Let’s kick things off with the ever popular sms service, Chikka.

Chikka

Chikka is definitely the top dog when it comes to sending your SMS in the Philippines, there are two ways to send your messages: Chikka Software(which I won’t be discussing here) and Chikka’s Web-based Application.

Chikka’s interface resembles the feel of your usual IM application giving your that familiar feeling. Using it is very simple as well, simply register in their website, wait for your password from chikka and start sending messages right away. The only catch here is when you send your message for the first time your contact must reply to your chikka number in order for them to be registered, this is needed so they can continue receiving your next messages. A very notable feature of chikka allows you to login your other IM accounts as well (Yahoo, MSN, Google Talk, AIM, ICQ) which may not be used much but is a welcomed feature nevertheless.

If you have relatives or friends abroad, Chikka also supports sending sms to the following countries: United States, Philippines, Guam, India, Hong Kong (Smart 1528 only), United Kingdom, Spain, Indonesia (XLcom only), Saipan and Italy.

* Replies to chikka costs php 2.50 per text

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zx7t6Oe7pdM

Using chikka is easy.

KuripoTxt

While just released, KuripoTxt is starting to get a name for itself because of it’s sheer simplicity and straightforwardness. Nope, no registration needed here, just visit the KuripoTxt site and start sending your messages! The catch? You can only send your messages to Globe users and a a 70 character limit. But again, in the end, KuripoTxt gets its job done.

Update: I have just received a word from KuripoTxt’s Developer and it looks like support for Smart users is on the way.

Davao Directory SMS

Would you like to send your messages with style? then Davao Directory SMS is for you, registration is optional, only being required when you need it’s phonebook features. When you visit their website, you will be greeted by a cellphone interface, simply navigate your way through the cellphone to access the different features: My Profile, Send SMS and My Phonebook. The interface is a very likable feature as it gives you that feel of navigating through a phone. Davao Directory SMS can send to multiple carriers such as Globe, Smart and Sun.

and now for the final verdict… the winner is…

You!

These services are great for what they are, it’s only a matter of what you are needing most, if you want to send free messages fast and easy, go for KuripoTxt or DavaoDirectory SMS, if you are usually online most of the time then Chikka is the definitely the way to go.

Unfortunately, some of the other sms services didn’t make the cut since they (a) don’t work; or (b) receiving messages takes too long.