Messenger and chat on Messenger refer to two related but distinct features of Facebook’s messaging platform. While they share some similarities, there are important differences between Messenger the app and the chat feature within Facebook.
Introducing Messenger
Messenger is a standalone messaging app created by Facebook. Originally launched in 2011 as Facebook Messenger, it was designed to allow users to chat with their Facebook friends from their mobile devices. Here are some key things to know about Messenger:
- Messenger is available as a separate app for iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.
- Users sign into Messenger using their Facebook credentials. Your Facebook friends are automatically added as contacts in Messenger.
- In addition to chatting with Facebook friends, Messenger allows users to make voice and video calls.
- Messenger offers features not available on Facebook chat, like group video calling, stickers, AR filters, and third-party bots/apps.
- Messages sent via Messenger do not appear in your Facebook chat box or timeline. The two platforms are separate.
In summary, Messenger is a mobile-first messaging platform built by Facebook but separate from the Facebook app. It allows users to message their Facebook friends from anywhere using data or WiFi.
Chat on Facebook
Chat, on the other hand, refers to Facebook’s built-in chat functionality. Rather than a separate app, chat lives within the main Facebook app and website. Here’s an overview of chat on Facebook:
- Facebook chat can be accessed from the Facebook app or website, allowing users to message friends from their phone or desktop.
- Chat works between two Facebook users. Group chats are not supported.
- Unlike Messenger, chat does not support voice/video calling.
- Messages sent via chat appear in your Facebook conversation history and notifications.
- Chat uses your primary Facebook account rather than separate login credentials.
In essence, chat on Facebook provides a more basic messaging experience focused on text conversations. It serves as an integrated way to message other users without leaving the Facebook app.
Key Differences
While Messenger and Facebook chat share the ability to message Facebook friends, there are several key differences:
| Messenger | Chat on Facebook |
|---|---|
| Standalone app | Integrated into Facebook app/site |
| Mobile-first design | Works on mobile/desktop |
| Rich messaging features | More basic messaging |
| Supports calling | No calling support |
| Separate login | Uses main Facebook login |
| Uses data or WiFi | Internet required on desktop |
In general, Messenger offers a more robust messaging experience through additional features and mobile-focused design. Chat provides a simpler way to message friends directly within Facebook.
Messenger vs Chat Usage
Given the differences, here are some factors that may determine when someone chooses Messenger vs chat on Facebook:
Messenger Usage Cases
- Messaging from your phone when the Facebook app isn’t handy
- Starting a group conversation with multiple people
- Making voice or video calls to friends and family
- Using fun messaging features like stickers, reactions, or AR filters
- Chatting with Facebook friends you don’t have phone numbers for
- Keeping messaging separate from your main Facebook notifications
Chat on Facebook Usage Cases
- Quickly messaging a friend while scrolling through Facebook
- Replying to a friend who messaged you on Facebook
- Messaging from a computer where you’re already logged into Facebook
- Keeping your conversations integrated with the rest of your Facebook activity
- Using the same login as your main Facebook account
In general, Messenger tends to be the preferred mobile messaging option while Facebook chat is used more for quick replies or desktop-based conversations. But both provide easy ways to reach your Facebook friends.
Business Features
Messenger and chat also differ in their capabilities for businesses:
Messenger Business Features
- Pages can create Messenger bots for automated conversations
- Businesses can customize chat themes, add CTAs, and collect lead gen info
- Messenger ads allow targeted promotion of businesses
- Messenger API supports building chat experiences into other apps
Facebook Chat Business Features
- More limited – mainly one-on-one conversations initiated by users
- Pages can assign chat agents to handle customer inquiries
- Chat plugin allows messaging from the business website
Again, Messenger provides more robust tools for brands to engage their audience, including bots, targeted ads, and a developer API. Chat is better for direct communication with customers who message the Page.
Conclusion
In summary:
- Messenger is a standalone messaging app that allows rich communication with Facebook friends.
- Chat is the built-in messaging feature on Facebook’s main app/website.
- Messenger provides more features and is mobile-focused, while chat offers simple messaging directly through Facebook.
- People typically use Messenger when on-the-go and chat when already on Facebook.
- Messenger has more options for businesses to message customers and promote their brand.
So while Messenger and chat on Facebook share the ability to message your friends, Messenger offers a more robust experience from a separate mobile app. Facebook chat allows quick conversations without leaving the Facebook interface. Understanding the differences allows you to choose the right platform based on your needs.