Let’s be honest: using virtual numbers for SMS activations sometimes feels like a mini-quest. You need to choose a platform, check number availability, and make sure the SMS arrives on time. If you’ve tried Hero SMS or 5SIM for WhatsApp, Gmail, or TikTok, you know exactly what this is about.
In this guide, we’ll break down how both SMS activation services work, how they are similar, how they differ, and how to start receiving SMS online in 2026.
What is Hero-SMS and how does it work?
Hero SMS is a virtual number service that began actively promoting itself after the SMS-Activate platform shut down at the end of December. Service representatives claim they use a similar technical infrastructure and number suppliers, which allowed them to enter the market quickly.
The platform allows users to receive SMS codes for registration and verification in apps and services like WhatsApp, Gmail, TikTok, and hundreds of others.
Key points:
- A technical operating model similar to SMS-Activate is claimed, including API support
- Support for many countries (claimed ~150–180+) and services (~700+)
- Management via a web panel (no separate mobile app)
- Limited payment methods, with a focus on cryptocurrency
- Prices are positioned as low due to cooperation with older number suppliers
What is 5SIM and how does it work?
5SIM is one of the long-standing virtual number rental services. It allows users to receive SMS codes both on a one-time basis and for longer periods (rental).
The platform is known for a wide list of supported services, including social networks, email platforms, marketplaces, and even some regional Asian services.
Main features:
- Prices for some activations may start from ≈$0.01–0.02 (depending on country and service)
- Geographic coverage is also claimed at ~150–180 countries
- Operation via APIs and web interface
- Support for a large number of payment methods
- User reviews mention test or cheap numbers, but their availability is unstable
Main similarities: 5SIM vs Hero-SMS
Hero SMS and 5SIM offer a comparable basic set of features for renting virtual numbers and receiving verification SMS codes.
What they have in common:
- Temporary numbers for OTP — used for account registration and verification
- Global coverage — both platforms claim numbers from a large number of countries (USA, India, Europe, etc.)
- Web interface — choose country, service (Telegram, WhatsApp, Gmail, etc.), and get a number
- API integration — automation support via keys and requests
- No physical SIM card required — numbers are virtual, SMS are displayed in the dashboard
📌 Important: in the SMS activation market as a whole, 100% SMS delivery cannot be guaranteed, as major services (Google, Meta, Microsoft, etc.) actively filter virtual numbers.
Main differences between 5SIM and Hero-SMS
| Parameter | Hero SMS | 5SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Payment | Mostly cryptocurrency, limited alternatives | Bank transfers, cryptocurrency, Alipay, KakaoPay, UnionPay, etc. |
| Interface | Simple web panel | Web panel with filters by country, service, and operator |
| API | Supported, logic compatibility with SMS-Activate is claimed | Supported, own documentation |
| Number availability | Wide coverage claimed, but users report instability | Large number pool, but complaints about bans occur |
| Support | Email, responses may be slow | Email and live chat, reviews are mixed |
| Reputation | Relatively new player, ratings vary | On the market longer, but not without complaints |
Why do users choose different SMS activation platforms?
In practice, users of SMS activation services often face:
- delayed or missing OTP
- blocked numbers
- payment difficulties
- slow support
This is especially critical for those working with large numbers of accounts or automated processes.
How to receive SMS online on 5SIM (step-by-step)
The process is similar on both services:
- Register or log in to your account
- Choose a country
- Select a service (WhatsApp, Gmail, TikTok, etc.)
- Click the purchase number button
- Insert the number into the required service and receive the SMS in your dashboard
How to receive SMS online on Hero-SMS
- Register on the website hero-sms.com
- Top up your balance (most often with cryptocurrency)
- Choose a service and country
- Buy a number
- Receive the code in your account dashboard
Use cases for 5SIM and HeroSMS — USA and India
Both services offer numbers from popular countries:
- USA — often used for Gmail, Facebook, Amazon, Telegram
- India — WhatsApp, PayPal, Microsoft, etc.
Availability of specific numbers may change depending on time of day and demand.
Reliability and security of SMS activation platforms
Both platforms have both positive and negative reviews.
- Hero SMS — users mention issues with balance, support, and SMS delivery
- 5SIM — complaints about blocked numbers and the need to use a VPN
This is typical for the entire virtual number segment, where much depends on operators and the anti-fraud systems of the services themselves.
List of services for SMS activation (Updated 2026)
Both 5SIM and Hero-SMS support a wide range of applications.
• Social networks: WhatsApp, Telegram, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook.
• Email: Gmail, Outlook, Microsoft, Yahoo.
• E-commerce: Amazon, eBay, AliExpress, Shopee.
• Taxi and delivery: Uber, DoorDash, Grab.
• Finance: PayPal, Stripe, CashApp, Wise.
Conclusion
Both services perform one basic function — providing virtual numbers to receive SMS codes.
- Hero SMS — a newer player, claims wide coverage, but reviews are inconsistent
- 5SIM — a more established service, but also faces number blocks
The choice depends on country, service, budget, and willingness to test numbers before large-scale use.
FAQ
Can Hero SMS and 5SIM be used for the same application?
Yes, both services support most popular services, but specific numbers may be limited.
Are there country restrictions?
Both services provide numbers from ~180 countries, but availability of a specific number depends on the service and time.
Is it reliable to receive OTP through these services?
Reliability is not 100%. Sometimes a number may be blocked or OTP may be delayed.
Is automation possible?
Yes, both services support API, but documentation and operational stability differ.
What payment methods are available?
Hero SMS: crypto and cards.
5SIM: crypto, cards, PayPal, Alipay, UnionPay, KakaoPay, MOMO, QRIS, and others.
