Create WhatsApp Links Using Official Business Tools
If you run a business (or even just want a more polished link), the official WhatsApp Business tools are your best bet—they’re reliable and come with extra features like pre-filled messages.
Use the WhatsApp Business App Link Generator
This method is perfect if you already have the WhatsApp Business app on your phone. Here’s how to do it:
The best part? This link works on any device—if someone clicks it on a desktop, it’ll open in WhatsApp web (https://www.app-whatsappws.com) so they can chat right from their computer. I love this because it saves customers time, and it makes your business look more professional.
Use the WhatsApp Business API for Scaling
If you get a lot of messages (like hundreds a day), the WhatsApp Business API is worth considering. It lets you track links, automate responses, and integrate with other tools like your CRM. Here’s how to get started:
I’ve used this for a client’s e-commerce store, and it doubled their customer inquiry rate—because it’s so easy for shoppers to reach out. Just remember that the API has a steeper learning curve than the basic tools, so it’s better for businesses that are ready to scale.
Create WhatsApp Links Without the Business App
If you don’t have a business account, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to create WhatsApp links using tools you already have (or even just a browser).
Use the Manual Wa.me Format
This is my go-to trick for quick links—no apps, no sign-ups, just a browser. Here’s how:
I use this all the time for personal projects—like when I’m organizing a meetup and want people to message me quickly. It’s foolproof as long as you get the number format right.
Use Third-Party Link Generators
If you don’t want to mess with URL encoding (the %20 stuff), third-party generators are a lifesaver. Here’s how to use one:
I recently used Buffer’s generator for my blog’s contact page, and it took less than a minute. The best part? It automatically encodes the message, so I didn’t have to worry about mistakes.
WhatsApp Web FAQ
Here are three common questions about WhatsApp web and creating links:
Can I create WhatsApp links directly from WhatsApp web? Yes, you can create WhatsApp links from WhatsApp web, but options depend on your account type. For WhatsApp Business accounts, open WhatsApp web, click the three dots in the top left, select “Business tools,” then “Short link.” This generates a link with your number, and you can add a pre-filled message too. For personal accounts, use the manual wa.me format—just type the link in your browser on desktop. Keep in mind WhatsApp web needs your phone connected to the internet to work, so ensure your phone is on and has a stable connection. I’ve used this for my personal account when I’m working on my laptop—super quick to generate a link and share it with colleagues via email. Why isn’t my WhatsApp link working on WhatsApp web? There are a few common reasons your link might fail on WhatsApp web. First, check the number format: it must be international (no spaces/hyphens). For example, a UK number should start with 44 instead of
Can I track WhatsApp link clicks from WhatsApp web? Tracking clicks from WhatsApp web isn’t direct with basic tools, but workarounds exist. Use a URL shortener like Bitly: generate your WhatsApp link, then shorten it with Bitly’s tracking enabled. Bitly shows device types (desktop = WhatsApp web) and click counts. For Business API users, analytics include desktop clicks. I use Bitly for my blog’s contact link—last month, 25% of clicks were from WhatsApp web, so I optimized my pre-filled message to be concise for desktop users. This helps me understand my audience better and adjust my links accordingly.

