Side by side
Mastodon vs Telegram
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+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 Mastodon
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
Telegram offers messaging, large groups and channels, calls, and developer tools across several platforms. Consider the distinction between device-bound Secret Chats and encrypted cloud chats, along with the ordinary-user upload limit.
Visit TelegramThe facts
| Mastodon | Telegram | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Self-hosted, Web | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Maker | Mastodon | Not published |
| Website | joinmastodon.org | telegram.org |
| On social media apis | #3 of 20 | #7 of 20 |
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
Telegram: what it does well
- Cloud chats sync across devices
- Groups can hold up to 200,000 members
- Channels broadcast to unlimited audiences
- Free plan includes calls and cloud storage
- Available on mobile, desktop, and web
What to know first
- Ordinary users’ file uploads are limited to 2 GB each
- Secret Chats are limited to their participating devices
- An account requires a phone
Alternatives to Mastodon Alternatives to Telegram The whole list