Facebook Competitors: 20+ Best Social Networks To Use Instead of Facebook
Facebook has several competitors in the social media arena. Its dominance in the market continues to be challenged by these competitors, which have unique features and user bases that set them apart.
Despite facing fierce competition, Facebook has managed to maintain its position as one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with billions of users around the globe. Some of the most notable competitors include Mastodon, Minds, Diaspora, Gab, VK, Friendica, Twitter, Steem It, Hubzilla, MeWe, WT.Social, Ello, Parler, Vero and more.
What is Facebook?
Facebook was founded by Mark Zuckerberg in 2004. It is a popular social media platform with over 2.9 billion monthly active users. It revolutionized communication by allowing users to share updates, photos, videos, and messages with friends and family worldwide.
Facebook’s main features include the News Feed, which shows users the latest updates from their friends and pages, and groups based on interests. The platform also offers a marketplace for buying and selling items and an events feature.
However, Facebook faced criticism for its handling of user data and privacy concerns in 2018 when Cambridge Analytica harvested millions of users’ personal data without their consent. Since then, Facebook has made changes to its privacy policies and improved data protection.
Facebook owns other popular apps like Instagram and WhatsApp, which operate independently but are integrated with Facebook. Despite these challenges, Facebook remains one of the most widely used social networking sites globally.
Features of Facebook
- News Feed
- Personal profile pages
- Connect with friends
- Create or join groups
- Create pages
- Privacy Settings
- Advertisements
- Notifications.
- Facebook Marketplace
- Create or RSVP to events
- Messenger App
- Live Videos
- Share short-lived Stories
- Watch videos & play games
- Likes and Reactions
Pricing:
Free. Proprietary.
Facebook Competitors and Alternatives
1
Minds is an open-source social networking platform launched in 2015, offering a secure, decentralized, and open-source alternative to mainstream social media networks. It allows users to connect and share content while maintaining control over their data and privacy.
Minds operates on a decentralized model, ensuring users’ data is not sold or used for advertising without their permission. Blockchain technology provides additional security and transparency.
Users can post status updates, share photos and videos, and engage with others through comments and messaging.
Minds has its own cryptocurrency, Minds tokens, earned through content creation and sharing. The platform promotes free speech and open discourse, not censoring content unless illegal or incites violence.
2
Mastodon is a decentralized social networking platform created in 2016 as an alternative to centralized platforms like Twitter. It allows users to create accounts and connect with others on different instances hosted by different organizations and individuals worldwide.
Mastodon’s decentralized model allows users to have greater control over their data and choose instances that align with their values and interests. It also uses “federated timelines” to promote a diverse and decentralized user experience.
The platform uses end-to-end encryption for security and does not collect or sell user data to third-party advertisers. Similar to Twitter, Mastodon allows users to post status updates, share media, and interact with others through mentions and direct messages.
3
MeWe is known as “The Next-Gen Social Network” with brilliant features, no BS, no ads and no spyware. It is an innovative social media platform that blends the best of traditional social media with modern privacy and security features. It offers users the ability to create private or public profiles, post updates and multimedia content, communicate with friends and family, and connect with like-minded people and discuss topics of interest. MeWe is also used by businesses and professionals for networking and connecting with potential customers or clients.
MeWe also puts user privacy and security first, providing users with control over their data and content, as well as giving them the ability to delete their posts and accounts at any time. MeWe’s innovative approach to social media offers users an unprecedented level of freedom and control while they stay connected with the world.
4
Ello, an online social networking platform, was initially used by artists and programmers as a private network. However, it gained attention for its unique features and eventually opened up to the public.
The platform prioritizes user privacy, never sells data to advertisers, shows advertisements, and does not enforce a real-name policy. Ello features emoji autocomplete and NSFW settings, and plans to add more features like private messaging.
Despite criticism for its simplistic design, Ello has gained a following from artists and creators seeking a less commercialized platform to showcase their work.
