What Is Bluesky-And How Can It Be Compared to Twitter?

Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform designed to give users more control over their data and experience, unlike Twitter (now X), which operates under a centralized model. Bluesky, created by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, runs on the open-source AT Protocol, offering features like custom algorithms, user-controlled moderation, and ad-free usage. In contrast, Twitter provides a larger user base, robust monetization tools, and centralized moderation but relies on ads and extensive data collection.

Quick Comparison

Aspect	Bluesky	Twitter (X)
User Base	27 million users	600+ million users
Character Limit	300	280
Advertising	No ads	Ad-supported model
Algorithm Control	User-customizable	Centrally managed
API Access	Open and free	Paid, tiered
Monetization Tools	Limited	Comprehensive

Bluesky is ideal for users seeking privacy and autonomy, while Twitter remains the go-to for reach and advanced features. Tools like Latenode can help automate tasks and manage both platforms efficiently.

Comparing Twitter (X) vs Bluesky: why did I switch?

1. Bluesky

Bluesky is a decentralized social network built on the AT Protocol, designed to transform how users engage with social media by prioritizing control over personal data and user experience. Unlike conventional platforms, Bluesky offers a structure that empowers users while delivering a familiar interface reminiscent of early Twitter. Let’s delve into the architecture and features that set this platform apart.

A Decentralized Framework That Delivers

Bluesky’s foundation is built on three key components working in harmony: Personal Data Servers (PDS) for storing user data, Relays for indexing posts, and App Views for creating curated feeds with integrated moderation [4].

This setup ensures true account portability. By leveraging Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs), users can maintain a consistent account identity that isn’t tied to any single server or provider [4]. As Bluesky CEO Jay Graber describes:

We wanted this to someday be the last social identity you'll ever have to create because you can take it in between apps and services [7].

Putting Users in Charge

Bluesky offers more than basic customization - it hands real control to its users. With custom algorithms, users can tailor their feeds and decide who can reply to their posts. A decentralized moderation system allows them to block, mute, or verify accounts as needed [1] [2] [3]. This level of autonomy enhances the platform’s appeal and strengthens the overall user experience.

Rapid Growth and Enhanced Experience

Bluesky’s recent surge in popularity highlights growing interest in decentralized social media. Features like intuitive Starter Packs and customizable viewing options have contributed to a 500% increase in U.S. usage [5]. Users can further personalize their experience by adjusting feed and thread views, self-hosting their accounts for greater privacy, and linking their own domains to establish authenticity [2] [3].

Commitment to Data Ownership and Ethical AI

Bluesky stands out with its commitment to safeguarding user data. The platform explicitly avoids using user-generated content for AI training [5]. Operating as a Public Benefit Corporation, Bluesky emphasizes its mission to prioritize user interests. As the platform explains:

Social media is too important to be controlled by a few corporations. We're building an open foundation for the social internet so that we can all shape its future [6].

For those interested in integrating Bluesky into broader workflows, tools like Latenode enable seamless automation. By connecting Bluesky with over 300 other applications, users can automate tasks such as posting, content monitoring, and cross-platform engagement - all through an intuitive visual workflow builder.

Matt Mullenweg, CEO of Automattic, reflects on Bluesky’s technical success:

Bluesky proves that it is computationally possible to solve the problems of Twitter-like social networking in a distributed fashion, with a clean user experience. That is really exciting to me [6].

2. Twitter (X)

Twitter, now rebranded as X under Elon Musk's ownership, operates under a centralized structure. This means a single entity oversees decisions related to content, moderation, and data usage, which stands in stark contrast to Bluesky's decentralized approach, where users have more control [8].

Centralized Control and Limited Customization

Twitter's content display is driven by a centralized algorithm, offering limited options for users to customize their experience beyond basic interest settings [8]. Unlike Bluesky, which allows for more tailored user experiences, Twitter relies heavily on preset algorithms. Its uniform content moderation policies apply broadly, leaving little room for adjustments based on community-specific standards or personal preferences [8]. This approach has led to criticism, particularly over issues like misclassification and controversial moderation practices.

