4 Best Zipwhip Alternative Picks for Better Business Texting

Zipwhip’s shutdown led many businesses to rethink how they manage customer communication.

Text messaging has become a primary channel for sales, support, recruiting, and service teams. Losing that capability is not a small disruption.

If you're searching for a dependable Zipwhip alternative, the decision goes beyond replacing a tool. You need to choose a platform that strengthens how your organization communicates every day.

In this article, we will break down what to look for in a Zipwhip alternative, compare leading platforms, examine each of their advanced features, and help you evaluate which solution fits your operational needs.

TL;DR

These are the four best Zipwhip alternatives in 2026:

1. TextUs
2. Sinch Engage
3. TrueDialog
4. Whippy

What Happened to Zipwhip?

Zipwhip was a popular business texting service that enabled companies to send and receive automated text messages via existing landline or toll-free numbers. Many teams used it for customer communication, appointment reminders, customer service, and internal alerts.

In early 2021, Zipwhip was acquired by Twilio. After the acquisition, Twilio continued to operate Zipwhip while planning its transition strategy.

Eventually, service for Zipwhip customers was scheduled to end. Existing users received notices that the product would be phased out and that support and access would stop after a certain date.

This shutdown left many large organizations and small businesses searching for a reliable replacement platform.

Some even risked losing access to message history, and others were worried about losing their phone numbers if porting was not completed on time. Sales and support conversations were also interrupted during the change.

As a result, many Zipwhip users began searching for a stable alternative built for long-term business texting.

4 Best Zipwhip Alternatives in 2026

Zipwhip’s shutdown left many organizations looking for alternatives that can handle two-way conversations, support automation, and provide reliable delivery.

Here are four alternatives that focus on enterprise-ready SMS solutions that serve sales, support, operations, and service teams.

1. TextUs

TextUs is a great Zipwhip alternative built for business text messaging. You can manage 1:1 SMS conversations and outbound sends without pushing staff into switching platforms.

The platform supports automated messaging workflows and sequences. You can set up multi-step SMS cadences that send text follow-ups, drip-style messages, and reminders.

TextUs’s Salesforce integration lets you send and receive texts from Salesforce records, sync contacts automatically, and log all text conversations back to contact and lead profiles.

Its SMS marketing automation features include templates, merge fields for personalization, and keyword triggers that route replies into specific flows or actions.

TextUs provides explicit support for SMS compliance with US carrier A2P rules, a key requirement when transitioning from Zipwhip.

During registration, you need to provide details such as how contacts opt in, sample message content, and links to privacy and terms pages. Carriers review that information before approving message traffic.

TextUs also documents how consent can be collected through different methods, such as web forms, SMS keyword opt-ins, or written agreements. 

The documentation explains that proof of permission must match the message type being sent and must be available during carrier review.

If you want more control over message routing, TextUs provides an API access that includes endpoints for conversations, messages, opt-outs, and conversation assignments. 

If you're replacing Zipwhip and want business texting tied to CRM records and shared inbox workflows, book a demo with TextUs today!

2. Sinch Engage

Sinch Engage (formerly MessageMedia) is a business messaging platform that supports bulk SMS and MMS, with added channel options such as WhatsApp.

Two-way texting is available through a messaging inbox, along with integration options that route inbound replies into connected systems. 

Sinch also outlines ways to link two-way SMS with other platforms, which allows replies to trigger updates or actions outside the messaging interface.

It also supports mass texting, automation, reporting, personalization, and an integrations marketplace. Support pages also describe webhooks that push events like inbound SMS to your app, which supports custom two-way builds with the API plus callbacks.

It offers automation features such as auto-replies, forward-to-email options, and rule-based message handling. Reporting tools provide campaign-level insights and delivery tracking inside the platform, with SMS and MMS campaign analytics available depending on plan and region.

However, some users mention limits around account controls, such as missing two-factor authentication options, and difficulty with notification setup. 

Others also reference mixed support experiences, so your review screening should include admin controls, alert handling, and support access.

3. TrueDialog

TrueDialog is an enterprise SMS platform that supports group messaging and two-way SMS. Its main feature set includes campaign sending, analytics, integrations, deliverability focus, and compliance support designed for business texting programs.

Two-way SMS coverage includes SMS and MMS support and guidance around opt-ins, opt-outs, and staying current with common US requirements. It also frames compliance support as part of the platform, which can reduce admin work tied to carrier rules.

TrueDialog also has dedicated 10DLC and A2P content. The platform describes registration support for business messaging programs and explains how registration works for long-code messaging.

