Physical SIM or virtual number?
Two pools, two price levels, one question: does the app you are verifying check the number type?
When do I need a physical-SIM number?
When the app runs a carrier lookup and refuses VoIP: WhatsApp, Google, PayPal, Uber, banks, most dating apps and anything handling money. For messaging and social apps that only need a code to arrive, a virtual number is cheaper and works. Each app page states which pool it needs; the catalog labels every country.
Rule of thumb
- Strict (physical SIM): WhatsApp, Google, PayPal, Amazon, Uber, Tinder, banks, crypto exchanges.
- Mixed (depends on country): Telegram, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Discord.
- Relaxed (virtual is fine): forums, newsletters, most shopping sites, games.
Price difference
Physical-SIM numbers cost more because each one is a real SIM in a real device. The gap is usually a few cents to a dollar per code depending on the country.
SMS Nitro at a glance
| Billing | Pay only if the code arrives. If no SMS arrives before the number expires, the frozen amount returns to your balance automatically, in full. |
|---|---|
| Number reserved for | Up to 20 minutes per activation. Rentals from 24 hours to 30 days with unlimited incoming SMS. |
| Payment | Card via Stripe (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay) or crypto (USDC or SOL on Solana). Minimum top-up $5. Card top-ups carry a 10% processing fee; crypto has none. |
| Subscription | None. Pay per verification; your balance never expires. |
| Countries | 180+ countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, India, Germany, Brazil, Indonesia and the Philippines. |
| Apps | 700+ apps and websites: WhatsApp, Telegram, Google, Instagram, TikTok, Discord, OpenAI, PayPal, Tinder, Amazon and more. |
| Developers | REST API plus an SMS-Activate-compatible endpoint. API key available after your first top-up. No API surcharge. |
| Support | Tickets from the dashboard and email, answered by people. |
| Price | From $0.02 per verification code, depending on the app and the country. |
Frequently asked questions
Is a physical-SIM number the same as non-VoIP?
Yes in practice: it is a mobile carrier line, which is what VoIP checks look for.