1. Messente

Messente is a comprehensive business messaging solution that provides an omnichannel API for sending SMS, Viber, and WhatsApp messages worldwide through a single integration. Established ten years ago in Estonia, Messente delivers SMS with a known global delivery rate of 98% and provides hands-on support when needed to messaging teams that rely on reliable, scalable communication capacity.

Core features

Listed below are some key features that set Messente apart in a crowded market filled with potential alternatives to SlickText.

Unified API across messaging channels

Messente's unified API lets you connect SMS, WhatsApp, and Viber through a single integration, so you don't have to set up each channel separately. This makes it easy for businesses to reach customers on the channels they prefer.

For instance, your team can send rich content via WhatsApp or Viber, and use SMS as a backup to make sure your message always gets through.

Enterprise-grade deliverability and reliability

One of Messente's key value propositions is message deliverability. Messente's deliverability is around 98%, driven by intelligent routing algorithms and partnerships with nearly 1,000 mobile operators worldwide, supporting SMS in 197 countries. Messente supports delivery of up to 9,000 messages per minute and enables high-volume messaging for bulk SMS campaigns and time-sensitive alerts.

Scalable for mid-sized to large businesses

Messente's infrastructure is designed to grow with your business, whether you're sending regional campaigns or managing global messaging.

The platform can handle thousands of messages per minute and connects with nearly 1,000 mobile operators in over 190 countries. You can also set up role-based access controls to ensure your team members have access to the data they need to do their jobs.

Easy to use for marketers

Despite any technical capabilities, Messente has user-friendly features that allow nontechnical users to access it easily. The web dashboard also includes no-code tools, making it easy to import contacts, create contact lists, build audience segments, and customize templates to schedule messages.

Focus on security and compliance

Messente has strong security standards for handling customer communications. In addition to customer security, the platform is compliant with GDPR, DORA, and ISO, ensuring customer data is protected in accordance with European standards.

The platform's fraud detection systems identify potential scams and alert users about any signs of fraud. Blacklisting is now available for known fraudulent numbers, in addition to alerting users. The platform also helps its customers remain compliant with the SMS regulations so their campaigns are not flagged.

Responsive customer support

Messente offers responsive customer support to all clients, with faster response times and a dedicated account manager for higher-tier plans. Every customer can reach a real person for help. Higher-tier customers get replies in under an hour and can use private Slack channels for support. This quick support is valuable since messaging can impact your revenue and security.

Why Messente is better than SlickText

SlickText mainly offers SMS marketing and only works in a few countries. Messente, on the other hand, is an all-in-one solution that lets you send SMS, WhatsApp, and Viber messages through a single API. This omnichannel approach helps businesses connect with clients in real time across different messaging channels, not just basic text messages.

Because Messente connects with mobile operators across 197 countries, it is far superior to SlickText, which focuses on the U.S. and Canadian markets. Messente includes nearly 1,000 mobile operator teams every day, providing businesses with reliable send processes to many countries.

Messente makes pricing simple and transparent, with no hidden fees for support, delivery reports, or fraud protection. Their pricing page includes a calculator so you can estimate costs based on destination, volume, and channel. You can choose between pay-as-you-go or fixed volume plans, and all pricing details are clearly listed. In contrast, SlickText's tiered plans can become expensive as your subscriber list grows.

Potential drawbacks

Messente does not have a mobile app right now, which can be a downside for teams that want to manage campaigns while away from their desks. The interface has improved with user feedback, but if you need strong mobile features or a more advanced app with an SMS chatbot, you may have to choose a different provider. Messente also does not include built-in voice calling or email marketing, which some other platforms offer.

2. EZ Texting

EZ Texting is one of the SMS marketing industry's most established companies, having been in business since 2004. Its features are geared towards bulk text messaging, automated campaigns, and content creation tools powered by artificial intelligence.

Key features

• Mass texting and multimedia messages for sending marketing messages and promotional offers

• Mobile applications for iOS and Android can be used to manage campaigns on the go

• An AI composer tool can assist users in completing the messaging content rapidly

• A stock image catalog via Shutterstock can be leveraged in MMS campaigns

• Contact management capabilities with the option to segment an audience and group contacts

• Message scheduling and the ability to send recurring messages for frequent, pre-determined announcements
  

Why EZ Texting is better than SlickText

EZ Texting offers a mobile app that provides the flexibility often requested by SlickText users, making it a comparable service.

With a long history in SMS marketing campaigns, EZ Texting has demonstrated stability and performance over its competitors and is a more affordable option, especially for businesses with a smaller contact list. The AI-powered content tools and the stock image integration with Shutterstock can help marketers quickly create effective campaigns more easily than doing so on their own.

Potential drawbacks

Some users report that EZ Texting’s interface feels outdated compared to more modern platforms. The service may lack advanced automation tools desired by experienced marketers, and performance can be slow when sending large bulk messages.

3. SimpleTexting

SimpleTexting is an SMS marketing platform featuring an intuitive interface and robust automation capabilities. It is well-suited for organizations seeking advanced automation without technical expertise.

Key features

• Advanced automation allows drip campaigns, automated responses, and triggers based on needs and behavior.