The platform's integration coverage includes native, no-code ties with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and marketing automation tools.

This includes Salesforce, HubSpot, Marketo, Eloqua, and Microsoft Dynamics 365, plus support content that documents use inside platforms like HubSpot and Dynamics.

Some users report workflow limits tied to access and stability. Reviews mention needing to stay logged in on a computer for SMS work, which can limit flexibility for staff who want mobile-first texting.

Other feedback points to connection problems, such as frequent logouts, which can interrupt replies and slow down daily inbox work.

4. Whippy

Whippy is an AI-powered omnichannel platform that brings SMS, email, WhatsApp, and voice calls into one platform.

The platform provides an inbox with shared message access, conversation assignment, read or write visibility, and message templates for repeat replies. It also offers template support for media like PDFs so that you can reuse approved content inside messages.

Whippy also offers outbound texting marketing campaigns with dynamic fields, images, and link tracking for outreach messages. It also provides reporting tools focused on response, click, and unsubscribe rates, plus quick follow-up actions from campaign results.

Whippy’s help center adds more detail on daily inbox functions. The omnichannel inbox collection lists items such as conversation search, assignment, internal notes, scheduled messages, notification settings, and link tracking.

Some users report issues tied to messaging limits and feature access. They mention credit-based limits and difficulties when trying to use more advanced functions for day-to-day texting.

A few users also describe the platform’s advanced tools as complex, which can slow setup and require more support than expected.

Key Features to Look for in a Zipwhip Alternative

When choosing an alternative to Zipwhip, focus on features that support business messaging.

These features help you make daily work simple, even if your team is handling tens of thousands of conversations per month.

Business Phone Number Support

Your platform should support texting from local numbers, toll-free numbers, and landline texting.

Number type impacts SMS deliverability, cost, and how customers recognize your brand, especially if the number is tied to your main phone calls workflow.

You also need number porting, since losing your Zipwhip number can disrupt inbound replies. 

A strong SMS provider also supports multiple numbers for different locations, departments, or service lines, so each team member has a place to message from.

Two-Way Business Text Messaging

Two-way texting is the main function of a Zipwhip replacement. You need full send-and-receive support so customers can reply and staff can continue the conversation in the same thread.

The best platform also supports conversation ownership tools such as assignments, internal notes, and tagging. That keeps two-way texting usable for organizations with multiple users, where more than one person may need access to the same thread.

SMS and MMS Support

SMS support covers standard text messages, while multimedia messaging service (MMS) adds images, files, and richer content.

MMS becomes important when you need to send photos like proof-of-work, appointment images, brochures, or onboarding documents. You also want link support with tracking, since SMS character limits can restrict long messages.

Some SMS marketing platforms also offer link shorteners and click reporting for outreach campaigns. This can reduce follow-up time and save time for busy teams.

Automated Replies and Workflows

Auto replies let you confirm messages, share business hours, or route inbound requests. This is useful for support queues, missed-call texts, and intake forms.

Workflow tools also include scheduled messages, follow-up sequences, and keyword triggers. These features support consistent follow-up without relying on staff to remember every next step.

Contact Management and CRM Sync

Contact management should include contact lists, segments, tags, and custom fields. That makes it easier to send targeted messages and keep lists clean as the database grows.

CRM sync is a major feature for enterprise messaging. You want texts logged to contact records and visible inside systems like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Microsoft Dynamics, so conversation history stays tied to the customer profile.

Compliance and Consent Tools

Carrier rules now require SMS opt-in proof for many business texting programs. A platform should support opt-in collection methods, opt-out handling, and consent record storage.

You also need automated STOP handling and message category controls for marketing service messages. These tools reduce compliance risk and protect deliverability.

Message Reporting and Logs

Reporting should show message status such as sent, delivered, failed, and undelivered. Logs help troubleshoot carrier filtering, blocked numbers, and delivery issues.

You also want campaign reporting, such as replies, click rates, and unsubscribes. For enterprise programs, analytics should support exports and user-level reporting for accountability.

Team Access and Permissions

A Zipwhip alternative should support multi-user access with shared inbox controls. That includes assignments, conversation routing, and visibility rules so staff do not reply over each other.

Permissions are also important for enterprise use. You want role-based access for admins, managers, and agents, plus controls for templates, lists, and outbound campaigns.

Support and Onboarding Help

Texting solutions should offer guided onboarding, seamless migration support, and staff training. These are important during number porting and 10DLC registration.