Revenue Model and Data Collection

Twitter's business model leans heavily on targeted advertising, which depends on extensive user data collection. Advertising accounted for 89% of Twitter's $4.4 billion revenue in 2022 [9]. With a massive user base of 611 million monthly active users [9], the platform prioritizes scale over individual privacy or autonomy. This approach contrasts sharply with Bluesky, which, with its smaller user base of 20 million, emphasizes user control. Twitter's focus on revenue generation also influences its operational decisions, such as its API and verification systems.

API Access and Developer Restrictions

In a significant shift, Twitter ended free API access and introduced a tiered pricing model, impacting developers, researchers, and businesses [10]. The pricing structure includes:

Basic Tier: $100/month for access to 10,000 tweets per month [10]
Pro Tier: $5,000/month for access to 2 million tweets per month [10]
Enterprise Tier: Custom pricing, with some companies reporting costs as high as $42,000 per month [11]

Elon Musk justified these changes, stating that a $100 monthly fee with ID verification would help reduce API abuse [12]. However, this adjustment has forced developers to rethink how they integrate with Twitter's platform.

Verification and User Identity

Twitter's verification system gives the platform full authority over user authentication and credibility markers [8]. This centralized control contrasts with Bluesky's domain-based handle verification, which provides users with more transparency and autonomy in managing their online identity.

For businesses or developers aiming to incorporate Twitter functionality into automated workflows, tools like Latenode can help navigate these challenges. Latenode enables seamless integration with Twitter’s API while also supporting automation for posting, monitoring, and managing content across multiple platforms.

Twitter's centralized model highlights a clear divide from Bluesky's decentralized philosophy. These differences underscore broader debates about user control, privacy, and the future of platform innovation.

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Pros and Cons

Here’s a clear breakdown of the main benefits and challenges of Bluesky and Twitter (now known as X). This comparison encapsulates the core strengths and limitations of each platform.

Bluesky Advantages

User Control and Customization
Bluesky grants users the ability to tailor their experience. You can choose or create custom algorithms, adjust how threads are viewed, personalize handles with custom domains, and decide who can engage with your posts [1].
Transparency and Open-Source Foundation
Built on an open-source model, Bluesky fosters community involvement and provides users with greater control over their data. This setup also allows users to retain their username, followers, and posts when switching to another platform that uses the same protocol [13].
Enhanced Moderation Tools
The platform offers tools designed to create a safer online environment. These include options to block or mute accounts, label sensitive content, and filter out unwanted posts from your feed [3].
Ad-Free Experience
Bluesky is committed to remaining free of advertisements. As CEO Jay Graber has stated:

There will always be free options, and we can't enshittify the network with ads. This is where federation comes in. The fact that anyone can self-host and anyone can build on the software means that we'll never be able to degrade the user experience in a way where people want to leave [2].

Bluesky Disadvantages

Smaller User Base
Bluesky’s community, with approximately 27 million active users as of May 2025 [2], is significantly smaller than other platforms. This can limit content variety and networking opportunities.
Fewer Features
Bluesky currently lacks features such as post scheduling, polls, and monetization tools, which are standard on many other platforms [8].
Moderation Challenges
Decentralized moderation occurs at the server level, leading to inconsistent rule enforcement. As Martin Kleppman, associate professor at the University of Cambridge, notes:

Decentralization alone is not able to solve some of the thorniest problems of social media, such as misinformation, harassment and hate speech [14].

Twitter (X) Advantages

Extensive User Base
With over 600 million monthly active users [16], Twitter offers unparalleled reach for personal branding, business promotion, and content discovery.
Broad Feature Set
Twitter provides a range of native functionalities, including scheduling (via X Pro), advanced monetization tools, detailed profile customization, and AI-powered content curation. These are supported by a well-established advertising infrastructure [8].
Developer Resources
Comprehensive developer tools and documentation make Twitter a strong platform for advanced integrations and automation.

Twitter (X) Disadvantages

High API Costs
Twitter’s tiered API pricing model can be a barrier to third-party developers and innovation [10].
Limited User Control
The centralized algorithm offers minimal customization beyond predefined interest settings [8].
Centralized Moderation
Twitter’s approach to moderation has faced criticism for its broad application and occasional inconsistencies [15].

