SMS Character Counter
Count characters, detect encoding, and optimize your SMS messages. Real-time analysis for GSM-7 and Unicode with message segment calculator.
Understanding SMS Character Limits
SMS messages have different character limits depending on the encoding used. Understanding these limits helps you craft effective messages that don't get split unnecessarily or trigger higher costs.
GSM-7 Encoding
- • 160 characters per single message
- • 153 characters per segment (multi-part)
- • Supports basic Latin letters, numbers
- • Common symbols: @ $ _ & . , ! ? : ; ' " ( )
- • Escape characters (×2): ^ \ [ ~ ] | €
- • Most cost-effective encoding
Unicode (UCS-2) Encoding
- • 70 characters per single message
- • 67 characters per segment (multi-part)
- • Required for emojis and special characters
- • Supports all languages and scripts
- • Even 1 emoji forces entire message to Unicode
- • More expensive (smaller limit = more segments)
SMS Marketing Statistics (2026)
Open rate for SMS messages
Average response time to SMS
SMS response rate vs 6% email
Check texts within 5 minutes
ROI per $1 spent on SMS marketing
Optimal character count (1 segment)
SMS Best Practices for Review Requests
Single-segment messages are more cost-effective and have better deliverability. Aim for 140-150 to leave room for personalization.
Add "Reply STOP to opt out" at the end. This is legally required in the US and builds trust with recipients.
Start with "Hi [Name]" to increase engagement by 29%. Personal messages feel less spammy and get better responses.
Strike while the iron is hot. Customers are most likely to leave reviews immediately after their experience.
Long review URLs waste precious characters. Use a URL shortener or placeholder like [Link] to save 20-30 characters.
Even one emoji switches to Unicode encoding (70 char limit). Use them sparingly or skip them for review requests.
Send between 10AM-12PM or 6-8PM on Tuesday-Thursday for best engagement. Avoid early mornings, late nights, and weekends.
Recipients should know who is texting. Always identify your business clearly, even if they have your number saved.
Common SMS Mistakes to Avoid
DON'T
- • Use smart quotes (") instead of straight quotes (")
- • Add multiple emojis (switches to Unicode)
- • Forget opt-out instructions
- • Send without personalization
- • Exceed 3 message segments
- • Use escape characters excessively (×2 cost)
- • Send at inappropriate times
DO
- • Test messages before sending campaigns
- • Use clear, concise language
- • Include direct review links
- • Identify your business clearly
- • Keep it under 160 characters when possible
- • Use this tool to optimize before sending
- • A/B test different message variations
Automate Your SMS Review Requests
Spokk helps you send personalized SMS review requests automatically after service completion. Increase your review volume by 10x.