If you've heard people talking about Bluesky and wondered what it is, you're not alone. With millions of users joining in 2025, Bluesky has become the fastest-growing Twitter alternative and is reshaping how we think about social media. But what exactly is Bluesky, and how does it compare to Twitter (X), Threads, and Mastodon?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about Bluesky, why people are switching, and how to grow your Bluesky following once you join.
What is Bluesky?
Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform that looks and feels like Twitter but operates fundamentally differently under the hood. Originally conceived as a research project by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey in 2019, Bluesky became an independent company and launched publicly in 2024.
At its core, Bluesky is built on the AT Protocol (ATProtocol), an open-source framework for decentralized social networking. This means:
- No single company controls your data - Your posts, followers, and identity can move between servers
- You choose your algorithm - Pick from community-created feeds or use a chronological timeline
- Open ecosystem - Developers can build apps, tools, and services on the protocol
- Portable identity - Your username and content aren't locked to one platform
Think of it as email for social media. Just like you can switch email providers while keeping your address, Bluesky lets you switch services while keeping your identity and followers.
Bluesky vs Twitter (X): Key Differences
For users coming from Twitter (now called X), Bluesky will feel immediately familiar. You can post short messages, follow people, like, repost, and reply. But there are crucial differences that make Bluesky attractive to users who miss "old Twitter":
No Algorithmic Manipulation
On Twitter/X, your feed is controlled by an algorithm designed to maximize engagement (and ad revenue). Bluesky gives you complete control over your feed. You can:
- Use a pure chronological timeline
- Subscribe to community-created custom feeds for specific topics
- Switch between multiple feeds instantly
- Never see content pushed to boost engagement metrics
No Ads or Pay-to-Play Features
Twitter/X has increasingly pushed users toward X Premium subscriptions, with verified checkmarks, boosted reach, and reduced ads tied to payment. Bluesky has no ads and no paid tiers. Everyone has equal access to all features.
Better Moderation Tools
Bluesky offers sophisticated moderation through labeling services and block lists. You can subscribe to community-maintained lists that automatically filter content you don't want to see - far more powerful than Twitter's limited mute and block options.
Custom Domains as Handles
Instead of paying for a blue checkmark, Bluesky lets you verify yourself by using your own domain as your handle. If you own yourname.com, you can be @yourname.com on Bluesky - a form of verification that actually proves identity.
Open API Access
Twitter severely restricted its API, killing third-party apps. Bluesky's API is completely open and free. This has spawned a rich ecosystem of apps like Skyscraper, custom feeds, and developer tools.
Bluesky vs Threads: Key Differences
Threads is Meta's Twitter competitor, launched in 2023 and integrated with Instagram. Here's how it compares to Bluesky:
Corporate vs Decentralized
Threads is owned by Meta (Facebook/Instagram). Your data feeds into Meta's advertising machine, and you're subject to their content policies and algorithmic decisions. Bluesky is decentralized by design - no single corporation controls it.
Identity Independence
Threads requires an Instagram account and ties your identity to Meta's ecosystem. On Bluesky, your identity is portable and independent. You can even self-host your data if you're technically inclined.
Algorithm Transparency
Threads uses proprietary algorithms you can't inspect or control. Bluesky's custom feeds are open and auditable - you can see exactly how they work and even create your own.
Developer Ecosystem
Threads has limited third-party development. Bluesky has a thriving developer ecosystem with hundreds of apps, bots, and services built on ATProtocol.
Bluesky vs Mastodon: Key Differences
Mastodon is another decentralized Twitter alternative that's been around since 2016. Both platforms share decentralization as a core value, but they approach it differently:
Protocol Differences
Mastodon uses ActivityPub, while Bluesky uses ATProtocol. The key difference: ActivityPub ties your identity to a specific server, while ATProtocol makes your identity portable across the entire network.
User Experience
Mastodon requires you to choose a server (instance) before signing up, which confuses many newcomers. Bluesky offers a unified experience similar to traditional social media - you just sign up and start posting.
Data Portability
On Mastodon, if your server shuts down, migrating is complicated. On Bluesky, your data and followers can move with you seamlessly because your identity isn't tied to any single server.
Algorithmic Feeds
Mastodon deliberately avoids algorithms, offering only chronological feeds. Bluesky lets you choose: use chronological if you want, or opt into algorithmic feeds that surface content you care about.
Network Effect
Mastodon's federated nature means the community is fragmented across thousands of instances. Bluesky feels more unified, making it easier to discover people and grow your following.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Bluesky | Twitter/X | Threads | Mastodon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decentralized | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Ad-Free | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Custom Feeds | Yes | Limited | No | No |
| Portable Identity | Yes | No | No | Limited |
| Open API | Yes (Free) | Paid | Limited | Yes |
| Easy Onboarding | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Direct Messages | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Why People Are Switching to Bluesky in 2025
Bluesky has seen explosive growth, with millions of users joining. Here's why people are making the switch:
The "Old Twitter" Feeling
Many users describe Bluesky as feeling like Twitter in 2012 - before algorithmic manipulation, before ads dominated the feed, before verification became a paid feature. It's focused on conversation and community.