• Two-way messaging, shared inbox to manage conversations with customers

• AI-assisted generation of message content

• Contact segmentation, custom fields for targeted messaging

• Zapier integration, connecting thousands of other tools used in business

• Familiar with franchise and multi-location features for enterprise teams
  

Why SimpleTexting is better than SlickText

SimpleTexting stands out for its strong automation features, which many users say they want from SlickText.

Its visual workflow builder lets you create complex automated sequences without any programming knowledge. The clean, modern interface is easy to learn, and setup is faster than with SlickText. Pricing is also more competitive, and you can try all features free for 14 days with no commitment.

Potential drawbacks

SimpleTexting’s costs can add up quickly if you purchase add-ons, add users, or buy extra phone numbers. Some users have found the mobile app to be glitchy or slow, especially with notifications and message timing. Others mention that the reporting tools, while useful, lack the detail found in more expensive enterprise platforms.

4. Textedly

Textedly offers a great combination of features and affordability. Therefore, it has a significant user base of small businesses, organizations, or entrepreneurs seeking SMS marketing without the higher cost. It is well-known for offering comprehensive features at a low price point.

Key features

• 14-day free trial with 50 text messages and a dedicated phone number

• Enables bulk SMS and MMS and allows scheduling to send messages

• Text-to-join keywords and customizable signup forms to build your list, aka sign-ups

• Automated responses and two-way messaging

• The platform is very approachable for non-technical users

• Attach images and upload a contact
  

Why Textedly is better than SlickText

Textedly gives a very affordable option for professional SMS marketing without burning a hole in your pockets. The free plan is very generous, allowing some testing before anyone is locked into paying.

Consistently, users have talked about how easy it is to use and how well their group communication works. In fact, users rave about Textedly's customer support and wish more companies were as responsive. If you are a business that does SMS marketing and your budget is tight, Textedly is a great option.

Potential drawbacks

Unused credits also do not roll over, which could deter customers who use the platform seasonally. Some users have called for better search and contact management options, as well as greater integration capabilities.

5. Twilio

Twilio is a cloud-based client communication platform that features customizable APIs for SMS, MMS, WhatsApp, voice, video, and email. While Twilio isn't a one-size-fits-all SMS marketing platform, it provides developers with the core building blocks to create a messaging solution tailored to their specific business needs.

Key features

• Programmable APIs for SMS, MMS, voice, video, and other communication channels  

• Global SMS service in 180 countries around the world

• Scalable infrastructure supported by some of the world's largest enterprises

• Pay-as-you-go pricing based on actual use, paid monthly

• Comprehensive documentation and example code in multiple programming languages
  

Why Twilio is better than SlickText

Twilio provides the most control and flexibility, while SlickText packages everything into a platform.

If a business finds Twilio's offerings limiting or missing features, it can build a solution that meets its needs. The support, documentation, and developer-friendly interface provide flexibility to implement and scale a custom Twilio text messaging service while only paying for what is used. Pay-as-you-go pricing is also attractive for companies with inconsistent messaging needs.

Potential drawbacks

Twilio requires programming and regulatory resources to implement and maintain. Companies without dedicated technical teams may find Twilio impractical compared to ready-to-use platforms like SlickText.

6. TextMagic

TextMagic is a business messaging service focused on helping businesses reach their customers worldwide with simple, reliable, affordable texting solutions and no hidden fees. TextMagic focuses on bulk SMS messaging and two-way conversations with transparent pay-as-you-go pricing.

Key features

• Global messaging capabilities in over 190 countries

• No monthly fees or hidden fees with Pay-As-You-Go pricing

• Two-way SMS text messages with a shared inbox for customer conversations

• Email-to-SMS capability to send messages through email clients

• BYOC (Bring Your Own Carrier) option for enterprise flexibility

• Limited multi-channel support (can send Facebook and WhatsApp messages)
  

Why TextMagic is better than SlickText

TextMagic is a simple pay-as-you-go solution that provides the clarity and transparency SlickText users often want. Its services are accessible globally, with coverage superior to SlickText's focus on the US and Canada, making it ideal for international business.

The Email-to-SMS functionality lets SMS fit into your current routines and workflows without complex integration. TextMagic is an excellent alternative for businesses tired of unclear pricing and rising costs.

Potential drawbacks

Recent reviews mention issues with poor or unresponsive customer support, 10DLC-related delivery failure, message delivery failure, and price increases.

TextMagic's reporting and analytics are basic and do not offer the sophisticated marketing automation that competitors do. With per-message pricing, high-volume senders can find costs mounting beyond some competitors' subscription models.

7. Omnisend

Omnisend is a marketing automation platform that routes all messages, email, and SMS messaging for ecommerce brands in one place with strong ecommerce structures. Omnisend offers native integrations for all popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce.

Key features

• Management of email and SMS campaigns in a single interface

• Deep ecommerce connectors for capturing detailed customer data for tailoring

• Product picker for including products directly in messages

• Pre-defined automation workflows for cart abandonment and purchase follow-ups

• Sophisticated customer segments based on shopping patterns and order history

• Drip campaigns combining email and SMS for sophisticated nurturing
  

Why Omnisend is better than SlickText

For ecommerce businesses, Omnisend's advanced features provide more value than SlickText's basic SMS marketing. Deep integrations with ecommerce platforms allow segmentation and personalized messaging based on browsing behavior, order history, and customer segments that would require custom development in SlickText.

