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Phanpy vs Fedistar: catalog facts
Phanpy	Fedistar
Free Used in the browser with an existing Mastodon account; no paid plan is shown.	Free Free software with no advertising, supported by donations through GitHub Sponsors.
Web	macOS
Nothing to install, runs in any browser Minimal interface as an alternative to the default Mastodon web app	Multi-column layout for following several timelines Works with Mastodon, Pleroma, Friendica, Firefish, GoToSocial and Pixelfed
Needs an account on a separate Mastodon server Opinionated design will not suit every reading style	Desktop only, with no mobile app Multi-column layout needs a wide screen to be useful
Web application	Downloadable app
Closed source	Open source
License not stated	License not stated
Account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.