Support quality also impacts long-term success. You want access to documentation, live support channels, and clear escalation paths for delivery issues and account changes.

How to Evaluate the Right Zipwhip Alternative for Your Business

Many organizations compare many Zipwhip alternatives after the shutdown, especially those looking to move their Zipwhip data safely into a new platform.

But the right choice depends on how your staff communicates and what your existing customers expect from messaging. Here are practical areas to focus on during evaluation:

Define Your Business Texting Goals

Start by outlining why your organization uses SMS marketing and how it supports the original features Zipwhip offered.

Some sales teams focus on sales follow-ups, others on appointment reminders, customer support, recruiting, or service updates.

You need to define measurable goals, such as improving response times, increasing appointment confirmations, reducing no-shows, or increasing outbound engagement rates.

Specific goals help you evaluate platforms based on outcomes rather than feature lists alone, particularly if improving customer satisfaction is your priority.

You may also need to consider message volume and user count. You have to estimate monthly message traffic, the number of users who need access, and whether multiple departments will share the platform.

Match Features to Real Use Cases

Once goals are defined, you need to map them to platform capabilities.

If sales reps need to text from CRM records, deep integration becomes a priority. If support teams manage high inbound volume, shared inbox routing and conversation assignment tools become more important.

Automation requirements, such as follow-up sequences, auto replies, keyword triggers, and scheduling, may be necessary for intake processes or lead workflows.

If compliance is part of your environment, assess opt-in management, 10DLC registration support, and SMS opt-out handling. These elements help prevent unexpected extra costs tied to rejected traffic or failed campaigns.

Reporting should also match your operational needs. Some teams only need delivery status, while others require campaign analytics, user-level tracking, and exportable performance data for leadership review.

Test Platforms Before Commitment

A demo provides an overview, but hands-on testing provides real clarity. You can request a free trial or sandbox environment where you can import contacts, send test messages, and simulate daily workflows.

Make sure to test number porting steps, shared inbox collaboration, CRM syncing, automation setup, and mobile access. You can observe message delivery speed, inbox responsiveness, anda user-friendly interface under normal working conditions.

You can also include staff who will use the platform daily. Their feedback on usability, notification controls, login stability, and workflow fit can reveal friction early.

Finally, don't forget to review competitive pricing structure, support for unlimited keywords, onboarding timelines, and any carrier registration requirements. Confirm with the provider the contract terms and escalation paths before moving forward.

Switch to TextUs and Experience Conversation-Driven Messaging

TextUs stands out for real-time, conversation-driven business messaging that goes beyond basic SMS sending.

It supports SMS and MMS messaging with high deliverability and engagement. Teams can send group messages, monitor replies, and convert outbound sends into live conversations in one platform.

The platform offers broadcast messaging with dynamic fields and A/B testing, which helps you refine outreach through performance insights. You can personalize messages for different groups and measure response rates to learn what content works best.

TextUs also includes built-in contact management tools that organize contacts into groups, sync with CRM systems, and automatically convert broadcast sends into threaded 1:1 conversations when replies arrive.

The platform supports major systems such as Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft Dynamics, Greenhouse, Bullhorn, JobDiva, and Workday. Texting becomes part of your existing workflows, and contact records stay synchronized.

Book a demo with TextUs today and see how your team can move from basic messaging to structured, scalable communication!

‍

FAQs About Zipwhip Alternatives

Who are the competitors of Zipwhip?

Top Zipwhip alternatives include TextUs, Sinch, TrueDialog, and Whippy. They support two-way SMS, shared inboxes, automation, and CRM integrations. These are common needs for text-based customer service and sales workflows. 

Who is Twilio's biggest competitor?

Twilio’s biggest competitors are other communications and programmable messaging providers that offer APIs and platform tools for SMS, voice, and multi-channel messaging.

These include TextUs, Vonage, Plivo, and MessageBird, each providing programmable messaging APIs and global delivery options.

Are there cheaper alternatives to Twilio?

Yes. Some platforms may offer a lower total cost for business texting if you want built-in inboxes, automation, and user seats rather than purely pay-per-message pricing.

TextUs is a great alternative to Zipwhip. It offers subscription-based plans with different tiers and features included, rather than pure pay-per-message credits. Each plan covers messaging features, inbox tools, integrations, and automation, without surprise charges and hidden fees.

What is Zipwhip used for?

Zipwhip was used as a business texting solution that let organizations send and receive text messages from existing landline or toll-free numbers. It supported features such as two-way messaging, shared inbox access, contact lists, and automated replies.