Aspect	Bluesky	Twitter (X)
User Base	27 million users	600+ million users
Character Limit	300	280
API Access	Open and free	Paid, tiered
Advertising	No ads	Ad-supported model
Algorithm Control	User-customizable	Centrally managed
Monetization Tools	Limited	Comprehensive

This side-by-side comparison illustrates how each platform’s design influences its features and user experience. Choosing between Bluesky and Twitter depends on whether you value greater user control and transparency or a larger audience and robust features. For those looking to enhance their workflows on either platform, Latenode can streamline tasks and fill functionality gaps through automation solutions tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

Bluesky offers control and a fresh approach, while Twitter (X) provides unmatched reach and visibility. As Jason Perlow from ZDNET highlights:

It's not a direct replacement for Twitter (X), but Bluesky has a lot to offer those who want a fresh start in a decentralized, privacy-minded network [17].

Bluesky's appeal lies in its growing user base and decentralized structure, which prioritizes privacy and user autonomy. Features like customizable feeds and advanced moderation tools create a more tailored and user-focused experience. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to escape the algorithm-driven environment of larger platforms.

On the other hand, Twitter (X) remains the go-to platform for those who need extensive reach and robust tools for analytics, monetization, and networking. Its massive audience and real-time engagement capabilities are invaluable for businesses, journalists, and content creators aiming for maximum visibility. This contrast highlights two distinct opportunities for brands and users: Bluesky’s smaller, community-driven network versus Twitter’s established, wide-reaching ecosystem.

For brands and individuals, balancing these platforms could be a smart strategy. While Twitter offers immediate exposure and proven tools, Bluesky provides a chance to connect with a growing audience that values meaningful interactions and user-centric design. Tools like Latenode can simplify this process by automating tasks such as cross-posting, content curation, and engagement tracking across both platforms. This way, you can maintain a presence on each and assess which aligns better with your goals.

As James Kirkham from Cleats Club notes:

users are gravitating towards spaces that prioritise authentic connections over algorithm-driven outrage, seeking solace in communities that resonate with their values [14].

Ultimately, your choice between Bluesky and Twitter (X) should align with your communication style and objectives. Whether you prioritize community-driven engagement or broad, algorithm-powered reach, the right platform will depend on what best supports your vision.

FAQs

How does Bluesky's decentralized model give users more privacy and control compared to Twitter?

Bluesky operates on a decentralized framework driven by the AT Protocol, offering users enhanced privacy and control over their online presence. Unlike Twitter’s centralized system, where the platform oversees data and moderation, Bluesky shifts the power to its users. This means individuals can take charge of their content feeds, interactions, and data, significantly lowering the risks of censorship or data exploitation.

By decentralizing control, Bluesky creates a more personalized and user-focused experience. It allows individuals to shape their digital space according to their preferences while maintaining a stronger focus on privacy. For those exploring alternatives to mainstream social media, Bluesky presents a safer and more adaptable choice.

What challenges might users face with Bluesky's smaller community and limited features?

Bluesky presents a fresh perspective on social media, but its smaller user base - approximately 26 million as of early 2025 - can make it challenging to reconnect with familiar faces or explore a wide variety of content. This sets it apart from larger platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram, where the sheer number of users often makes discovery easier.

The platform is also in the process of expanding its features. Some tools that users might take for granted, such as advanced search capabilities or group messaging, are not yet part of the experience. Despite these gaps, Bluesky’s emphasis on decentralization and giving users more control over their online interactions continues to draw those looking for a different approach to social media.

How can you automate tasks and streamline your experience on Bluesky and Twitter using tools like Latenode?

You can streamline your social media management on both Bluesky and Twitter by using Latenode to automate routine tasks. For Bluesky, one practical approach is utilizing your profile's public RSS feed to trigger automated actions. For example, you can set up a workflow to automatically cross-post updates from Bluesky to Twitter, ensuring your content reaches audiences on both platforms effortlessly.

On Twitter, automation can simplify scheduling posts, managing interactions, and maintaining a steady online presence. These tools allow you to focus more on crafting engaging content while keeping both Bluesky and Twitter active and aligned with your overall strategy. With Latenode, connecting and synchronizing your activities across platforms becomes seamless and efficient.