Guide to The Best WhatsApp Chatbot Tools for Businesses in 2025

Think about the last time you messaged a business on WhatsApp. Did you expect an instant reply? Probably yes. Did you want to wait hours for someone to get back? Probably not.

That’s exactly why WhatsApp chatbots are exploding in popularity. They make it possible for businesses to answer customer queries, confirm orders and even send proactive updates – all without a human typing on the other side every single time.

The truth is, customers now see WhatsApp as their go-to place to connect with brands. If your business isn’t present or can’t respond fast enough, chances are your competitors will.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about WhatsApp chatbots: how they work, what to look for, the best tools available right now and how to set one up for your own business.

What is a WhatsApp chatbot & how it works

A WhatsApp chatbot is a virtual assistant that lives inside the WhatsApp messaging platform. Instead of waiting for a human agent, customers can type their queries and the bot replies instantly with automated responses. From answering FAQs to guiding someone through a purchase, these bots handle a wide range of customer interactions without human involvement.

At its core, a WhatsApp chatbot is powered by either simple rule-based flows or more advanced AI-powered chatbots. Rule-based bots work with predefined triggers—like sending a greeting message when a customer says “hi.” On the other hand, AI-driven bots use natural language processing (NLP) to understand user queries in different styles, tones or even multiple languages, making them far more flexible.

The backbone of all this is the official WhatsApp Business API. Unlike the WhatsApp Business app, which is designed for small shops managing chats manually, the API lets companies integrate with CRM systems, payment gateways and other tools to automate customer interactions at scale. That’s why you’ll often see providers call themselves a WhatsApp business solution provider—they help businesses plug into the API.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

1. A customer sends a message to your WhatsApp business account.
2. The chatbot analyses the text using predefined rules or AI.
3. It sends back instant responses, whether that’s an FAQ answer, product detail or even a checkout link.
4. If needed, the chatbot escalates to a human agent for more complex customer inquiries.

In short, WhatsApp chatbots combine automation with human-like conversation to improve customer service, boost engagement and ensure no message slips through the cracks.

Related read: 10 Ways to Use WhatsApp for Customer Service in 2025

Top WhatsApp chatbot tools in 2025

There are many WhatsApp chatbot tools in the market, but not all of them suit every business. Some are designed for small companies that just want quick automated messages, while others are enterprise-grade with advanced AI chatbot capabilities, integration with CRM systems and full conversational AI platforms.

Here’s a list of the 12 best WhatsApp chatbot platforms you should consider in 2025.

1. Respond.io

Respond.io is a popular WhatsApp chatbot software that doubles as an omnichannel inbox. It helps teams manage customer communication across WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, email and more from a single dashboard.

Key features:

• Centralised inbox for all messaging channels
• Advanced workflow automation with drag and drop builder
• AI assistant for smarter replies
• Robust integration capabilities (CRM, payment gateways, helpdesks)
• Detailed analytics on customer interactions

Pros:

• Strong multi-channel support
• Great for team collaboration
• Flexible automations

Cons:

• Learning curve for non-tech users
• Costs rise as usage scales

Pricing: Starts at around $29/month, with costs increasing based on API usage and message volumes.

2. Tidio

Tidio combines live chat, email and WhatsApp automation in one package. It’s known for its simplicity and affordable entry point, making it a great pick for small and medium businesses.

Key features:

• Easy-to-use chatbot builder with and drag-and-drop interface
• Pre-designed message templates for common queries
• Multilingual support for global audiences
• Integrations with Shopify, WordPress and other marketing tools
• AI-powered chatbot for personalised interactions

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Strong free plan for startups
• Enhances customer engagement with instant answers

Cons:

• Advanced features are locked in higher plans
• Limited customisation compared to enterprise tools

Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $19/month.

3. ManyChat

ManyChat made its name with Messenger automation but has grown into one of the most widely used WhatsApp chatbot tools. It’s especially strong in WhatsApp marketing campaigns and sales-focused automation.

Key features:

• Visual flow builder for chatbot conversations
• Broadcast and bulk messaging for promotions
• WhatsApp integration with Shopify, HubSpot and Google Sheets
• AI-assisted messaging for better customer experience
• Supports multiple messaging channels

Pros:

• Excellent for lead generation and marketing campaigns
• Easy to learn and deploy
• Scales well with e-commerce stores

Cons:

• Not as deep in customer support features
• Bulk message capabilities can get pricey

Pricing: Free plan for Messenger; WhatsApp support starts from around $15/month plus WhatsApp API fees.

4. Gupshup

Gupshup is one of the most recognised names in the WhatsApp business solution provider space. It offers robust APIs and a strong developer-friendly environment for businesses that want to build custom bots.

