Apps like Snapchat are getting a lot more recognition than ever. Since Snapchat quite succeeds with its self-destructive functions, lots of filters and stickers, as well as other fun things, many developers try to beat that cool. Of course, today you will find various alternatives to that app. In this article, you can find a series of apps that become tough competitors for Snapchat. Some of them offer various filter options and special effects along with photo editing tools. Meanwhile, some others provide rooms for sharing texts safely. Regardless of what you are particularly looking for, the apps curated on the list below will give you new insights.
Snapchat and its popularity
First of all, Snapchat was popular because nothing had its features back then. Everyone was so hyped because this platform allows effortless picture sharing and your content will automatically disappear after some time. Mark Zuckerberg once wanted to buy this app and failed. Of course, the popularity comes due to lots of reasons. Instagram and Messenger got the idea of Stories and Chat from Snapchat, after all. The founder and developer were thinking like a group of visionaries when creating and developing this app. So, what makes Snapchat popular? Here are several things that this app offers from time to time.
Take and send pictures with real-time filters and effects effortlessly. Every file you share and send to other users will automatically disappear after 24 hours. Lots of filters, special effects, text captions, and other editing tools are available for free.
More than anything, the self-destruction function is quite impressive. You can even set how long the picture can stay on Snapchat’s temporary servers. Once the recipient opens your video or photo, it will vanish after seconds, minutes, or hours – depending on how long you set the timer. But what if no one opens your messages? Well, the system will automatically delete those messages within 30 days. Security seems to be the priority of Snapchat. Back then, this app was only available to iOS users. Today, you can enjoy this app on Android devices too.
Other considerations
However, it comes with some limitations, especially about the video length. Even though Snapchat is a social media platform, you cannot interact with many users at once. There is no feature to forward the messages and no one can even comment or give likes to your content. However, if all you need is an edgy app to keep in touch with your friends in a unique approach then you should give this app a try.
Best Apps Like Snapchat for Android and iOS
Here is a list of apps that will give you experiences like when you are using Snapchat – some of them are even better. The first thing you should consider is your expectation about the app in the first place. Keep in mind that some of the apps offer various effects, filters, stickers, and editing tools while others come up with a robust messaging feature.
1. TikTok
There are various apps similar to Snapchat out there, whether for instant messaging, creating memes, or even face filters. TikTok is one of those apps that gained huge popularity in the past few years. While TikTok comes up with tons of stickers and exciting filters, you can also utilize this app for sharing videos. This is also the reason why many users try this platform to share various things, from educational purposes to entertainment and marketing. However, this app is not particularly an instant messaging platform. Still, you can leave comments on every video you want. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
2. Instagram
Instagram, on the other hand, has become one of the most popular apps that allow people to be creative. The main purpose of this app was about sharing your favorite moments through pictures and videos. It comes with lots of filters and editing tools as well. Today, you can utilize various stickers and filters to create visual content as you like. It is also safe to say that Instagram is one of those apps with Snapchat filters that allow you to market your business as well. Besides, this platform allows users to save every moment they spend on their own or with their loved ones. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
3. SnapSeed
This app is not particularly a Snapchat alternative that allows you to send messages through snaps – and disappear after 24 hours. However, you can use lots of tools provided by SnapSeed to edit your pictures. You can also make funny memes with additional aesthetic elements by using this app, pretty much like Snapchat for sure. Since this platform is an editing tool, you will find a bunch of features, such as brushes, filters, and also healing tools. Snapseed is available both for Android and iOS. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
4. Wickr Me
Have you ever heard about Wickr Me? Well, this app is not as popular as Snapchat and other instant messaging platforms out there but you should give this one a try. Wickr Me is one of the best Snapchat alternatives that allow you to enjoy instant messaging with better privacy services. There is no need to register your phone number or email address in the first place. And in case you want to delete anything you’ve sent before, its shredder functions will do you a favor. Wickr Me has a series of stickers and filters but it’s not as many as Snapchat’s library. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
5. Telegram
When it comes to the free Snapchat alternatives, Telegram obviously deserves a spot on that list. It seems like everyone knows what this app is. Other than providing a lightweight digital platform for texting and sharing files, you can create bot chat by using Telegram. One of the best things offered by this app is the ability to destroy texts and other shared files. Telegram is available for Android, iOS, and you can access the web version on PCs. The only missing thing here is the filters. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
6. Imgur