In 2018, Talenthouse acquired Ello, but it remains free to use. Ello celebrates the individuality and diversity of its users, allowing them to curate their unique social experience and connect with like-minded individuals.
5
Steemit is a social media platform launched in 2016 using the decentralized Steem blockchain. It allows users to earn cryptocurrency rewards for creating and curating content. Users can post various content formats and have others upvote or downvote their posts.
Upvotes increase rewards for authors and encourage users to promote high-quality content. Steemit also has a social aspect, allowing users to follow, comment, and engage in discussions.
The community is supportive and welcoming, with many forming close connections. Despite being a niche platform compared to larger sites like Facebook and Twitter, Steemit attracts a passionate community of content creators and enthusiasts.
6
Gab is a social networking service launched in 2016 that allows users to connect, share, and engage with content from various perspectives. It aims to create a safe space for free speech and civil discourse, emphasizing respectful, transparent, and inclusive content.
Users can share text, images, audio, and video content, follow others, and join communities. Gab offers tools like voting, polls, and discussion threads, along with a code of conduct, reporting system, and moderation system to ensure civil discourse and prevent harassment or hate speech.
7
WT.Social is a microblogging and social media platform founded by Jimmy Wales, co-founder of Wikipedia. It aims to provide an alternative to major platforms like Facebook and Twitter by being more community-driven and focused on reliable information.
WT.Social is a subscription-based platform, funded by donations, and ad-free. It incorporates elements of a wiki, allowing users to collaborate on news and information. Content is reviewed by volunteer editors for accuracy.
WT.Social also offers groups and communities for users to connect on shared interests. It focuses on verifiable news and information, fact-checking and relying on credible sources. Despite its smaller user base, WT.Social has the potential to offer a more transparent and reliable alternative.
8
Parler, a social media platform launched in 2018, aims to provide a platform for free speech, particularly popular among conservative and right-leaning users who feel their views are being censored on other platforms. The platform operates similarly to other social media sites, allowing users to create profiles, follow others, and post content.
However, Parler’s policies differ from mainstream sites, such as not having a fact-checking system and allowing content that may be considered hate speech or incitement to violence.
In January 2021, Parler gained national attention following the storming of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters. Many of the individuals who participated in the insurrection had posted about their plans on Parler, leading to accusations of inciting violence.
Parler was removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and its web hosting was removed by Amazon Web Services due to concerns over violent content. Parler filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing them of antitrust violations and breach of contract.
9
Vero is a social media platform that aims to offer an alternative to popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The platform was launched in 2015 and initially gained a large user base due to its focus on privacy and its ad-free model. Vero allows users to connect with friends and family, share photos, and post about topics that interest them. One of the key features of the platform is its algorithm-free feed, which means that posts are shown in chronological order rather than being prioritized based on popularity or engagement.
Vero also has a “collections” feature that allows users to group their posts by topic or theme, making it easier to organize and find content. The platform also has a feature called “buy now” that allows users to purchase products and services through the app.
Despite its early success, Vero has faced some criticism over the years, including concerns about its privacy policies and its handling of user data. The platform also faced a backlash in 2018 when it faced criticism over its founder’s alleged ties to senior figures in the Russian government.
Overall, Vero offers a unique social media experience that prioritizes privacy and transparency. However, with the rise of other privacy-focused platforms like WT.Social, it remains to be seen whether Vero will continue to grow and compete with more established social media platforms.
10
Diaspora is a decentralized, open-source, nonprofit social network founded in 2010 by four students at New York University’s Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. It is managed by the Diaspora Foundation, part of the Free Software Support Network (FSSN), and is run by Eben Moglen and the Software Freedom Law Center.
The network consists of pods, independent nodes that interoperate to form the network. The project was created to address privacy concerns related to centralized social networks. Diaspora is licensed under the GNU-AGPL-3.0 and is managed by the Diaspora Foundation.
The distributed design of Diaspora attracted members of the militant Islamist extremist group ISIS in 2014 after their propaganda campaigns were censored by Twitter. The open-source software allows users to see how the software works and change it if they want.
