Best Text Messaging Apps for Android in 2021

Messages is Google's official SMS app, and it features a simple interface and plenty of features for the average user without going overboard with bells and whistles. It also supports Google's RCS features, which allow for iMessage or WhatsApp-like features like read receipts and larger file transfers as long as your carrier supports it.

Pulse SMS is an interesting and very, very customizable text messaging app. but that's not the real draw. Pulse is a text messaging app that helps bring your text messages to all your other devices, too, from tablets to computers. Pulse has also added password-protected private conversations box in case you need to protect the identity and messages of your sources, for example.

A long-time favorite, Textra is a clean-looking SMS app with plenty of features for hardcore users. Textra offers a slew of customization options with various theme colors, notifications, and per-contact settings. There's even built-in SMS scheduling, quick replies, improved group messaging, SMS blocking, and more.

Originally, Signal Private Messenger was designed to be a more secure form of standard messaging. Then, an update brought the ability to use this as your default SMS client. In addition to the end-to-end encryption, you can also use Signal for audio and video calls.

SMS Organizer arose from a Microsoft Garage project and has turned into quite a popular SMS replacement. The app automatically organizes your inbox, while offering smart assistant options. These include creating tasks if you need to pay your friend back, for example. Microsoft has also included auto-backup to Google Drive in order to keep your messages safe and secure.

If you want an app that allows you to customize every single aspect of your messaging experience without taking up a bunch of space, then YAATA is the answer. The app offers the standard SMS/MMS support, including Group Chats, Archiving, and more. There are also a slew of customizable notification options, including the ability to use Chat heads similar to Facebook Messenger.

Chomp SMS is one of those apps that has been around since seemingly the dawn of the Play Store. The app has transitioned and been updated on a regular basis and continues to be a fan favorite. While it works great as your default SMS client, you can also take advantage of integration with the likes of Pushbullet or MightyText for cross-platform support.

Another app that has seen quite the transition over the years is Handcent. The app is now named Handcent Next, and includes major features such as desktop notification, cloud back-up, and much more. Handcent has continues to add more and more features and customization options in hopes to keep its user-base happy while attracting new users.