Since WhatsApp introduced usernames in 2025, users started to ask:
“Should I use a username or a WhatsApp link?”
Below is the full comparison for privacy, security, usability and SEO.
Example:@serverturk
Pros:
Phone number hidden at first contact
Clean and memorable
More modern for brands
Cons:
Phone number becomes visible after chat starts
Feature not active for all accounts
Global competition for usernames
Example:
https://wa.me/15551234567
Pros:
Works everywhere
Fully stable
Compatible with ads & automation
Cons:
Phone number publicly exposed
No privacy
Easy for spam bots to collect
| Feature | Username | WhatsApp Link |
|---|---|---|
| Number hidden initially | ✔ | ✘ |
| Number visible after chat | ✔ | ✔ |
| Spam bot risk | Low | High |
| Identity privacy | Medium | Low |
| Brand trust | High | Medium |
Stronger brand impression
Higher click-through when short
Better for organic search
Highly stable in paid ads
Search engines process it easily
Conclusion:
SEO → Username wins
Ads → WhatsApp Link wins
Small businesses → Username
Large brands → Use both
Best setup for companies like ServerTurk:
Primary contact: Username
Support/Payment pages: WhatsApp Link
Most secure: Username
Most compatible: WhatsApp Link
Most professional: Use both together