SMS (Short Message Service)
- Text-Based Communication: SMS is designed for sending plain text messages.
- Character Limit: Messages are usually capped at 160 characters. If a message exceeds this limit, it is split into multiple parts.
- No Data Required: SMS relies on the cellular network and doesn't need an internet connection, although it can use a small amount of data in some integrated messaging apps.
- Cost: Typically, SMS is included in most mobile plans, but costs can vary depending on the specific plan.
- Message Type: Ideal for simple, text-only communication.
MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service)
- Supports Multimedia: MMS enables sending images, videos, audio files, and longer text messages.
- No Character Limit: Unlike SMS, there is no strict character limit, but the size of the message is usually capped by carriers (between 300 KB and 3 MB).
- Requires Data: A mobile data connection is necessary to send and receive MMS messages.
- Cost: Generally more expensive than SMS, with costs depending on the plan and message size.
- Enhanced Content: Suitable for messages that include multimedia elements.
Message Content: SMS is restricted to text, while MMS supports multimedia (images, videos, audio).
Character and Size Limits: SMS messages are limited to 160 characters; MMS messages have no strict character limit but are subject to size constraints.
Data Usage: SMS does not need an internet connection, whereas MMS requires data.
Cost: Sending an MMS usually costs more than sending an SMS.
On Android devices, the default messaging app or third-party apps can handle both SMS and MMS, automatically managing the differences for the user.