Key features:

• Access to the official WhatsApp Business API
• Developer-focused SDKs and APIs for deeper customisation
• Bulk messages and template-based notifications
• Integration capabilities with CRMs and ERP systems
• Support for conversational commerce with payment gateways

Pros:

• Highly scalable for enterprises
• Excellent documentation for developers
• Strong regional presence in Asia

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for non-tech teams
• UI is less intuitive compared to drag-and-drop tools

Pricing: Pay-as-you-go model. Costs depend on the number of WhatsApp messages sent and template approvals.

5. Botpress

Botpress is a powerful conversational AI platform designed for enterprises that need advanced AI-powered chatbots. It allows deep customisation and connects well with multiple systems.

Key features:

• Open-source foundation with enterprise-grade add-ons
• Natural language processing and AI models for dynamic replies
• Team collaboration features for bot building
• Works across multiple channels, including WhatsApp
• Enterprise-grade data security for handling sensitive customer data

Pros:

• Very powerful for advanced AI use cases
• Flexible and customisable
• Excellent for multilingual support

Cons:

• Requires technical expertise to set up
• Higher cost than SMB-focused tools

Pricing: Custom pricing; starts higher than most SaaS tools but scales with enterprise needs.

6. WATI

WATI (WhatsApp Team Inbox) is built specifically for SMBs looking to automate customer support on WhatsApp. It’s lightweight, simple and affordable.

Key features:

• Easy drag and drop chatbot builder
• Shared inbox for customer queries
• Broadcast messaging and segmentation for marketing campaigns
• Supports proactive messaging with approved templates
• Integrates with Shopify, Zoho and other CRM systems

Pros:

• Designed for SMBs
• Simple to use, even without tech skills
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Limited advanced AI features
• May not suit large enterprises

Pricing: Starts at $49/month + WhatsApp conversation charges.

7. AiSensy

AiSensy is an Indian-origin WhatsApp chatbot platform tailored for SMEs and startups that want affordable and easy automation.

Key features:

• Built on the official WhatsApp Business API
• Automated responses for FAQs and lead capture
• Integration capabilities with Google Sheets, CRMs and payment gateways
• Broadcast and bulk messages for campaigns
• Detailed analytics on customer interactions

Pros:

• Local support for Indian businesses
• Easy onboarding
• Competitive pricing

Cons:

• Fewer advanced AI features compared to global tools
• Limited beyond WhatsApp (not truly omnichannel)

Pricing: Around ₹999/month for starter plans, scaling with usage.

8. Interakt

Interakt is another WhatsApp business solution provider that focuses on helping SMBs with simple, no-code WhatsApp automation.

Key features:

• Shared inbox for customer communication
• Automated messages for greetings, reminders and follow-ups
• Broadcast campaigns with message templates
• E-commerce integrations for Shopify and WooCommerce
• CRM system for managing leads and sales pipeline

Pros:

• Affordable for startups
• Strong e-commerce integrations
• Easy to set up

Cons:

• Limited AI sophistication
• Fewer multichannel features

Pricing: Starts at $9.99/month + WhatsApp API charges.

9. Landbot

Landbot is known for its beautiful drag-and-drop chatbot builder, making it easy for businesses to design conversational flows without coding.

Key features:

• Visual chatbot flow builder
• WhatsApp integration with the official API
• Supports surveys, lead capture and customer engagement flows
• Strong focus on user interactions and UX design
• Connects with CRM systems and marketing tools

Pros:

• Extremely user-friendly
• Flexible in designing conversations
• Great for improving customer experience

Cons:

• Expensive for premium plans
• More design-focused, less AI depth

Pricing: Starts at €30/month with usage-based scaling.

10. Gallabox

Gallabox is a WhatsApp chatbot software that’s popular among SMEs in India and the Middle East, focusing on ease of use and cost-effectiveness.

Key features:

• Pre-designed templates for customer inquiries
• Team collaboration tools for agents
• Built-in marketing campaign automation
• Integration with payment gateways
• Works across multiple channels like email + WhatsApp

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• Easy onboarding
• Regional focus with good support

Cons:

• Limited compared to enterprise platforms
• Not as flexible in complex automations

Pricing: Plans start at ₹2,499/month.

11. Freshchat (Freshworks)

Freshchat by Freshworks is a strong omnichannel customer support tool with built-in WhatsApp automation for enterprises.

Key features:

• AI-driven bots for WhatsApp and other messaging apps
• Seamless integration with the Freshdesk CRM system
• Automated responses for FAQs
• Multilingual support for global businesses
• Strong reporting and analytics

Pros:

• Excellent for enterprise-level customer support
• Great integration capabilities with the Freshworks suite
• Reliable uptime and support

Cons:

• Expensive for small businesses
• Complex setup for non-Freshworks users

Pricing: WhatsApp integration is available on the Growth plan at $19/agent/month, with higher plans scaling up.

12. Engati

Engati is a versatile WhatsApp chatbot platform with a mix of AI chatbot tools, automation and multichannel engagement.

