Selling and supporting customers on WhatsApp, from the free WhatsApp Business app to tools that manage messages alongside Facebook and Instagram.
The free WhatsApp Business app suits one phone and a small team. Bigger teams and automated messages use the WhatsApp Business Platform (API), usually through a provider, and it has its own pricing. Check Meta’s current terms.
Only message people who’ve agreed to hear from you. WhatsApp’s policies require opt-in, and POPIA has rules on direct marketing by electronic messages.
If the tool stores personal information about your customers, the Protection of Personal Information Act applies to how you collect, use and protect it. Check where data is stored and how to export or delete it. Guidance is available from the Information Regulator.
We don’t rank these or call any one of them the best. Each note explains which situations the tool may suit, based on its profile. The details are in each profile, where verified and unverified information is labelled.
May suit small businesses that want a free business profile, product catalogue, labels and quick replies on a separate WhatsApp number.
South Africa note: WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in South Africa, which makes it a practical first sales and support channel.
Free plan: Not yet verified · Pricing: not yet verified · Not yet reviewed
May suit businesses that also use Facebook and Instagram and want to manage messages and posts in one place.
Free plan: Not yet verified · Pricing: not yet verified · Not yet reviewed
Create a wa.me click-to-chat link with a pre-filled message for your website or social bio.
Make QR codes for links, text, Wi-Fi, email, phone and WhatsApp. Download PNG or SVG.
Write bios for Instagram, TikTok, X, LinkedIn and YouTube, each checked against the platform’s character limit.
Use WhatsApp for sales and support: the Business app vs the Business Platform, catalogues, click-to-chat links, QR codes, consent and POPIA.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Laws, tax rates and regulations change. Check official sources, such as SARS, the Information Regulator and the relevant Acts, or ask a qualified professional before you make decisions. Tool details come from each tool’s ToolTarvern profile and may have changed. Check the vendor’s own site.