Quick answer. RCS typically improves engagement dramatically over SMS — click-through rates commonly land in the 15–30% range versus low single digits for SMS, and read rates are very high because messages arrive branded in the native inbox. Real campaigns show the scale of the lift: Subway saw conversion up to ~140% higher than SMS on a test offer, Pizza Hut reported a 280% higher click-through on a seasonal campaign, and Nespresso saw a 2.3x higher click rate with a 3.7x uplift in purchase intent. Actual results vary by audience, offer, and creative.
The drivers are consistent: verified branding builds trust (more opens), rich media earns attention (more clicks), and tap-to-act buttons remove friction (more conversions). Together they move the whole funnel, which is why the lift shows up as both higher CTR and higher conversion.
A fair note for the content: many headline figures are from a single test or vendor and shouldn't be presented as universal averages. Attribute each one and frame them as examples of what's achievable, not guarantees.
Key facts
- RCS CTR commonly 15–30% vs low single digits for SMS (industry benchmarks).
- Examples: Subway ~140% higher conversion (test offer); Pizza Hut +280% CTR (seasonal); Nespresso 2.3x click rate, 3.7x purchase intent; Clarins 79% read / 22% CTR.
- Results vary by audience, offer, and creative — treat figures as illustrative and attributed.