Bluesky vs Threads

Bluesky vs Threads: What Are Their Main Differences?

The world of social media is an ever-changing one. Take Bluesky for example. Spearheaded by the former Twitter CEO, Jack Dorsey, Bluesky was a side-project in Twitter a few years ago, in an attempt to decentralize the platform. It was formed in 2019 with a group of small independent architects inside Twitter, and now it is one of Twitter’s (or X) biggest - if not the most serious - competitor.

On the other hand, Threads, created by the giant tech company, Meta, builds on Instagram’s massive user base to provide a sleek, user-friendly space for text-based conversations. This Twitter/X alternative is designed for simplicity, and easy of use. That’s why you’re allowed to sign up seamlessly with your Instagram account.

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How did this happen? Why does X/Twitter have so many competitors now? In this blog, we’re going to cover these questions and explore the main differences between Bluesky and Threads, the two top competitors of Twitter, namely Threads and Bluesky. Let’s start with understanding these two platform’s differences, shall we?

Bluesky vs Threads: Core Features

Bluesky is built around decentralization using the AT Protocol which is an open decentralized network for building social applications. User control is of utmost importance on Bluesky and that’s how the app is built around decentralization. Bsky also focuses on algorithmic choice; meaning as users you can choose your feed as YOU wish. Remember the old days of social media where you only saw the things you wanted to see? No highly-advanced algorithm showing you random/annoying/addictive stuff? That’s how many users are reporting Bluesky to be nowadays. Anyhow, when you’re using Bluesky, you seem to have a choice on what to see on social media compared to other platform (like Twitter/X, for example).

How about Threads? Well, Threads is seamlessly connected with Instagram, and that means Threads already has an active user base in its sister app and can leverage its data for when they sign up for Threads. So, compared to Bluesky, the algorithm from Meta in Threads takes a more prominent role and you’ll see the content that Meta thinks that you’ll like. Some users like this, some don’t; each to his own.

Now, when it comes to differences in core features in both these two platform, we can discuss the following points. Here are the top differences between Instagram’s Threads vs Bluesky:

Decentralization and ownership of your own data is a top priority on Bluesky while Threads relies on Meta's centralized infrastructure, limiting user control over data storage and privacy.
On Bluesky, users can customize their feeds by choosing or even building their own algorithms, whereas Threads provides a standardized, algorithm-driven feed with limited user input.
Threads utilizes Instagram's massive user base for wider reach; Bluesky has a smaller, exclusive community - It started as an invite-only program.
Threads offers a seamless and familiar experience for Instagram users, and while Bluesky also has a user-friendly interface, you might need to be a little tech-savvy to fully utilize its decentralization possibilities.
Bluesky prioritizes user data privacy; Threads integrates deeply with Instagram and Meta's ecosystem.
On Bluesky, users have the freedom to experiment with alternative algorithms for content discovery, while Threads uses a single, unified algorithm controlled by Meta.

Bluesky vs Threads: User Count

When it comes to user count, Threads has the upper hand and that is because of one main reason: Threads is integrated seamlessly with Instagram. Meta implemented this strategy when it launched Threads back in 2023, and it has been fairly successful in terms of user retention. Right now, in 2025, there are more than 250 million active users on Threads, and that’s really impressive.

What about Bluesky’s user count? Well, the latest numbers show around 30 million active users on this platform, and even though it seems that Threads numbers is towering over Bsky’s, keep in mind, that many Threads users’ average time on the platform is 3 minutes daily. While Threads has a larger user base, Bluesky users spend more time actively engaging on the platform, so there’s that. However, all in all, here are our stats:

Threads User Count: More than 250 Million Active Users
Bluesky User Count: More than 30 Million Active Users

Bluesky vs Threads: Pros and Cons

Pros of Bluesky:

Decentralization: Bluesky uses the AT Protocol for decentralization which is great.
Algorithm Customization: Bluesky offers user-curated algorithms, so you’ll have more autonomy over your feed
Transparency: Open-source development and community-driven moderation on Bluesky
Niche Communities: Since its onset, Bluesky has been able to create many niche communities in various fields

Cons of Bluesky

Smaller User Base: As a newer and more niche platform, Bluesky lacks the massive, established community of larger social networks such as Threads or Twitter/X
Still in Development: No DMs yet, no videos, and there are many features yet to come. Bluesky doesn’t have the features of an already established and mature social media platform yet.

Pros of Threads

Easy Setup: Hey, hop in! Install Threads, a few clicks and you’re good to go. The seamless integration with Instagram allows you to sign up instantly and import your existing followers.
Massive User Base: Instagram has billions of users. More than 250 million of them have signed up for Threads. You’ll have immediate access to a large and active community.
User-Friendly: The platform is minimalistically designed. Its simplicity and straightforwardness makes it accessible to casual users without technical expertise.

Cons of Threads

Centralized Control: As a Meta product, Threads operates within a centralized framework, limiting user control over data privacy and content moderation.
Algorithm-Driven Feed: Users have little say in how their feed is curated, relying on Meta’s algorithms for content discovery.
Tied to Instagram: Threads requires an Instagram account, which may deter users who prefer to keep their social media accounts separate.

Threads vs Bluesky: Final Verdict

Which platform, Threads or Bluesky, is right for you? Well, the answer to this question depends entirely on you and your priorities. If you prioritize simplicity and convenience, a large user base, and trust Meta’s ecosystem, then choose Threads. On the other hand, if you value decentralization control over your feed, data and want customizable algorithm, then Bluesky is the clear choice for you. At the end of the day, both of these platforms cater to different audiences, so choose wisely, there’s no going back! (kidding, you can always check out both of these platforms for a few days and see which one works for you!)

How to Make Money on Threads?

FAQ Section: Bluesky vs Threads:

What's better, Bluesky or Threads?

As discussed in this article, the answer depends on you and our needs. Bluesky is more decentralized, and give off old-twitter energy while Threads is a extended text-based version of Instagram.

Is Bluesky still invite Only?

As of now, Bluesky is no longer invite-only and has opened its doors to the public. This means anyone can sign up and join the platform without needing an invitation code.

Why is everyone moving to Bluesky or Threads?

There could be many reasons for this, but one could say that after acquisition of Twitter (now X) by Elon Musk many users have felt the platform is no longer as good as it once was and are looking for an alternative.

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