Slimbot
E-mail isn't dead, but the figures are unforgiving. WhatsApp messages are read within 90 seconds on average. E-mails wait 90 minutes. For time-sensitive customer communication, the channel difference is enormous.
The full comparison table
| Criterion | ||
|---|---|---|
| Open rate | 98% | 22% |
| Click rate on link | 45–60% | 2–4% |
| Average response time | < 3 minutes | 6–8 hours |
| Opt-out percentage | 0,3% | 2,1% |
| Spam filter risk | None | High |
| Reach young adults | 92% | 61% |
| Conversion on action CTA | 3–5× higher | Basic |
Sources: Statista 2024, Mailchimp Industry Benchmarks 2025, Meta Business Messaging Report 2024.
When do you use what?
💬 Choose WhatsApp if...
- You want a quick response
- The message is time-sensitive
- You send your reminder / update
- You want a personal feel
- You confirm appointments
- You're asking for a review
💌 Choose e-mail if...
- You're sending long content
- You share your formal documents
- Your invoicing / legal department sends
- You're sending archivable information
- You distribute a newsletter
- Handles your B2B communication
The right combination
It's not about choosing. The smartest businesses combine both channels: WhatsApp for direct, time-sensitive messages (updates, reminders, confirmations) and e-mail for formal correspondence, invoices and extensive content.
Map your customer journey and determine which channel gives the highest response for each touchpoint. In most cases, WhatsApp wins for operational messages, e-mail for documentation.
Increase your open rates to 98%
Create a free Slimbot account and send your first WhatsApp campaign today.
Start for free →