Diaspora received over $200,000 in crowdfunding and has garnered attention and support, offering an alternative to centralized social networks.
11
Twitter, a free social media platform, was founded in 2006 by Jack Dorsey, Noah Glass, Biz Stone, and Evan Williams. It allows users to post, like, share, and direct messages, with registered users only able to view public tweets.
The platform has evolved over time, with features like Twitter Spaces for social audio, Fleets for stories, and the integration of photo-sharing services.
In 2021, the platform launched Birdwatch, a community-driven fact-checking initiative to combat misinformation.
In October 2022, Elon Musk acquired Twitter for $44 billion, introducing new features, revised pricing plans, and changes to the verification system. Despite its positive impact on democratic societies and global conversation, Twitter has faced criticism for enabling disinformation and fake news, leading to issues like online bullying and harassment.
12
Snapchat is an American instant messaging app developed by Snap Inc., known for its short-lived pictures and messages.
It’s a fast and fun way to share moments with friends and family. The Hacks Of Kindness challenge encourages users to brighten someone’s day by snacking, snacking, and supporting.
13
VKontakte (VK) is a popular social networking platform in Russia and one of the largest in Europe, with over 500 million registered users. It allows users to create profiles, share photos, videos, music, and links, and connect with friends and family. VK also has a messaging system, groups, events, and a newsfeed where users can see updates from their contacts.
The social network has a strong focus on music and entertainment, with a vast collection of songs and playlists available for streaming and sharing. VK is a great platform for those who want to stay connected with their Russian friends and enjoy a wide range of music and entertainment content.
14
Instagram has emerged as a powerful Facebook competitor. It is a photo and video-sharing social networking platform that has become incredibly popular in recent years, particularly among younger generations. You can share photos and videos with your followers, and also preview photos and videos shared by others who you follow.
Instagram also provides features like direct messaging, filters and editing tools to enhance images, and the ability to make a profile account offering personalized settings. With its visually oriented content and emphasis on aesthetics, Instagram is a great platform for showcasing personal and brand stories in a creative, visually engaging way.
15
Friendica is a decentralized social network that puts users in control of their data and online identity. It allows users to connect with friends and family, join communities of interest, and share content without being tracked or monitored by corporations or governments.
Friendica is built on open-source software and supports a variety of protocols, including ActivityPub, Diaspora, and OStatus, which means it can communicate with other decentralized social networks. Friendica is a great option for those who value privacy, security, and open communication on the internet.
16
WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows users to send text, voice messages, and make voice and video calls with others who also have the app. It has features like end-to-end encryption, meaning that only you and the person you’re communicating with can read the messages you send. Its features enable users to send files ranging from media files to word documents to any location in the world. The app is user-friendly and is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
17
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network, connecting millions of people with jobs, companies, and business opportunities. It’s the go-to platform for job seekers, recruiters, and business professionals who want to network, learn, and grow their careers.
With its comprehensive profiles, job listings, and newsfeed, LinkedIn helps you showcase your skills, experience, and achievements, and connect with like-minded individuals and organizations. Whether you’re looking for a new job, a mentor, or a business partner, LinkedIn is the perfect platform to build your professional brand and expand your career
18
WeChat is an all-in-one mobile app that combines social networking, messaging, and e-commerce features into one platform. It’s the most popular social app in China, with over 1 billion active users. With WeChat, you can chat with friends and family, make voice and video calls, share photos and videos, and even pay bills and shop online.
The app also has a built-in mini-program ecosystem, offering a variety of services and applications from third-party developers. WeChat is the ultimate mobile app for those who want to stay connected and productive on the go. WeChat app is available on iOS, Android, Windows, and MacOS.
19
Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging app launched in 2013 by Pavel and Nikolai Durov. It offers end-to-end encryption for sending and receiving messages, photos, videos, audio messages, and documents.
Users can create groups with up to 200,000 members, making it ideal for community organizing and project collaboration. Channels allow only the creator to post messages, making them ideal for broadcasting news or updates.
