QR-linked WhatsApp
A QR-linked channel for day-to-day two-way conversations and smaller campaigns. It is a practical starting point when a team needs to reply to customers and keep communication personal.
Shrinkit WhatsApp
QR-linked WhatsApp vs WhatsApp Cloud
Both channels help you talk to customers on WhatsApp. The right choice depends on whether you need everyday two-way chat or the official Meta API for templates, automations and higher-volume operational messaging.
WhatsApp Cloud API (official)
The official WhatsApp Business API channel. It is built for approved templates, automation and operational flows such as cash-on-delivery confirmations at volume.
| Compare | QR-linked WhatsApp | WhatsApp Cloud API (official) |
|---|---|---|
| Official status | Not Meta's official Business API. It links a phone the way WhatsApp Web does, so Meta may restrict numbers used for bulk or automated sending. | Meta's official WhatsApp Business Platform, with template approval, quality ratings and messaging limits managed by Meta. |
| Connection | QR-linked WhatsApp channel | Official Meta WhatsApp Business API |
| Best for | Two-way support and smaller campaigns | Templates, automation, COD confirmations and higher-volume sending |
| Message templates | Not the primary workflow | Meta-approved templates for eligible sends outside the customer-service window |
| Interactive COD confirmation | Not available for the Cloud-only flow | Available for Shrinkit COD confirmation flows |
| Scaling | Start with conservative, human-led use | Scale responsibly within Meta rules and account quality |
| Billing and ownership | Depends on the connected number setup | Your business pays Meta directly for applicable fees; Shrinkit adds no usage or pass-through markup. Your business owns its WABA and can migrate it under Meta’s process. |
Choose QR-linked WhatsApp when
- Your priority is direct, two-way customer conversations.
- You are running smaller, carefully managed sends.
- You do not need Meta-approved template campaigns or Cloud-only COD flows today.
Choose WhatsApp Cloud when
- You need approved templates for campaign or operational messaging.
- You want Shrinkit’s WhatsApp-based COD confirmation flow.
- You are ready to build reliable automations and grow sending volume within Meta policy.
Cloud does not mean vendor lock-in
Shrinkit is not the owner of your WhatsApp Business Account. Your company keeps ownership of its WABA, pays Meta directly for any applicable WhatsApp charges, and can migrate the account to another provider through Meta’s migration process.
