Ready to migrate from X (Twitter) to Bluesky? You're not alone. With over 40 million users now on Bluesky, it's become the go-to Twitter alternative for millions of people leaving X. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the switch.
Why People Are Leaving X for Bluesky
Since Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter (now X), millions have sought alternatives. Bluesky offers:
- Chronological timeline by default – No algorithm forcing engagement bait
- Decentralized architecture – You own your data and can take it anywhere
- Custom feeds – Create or subscribe to algorithmic feeds that work for you
- Better moderation – Stackable moderation with labelers you choose
- No ads (yet) – Clean reading experience
- Open protocol – Built on ATProtocol, not a walled garden
Step 1: Create Your Bluesky Account
Getting started is simple:
- Go to bsky.app or download the Bluesky app
- Sign up with email (no phone number required)
- Choose your handle (e.g., @yourname.bsky.social)
- Complete your profile with bio, avatar, and banner
Pro Tip: Claim Your Domain as Your Handle
Unlike X's paid verification, Bluesky lets you verify your identity for free by using your domain as your handle. If you own yourbrand.com, you can become @yourbrand.com on Bluesky. This works for journalists, businesses, and anyone with a website.
Step 2: Similarities Between X and Bluesky
Good news – if you know Twitter, you already know most of Bluesky:
| Feature | X (Twitter) | Bluesky |
|---|---|---|
| Short posts | 280 characters | 300 characters |
| Reposting | Retweet | Repost |
| Quote posts | Quote Tweet | Quote Post |
| Replies | Same | Same |
| Hashtags | Yes | Yes |
| DMs | Yes | Yes |
| Lists | Yes | Yes (plus moderation lists) |
Step 3: Key Differences to Know
Some things work differently on Bluesky:
Handles vs Usernames
On X, you have @username. On Bluesky, you have @handle.bsky.social or @yourdomain.com. Handles can be any domain you control.
Custom Feeds
Instead of one algorithmic timeline, Bluesky offers multiple feeds. You can:
- Use the Following feed (chronological, like old Twitter)
- Use the Discover feed (algorithmic suggestions)
- Subscribe to community-made feeds for specific topics
- Create your own feed with custom algorithms
Starter Packs
A unique Bluesky feature – curated bundles of accounts you can follow with one click. Great for finding communities:
- Sports writers and journalists
- Tech industry leaders
- Political commentators
- Entertainment and celebrity accounts
Moderation Lists & Labelers
You choose how content is filtered. Subscribe to labelers that match your preferences. Block and mute lists can be shared publicly.
No Verification Badges
Bluesky doesn't have blue checkmarks. Instead, domain verification proves who you are. News organizations use their domains (e.g., @reuters.com, @apnews.com).
Step 4: Find Your X Followers on Bluesky
Several tools help you reconnect with your X network:
Search by Handle
Many people use the same username on both platforms. Search for your friends' X handles on Bluesky.
Use Skyscraper for iOS
Skyscraper makes it easy to:
- Search for users across Bluesky
- Discover trending hashtags your community uses
- Find accounts through starter packs
- Get notifications when specific users post
Check Social Links
Many X users put their Bluesky handle in their bio. Check your favorite accounts' bios for Bluesky links.
Step 5: Announce Your Move
Help your followers find you:
- Post on X that you're moving to Bluesky
- Include your Bluesky handle in the post
- Update your X bio with your Bluesky handle
- Pin a tweet about your Bluesky account
Step 6: Best Practices for Growing on Bluesky
Post Regularly
Bluesky's community is active and engaged. Regular posting helps you get discovered.
Use Hashtags
Hashtags are searchable on Bluesky. Use relevant ones to reach new audiences. Track what's trending with Skyscraper's trending hashtags.
Engage with Replies
The Bluesky community values authentic engagement. Reply to posts, quote post with commentary, and join conversations.
Create or Join Starter Packs
Being included in popular starter packs is a great way to gain followers. Create one for your community!
Cross-Post Initially
While building your Bluesky following, consider posting to both platforms. Many users gradually shift their primary activity to Bluesky.
What You'll Lose (and Gain) by Leaving X
What You Might Miss
- Some accounts aren't on Bluesky yet – Not everyone has migrated
- Built-up follower count – You're starting fresh
- Historical tweets – Your X archive stays on X
What You'll Gain
- Engaged community – Less noise, more signal
- Chronological timeline – See posts in order
- Data ownership – Your account is portable
- Better signal-to-noise ratio – Less engagement bait
- Early adopter advantage – Easier to grow now than later
FAQ: Migrating from X to Bluesky
Can I import my X followers to Bluesky?
No direct import exists since they're different platforms. However, tools can help you find which of your X followers are on Bluesky.
Should I delete my X account?
That's personal choice. Many people keep their X accounts but become more active on Bluesky. Some delete after their audience has migrated.
Is Bluesky the same as Mastodon?
No. Both are decentralized, but they use different protocols. Bluesky uses ATProtocol, which has better portability and different federation model.
Can I use multiple accounts?
Yes! Skyscraper for iOS supports multiple accounts with easy switching.
Is Bluesky free?
Yes, Bluesky is free to use. There's no paid verification tier.
Tools to Help You Migrate
- Skyscraper for iOS – Best app for building your Bluesky following
- Trending Hashtags – See what's popular right now
- Skyscraper Tools – Track keywords and get email alerts
Make the Switch Today
With 40+ million users and growing, Bluesky is the best Twitter alternative in 2026. The community is welcoming, the platform is fast, and the algorithm is under your control.