If you often use Snapchat for creating memes and fun stickers then you should give Imgur a try. This platform is one of the best apps like Snapchat for Android and iOS devices out there. Other than creating funny memes, you can make GIFs and creative short videos by using this app. Imgur also works as a social media platform. You can share your creations on the Feeds. However, there is no instant messaging feature as well as self-destructing functions like Snapchat. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
7. Cluster
Cluster is quite popular when it comes to the best platform to share pictures and videos with your loved ones. You can create a private room to share memories with people you’ve invited. Other than being one of the best Snapchat alternatives for almost any operating system, the interface is similar to Instagram; it’s recognizable and user-friendly in many ways. Besides, you can find positive reviews about Cluster on many sites. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
8. Messenger
Since the first launch of Snapchat, Facebook (now Meta) has been observing the presence of this app. Thus, Facebook also created other alternatives for Snapchat on its platform. The platform is now known as Messenger. Other than allowing you to send messages and other content privately or in a group. You may also find that the filters, masks, and effects are very intriguing. Even though the name has been changed, Facebook is still one of those popular social media platforms out there. You shouldn’t miss out on Messenger, after all. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
9. Sweet Snap
On the other hand, if all you need is the Snapchat filter alternatives then Sweet Snap should be one of those apps you take a look at. It comes with a series of filters, special effects, and stickers to have fun with. It generally is a beautiful camera that comes with basic editing tools. Also, all effects, filters, and stickers are easily accessible. Thus, you can create GIFs, memes, and fun content without switching to other apps in the first place. Download on Google Play
10. Youcam Perfect
Another Snapchat alternative Android you should consider is YouCam Perfect. This app is generally a selfie camera that comes with a series of editing tools. Other than allowing you to edit your selfies effortlessly, you can get various filters, funny camera tools, exciting special effects, and stickers too. YouCam Perfect is one of the best selfie apps available for almost any operating system. This app offers a free version but you can always upgrade it for sure. By paying for upgrades, you can enjoy all tools, filters, and special effects on its library. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
11. B612
B612 is a legendary beauty camera app. You can say that this app is one of the oldest players when it comes to selfie camera apps. Back then, this app provided lots of interesting filters to instantly edit your selfies. Some editing tools also make selfie enthusiasts would love to explore more about this app. Today, B612 comes up with a bunch of beauty effects, exciting filters, and other advanced editing tools. Do you want to create a short video with music? This app will help you to make a memorable one. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
12. SNOW
SNOW, on the other hand, is one of the most exciting Snapchat alternatives for filters. This platform utilizes AR technology to provide unique makeup features. By that, you can have a perfect shot without applying the real makeup, for sure. Other than makeup and special effects, this app also provides tons of stickers and filters to create pretty-looking visual content. More than anything, SNOW is a perfect app for those social media enthusiasts. This app is available both for Android and iOS devices. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
13. Marco Polo
Are you looking for the best online alternatives to Snapchat that offer various ways to message your loved ones? Well, Marco Polo is one of those platforms you should consider, after all. Other than texting, you can send video chats easily and securely by using this app. Besides, you won’t be bothered by ads or anything like that since Marco Polo won’t store your data. The only thing that makes this app a little bit different from Snapchat is the missing self-destructive function. Still, this app is worth a try in many ways, especially if you are looking for a safe room for chatting. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
14. Bigo Live
As its name suggests, this platform accommodates those who want to broadcast a live stream. This app provides excellent services and a lot of funny stickers, filters, as well as special effects to enhance the live streaming. Bigo Live is one of the most popular live-streaming apps like Snapchat for PC and other devices in general. Many users even utilize this platform to make money, gain popularity, show their interests or talents, and many more. So, if you want to be recognized by the entire world while still having fun with all filters and stickers, Bigo Live is an app worth your consideration. Download on Google Play Download on the App Store
15. Clip Chat
When it comes to free apps like Snapchat, you may end up finding quite a few names out there. One of those names is Clip Chat. This app is highly popular for users who want to send messages that will vanish after 24 hours. The interface is easy to recognize and user-friendly. Once you send your picture or video, the recipient won’t just get the preview unless he or she clicks on it. Clip Chat is mostly about sharing videos instead of pictures. Clip Chat also features excellent security functions for some hi-end devices. If the recipient takes a screenshot of your videos then you will get notified by the system. This app is available for both Android and iOS devices. Download on the App Store
Final Words
Snapchat is quite a fun app out there. The app was hitting peak popularity a while ago before lots of developers tried to offer something more. But still, users love Snapchat so dearly – they won’t leave this app alone. Regardless of your preference, the alternatives mentioned on the list above are worth trying in many ways. Since many of them are free to download and use, why don’t you give them a try right now? So, which apps like Snapchat do you prefer for messaging and bringing your creative side the most?
