Here's an odd question

[TabGuy]

The odd question is this: What's the best messaging app?

It's odd because for the last 15 years I've used Google Voice for my phone number and messaging so I don't know anything about other messaging apps. Google Voice's messaging interface is lacking and doesn't do things well but I put up with it for the advantages of Google Voice. But in the last month I've had some important messages never arrive. I don't know what's going on with Google but I can't have messages that never arrive.

So, I ported my GV number to my phone and now I find myself looking for the best text messaging client.

Here are my simple requirements:
0. Must do SMS via my carrier (Verizon)
1. Reliable
2. Be able send/receive messages on my PC as well as my phone
3. Handle group messaging well.
4. I'd like to use a tablet also. This is a nice to have

My phone currently has Google Messaging, Samsung Messages and Verizon Message+. Is one of those sufficient or is there a better one lurking out there?

 

[Al Red Hornbeam]

I like signal

 

[TabGuy]

I like signal

Does Signal do SMS? Also, is there a PC desktop component?

 

[sbhnet]

Of the 3 you listed, I like Verizon Message+ for one reason: it can send an auto reply when a text comes in. I set mine to say I'll reply when I'm no longer driving. If they can't wait they can call me.

 

[jhnnyblze2000]

I like the samsung app or Google messages. I use lnik to windows to text from my desktop and laptop. Don't really use a tablet so can't help there. I know Google meesages also has an option to text from a pc.

 

[TMavC5]

The odd question is this: What's the best messaging app?

It's odd because for the last 15 years I've used Google Voice for my phone number and messaging so I don't know anything about other messaging apps. Google Voice's messaging interface is lacking and doesn't do things well but I put up with it for the advantages of Google Voice. But in the last month I've had some important messages never arrive. I don't know what's going on with Google but I can't have messages that never arrive.

So, I ported my GV number to my phone and now I find myself looking for the best text messaging client.

Here are my simple requirements:
0. Must do SMS via my carrier (Verizon)
1. Reliable
2. Be able send/receive messages on my PC as well as my phone
3. Handle group messaging well.
4. I'd like to use a tablet also. This is a nice to have

My phone currently has Google Messaging, Samsung Messages and Verizon Message+. Is one of those sufficient or is there a better one lurking out there?

Windows Link to your computer. Samsung has this feature.

 

[burrzoo]

I've been using Pulse SMS for years. As of last year though, the original Dev joined forces with MapleMedia.
The app used to cost $10.99 for a lifetime license, now they want $36.99!
You can still use try/use it for free with minimal ads. They also have monthly plans. They have desktop apps, (Samsung) watch app, web login. I use it everywhere (on a Mac, 2 phones, tablets).

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xyz.klinker.messenger

https://home.pulsesms.app/help/

 

[Hermes Hidayat]

I've been using Pulse SMS for years. As of last year though, the original Dev joined forces with MapleMedia.
The app used to cost $10.99 for a lifetime license, now they want $36.99!
You can still use try/use it for free with minimal ads. They also have monthly plans. They have desktop apps, (Samsung) watch app, web login. I use it everywhere (on a Mac, 2 phones, tablets).

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xyz.klinker.messenger

https://home.pulsesms.app/help/

$36.99 costs a lot for an app...

 

[burrzoo]

$36.99 costs a lot for an app...

I agree! One can always try it out and if they like it, use it without every piece of functionality or use it month to month for a fee or scrap it altogether. At least if you love it and want a one-time fee for lifetime access you do have that option.

 

[L0n3N1nja]

Verizon message is my go to if not using the stock Samsung one(prefer the way it looks with themes).

Verizon messages amazed me being able to text with my number from my PC and tablet, even let me make and receive calls on my tablet. The read receipts, text back up, and syncing messages between devices were all nice features too. This was back in 2015 when it became available.

 

[Hermes Hidayat]

I agree! One can always try it out and if they like it, use it without every piece of functionality or use it month to month for a fee or scrap it altogether. At least if you love it and want a one-time fee for lifetime access you do have that option.

i mean its just an sms app...$36.99 is too much...different story if it was an instant messaging app like telegram or whatsapp...but for me personally i dont even use sms anymore.