When comparing Material Messaging vs Handcent Next SMS, the Slant community recommends Handcent Next SMS for most people. In the question“What are the best messaging apps for Android?” Handcent Next SMS is ranked 36th while Material Messaging is ranked 45th. The most important reason people chose Handcent Next SMS is:
Splitting a group text is a great option, so that follow-up can be personal and not everyone sees every response.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Dual SIM support
The app is designed from the ground up with support for 2 SIM cards in mind.
Pro Message scheduling
Allows the scheduling of messages in advance.
Pro Pushbullet integration
Pro Per-contact customization
Pro Very few bugs, good dev support
Pro Fast load times and transitions
Pro Great-looking material design
The app follows Material Design guidelines very closely.
Pro Can split a group text
Splitting a group text is a great option, so that follow-up can be personal and not everyone sees every response.
Pro Missed notification reminders
Pro Can text from a PC, Mac or tablet
Texting from another device allows one to not pick up one's phone every minute.
Pro Customizable appearance
Cons
Con Settings menu is barebones
In addition to visual customization the app allows turning sounds, notifications and vibrations on an off. That's about it.
Con Name is confusing
In your app drawer you'll see "Next SMS" but in Google Play "Handcent" is the first word of the app. That might confuse some people.
Con Texting from a PC, Mac or tablet requires extra work
