SMS stands for Short Messaging Service and initially referred to text messages sent using a specific GSM protocol. MMS is an acronym for Multimedia Messaging Service.

Both SMS and MMS are based on GSM protocols, SMS is designed for sending text messages while MMS messages were designed to send multimedia content. The MMS messages can include any type of multimedia including: photos, audio, videos or contacts.

While SMS messages are based on 160 characters, MMS messages do not have any character restrictions. However most carriers, can not reliably manage and transmit multimedia messages (MMS messages) larger than 300 KB in size.

Summary of Differences

Content: SMS messages are limited to text only, while MMS messages can include multimedia content such as pictures, videos, and audio files.

Message size: SMS messages have a maximum size limit of 160 characters, while MMS messages can be much larger and can include multimedia content.

Delivery method: SMS messages are sent through a mobile carrier's text messaging service, while MMS messages are sent through a carrier's data network, similar to how email and internet data are transmitted.

Cost: Some carriers may charge extra for MMS messages, particularly if they contain multimedia content, while SMS messages are typically included in a mobile plan's monthly allotment of text messages.

Article Date: Updated March 26, 2023