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SMS Character Counter

Total

0

Parts

1

Remaining

160

Encoding

GSM

1

Understanding SMS Character Limits

When it comes to SMS, there are two primary character limits to be aware of: the GSM character limit and the Unicode character limit.

GSM Character Limit

The GSM character limit is set at 160 characters per message. If your message exceeds this limit, it will be split into parts of 153 characters each. The reason for the reduction from 160 to 153 characters is to allow for data used to concatenate the messages together when they are received.

Unicode Character Limit

Unicode is used when a message contains non-GSM characters, such as emojis or certain symbols. The character limit for Unicode messages is significantly lower, capped at 70 characters per message. If you exceed this limit, your message will be split into parts of 67 characters each.

How GSM Messages Are Calculated

For GSM-encoded messages, the first 160 characters are considered one message. If you go over 160 characters, the text is divided into segments, each containing 153 characters.

Example:

  • A message with 160 characters counts as one message.
  • A message with 161 characters is split into two parts: the first with 153 characters and the second with 8 characters.

How Unicode Messages Are Calculated

Unicode messages, on the other hand, are calculated differently due to the presence of special characters. If even one Unicode character is present, the message limit drops to 70 characters, with each part containing 67 characters when split.

Example:

  • A message with 70 characters containing at least one Unicode character counts as one message.
  • A message with 71 characters is split into two parts: the first with 67 characters and the second with 4 characters.

The Role of Special Characters and Emojis

Special characters and emojis can drastically change the length of your SMS. Because they require Unicode encoding, the character limit is reduced to 70 characters. While emojis can add a fun and expressive element to your message, they also reduce the amount of text you can include in a single SMS.

Best Practices:

  • Use special characters and emojis sparingly.
  • Be aware that even a single special character can trigger Unicode encoding, reducing your character limit.

Why You Need an SMS Character Counter

An SMS character counter helps you:

  • Stay Within Limits: Ensure your message stays within the GSM or Unicode limits.
  • Avoid Extra Costs: Prevent your message from being split into multiple parts, which can incur additional charges.
  • Plan Your Messages: Help you strategically plan your messages, especially for marketing campaigns where every character counts.

How to Use an SMS Character Counter

Using an SMS character counter is straightforward:

  1. Paste or Type Your Text: Simply paste or type your message into the counter.
  2. Check the Results: The counter will display the total number of characters, the number of parts, and the remaining characters available.
  3. Adjust Accordingly: If your message is too long, you can edit it to fit within the desired character limit.

Common Scenarios Where SMS Character Counting is Crucial

Marketing Campaigns

For businesses, SMS is a powerful marketing tool. However, ensuring that your messages are concise and within the character limit is essential to avoid extra costs and maintain a professional appearance.

Personal Messaging

Whether you're sending a quick note to a friend or a more detailed message to a family member, staying within the character limit ensures your message is received as intended.

International Texting

When texting across borders, the cost can increase significantly if your message is split into multiple parts. An SMS character counter helps you manage this effectively.

Writing Effective SMS Messages

Keeping it Short and to the Point

The key to a successful SMS is brevity. Remove unnecessary words and focus on the core message. This not only helps you stay within the character limit but also makes your message clearer and more impactful.

Avoiding Text-Speak in Professional Messages

While text-speak might be acceptable in personal messages, it can come across as unprofessional in business communications. Stick to full words and proper grammar to ensure your message is understood by all recipients.

Making Your SMS Stand Out

Even with limited characters, your message can stand out. Use strong, emotive language to grab attention and convey your message effectively.

Optimizing SMS for Business

Crafting Compelling CTAs

A Call To Action (CTA) is essential in marketing messages. Make sure your CTA is clear, concise, and directs the recipient to the desired action.

Including Opt-Out Options

For compliance and customer satisfaction, always include an option to opt-out of marketing messages. This builds trust and ensures your communications are welcome.

Leveraging SMS for Customer Engagement

SMS is a direct line to your customers. Use it wisely to engage with them, provide updates, and offer promotions that add value to their experience.

Best Practices for SMS Messaging

Use of CAPITALS and Emojis

Capital letters can emphasize important points in your message. Emojis can convey emotions quickly, but they should be used sparingly to avoid reducing your character limit.

Limiting Unnecessary Information

Keep your SMS focused. Extra information can dilute your message and increase the risk of exceeding the character limit.

Ensuring Clarity and Conciseness

Every word counts in an SMS. Make sure your message is clear and easy to understand, with no room for misinterpretation.

Tools and Resources for SMS Messaging

Several tools are available to help you manage your SMS messaging:

  • Popular SMS Character Counters: These tools can help you stay within limits and optimize your message.
  • Other Helpful SMS Tools: Consider tools that offer analytics, scheduling, and message personalization to enhance your SMS campaigns.

Conclusion

SMS character counting might seem like a minor detail, but it plays a crucial role in effective communication. Whether you're sending a personal message or managing a marketing campaign, understanding how character limits work can save you money, ensure your message is delivered as intended, and keep your communication clear and concise.

FAQs

What is the maximum character limit for an SMS?

The maximum character limit for a standard GSM SMS is 160 characters. For Unicode messages, the limit is 70 characters.

How does Unicode affect SMS length?

Unicode encoding reduces the character limit to 70 characters per message. If the message exceeds 70 characters, it will be split into parts containing 67 characters each.

Can I use emojis in SMS without exceeding character limits?

Yes, but be cautious. Emojis trigger Unicode encoding, which reduces the character limit to 70 characters. Using emojis sparingly can help you stay within this limit.

Why is it important to count characters in SMS?

Counting characters ensures your message stays within the allowed limit, preventing it from being split into multiple parts, which can increase costs and lead to miscommunication.

How can I optimize my SMS for better communication?

To optimize your SMS, keep your message short, avoid unnecessary text-speak, and use strong CTAs. Use an SMS character counter to stay within limits and ensure clarity.