Code & web

SMS character counter

How many SMS your text will use, depending on GSM or Unicode encoding (emojis, accents).

Embed this calculator on your website

Copy this code and paste it into your page (WordPress, Wix, Webflow, HTML…). It's free: please keep the link to HOD Calc.

How it works

GSM alphabet: 160 characters per SMS (153 when split). As soon as one character isn't GSM (emoji, some accents), everything switches to Unicode: 70 characters (67 when split).

Results are for guidance only and do not replace professional advice.

Worked example

With the default values:

  • MessageHi! Your order #4521 is ready. Pick it up before 6 pm 🙂

you get:

  • Number of SMS1
  • EncodingUnicode (UCS-2)
  • Characters counted56 / 70
  • Left before the next SMS14

Frequently asked questions

How does the “SMS character counter” tool work?

GSM alphabet: 160 characters per SMS (153 when split). As soon as one character isn't GSM (emoji, some accents), everything switches to Unicode: 70 characters (67 when split).

What do I need to enter?

Just fill in: message. The result updates as you type.

Can you give an example?

Message: Hi! Your order #4521 is ready. Pick it up before 6 pm 🙂 → Number of SMS: 1; Encoding: Unicode (UCS-2).

Is this calculator free, and is my data private?

Yes. HOD Calc is completely free with no sign-up. The calculation runs in your browser: nothing you type is sent or stored.