Best Social Media Apps in 2025

Social media apps have transformed how people connect, share, and engage globally.

In 2025, these platforms are more dynamic and feature-rich than ever, catering to diverse user needs and preferences.

From casual sharing to professional networking, the top social media apps continue to shape digital interactions in innovative ways.

This blog explores the best social media apps of 2025, highlighting their unique features, subscription models, user bases, and why they remain so popular.

If you’re considering building your own app, this list will inspire you with actionable insights and proven strategies.

21 Best Social Media Apps of 2025

 1. Facebook

Facebook remains a cornerstone of the top social media platforms, continuously adapting to user needs with innovative features.

It allows users to connect with friends and family, join interest-based groups, and explore businesses through Pages and Marketplace.

Its integration with Messenger and Instagram creates a seamless ecosystem for communication and content sharing.

• Unique Features: Messenger for instant communication, Marketplace for buying and selling, and Groups for building communities around shared interests.
• Subscription Models: Free for personal use; revenue is generated through ad placements and tools for businesses.
• User Base: Over 2.8 billion monthly active users globally, with over 180 million in the U.S. alone.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: It’s versatile, user-friendly, and serves as a hub for personal connections and business interactions.

2. Instagram

Instagram has grown into one of the best social media apps, celebrated for its ability to showcase creative content.

Its focus on visuals, from photos to videos, and features like Reels, Stories, and Shopping have made it indispensable for both users and brands.

The platform fosters strong community engagement, making it ideal for influencers and creators.

• Unique Features: Reels for short videos, Stories for 24-hour updates, advanced photo and video editing, and integrated shopping options.
• Subscription Models: Free for users; brands and influencers can utilize paid promotions and ads.
• User Base: Over 1.4 billion monthly active users, heavily skewed toward younger demographics like Gen Z and Millennials.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Its dynamic tools for self-expression, opportunities for influencer collaborations, and e-commerce-friendly interface.

3. TikTok

TikTok has redefined content consumption, establishing itself as one of the most popular social media platforms.

Its algorithm prioritizes highly engaging and personalized short-form video content, helping creators reach audiences quickly.

Trends and challenges further fuel its viral nature, making it a cultural phenomenon.

• Unique Features: A robust recommendation algorithm, advanced video editing tools, and trending challenges that encourage user participation.
• Subscription Models: Free with ad-supported revenue; creators also monetize through partnerships and sponsorships.
• User Base: Over 1 billion active users globally, with a significant portion in the U.S. under 30 years old.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Engaging short-form videos, endless entertainment, and opportunities for creators to go viral.

4. LinkedIn

LinkedIn remains unmatched as a leading social media platform for professionals.

It goes beyond networking, offering tools for job searches, industry insights, and personal branding.

Businesses also leverage LinkedIn for recruitment, content marketing, and thought leadership.

• Unique Features: Professional networking, job listings, LinkedIn Learning for skill development, and advanced analytics for businesses.
• Subscription Models: Free version available; Premium plans start at $29.99/month, offering additional tools for job seekers and recruiters.
• User Base: Over 900 million users worldwide, with over 200 million in the U.S.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Comprehensive career-building tools and unmatched opportunities for professional growth and networking.

5. Snapchat

Snapchat is one of the top social media apps for real-time sharing, offering unique AR features and ephemeral content that disappear after being viewed.

Its Snap Map and Stories features keep users connected and engaged. Snapchat+ provides exclusive features for those seeking a more enhanced experience.

• Unique Features: Augmented reality (AR) lenses, Snap Map for location sharing, and Stories for quick updates.
• Subscription Models: Free with ad-supported revenue; Snapchat+ subscriptions start at $3.99/month.
• User Base: Over 500 million monthly active users globally, especially popular among teenagers and young adults in the U.S.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Fun and creative ways to interact, strong privacy controls, and innovative AR features.

6. Twitter (now X)

Rebranded as X, Twitter remains a hub for real-time updates, conversations, and debates.

It’s a favorite among media outlets, public figures, and everyday users for discussing current events, sharing opinions, and discovering trends.

• Unique Features: Trending topics, Spaces for live audio conversations, and the ability to share multimedia content quickly.
• Subscription Models: Free for basic use; X Premium is available at $8/month, providing perks like increased visibility and longer tweets.
• User Base: Over 400 million monthly active users globally, with a significant presence in the U.S. for real-time news and entertainment updates.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Instant access to breaking news, open conversations, and a platform for advocacy and expression.

7. Pinterest

Pinterest is a leading social media app for inspiration and idea curation. From home décor to fashion, the platform allows users to create and share visual boards. Its shopping integrations make it a favorite for discovering and purchasing products.

• Unique Features: Boards for organizing content, AI-powered visual search, and direct shopping links for products.
• Subscription Models: Free for users; revenue is generated through promoted pins and ad campaigns for businesses.
• User Base: Over 450 million active users globally, with a strong female demographic in the U.S.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Unique focus on aesthetics, content organization, and seamless shopping experiences.

