Compare software

Mlem vs Alexandrite: catalog facts
Mlem	Alexandrite
Best for: Lemmy users on iPhone who want a native client	Best for: Lemmy users browsing on a desktop computer
Free Free and open source.	Free Free and open source.
iOS	Web, Self-hosted
Native iOS app written in Swift Works across Lemmy instances All 4 strengths for Mlem Native iOS app written in Swift Works across Lemmy instances Open source with an active contributor group Open in Mlem extension for Lemmy links	Layout designed for wide desktop screens Can be self-hosted with the included Dockerfile All 3 strengths for Alexandrite Layout designed for wide desktop screens Can be self-hosted with the included Dockerfile Works with existing Lemmy accounts
iOS only, with no Android version Supports Lemmy rather than other fediverse platforms	Lemmy only, no Mbin or PieFed support Not aimed at phones
Downloadable app	Web application, Self-hosted
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Needs internet	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Mlem github.com/mlemgroup/mlem apps.apple.com/us/app/mlem-for-lemmy/id6450543782 Catalog checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Alexandrite github.com/sheodox/alexandrite Catalog checked September 24, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.