Matter alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Matter: no Android or native desktop app, and best features sit behind the Premium subscription. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Matter, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Readwise Reader currently ranks first.
No alternatives match these filters.
Show all 5 alternativesThe best Matter alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Matter alternative for most people
Readwise ReaderCovers more formats, including PDFs and EPUBs, and runs on Android and desktop.
Best Matter alternative for a free option
wallabagOpen-source and self-hostable if you would rather own your reading archive.
Best Matter alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
InstapaperWorks on Android as well, with unlimited free saves and AI voices on Premium.
Best Matter alternative for open source
wallabagOpen-source and self-hostable if you would rather own your reading archive.
Best Matter alternative for self-hosting
wallabagOpen-source and self-hostable if you would rather own your reading archive.
Best Matter alternative for Mac
GoodLinksA one-time purchase for Apple devices with highlights and iCloud sync.
Best Matter alternative for Windows
Readwise ReaderCovers more formats, including PDFs and EPUBs, and runs on Android and desktop.
Best Matter alternative for iPhone and Android
CuboxReading inbox with AI read-aloud, highlights and apps for Android and e-ink readers.
Best Matter alternative for working in the browser
Readwise ReaderCovers more formats, including PDFs and EPUBs, and runs on Android and desktop.
Matter alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Matter?
Readwise Reader ranks first right now. Covers more formats, including PDFs and EPUBs, and runs on Android and desktop. Instapaper and GoodLinks follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Matter?
Yes. Instapaper (free plan + paid), Cubox (free plan + paid) and wallabag (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Matter?
Yes: wallabag. wallabag can also be self-hosted.
Why do people switch from Matter?
The complaints we hear most: no Android or native desktop app; best features sit behind the Premium subscription; small team, so the roadmap moves at its own pace.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Matter, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.