8. Reddit

Reddit stands out as one of the most popular social media apps, offering a community-driven platform for discussions, news, and entertainment.

With thousands of subreddits covering every imaginable topic, Reddit caters to niche interests and fosters meaningful interactions.

• Unique Features: Subreddits for topic-specific discussions, AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions, and an upvoting system for quality content.
• Subscription Models: Free to use; Reddit Premium, at $5.99/month, offers ad-free browsing and additional perks like Reddit Coins.
• User Base: Over 430 million monthly active users globally, with a strong presence in the U.S.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Highly engaging communities, free-flowing discussions, and diverse content tailored to every interest.

9. YouTube

YouTube remains a powerhouse among the top social media platforms, offering endless video content for entertainment, education, and creativity.

From short-form content to long tutorials and live streams, YouTube is the go-to platform for video sharing and consumption.

• Unique Features: Content monetization for creators, YouTube Shorts for quick videos, and live streaming options.
• Subscription Models: Free to use with ads; YouTube Premium, starting at $11.99/month, provides an ad-free experience.
• User Base: Over 2.6 billion active users globally, with a substantial portion in the U.S. across all age groups.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Versatile content library, creator monetization, and high-quality video-sharing tools.

10. Discord

Discord has evolved from a gaming communication tool into one of the best social media platforms for building and managing communities.

Its servers allow users to chat, share files, and host events, making it popular among gamers, educators, and professional teams alike.

• Unique Features: Customizable servers, voice and video chat, and integration with gaming and productivity tools.
• Subscription Models: Free to use; Nitro subscriptions start at $9.99/month for additional features like larger file uploads and enhanced customization.
• User Base: Over 300 million registered users globally, with a large segment in the U.S., particularly among Gen Z and Millennials.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Seamless communication tools, customizable experiences, and community-building features.

11. BeReal

BeReal is one of the most innovative social media apps, offering users a refreshing take on authenticity.

The app prompts users to post unfiltered photos at random times each day, fostering a culture of genuine sharing rather than curated content.

• Unique Features: Random daily prompts for unfiltered sharing, real-time reactions, and no editing options.
• Subscription Models: Free to use, with potential monetization through branded partnerships.
• User Base: Popular among younger demographics, particularly in the U.S., with over 20 million monthly active users.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Authentic content, simplicity, and a break from overly curated social media.

12. Clubhouse

Clubhouse, a pioneer in audio-based social media, remains a favorite for hosting live discussions and networking events.

Its drop-in chatrooms allow users to connect over shared interests, making it a unique space for spontaneous conversations.

• Unique Features: Live audio rooms, moderated discussions, and replays of recorded sessions.
• Subscription Models: Free to use, with monetization through tips and exclusive content sales by creators.
• User Base: Over 10 million active users globally, with a significant U.S. audience.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Intimate, audio-based interactions and opportunities for networking and learning.

13. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a globally recognized social media app, offering secure messaging, voice, and video calls.

Its simple interface and encryption features make it a preferred choice for personal and professional communication.

• Unique Features: End-to-end encryption, group chats, and seamless international communication.
• Subscription Models: Free to use; revenue comes from business API and payments integration.
• User Base: Over 2 billion users worldwide, with a growing number in the U.S. for personal and small business use.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Reliable messaging, strong privacy features, and wide accessibility.

14. Telegram

Telegram has grown into one of the best social media platforms for secure, large-scale communication.

Its groups and channels are used for everything from casual chats to professional networking and news distribution.

• Unique Features: Large group capacity, encrypted messaging, and self-destructing messages.
• Subscription Models: Free with optional Telegram Premium at $4.99/month for added features like faster downloads and exclusive emojis.
• User Base: Over 700 million users globally, with a growing presence in the U.S.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Focus on privacy, scalability for groups, and innovative messaging tools.

15. Quora

Quora is a knowledge-sharing platform that doubles as a social media app for discussions and content creation.

Users can ask and answer questions, follow topics, and build expertise in their areas of interest.

• Unique Features: User-generated Q&A, Spaces for communities, and monetization through Quora+ subscriptions.
• Subscription Models: Free with optional Quora+ at $5/month for premium content.
• User Base: Over 300 million active users globally, with a strong following in the U.S. for professional and academic content.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Informative discussions, expert insights, and opportunities to learn or share knowledge.

16. Tumblr

Tumblr is a unique platform that blends blogging with social networking, making it one of the top social media apps for creatives and niche communities.

Known for its customizable themes and multimedia-rich content, Tumblr allows users to express themselves through text, photos, GIFs, and videos.

• Unique Features: Customizable blog themes, multimedia support, and reblogging for content sharing.
• Subscription Models: Free with ad-supported revenue; optional ad-free subscription at $4.99/month.
• User Base: Over 400 million blogs globally, with a significant U.S. user base among Gen Z and Millennials.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Rich content diversity, customizable profiles, and a strong sense of community.