Escape from Algorithmic Anxiety
On Twitter/X, users constantly worry about the algorithm: Will my post be shown? Am I shadowbanned? Bluesky's transparent, user-controlled feeds eliminate this anxiety.
Creative Freedom
The open API has created a thriving ecosystem of tools. Users can access trending hashtags, create custom feeds, use third-party apps, and build their own tools.
Community-Driven Moderation
Instead of relying on a single company's content moderation decisions, Bluesky lets communities create their own moderation layers. You can subscribe to block lists and labeling services that align with your values.
How to Grow Your Bluesky Following
If you want to become popular on Bluesky and build an audience, here are proven strategies:
1. Use Trending Hashtags
Hashtags are crucial for discovery on Bluesky. Use trending hashtag tools to find what's popular and include relevant tags in your posts. Timing matters - posting with a hashtag while it's rising increases visibility.
2. Engage Authentically
Bluesky's culture rewards genuine interaction. Reply to posts, join conversations, and be part of the community. Unlike Twitter where engagement often feels performative, Bluesky users appreciate authenticity.
3. Leverage Starter Packs
Bluesky's Starter Packs are curated lists of accounts around specific topics. Getting included in popular starter packs can rapidly grow your following. Create your own to establish authority in your niche.
4. Subscribe to Custom Feeds
Find custom feeds related to your interests and engage with content there. This puts you in front of like-minded users who are more likely to follow you.
5. Post Consistently
Like any social platform, consistency matters. Regular posting keeps you visible and gives people reasons to follow you.
6. Use the Right Tools
Apps like Skyscraper for iOS provide features to help you grow - including trending hashtag discovery, multi-account management, and push notifications so you never miss engagement opportunities.
Getting Started on Bluesky
Ready to join? Here's how to get started:
- Sign up at bsky.app - it's free and no longer requires an invite
- Choose your handle - you can use a custom domain later for verification
- Complete your profile - add a photo, bio, and banner
- Find people to follow - use Starter Packs or search for topics you care about
- Start posting - introduce yourself and join conversations
- Download a client app - try Skyscraper for iOS for enhanced features
The Future of Social Media is Decentralized
Bluesky represents a fundamental shift in how social media can work. Instead of being trapped in walled gardens controlled by corporations optimizing for ad revenue, users can own their identity, choose their experience, and participate in an open ecosystem.
Whether you're a developer building on ATProtocol, a creator looking to grow your audience, or just someone who wants a better social media experience, Bluesky offers something Twitter, Threads, and even Mastodon can't match: the best of both worlds - familiar social media UX with decentralized, user-first principles.
The question isn't whether decentralized social media will succeed - it's whether you'll be early enough to establish yourself before everyone else arrives.
Bluesky in 2026: What We Predict
As we look ahead to 2026, we believe Bluesky will become even more popular and cement its position as the leading Twitter alternative. Here's what we expect:
Continued User Growth
Bluesky's growth trajectory shows no signs of slowing. As more users become frustrated with algorithmic manipulation and ads on other platforms, we predict Bluesky will surpass 50 million users by the end of 2026. Each wave of Twitter/X controversies drives new signups, and Bluesky's improved onboarding makes switching easier than ever.
Mainstream Media and Brand Adoption
In 2026, expect to see more journalists, news organizations, and brands establishing official presences on Bluesky. The platform's commitment to an open API and lack of pay-to-play features makes it attractive for organizations that want direct access to their audience without algorithmic interference.
Federation and the ATmosphere
The ATProtocol ecosystem (sometimes called the "ATmosphere") will expand significantly. We'll see more independent servers, specialized communities, and interconnected services built on the protocol. This will make Bluesky's decentralization more tangible and meaningful for everyday users.
Enhanced Creator Tools
As Bluesky matures, we expect better tools for creators - improved analytics, monetization options that don't compromise user experience, and more sophisticated custom feeds. This will attract influencers and content creators looking to build sustainable audiences.
Mobile Experience Improvements
The official Bluesky app and third-party clients like Skyscraper will continue improving. Expect better video support, enhanced direct messaging, and more powerful discovery features that help users find their communities.
The Network Effect Takes Hold
Perhaps most importantly, 2026 will be the year the network effect truly kicks in for Bluesky. As more of your friends, colleagues, and favorite creators join, the platform becomes increasingly valuable. Early adopters who build their following now will be well-positioned when this tipping point arrives.
The window to establish yourself on Bluesky before it goes fully mainstream is closing. Those who invest in building their presence today will have a significant head start when Bluesky becomes the default alternative to traditional social media.
Start Building Your Bluesky Presence Today
Don't wait to build your audience on Bluesky. The platform is growing rapidly, and early adopters who establish themselves now will have a significant advantage.
Use our free trending hashtags tool to discover what's popular, and start growing your Bluesky following today.
Have questions about Bluesky or building on ATProtocol? Reach out at contact@getskyscraper.com.