OpenWA vs wa-js
WhatsApp integrations: self-hosted gateway vs browser library
OpenWA is a self-hosted WhatsApp API gateway with a REST API, dashboard, and multi-session support. wa-js exposes WhatsApp Web functions to code running in a browser session, so the main difference is operating a gateway versus building on the web client directly.
OpenWA: WhatsApp API Gateway with whatsapp-web.js and Baileys
OpenWA is a self-hosted WhatsApp API gateway built on whatsapp-web.js and Baileys, with a REST API, dashboard and multi-session support. It suits developers who want to operate their own messaging infrastructure, but relies on unofficial WhatsApp clients and carries account-restriction risk.
wa-js: Access WhatsApp Web Functions from TypeScript
WA-JS exposes WhatsApp Web functions through a JavaScript API for browser-based integrations and automation. It is actively maintained and suits developers who can run code in a WhatsApp Web session and adapt to changes in the web client.
| OpenWA | wa-js | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | TypeScript | TypeScript |
| License | MIT | Apache-2.0 |
| Stars | 16.2k | 817 |
| Forks | 3.8k | 248 |
| Last analyzed | Oct 25, 2026 | Oct 8, 2026 |
Key differences
- OpenWA provides a REST API and dashboard for sessions and messaging; wa-js exposes functions through the browser global `WPP`.
- OpenWA supports multiple sessions and offers Docker deployment; wa-js must be injected into WhatsApp Web and used with a browser session.
- OpenWA is built on whatsapp-web.js and Baileys, both unofficial clients; wa-js depends on WhatsApp Web's internal implementation.
- OpenWA is licensed under MIT, while wa-js is licensed under Apache-2.0.
- OpenWA suits developers operating their own messaging infrastructure; wa-js suits developers building browser automation, extensions, or tools around a logged-in session.
Choose OpenWA if you…
- need a self-hosted REST API gateway with a dashboard and multi-session support.
- want to connect WhatsApp events to your services using webhooks and session-specific credentials.
- are prepared to account for the restrictions and bans possible with unofficial clients.
Choose wa-js if you…
- want to call WhatsApp Web functions from browser automation or an extension.
- already control a logged-in WhatsApp Web session and want to build custom tools around it.
- can validate integrations as WhatsApp Web changes its internal implementation.
Compare the numbers side by side, or add more projects
This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.