Pre-designed workflows for cart abandonment, welcome series, and order follow-ups help online businesses capture more revenue while providing sophisticated marketing quickly. Omnisend's all-in-one platform lets you manage email and SMS marketing from one interface.

Potential drawbacks

Omnisend's ecommerce focus means many features are irrelevant to non-retail businesses. Companies in services, healthcare, and other industries will find limited value in ecommerce-specific features.

Omnisend offers 24/7 live chat support even on free plans, but support can be hit or miss, and some staff may be unhelpful or slow. The per-contact price, even for lower-tier plans, means growing lists can become expensive.

8. Podium

Podium is a comprehensive customer interaction platform designed to help local businesses manage their online reputation, collect payments, and communicate with customers. Its holistic approach provides one solution to multiple customer communication needs.

Key features

• Webchat widget that converts website visitors to text message conversations

• Review collection and reputation management tools on platforms such as Google and Facebook

• Collect payments via text for easy payment flows and collection

• Centralized inbox to manage conversations across all the channels

• Teamwork features, including a team shared inbox

• Capture and manage leads
  

Why Podium is better than SlickText

Podium's approach appeals to local businesses looking to consolidate customer engagement tools. Podium also has strong reputation management and payment collection features not available on SlickText, going beyond SMS-only platforms. Many users say Podium is easier to set up than other tools, including SlickText, and is designed for simplicity for non-technical business owners.

Potential drawbacks

Podium does not list pricing on its site, so customers must contact sales for a quote. Its SMS marketing features are not as strong as dedicated SMS platforms, and advanced marketing automation may require add-ons. Some users criticize Podium's cancellation policy, which requires a 30-day notice and minimum contract terms.

9. Salesmsg

Salesmsg is a business text messaging platform specifically designed to serve the needs of sales teams. It enables sales representatives to connect with leads via two-way texting and eventually close leads through a texting conversation or a stand-alone phone call. The platform is focused on sales-specific workflows and can tightly integrate with a company's CRM.

Key features

• Two-way texting for each lead to have their own text conversation

• Deep CRM integration with HubSpot and Salesforce

• Shared inbox and teamwork features to manage the sales pipeline

• Automated workflows for follow-up and reminders for appointments

• Targeted messaging campaigns based on contact segmentation

• Multi-user team member management with permissions
  

Why Salesmsg is better than SlickText

For sales teams, Salesmsg offers a focused approach that gives each team member more value than SlickText's general marketing focus.

Deep CRM integrations ensure activity is synced in real time, giving the team an immediate view of all sales conversations. Its emphasis on one-on-one conversations with leads is a better fit for sales workflows than bulk marketing messages. Users praise Salesmsg for affordable monthly fees, easy setup, and responsive customer service.

Potential drawbacks

For teams focused mainly on marketing campaigns, Salesmsg is likely not a good fit due to its sales-specific workflows. Some users mention that the mobile apps can be sluggish or glitchy with high message volumes, and there are occasional problems with attachments and URL tracking. Overall, customer service is well-received, but there are complaints about delays during busy times.

A glance at the top 9 SlickText alternatives

Before you decide on an SMS marketing platform, compare the essential features like target users, pricing models, and free trials to identify the platform that aligns with your SMS marketing needs.

Choosing the right SlickText alternative for your unique needs

Selecting a suitable alternative to SlickText is reliant on your unique business needs and priorities. If your business serves customers outside your country, a platform with broad capabilities and a reputable international delivery service should be high on your priority list. Obviously, Messente, or TextMagic, would be a natural fit.

If you are an ecommerce business, one of Omnisend's best features is its native integrations with Shopify and WooCommerce for cart abandonment and purchase-triggered campaigns. If you have a sales team that needs synced conversations and CRM workflows, consider Salesmsg, which offers its own set of tools for sales workflows and still supports syncing.

If you are a marketing team focused on complex automation and timing campaign workflows, SimpleTexting has a very easy-to-use workflow builder and features that marketers love. If you are a small business concerned about cost, Textedly has reasonable pricing and generous free trials, which also make excellent sense.

If your business needs to reach customers through more than just SMS, Messente is a strong choice since it supports SMS, WhatsApp, and Viber with one API. Their pricing is flexible, and they maintain high global deliverability. For teams that want full customization, Twilio’s programmable APIs are a good fit. If you value reliability and a proven track record, EZ Texting is a dependable option for established businesses.

The best way to choose is to try out each platform’s free trial. See how you like the interface, check if it integrates with your current tools, and make sure the features fit your needs. Look for clear pricing that grows with your business, helpful support, and advanced options like automation and segmentation to keep your customers engaged.

If you’re interested in reliable global messaging with multi-channel support and strong security, try Messente’s omnichannel platform. Sign up for a free trial to see how it can help your business connect with customers through SMS, WhatsApp, and Viber using one API.