WhatsApp vs WhatsApp Business vs Business API: What’s the Difference?
The difference: WhatsApp is for personal chats. The WhatsApp Business app is a free app for small businesses with a business profile and basic tools. The WhatsApp Business API (WhatsApp Business Platform) is for growing businesses that need multiple agents, automation, bulk messaging and integrations.
Comparison table
| WhatsApp Business app | WhatsApp Business API | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Individuals | Small businesses | Medium to large businesses |
| Cost | Free | Free | Platform fee plus Meta per-message charges |
| Business profile | No | Yes | Yes |
| Users | 1 plus linked devices | 1 phone plus linked devices | Unlimited agents in a shared inbox |
| Broadcasts | 256-contact lists | 256-contact lists | Large opted-in audiences via templates |
| Automation | None | Greeting, away and quick replies | Full chatbots and flows |
| Integrations | No | No | API, webhooks, CRM and e-commerce |
| Verified badge | No | Limited options | Eligible to apply |
What is a WhatsApp Business account?
A WhatsApp Business account is a business presence on WhatsApp with a profile showing your name, logo, description, hours, address and website. You can have one through the free app or through the API. On the API it belongs to a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) in your Meta Business Manager.
When the WhatsApp Business app is enough
- One person handles all chats.
- Fewer than a few hundred customers.
- No need for automation or integrations.
When to upgrade to the WhatsApp Business API
- Several team members need to answer chats. See WhatsApp CRM.
- You want to broadcast to more than 256 contacts. See bulk messaging.
- You want chatbots and 24/7 auto-replies. See WhatsApp chatbot.
- You need order notifications or CRM integration.
Can I move my number from the app to the API?
Yes. You delete the WhatsApp account from the app on that number, then register it on the API. Chat history in the app is not transferred, so back it up first if you need it.
Business WhatsApp Web
WhatsApp Web lets you use the app from a browser, but it’s still one account with the app’s limits. Monarkz gives your team a browser-based inbox on the API instead.
Ready for the WhatsApp Business API? Start your 7-day free trial of Monarkz →
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business?
WhatsApp Business adds a business profile, catalog, labels and basic automated messages for small businesses. Personal WhatsApp has none of these.
Is WhatsApp Business free?
The WhatsApp Business app is free. The WhatsApp Business API has platform and Meta messaging costs.
Can I use WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business on the same phone?
Yes, with two different phone numbers.
What is a WhatsApp Business number?
It is the phone number registered to your WhatsApp Business app or API account that customers message.