17. Mastodon

Mastodon is one of the most innovative social media apps, offering a decentralized platform where users can join different servers based on their interests.

Its ad-free and open-source model prioritizes privacy and user control, making it a favorite for those seeking alternatives to mainstream platforms.

• Unique Features: Decentralized servers, customizable privacy settings, and no ads.
• Subscription Models: Free to use; server administrators can monetize through donations or crowdfunding.
• User Base: Over 10 million users globally, with increasing adoption in the U.S. by privacy-conscious users.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Decentralized structure, user-driven content, and privacy-focused approach.

18. Twitch

Twitch has cemented its place as one of the leading social media platforms for live streaming, particularly in gaming and entertainment.

The platform allows creators to engage directly with their audience through real-time interactions, making it a hub for communities centered on shared interests.

• Unique Features: Live streaming, interactive chats, and subscription-based support for streamers.
• Subscription Models: Free to watch with ads; Twitch Turbo at $8.99/month removes ads, and creators earn revenue through subscriptions and bits.
• User Base: Over 140 million active users globally, with a strong concentration in the U.S. gaming community.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Real-time engagement, diverse content, and strong community support.

19. Vero

Vero is a premium, ad-free social media app that emphasizes authentic connections and content sharing.

Positioned as one of the best social media platforms for creators and artists, Vero supports a range of content types, including photos, links, and recommendations, all without algorithms controlling visibility.

• Unique Features: Ad-free experience, chronological feeds, and multimedia support for creators.
• Subscription Models: Free for early adopters; future plans include premium subscriptions starting at $4.99/month.
• User Base: Creators, photographers, and artists globally, with a growing presence in the U.S. creative community.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Algorithm-free, ad-free, and creator-friendly environment.

20. Threads

Threads, developed by Meta, is a text-focused social media app designed for seamless interaction among close circles.

It integrates with Instagram, offering users a simple and intuitive platform for sharing quick updates and engaging in private or public conversations.

• Unique Features: Instagram integration, thread-based conversations, and customizable privacy controls.
• Subscription Models: Free with monetization via in-app ads for businesses.
• User Base: Rapidly growing U.S. user base, especially among existing Instagram users.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: Intimate, focused interactions and seamless integration with existing social media ecosystems.

21. Medium

Medium bridges the gap between social media and blogging, making it one of the top social media platforms for writers and readers.

The platform allows users to publish articles, follow topics of interest, and engage with a like-minded community of thinkers and creators.

• Unique Features: Article publishing, personalized reading recommendations, and a sleek, distraction-free interface.
• Subscription Models: Free for limited access; Medium Membership at $5/month offers unlimited reading and ad-free browsing.
• User Base: Over 170 million readers globally, with a significant portion in the U.S. interested in thoughtful, long-form content.
• Why It’s Favored by Users: High-quality content, supportive writer community, and opportunity for creators to earn through memberships.

Here’s Why You Should Develop a Social Media App

The social media industry continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, presenting lucrative opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

Here are three compelling reasons why building a social media app is a smart move in 2025:

1. Explosive Growth in the Social Media Market

Social media platforms are expected to reach 5 billion users globally by 2025, with the U.S. market leading in active engagement and ad revenue.

Developing one of the best social media platforms can help you tap into this massive and ever-growing user base, enabling you to capitalize on high-demand opportunities.

2. Increased Demand for Niche Platforms

While giants like Facebook and Instagram dominate, there’s a rising demand for niche apps like BeReal, Mastodon, and Vero that cater to specific user needs.

Whether it’s privacy, creativity, or real-time interactions, niche platforms are gaining traction.

Creating a specialized app tailored to a particular audience can help you carve a unique space in the market.

3. Diverse Monetization Opportunities

Social media apps provide multiple revenue streams, including ad placements, subscription models, and in-app purchases.

Apps like Snapchat and Twitter (X) have successfully implemented premium plans, while platforms like Pinterest and YouTube earn significant revenue through advertising.

By implementing innovative monetization strategies, your app can achieve profitability while meeting user needs.

JPLoft Here to Help You

Are you ready to create the next big thing in social media? At JPLoft, we specialize in developing innovative, user-friendly apps tailored to your unique vision. Whether you want to build a niche platform or compete with the industry’s giants, our team has the expertise to turn your ideas into reality.

With cutting-edge technology and a focus on user experience, we’ll help you design an app that engages users and drives growth. Trust JPLoft, the social media app development company, to deliver a platform that stands out in a competitive market.

Conclusion

The top social media apps of 2025 demonstrate the immense potential of this industry, from creating authentic connections to fostering engaging communities. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok lead with innovative features, while niche apps like BeReal and Vero highlight the demand for personalized experiences. These apps set the standard for creativity, functionality, and user engagement in the digital space.

If you’re inspired by these success stories and considering launching your own app, now is the perfect time to enter this thriving market. By addressing user needs with unique features and monetization strategies, your social media app can become the next big player.