The best Instagram alternatives to try out in 2024

Instagram is a popular photo and video-sharing platform. Over the years, it has changed exponentially, with several new features and changes including Reels, stories, video calling, the integration of MetaAI, and more.  

The Meta-owned social media network also shifted towards an algorithm-driven feed, prioritising sponsored content and posts from popular accounts, shopping ads, and more.  

ALSO READ: How to download Instagram photos to your phone or PC 

Some of these changes have been controversial as the platform has lost its original unique identity i.e. sharing photos and videos. Additionally, privacy policy changes and Meta’s shaky history with data security has exacerbated dissatisfaction among users. This has made a section of Instagram’s user base go looking for alternative options while others are perfectly happy with the platform as it is.  

Luckily, there are a few platforms the former group can give a whirl.  

The best Instagram alternatives in 2024

There is no one answer to replacing Instagram. It still remains an influential network for millions of people across the world. However, there’s also no reason to stick to the Meta-owned application. If you want to avoid scrolling through a mix of photos, videos, and more, we have got you covered with the best Instagram alternatives below. 

1. Snapchat

2. Pinterest

3. Behance

4. X

5. 500px

1. Snapchat

Snapchat is an extremely popular social media app, especially among younger audiences. In fact, it was the first platform to have features like stories, disappearing messages, and face filters that are now found on Instagram.

ALSO READ: How to change your Snapchat username

Snapchat continues to push new features like AR filters that is the best among social media apps. It also has a ChatGPT-powered AI chatbot.  

2. Pinterest

Pinterest is a superb platform that offers better visual content for creative inspiration. It is similar to Instagram’s Discover section. The content ranges from a variety of niches from home decor to wedding themes and DIY projects to match your needs. Pinterest users have to collect other images called pins and organise them into boards. The platform mainly emphasises inspiration and discovery.  

3. Behance

Behance is a social media platform owned by Adobe. It is one of the best for artists, designers, and photographers as you can display your portfolio in a professional manner. Behance has become more essential, especially when Instagram is riddled with reels. It also kind of works as a blog as you can upload as much content as you want, with plenty of space for adding text to a single post. Behance also offers live streaming and tutorials. You will also find like-minded people and audiences on the platform.  

4. X

Formerly called Twitter, X is a microblogging platform that is heavy on text instead of photo and video sharing. However, it is a great place to share media content too provided you follow the right accounts. You can post quick pictures that can be liked, commented, and reshared. The platform also offers full-sized image previews, 4K resolution in mobile apps, and most importantly lets you choose the timeline to be chronological or curated.  

5. 500px

500px was initially built for photographers. It still remains the best alternative to Instagram for hobbyists and serious photographers. You can upload 20 high-resolution photos per week with a free plan whereas the paid version packs unlimited uploads along with benefits like statistics and more.

ALSO READ: From Twitter to X: Everything Elon Musk changed on the platform

The platform offers a full-screen resolution on desktops and the mobile app also has a sleek interface. It’s worth noting that 500px lacks social media features. There is an explore tab that lets you discover other photographers’ works as well. The platform is more ideal for those who want to gain exposure for their work.  

The aforementioned list of the best Instagram alternatives are available on both Android and iOS. They cater to different preferences and needs. However, perhaps no other platform comes with all the features that Instagram offers under one roof.