From 'tweets' to 'toots' to 'skeets': 10 Twitter/X alternatives

Here are some top microblogging platforms that offer alternatives to Twitter:

Overview: A decentralised, open-source platform that’s part of the Fediverse. Users can join servers based on their interests or host their own. Users can create and manage their own communities (instances) while being part of a larger network​

Year Founded: 2016

Users: Approximately 15 million as of 2024

Features: No central authority, customisable moderation, and no ads. Posts, called "toots," can be shared across the network. Mastodon is a decentralised, open-source social media platform where users can create and manage their own communities (instances) while being part of a larger network​

Best For: Privacy-focused individuals and communities seeking tailored experiences. 

Overview: Launched by Meta (Instagram’s parent company), Threads integrates with Instagram accounts and provides a text-focused platform for microblogging. The platform is designed to rival X (formerly Twitter).

Year Founded: 2023

Users: Over 100 million within the first week of launch

Features: Clean interface, Instagram integration, and growing adoption among mainstream audiences.

Best For: Instagram users looking for a seamless extension for discussions and text posts.

Overview: Developed with support from Twitter's co-founder Jack Dorsey, Bluesky aims to create a decentralised social network using the AT Protocol.

Year Founded: 2021

Users: Estimated at 17 million as of 2024

Features: Focus on user autonomy, interoperability, and data portability.

Best For: Tech-savvy users interested in decentralised platforms.

Overview: A platform designed for engaging with news and discussions. It emphasises thoughtful conversations and monetising quality journalism.  thoughtful news consumption and discussions without the noise of typical social media.

Year Founded: 2022

Users: Unknown (platform in beta phase)

Features: Allows users to read, discuss, and share articles from verified sources without ads. Thoughtful news consumption and discussions without the noise of typical social media.

Best for: News enthusiasts and professionals.

Overview: A mobile-first microblogging app combining features from Twitter and Instagram, emphasising a user-friendly, chronological feed.

Year Founded: 2019

Users: Around 2 million as of 2024

Features: Chronological feed, media-rich posts, and profile personalisation.

Best For: Casual users seeking a mix of text and visual content.

Overview: A decentralised protocol for sharing content, often used for microblogging. Nostr focuses on simple, censorship-resistant communication using public/private keys.

Year Founded: 2020

Users: Numbers vary as it’s open-source and decentralized

Features: Open-source, resilient to censorship, and focuses on privacy.

Best For: Developers.

Overview: Tumblr is known for its microblogging and multimedia-sharing features, with a strong community-oriented culture. Known for its quirky and creative user base.

Year Founded: 2007

Users: Over 518 million registered blogs

Features: Supports text, images, GIFs, and multimedia posts.

Best For: Creators and fandom communities.

Overview: A newer, ad-free platform focusing on community-driven experiences. The team behind Cohost is a  community of developers.

Year Founded: 2021

Users: Small but growing community-focused platform

Features: No algorithms or ads, and encourages collaboration between users.  Cohost is designed as an alternative to mainstream platforms, focusing on community support and creativity.

Best For: Users tired of algorithm-driven feeds.

Overview: A platform emphasising free speech with minimal content moderation.

Year Founded: 2016

Users: Over 4 million registered accounts

Features: Open-source and built with a focus on individual expression. Gab is known for its free speech emphasis, attracting users banned from other platforms.

Best For: Users seeking a platform with lenient content moderation policies.

Overview: A microblogging site with a unique timeline interface and gamified features. It is a timeline-based social media platform focusing on short updates and conversations.

Year Founded: 2008

Users: Predominantly popular in Asia, user numbers vary

Features: Fun interaction tools, karma rewards, and a focus on community engagement.

Best For: Casual users looking for a fun and interactive experience.

Each platform caters to distinct audiences and priorities, from decentralisation and privacy to ease of use and mainstream appeal. Exploring a few can help you find the best fit for your microblogging needs.