Conversational AI • Last Updated 11/29/2023

TwiML vs. TeXML: Comparing XML markup languages

Both TeXML and TwiML can help developers create programmable voice experiences. Learn which is best for your projects.

By Kelsie Anderson

In the world of communication technologies, XML-based markup languages—like TwiML and TeXML—allow developers to effectively leverage voice and messaging services.

At Telnyx, we understand the critical role these languages play in the seamless execution of telecommunication services. In this blog post, we’ll compare TwiML and TeXML, two pivotal tools in the modern developer's arsenal.

TwiML, a product of Twilio, has become a familiar name in the industry. But Telnyx’s markup language, TeXML, has equally powerful capabilities. Understanding the similarities and differences between these two languages will help you choose the toolset that’s best for your organization’s communication needs.

What is TeXML?

TeXML, developed by Telnyx, is an XML-based markup language designed to control voice calls. It's a cornerstone of Telnyx's Programmable Voice platform, offering a straightforward and efficient way to manage call flows. TeXML's design focuses on simplicity, making it accessible not only to seasoned developers but also to those with less coding experience.

Key features of TeXML

Ease of use: TeXML's syntax is straightforward, allowing for quick implementation.
Flexibility: It supports various call control features like call forwarding, recording, and conferencing.
Integration: TeXML works seamlessly with Telnyx's voice API, facilitating a smooth integration process.

What is TwiML?

TwiML, is Twilio's XML-based language used to instruct how to handle voice calls and SMS and MMS messages. It's an integral part of Twilio's broader suite of communication tools, designed to provide developers with greater control over call and message handling.

Key features of TwiML

Rich functionality: TwiML offers a wide range of commands for call and message handling.
Customizability: Developers can create complex call flows and messaging sequences.
Scalability: TwiML is designed to scale with the growing needs of businesses.

Comparing TeXML and TwiML

While both TeXML and TwiML serve similar purposes, their approaches and capabilities have several distinct differences. Below is a high-level overview of how the two languages compare. For more in-depth information, you can view our full comparison of Telnyx and Twilio’s programmable voice capabilities.

TeXML vs. TwiML
	TeXML	TwiML
Pricing	Total cost will depend on the Programmable Voice features you access. However, on average, customers save 30% when switching from Twilio to Telnyx.	Total cost depends on which Twilio features you use. On average, customers spend 30% more on Twilio than on similar Telnyx configurations.
Network	Telnyx’s privately owned global IP network was designed from the ground up for real-time voice and data communications, making your calls crystal-clear and secure, with super-low latency.	Twilio relies on the public internet, which wasn’t built for real-time communications. That can result in high latency, packet loss, and poor security, causing endless quality issues.
Bins	Telnyx’s privately owned global IP network was designed from the ground up for real-time voice and data communications, making your calls crystal-clear and secure, with super-low latency.	Twilio relies on the public internet, which wasn’t built for real-time communications. That can result in high latency, packet loss, and poor security, causing endless quality issues.
Support	Every Telnyx customer has access to free 24/7 support from our team of expert in-house engineers.	Customers must spend at least $1,500 per month to access support.
HTTP requests	Telnyx HTTP requests allow you to retrieve required information for call flows from external systems and send notifications to any REST API.	Twilio does not support HTTP requests to retrieve required information for call flows from external systems and send notifications to a REST API.
Easy-to-use platform	Telnyx has an easy-to-use platform for buying numbers and building call flows. It was awarded Most Implementable CPaaS Platform by G2.	Twilio offers an easy-to-use platform for buying numbers and building call flows.

TwiML and TeXML have very similar capabilities, so it’s up to you to decide whether Telnyx’s or Twilio’s offerings will meet your business’s needs. By comparing the two companies’ price points, support packages, and infrastructure, you can make the decision that will help your team create the best programmable voice experiences—for the best value.

Choose the XML-based markup language that’s best for your business

TeXML has achieved parity with TwiML, so developers can use either language for their programmable voice projects to accomplish the same goals.

With that detail in mind, it’s important to consider which business—Telnyx or Twilio—would be a better partner for your business. With free support, more affordable pricing, and a privately owned network, Telnyx’s offerings and infrastructure stand out in the programmable voice space.

But there’s only one way to know for sure which language is the best fit for your business: Test out TeXML for yourself to see just how easy it is to use.

Watch the video below to see how easy it is to swith from Twilio to Telnyx for programmable voice.