---
title: What is the difference between Auto Response and Template in Send WhatsApp?
description: "**Message Type – Auto Response**: Uses a **conversation / auto-response** template (e.g. for quick replies within 24-hour window). Select from “Auto response template for reply” dropdown. **Message Type – Template**: Uses a **Meta (WhatsApp)** template. Select from the Template dropdown. Each type has its own…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/what-is-the-difference-between-auto-response-and-template-in-send-whatsapp/"
updated: "2026-04-14"
category: WhatsApp Business API / Workflow Builder
---

# What is the difference between Auto Response and Template in Send WhatsApp?

**Message Type – Auto Response**: Uses a **conversation / auto-response** template (e.g. for quick replies within 24-hour window). Select from “Auto response template for reply” dropdown. **Message Type – Template**: Uses a **Meta (WhatsApp)** template. Select from the Template dropdown. Each type has its own dropdown and optional media; the form (header, body variables, footer, buttons) loads based on the selected template. Choose based on whether you are replying in a conversation (auto response) or sending a template message (Meta template).

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