Leaving Instagram? Here's everything you need
Compare 3 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Instagram is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
PixelFedRecommended Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform | 🇪🇺EU | Free | Medium | 2-4 hours | |
BeReal BeReal is a unique messaging app designed to foster genuine connections by encouraging users to share authentic moments. Each day, users receive a prompt to capture and share a photo within a limited timeframe, ensuring spontaneity and realness. Unlike traditional social media platforms, BeReal emphasizes privacy and simplicity, with no public profiles or follower counts, and content that disappears after a short period. Key features include real-time notifications when friends post, location sharing for added context, and user-controlled data deletion, ensuring that users maintain control over their digital footprint. BeReal is particularly appealing to individuals seeking a more authentic social media experience, free from the pressures of curated content and constant engagement metrics. Privacy and security are paramount, with BeReal hosting data in Europe, fully compliant with GDPR standards, offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and protection. While the app is free to download and use, it may explore additional monetization options in the future. BeReal is ideal for those who value privacy and authenticity in their digital interactions. | 🇪🇺EU | Free | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
Mastodon Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content. | 🇪🇺EU | Free | Medium | 1-2 hours |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content.
Certifications:
Best Free Option
Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform
- No ads, unlike Instagram's sponsored posts
- Decentralized, reducing single-point failure risk
- GDPR compliance ensures data protection
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform
Advantages
- No ads, unlike Instagram's sponsored posts
- Decentralized, reducing single-point failure risk
- GDPR compliance ensures data protection
- Open-source code allows community-driven features
Trade-offs
- Fewer users, limiting social reach
- No Reels or IGTV equivalent for video content
- Learning curve for decentralized platform use
BeReal is a unique messaging app designed to foster genuine connections by encouraging users to share authentic moments. Each day, users receive a prompt to capture and share a photo within a limited timeframe, ensuring spontaneity and realness. Unlike traditional social media platforms, BeReal emphasizes privacy and simplicity, with no public profiles or follower counts, and content that disappears after a short period. Key features include real-time notifications when friends post, location sharing for added context, and user-controlled data deletion, ensuring that users maintain control over their digital footprint. BeReal is particularly appealing to individuals seeking a more authentic social media experience, free from the pressures of curated content and constant engagement metrics. Privacy and security are paramount, with BeReal hosting data in Europe, fully compliant with GDPR standards, offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and protection. While the app is free to download and use, it may explore additional monetization options in the future. BeReal is ideal for those who value privacy and authenticity in their digital interactions.
Advantages
- Daily prompts encourage authentic sharing habits
- No follower counts reduce social pressure
- GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection
- User-controlled data deletion enhances privacy
Trade-offs
- Limited features compared to Instagram's offerings
- Learning curve for new daily prompt system
- Migration pain due to lack of direct content transfer
Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content.
Advantages
- Decentralized: No single point of control or failure
- GDPR compliant: User data protected under EU laws
- Open-source: Community-driven development and transparency
- Self-hostable: Users can control their own server and data
Trade-offs
- Smaller user base: Less reach compared to Instagram
- Learning curve: New interface and features to understand
- Limited multimedia: No IGTV or Reels equivalent
Before You Switch
Export your data from Instagram before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Instagram account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Instagram is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Instagram?
There are 3 European alternatives to Instagram. PixelFed, BeReal, Mastodon are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Instagram?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Instagram?
Yes, most services including Instagram allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Instagram account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Instagram to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Instagram first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Instagram subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Instagram to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.