Facebook alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Facebook: feed increasingly filled with recommended content, and extensive data collection for targeted ads. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Facebook, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Instagram currently ranks first.
No alternatives match these filters.
Show all 6 alternativesThe best Facebook alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Facebook alternative for most people
InstagramMeta's photo and video app, where many younger users share instead.
Best Facebook alternative for a free option
MastodonA decentralised network without ads or algorithmic feeds, run by independent servers.
Best Facebook alternative for open source
FriendicaFederated, Facebook-style profiles, groups and events that you can self-host.
Best Facebook alternative for self-hosting
diaspora*A decentralised network with aspects for sharing only with chosen circles.
Best Facebook alternative for iPhone and Android
NextdoorFocused purely on local neighbourhood news, recommendations and listings.
Best Facebook alternative for working in the browser
BlueskyA newer open network with chronological and custom feeds and no data-driven ads.
Facebook alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Facebook?
Instagram ranks first right now. Meta's photo and video app, where many younger users share instead. Mastodon and Friendica follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Facebook?
Yes. Instagram (free), Mastodon (open source), Friendica (open source) and Nextdoor (free) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Facebook?
Yes: Mastodon, Friendica, diaspora* and Bluesky. Mastodon, Friendica and diaspora* can also be self-hosted.
Why do people switch from Facebook?
The complaints we hear most: feed increasingly filled with recommended content; extensive data collection for targeted ads; younger audiences have largely moved elsewhere.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Facebook, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.