All messages are encrypted and users can enable two-factor authentication for added security. Telegram also features a self-destruct timer for messages, making it useful for sensitive information.
Users can customize their messages with themes, backgrounds, stickers, and even create their own. The app also offers voice and video calls, file sharing, and payment capabilities.
20
Pinterest is a visual discovery and bookmarking platform that lets you find and save ideas for every aspect of your life. Whether you’re planning a wedding, decorating your home, or looking for recipe ideas, Pinterest has everything you need. With its intuitive search and recommendation system, you can discover new content and inspiration from a vast collection of user-generated pins, boards, and profiles.
You can also create your own boards and pins, curating your own personal style and interests. Pinterest is a great way to explore new possibilities, get inspired, and organize your thoughts and ideas.
21
Discord is a VoIP and instant messaging social platform. Discord has become a popular platform for socializing and collaborating online, with millions of users worldwide. The platform was designed primarily for gamers, but it is also used by communities and businesses for communication and collaboration. It allows users to create and join “servers,” which are essentially chat rooms focused on a particular topic or interest. Within each server, users can create and participate in text, voice, and video chats.
Discord also includes various features such as file sharing, screen sharing, and live streaming. It has a user-friendly interface, and users can customize their profiles and server settings to their preferences. Additionally, it supports integration with various other platforms such as Twitch, Spotify, and YouTube. You can use it on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, iPadOS, Android and Web browsers.
22
GNU social is a free and open-source social communication software for both public and private communications . It is a decentralized social networking site, meaning that you can run your own server of GNU social, and connect with other servers to create a federated social network.
One can create and manage groups, profiles, and even create channels for organizations making it a popular platform among social activists.
23
TikTok is a video-sharing app that lets you create and discover short-form, user-generated videos. With its unique algorithm and recommendation system, TikTok shows you content that matches your interests and preferences, making it a highly personalized and engaging experience.
You can create your own videos, using a variety of creative tools and effects, or browse through an endless stream of entertaining and inspiring content from a diverse community of users. TikTok is the perfect platform for those who want to express themselves, showcase their talent, and connect with a global audience.
24
Hubzilla is another free open source decentralized social networking site. One of its key features is the ability to create a channel that hosts multiple profiles, enabling privacy and post delivery control of messages.
Hubzilla lets you form different clusters and deployment groups for targeted distribution making it popular among privacy advocates.
25
Pleroma is a social networking software that integrates with other Fediverse software like Misskey, Pixelfed, and Mastodon, offering online radio streaming and data safety. It also supports federating messages with other servers supporting ActivityPub.
26
Tumblr is a microblogging and social networking website where users can share photos, videos, and short-form content. It has a strong emphasis on visual content, and is particularly popular with young people and creatives.
Tumblr was founded in 2007 by David Karp and has become a popular platform for sharing creative content such as art, photography, and short-form writing. It’s also known for its “reblogging” feature, which allows users to share and amplify content they like. Tumblr has a strong sense of community, with users often creating and joining groups based on shared interests.
27
Flickr was launched in 2004 and is one of the oldest and most popular photo sharing sites on the web. It allows users to store and share their photos and videos with others, and provides tools for editing, organizing, and tagging content. Flickr also has a strong community aspect, with users able to join groups, participate in discussions, and discover new content
28
Roblox is a virtual universe that enables users to create, share experiences, and be anything they can imagine.
It’s an online gaming platform and game creation system developed by Roblox Corporation. As a user, you are free to program and play games created by others.
29
Digg features the latest articles, videos, and original content. It is an American news aggregator with a curated front page, aiming to select stories specifically for the internet.
The official app, Digg, allows users to quickly access the latest interesting news on their Android device.
30
Douyin is a popular video app in China, launched by ByteDance in 2016. It offers short, fun, and imitatable content, allowing users to watch videos without searching.
Launched in 2016, Douyin has become a popular social media platform, with brands and influencers using it for organic growth and advertising.
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