Top SMS backup and restore apps in 2025

Losing precious text messages can be more than inconvenient — it can mean losing cherished memories, important contacts, or vital information. Whether due to accidental deletion, device malfunction, or transitioning to a new phone, the risk of losing your SMS data is real.

Imagine forever losing sentimental messages from loved ones or critical business conversations. Not to mention the potential complications during device upgrades when vital information isn't readily accessible.

Thankfully, reliable sms backup solutions exist. They empower you to:

• Protect personal memories and significant conversations.
• Ensure data security during device changes or upgrades.
• Recover messages after accidental deletions or device malfunctions.

Additionally, for businesses running SMS marketing campaigns, these tools safeguard valuable campaign data from loss.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how to back up SMS messages using your phone's built-in tools and highlight top third-party apps that offer enhanced control and flexibility.

Two ways for sms backup and restore

You can protect your SMS messages either using your device's built-in security features or by using third-party apps with advanced features. Let's examine these two methods.

1. Using Your Phone’s Built-in Functionality for sms backup and restore

Both Android and iPhone devices offer native options for sms backup restore. Here’s how to effectively use these built-in tools.

How do I back up and restore my SMS messages on Android?

Android 8 and newer versions allow you to back up your SMS messages to Google Drive automatically or manually. This ensures that your messages and other data are safely stored and easily retrievable.

Here's how you can set it up:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Navigate to Google → Backup.
3. Turn on Back up to Google Drive.
4. Be certain that SMS is switched on under the backup options.
5. To restore, sign in to your Google account on a new device, and during the setup process, select Restore from backup.

How do I back up and restore my SMS messages on iPhone?

iPhone users can use iCloud to securely back up their SMS messages along with other critical data. 

Follow these steps to set it up:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name at the top → iCloud.
3. Ensure Messages is toggled on under iCloud settings.
4. To restore, sign in to your Apple ID on a new device and enable Messages in iCloud during setup.

Note: While built-in systems are convenient, they lack certain functionalities, such as reading messages off-device or selectively restoring individual texts.

2. Third-party SMS Backup and Restore

For greater control over your SMS backups, third-party apps are an excellent choice. These tools allow you to:

• View backed-up messages on a separate device.
• Selectively restore specific conversations.
• Access advanced features like scheduled backups, local storage, and cross-device compatibility.

The third-party apps provide an extra layer of flexibility and functionality that can be invaluable, especially for users who want more customization and control.

How to Choose the Right SMS Backup App for Your Needs

Choosing the right SMS backup app is essential to keep your data safe, easily accessible, and well-organized. To make the perfect choice, view these significant factors:

• Ease of Use: Look for apps with a clean, straightforward interface and intuitive navigation. The backup and restore process should be simple, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. Apps with step-by-step guides or tutorials can make the experience even smoother.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the app supports your device and operating system, whether Android or iOS. Check the app description for version requirements to avoid compatibility issues, especially if you use older or less common devices.
• Storage Options: Decide between local and cloud-based backups. Local backups store data directly on your device or external storage, providing quick access without internet dependency. Cloud backups, on the other hand, allow you to access data from anywhere but may require a subscription for additional storage space.
• Security Features: Protecting your messages is crucial, so opt for apps offering encryption and strong data protection measures. Features like password protection for backups and secure cloud integration ensure your sensitive information stays safe.
• Cost: While many apps are free, some offer premium features like automatic scheduling, cloud storage integration, or advanced restoration options. Compare the cost against the features provided to determine if the investment is worthwhile.
• Restore Capabilities: A reliable backup app should ensure seamless restoration of your messages. Check user reviews for feedback on the app’s ability to restore backups quickly and without errors. Apps that allow selective restoration of specific conversations are particularly useful.
• Additional Features: Many apps offer extras like scheduled backups, the ability to export messages in readable formats, or compatibility across multiple devices. These features can significantly enhance convenience and utility, so explore them based on your needs.
• User Reviews: Ratings and reviews on app stores provide valuable insights into an app’s performance and reliability. Look for apps with positive feedback and detailed user experiences that align with what you’re looking for.

By weighing these factors, you can choose an SMS backup application that meets all your needs while offering flexibility, security, and ease of use.

Top SMS backup and restore apps

Here is a short list of the best sms backup restore apps:

1. SMS Backup & Restore by SyncTech

• Rating: 4.4 (130K+ reviews)
• Downloads: 10M+
• Supported Platforms: Android
• Features: Local and cloud backups, scheduled backups, and viewing text messages.
• Data Safety: Data is encrypted in transit. Offers encryption for backups.
• User Review:

• Price: Free.

