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Hi everyone.

I'm new to these kinds of innovative platforms, and I've come across Mastodon and Bluesky in particular. I've realized that both use different but equally free and open-source protocols, so my question is: are there any substantial differences between the two social networks? Should I choose one over the other?

Thanks for your replies, and have a great day.

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[-] SrMono@feddit.org 22 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

Bluesky is sort of federated while having a centralized content moderation. Saying it is federated is basically like saying a napkin can be used as trousers. It will cover some parts, but isn't the real deal.

The substantial difference is that mastodon is really federated, and decentralized, thereby moderated at different instances and levels (by server federation and defederation as well as local moderation). Also, really important, there is no algorithm feeding you content a platform owner considers worth emphasizing.

[-] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 4 points 1 day ago

Fair point, but I do think this is a necessary consequence of Bluesky being private. The major differences between the two platforms stem from private vs. FOSS.

[-] SrMono@feddit.org 3 points 1 day ago

Both issues are tightly coupled. There is no business model/value in a truly federated platform that doesn't rely on algorithms. Try to sell ads to your customers, they will always prefer other platforms with proper targeting.

So why would a private company use a protocol and architecture, that cannot be monetized properly?

[-] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 5 points 1 day ago

I agree, when I say it's necessary I mean the fact that it's private compels it to act that way. I'm pro-FOSS.

[-] SrMono@feddit.org 3 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

I'm also pro-FOSS and pro-don't-your-dare-manipulating-my-social-media-for-commercial-or-political-reasons :-)

Catchy, I know.

this post was submitted on 28 Jan 2026
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