Key features:

• Chatbot builder with 150+ templates
• Works on WhatsApp, Messenger and other messaging platforms
• AI-powered chatbots with NLP for natural conversations
• Integrations with CRMs, ERPs and marketing tools
• Handles bulk messages, broadcasts and workflows

Pros:

• Strong AI features
• Supports multiple industries and use cases
• Flexible deployment options

Cons:

• Pricing is higher for premium AI models
• May require training for complex flows

Pricing: Starts at $79/month, scaling with users and features.

Implementation guide: how to set up a WhatsApp chatbot

Getting started with a WhatsApp chatbot may sound technical, but the process is fairly straightforward once you understand the steps. Whether you’re using a simple drag-and-drop chatbot builder or a more advanced conversational AI platform, here’s a practical setup guide.

1. Get your WhatsApp Business account ready

Before anything else, you’ll need a WhatsApp business account linked to a Facebook business account. This is the foundation for accessing the official WhatsApp Business API, which powers most advanced chatbot features.

2. Choose a WhatsApp business solution provider (BSP)

Most companies can’t access the API directly. Instead, they go through a WhatsApp business solution provider (like Gupshup, WATI or Interakt). Your BSP handles technical approvals, connects your WhatsApp phone numbers and enables message templates for proactive messaging.

3. Select the right chatbot platform

Pick a tool that matches your goals. For small businesses, a WhatsApp chatbot software with a simple drag-and-drop builder may be enough. For enterprises, look for a chatbot platform with integration capabilities (CRM systems, payment gateways, marketing tools) and advanced AI-powered chatbots for handling complex customer queries.

4. Design your conversation flows

Plan the common customer interactions your bot should handle greeting messages, FAQs, order updates or even personalised interactions like product recommendations. Use message templates approved by WhatsApp for things like reminders or confirmations.

5. Set up automation and integrations

This is where the real power kicks in. Connect your chatbot to:

• CRM systems for lead management
• Payment gateways for instant checkout
• Marketing tools for running campaigns
• Team collaboration platforms for agent handovers

Automation ensures smooth workflows, fewer missed customer inquiries and faster customer communication.

6. Test thoroughly

Before going live, test the bot with real users. Make sure automated responses are clear, instant and accurate. Check escalation flows so complex user queries are handed over to agents quickly.

7. Go live and monitor performance

Launch your bot and track key metrics, response time, resolved queries and overall customer satisfaction. Most WhatsApp chatbot tools come with dashboards to help you monitor chatbot conversations, campaign success and customer engagement.

Also read: How to Create a WhatsApp Community for Businesses and Teams

What to look for in a good WhatsApp chatbot tool

With so many WhatsApp chatbot tools available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for your business. Here’s a checklist of features and factors you should consider before making a choice.

1. Ease of use

Look for a drag-and-drop chatbot builder that doesn’t require coding. If your team can quickly design flows and set up automated responses, you’ll save time and money.

2. AI capabilities

A good tool should offer AI-powered chatbots with natural language processing (NLP). This allows the bot to understand varied customer queries, manage user interactions and deliver more human-like chatbot conversations.

3. Integration capabilities

Your chatbot should integrate seamlessly with:

• CRM systems for lead management
• Payment gateways for instant purchases
• Marketing tools for campaign automation
• Other messaging platforms like Facebook Messenger or email

This ensures all customer interactions are connected and nothing slips through the cracks.

4. Multilingual support

If your business serves diverse markets, multilingual support is a must. This helps enhance customer experience and build trust with non-English-speaking audiences.

5. Compliance & data security

Since chatbots often handle sensitive customer data, make sure your tool follows strict security protocols and aligns with GDPR or local laws. Look for a trusted WhatsApp business solution provider that prioritises privacy.

6. Proactive messaging

The right tool should let you use approved message templates for proactive messaging such as reminders, offers and updates, without violating WhatsApp’s rules.

7. Customisation & scalability

From greeting messages to advanced workflows, your tool should allow full customisation. It should also scale as your customer support needs grow—whether you’re handling a few chats or thousands of WhatsApp messages per day.

8. Analytics & reporting

Choose a WhatsApp chatbot platform that provides insights into:

• Average response time
• Resolution rate
• Customer satisfaction scores
• Performance of marketing campaigns

Analytics will help you continuously improve and streamline customer support.

9. Cost-effectiveness

Pricing models vary; some charge per agent, others per conversation or per message. Make sure the costs align with your projected usage of automated messages and bulk messages.

Conclusion

WhatsApp has become the go-to messaging platform for businesses, and the right WhatsApp chatbot tool can turn it into a powerful channel for customer support, marketing campaigns and automated interactions.

Whether you choose a simple WhatsApp business app or a full-fledged AI-powered chatbot on the official WhatsApp Business API, the goal is the same: deliver quick, reliable and personalised customer communication.

Pick a tool that’s easy to use, integrates with your systems and scales with your growth. Done right, your WhatsApp chatbot won’t just answer questions.