Is Bluesky Better Than Twitter?
Users deciding to leave Twitter recently have been exploring alternatives, and Bluesky has emerged as a prominent contender. But is Bluesky better than Twitter?
Or, in a broader sense, how does Bluesky compare to Twitter? Is it even worth your time, and does it live up to the hype?
Let’s dive into the details to help you decide.
What is Bluesky, Anyway?
Bluesky is a decentralized social networking protocol, meaning it's not controlled by a single company. This open-source approach aims to give users more control over their data and experience.
Is Bluesky Owned by Twitter?
No, it is not.
It was initially funded by Twitter (while under Jack Dorsey), but it now operates as an independent entity.
However, Jack Dorsey being closely associated with Bluesky adds to its appeal for many users seeking an alternative, no matter why they leave Twitter.
How is Bluesky Different Than Twitter?
Here's a summary of how Bluesky is different than Twitter:
| Feature | Bluesky | Twitter (X) |
|---|---|---|
| User Base | Small, growing community | Large, global audience |
| Decentralization | Yes, built on the AT Protocol | No |
| Content Moderation | Community-driven | Platform-controlled |
| Ease of Use | Simple, minimalistic | Complex with frequent updates |
| Features | Fewer features | Mature feature set |
| Advertising | Ad-free | Ad-heavy |
Here are some more details:
How Many People Use Bluesky?
As of now, Bluesky has quite a smaller user base than Twitter.
By the end of 2024, its API shows that there are more than 25 million users. And, it has 3.2 million daily active users in the U.S.
On the other hand, despite losing many users in late 2024, Twitter still boasts hundreds of millions of active accounts worldwide.
So, does Bluesky have more users than Twitter (X)? Definitely not!
Key Difference: Bluesky is Decentralized
Bluesky’s standout feature is its decentralized model, built on the AT Protocol. This allows users to retain greater control over their data and content, unlike the centralized control seen on Twitter.
Moderation Policies also Differ
Bluesky allows community-driven moderation, which gives users a say in how content is managed.
Twitter’s moderation policies including shadowbans and temporary labels, on the other hand, have faced significant criticism in recent years, making Bluesky’s approach appealing to those seeking transparency.
User Experience: All About Choice
Bluesky prioritizes simplicity and a minimalistic interface, which many find refreshing compared to the ever-evolving (and sometimes overwhelming) features on Twitter.
Features: Bluesky's Main Weakness
Yes, the giant is ever-evolving, but this brings many features along with it.
No doubt that Twitter (X) has a more mature feature set, including advanced search, lists, and direct messaging. Bluesky is still developing its features to match the anticipation of its users.
Advertiser or Ad-Free?
Currently, Bluesky does not run ads, which means users enjoy an ad-free experience—a stark contrast to Twitter’s ad-heavy platform.
On the other hand, having no ads means offering limited opportunities for marketing activities to professionals, making Twitter more preferable for businesses.
Bluesky vs. Others: Q&A
Does Bluesky have more users than Threads?
No, Bluesky has fewer users compared to Threads also. However, its smaller community fosters a sense of exclusivity and engagement, which many users appreciate.
Is it better to join Bluesky or Mastodon?
Both platforms are decentralized, but Bluesky offers a more straightforward user experience compared to Mastodon’s complex server system. If ease of use is a priority, Bluesky might be the better choice.
Can you have multiple Bluesky accounts?
Yes, Bluesky allows users to manage multiple accounts, making it convenient for those who want to separate several different profiles.
Final Verdict: Is Bluesky Worth It?
Bluesky is ideal for users looking for a simple, ad-free experience with more control over their content. However, if you prefer access to a larger audience and a wide variety of features, Twitter still reigns supreme.
Bluesky has a lot of potential, particularly for those who value decentralization and an ad-free environment. But Twitter remains unmatched in terms of reach and versatility.
All in all, whether Bluesky is better than Twitter depends on your priorities—control and simplicity vs. audience size and features.