Side by side
Archive of Our Own vs Far or Near
Both stand on online community platforms. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
AO3 offers free fanwork hosting with extensive search, filtering, and download options. Readers should know that account creation requires an invitation and mobile apps are not currently available.
Visit Archive of Our Own Free plan Web
Far or Near brings interest communities, local discovery, groups, and events together in a free web service. Its current registration pause is a major constraint for anyone hoping to join.
Visit Far or NearThe facts
| Archive of Our Own | Far or Near | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | archiveofourown.org | farornear.com |
| On online community platforms | #8 of 54 | #20 of 54 |
Archive of Our Own: what it does well
- Free to use and has no advertisements
- Searches by tags, authors, dates, and more
- Downloads available in five formats
- Site and work skins allow customization
What to know first
- An invitation is required to create an account
- Mobile apps are not currently available
- Downloads cannot be limited to individual chapters
Far or Near: what it does well
- More than 150 communities cover hobbies and interests.
- Members can create groups and events.
- Group discovery can use community and distance.
- Privacy settings control where content appears and who can access it.
- Offers direct messaging and basic moderation tools.
What to know first
- New registrations are not currently being accepted.
- Users must be at least 18 years old.
- Location is used to surface relevant content and people.
Alternatives to Archive of Our Own Alternatives to Far or Near The whole list