SMS character counter
Write your message. See how many text parts it needs, and what to cut.
Spaces, links, and opt-out text count too. Include the whole message.
How your message is counted
Limits count units, not characters. Most characters are 1 unit. In basic text (GSM-7), € ^ { } [ ] ~ \ | take 2; in Unicode, many emoji take 2 or more.
Free. No signup. Your text stays in this browser.
SMS limits explained ↓How many characters fit in one SMS?
One SMS holds up to 160 basic characters. An emoji or a special character can change the whole message to Unicode, which has room for 70 units instead.
Longer texts are split into text parts, also called segments. Your phone usually joins them into one message.
| Text format | One part | Longer textsper part |
|---|---|---|
| Basic textGSM-7 | 160 | 153 |
| Emoji & UnicodeUnicode | 70 | 67 |
Showing US and Canada toll-free limits, as chosen in the counter. Standard numbers hold 153 and 67 per part.
Limits count units, not characters. Most characters are 1 unit. In basic text (GSM-7), € ^ { } [ ] ~ \ | take 2; in Unicode, many emoji take 2 or more.
Sources and toll-free limits
For long texts sent through Twilio from US/Canada toll-free numbers, each part holds up to 152 GSM-7 or 66 Unicode units. Unicode is counted in UTF-16 units. Choose “Toll-free number” in the counter to use these limits.
SMS length questions
Read the full SMS length guide →What happens after 160 characters?
A message with 161 basic letters uses 2 text parts: 153 letters in the first and 8 in the second. Each part needs a little room for instructions that join them back together. Your phone usually shows one message, but your provider may charge for both parts.
Why can one emoji add a text part?
An emoji switches the whole message to Unicode, which holds less text per part. For example, 70 basic letters fit in 1 part. Add 😀 and the message needs 2 parts. One visible character can use more than one SMS unit.
Do spaces, line breaks, and links count?
Yes. Spaces, line breaks, links, and opt-out words all count. Paste the final message, including any name or link your texting app adds. A shortened link may use less room than the original URL.
How can I use fewer text parts?
Shorten the wording: the counter shows how many characters to cut to lose a part. It also names curly quotes, emoji and invisible characters that switch your text to Unicode, and offers a one-click fix when that saves room. Keep the meaning, useful links, and any required opt-out text.
Why is my Twilio or Klaviyo count different?
Your app may fill in names, shorten links, add an opt-out line, or change punctuation. Twilio Smart Encoding can replace some Unicode characters with GSM-7 ones. Paste your app’s final text and choose the correct sending number in the calculator. Check your app’s final preview before sending.
How do I calculate the cost of an SMS?
Multiply text parts per message × number of people × price per part, then add your provider’s fees. Open the list option above to count parts for several people. Your provider’s plan, destination, and rates determine the final price.
Does this counter save or send my message?
No. The count runs in your browser. This tool does not upload, save, or send your message. Copy your text if you want to keep it.
Does this work for MMS, RCS, or WhatsApp?
This counter uses SMS rules. MMS, RCS, and WhatsApp have different limits and pricing. Use your messaging app’s preview for those formats.