2. SMS Backup & Restore by Firehawk

• Rating: 4.1 (21.3K+ reviews)
• Downloads: 1M+
• Supported Platforms: Android
• Features: Phone Rescue, automatic backup, restore messages — recover deleted text messages.
• Data Safety: Gmail OAuth for secure syncing.
• User Review:

• Price: Free.

3. SMS Backup+ by Justin Terrell

• Rating: 3. 8
• Downloads: 10M+
• Supported Platforms: Android
• Features: Easily backup SMS messages into various file formats.
• Data Safety: Gmail OAuth for secure syncing.
• User Review:

• Price: Free.

4. FoneLab

• Rating: 4.0 (200K+ reviews)
• Downloads: 10M+
• Supported Platforms: iOS and Android
• Features: Recover deleted or lost data from iOS devices, iTunes, or iCloud backups, including photos, videos, WhatsApp chats, contacts, and other essential files.
• Data Safety: Gmail OAuth for secure syncing.
• User Review:

• Price: Free.

5. Recover Deleted Messages by TarrySoft

• Rating: 4.2 (46.2K+ reviews)
• Downloads: 5M+
• Supported Platforms: iOS and Android
• Features: Data recovery, including SMS, contacts, and media files.
• Data Safety: Utilizes secure data recovery protocols.
• User Review:

• Price: Paid version.

6. SwiftBackup

• Rating: 4.3 (7.13K+ reviews)
• Downloads: 500K+
• Supported Platforms: Android
• Features: Backup apps, SMS, call logs, and more with seamless cloud integration.
• Data Safety: Gmail OAuth for secure syncing.
• User Review:

• Price: Free.

Best Practices for SMS Backup and Restore

To maximise the effectiveness of SMS backup solutions, follow these best practices:

1. Schedule Regular Backups: Set automatic backups to avoid manual effort.
2. Choose Reliable Tools: Opt for well-rated apps with consistent performance.
3. Secure Your Backups: Use strong passwords and encryption to protect data.
4. Verify Success: Periodically test backups to ensure they work.
5. Use Multiple Locations: Store backups in both local and cloud locations for redundancy.
6. Manage Storage: Monitor and optimise storage space to avoid disruptions.
7. Understand Restoration: Familiarize yourself with the restoration process before you need it.
8. Backup Before Major Changes: Always back up before upgrading or resetting your device.

To enhance the effectiveness of sms backups, use reliable tools, secure your data with encryption, and schedule automatic backups to save time. Store backups in multiple locations, regularly test them for success, and ensure you back up before making major device changes.

FAQs

1. How does SMS backup work?

Behind the scenes, many backup solutions utilize an SMS API (Application Programming Interface). The SMS API connects your phone's messaging system with the backup service, allowing it to access, retrieve, and securely store your SMS data in a chosen location, such as cloud storage or a local device.

2. Is SMS backup and restore legit?

Yes, SMS backup and restore solutions are completely legitimate. Reputable apps follow data protection guidelines and often provide user reviews and transparent privacy policies to ensure reliability.

3. Is my SMS data secure and safe with these apps?

Trusted apps prioritize data security by employing encryption and robust privacy measures. Be sure to choose apps with strong reviews, clear privacy policies, and advanced security features like password protection for backups.

4. Does SMS backup restore deleted text messages?

If a backup containing the deleted messages is available, restoring it can help recover those messages. However, deleted messages not included in a backup cannot typically be retrieved unless specialized recovery software is used.

5. How to restore SMS from old phone to new phone?

To restore SMS from an old phone to a new phone, look for the "Finish setting up" notification in the settings panel after the initial setup. This option restores backed-up data, including SMS, from Google Drive, where Android's automatic backups are stored. While this built-in method is convenient, it doesn’t allow manual restoration or viewing of the backup contents. For more control and flexibility, third-party apps like SMS Backup+ or SMS Backup & Restore are excellent alternatives.

6. How can I view my SMS backups?

You can view SMS backups by accessing them via your chosen storage location:

• Cloud Storage (e.g., Google Drive, iCloud): Log in and locate the backup file.
• Third-Party Apps: Most apps allow you to open and read backed-up messages directly from within the app.

7. How often should I back up my SMS messages?

The frequency depends on your messaging habits:

• Frequent Messaging: Set daily or weekly automatic backups.
• Occasional Messaging: Monthly backups may suffice.
  Tip: Schedule backups before significant changes like switching phones or resetting your device.

8. What is the difference between local and cloud backups?

• Local Backups: Stored directly on your device or external storage, providing quick access but vulnerable to physical damage or theft.
• Cloud Backups: Stored on remote servers, accessible from anywhere with internet access, and often protected with encryption. However, they may require a subscription for additional storage space.