WhatsApp Business App or API Test

If one or two people answer, you get fewer than 50 chats a day and you don't need automatic replies, broadcasts or a connection to other systems, stay on the app; in any other case, the API fits better.

How many people answer your business's WhatsApp?1

Your result

Stay on the WhatsApp Business app

The WhatsApp API fits you better

From what you told us, the app covers you and there's nothing you need to change today. If your team or your chat volume grows, take the test again.

App or API, by team size and chat volume

Find the row that looks like your business. A single API condition is enough for the test to recommend it.

Your situationWhatsApp Business appWhatsApp API
One person answers and few chats arriveCovers youMore than you need
Two people and fewer than 50 chats a dayCovers youOnly if you need automatic replies, broadcasts or a connection to other systems
3 or more people answerFalls shortRecommended
50 or more chats arrive a dayFalls shortRecommended

How the test decides

The test recommends the API if at least one of these applies: 3 or more people answer, 50 or more chats arrive a day, or you need automatic replies, broadcasts or a connection between WhatsApp and other systems.

If none applies, it recommends the app. The limits of 3 people and 50 chats are our own guideline, and Meta doesn't set them as a rule.

Frequently asked questions

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  • The test recommends one of the two based on how you work today. If you want both on the same number, check Meta's documentation for what it allows in your case before you change anything.

  • Starting on the app makes sense if it covers you today. When your team or your chat volume grows, take the test again and check Meta's documentation for the conditions on moving your number before you do it.

  • No, it decides by how your team works. If it points to the API, use the cost calculator to estimate what Meta would charge for your messages. A provider's fee comes on top, if you use one.

  • That's the limit we chose for this test: from 3 people answering on the same number, we recommend the API. If you're right at the edge, treat the result as guidance.

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