Side by side
Discord vs Mastodon
Both stand on social media apis. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
Discord combines community servers with voice, video, and text communication across desktop, mobile, and web. Its call encryption does not extend to messages.
Visit Discord Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+2
Mastodon provides a decentralized social network with portable accounts, broad posting formats, and open development access. Server choice or self-hosting brings operational and moderation responsibilities.
Visit MastodonThe facts
| Discord | Mastodon | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Nitro Basic: $29.99 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 5 | 2 |
| Maker | Discord | Mastodon |
| Website | discord.com | joinmastodon.org |
| On social media apis | #1 of 20 | #3 of 20 |
Discord: what it does well
- Create servers with channels for communities.
- Calls work in direct messages and voice channels.
- Supported consoles can stream gameplay directly.
- Apps can be added through the desktop and browser directory.
- Passkeys can use on-device biometrics.
What to know first
- Messages are not encrypted.
- Nitro Basic costs $2.99 a month.
- Nitro costs $9.99 a month.
Mastodon: what it does well
- Free, open-source software
- Independent servers with local moderation
- Chronological feed without ads
- Official iOS and Android apps
- Open API for app development
What to know first
- Choosing a server affects moderation rules
- Self-hosting requires technical operation
- Third-party app experience may vary
Alternatives to Discord Alternatives to Mastodon The whole list