# Loops: Free Open Source Alternative to Facebook, Instagram

Canonical: https://caniforkit.com/fork/loops
Last updated: 2026-11-07

Loops (Open Source, Open Source) replaces Facebook, Instagram. Open-source, decentralized short-video platform that gives creators control. No ads, no lock-in, built on ActivityPub for true community ownership.

## Tool Specifications
- **Tool Name**: Loops
- **Type**: Open Source Project
- **License**: Open Source
- **Official Website**: https://joinloops.org/
- **GitHub Repository**: https://github.com/joinloops/loops-server
- **GitHub Stars**: ★ 466
- **Runs On**: Local
- **Maintenance Status**: nov 2026
- **Platforms**: desktop, cross-platform, one-click install
- **Data Storage**: All application data lives locally on your own machine.
- **Installation**: Clone https://github.com/joinloops/loops-server or deploy with Docker Compose
- **Setup Requirements**: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
- **The Catch / Limitation**: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Paid SaaS Applications Replaced (2)
Replacing these paid tools with Loops saves up to $50/mo ($600/yr) in software subscriptions:

| Replaced Software | Category | SaaS Price | Comparison Guide |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Facebook](https://caniforkit.com/facebook) | [dev tools](https://caniforkit.com/category/dev-tools) | $25/mo | [Compare Facebook vs Loops](https://caniforkit.com/vs/facebook-vs-loops) |
| [Instagram](https://caniforkit.com/instagram) | [dev tools](https://caniforkit.com/category/dev-tools) | $25/mo | [Compare Instagram vs Loops](https://caniforkit.com/vs/instagram-vs-loops) |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is Loops free and open source?
Loops is an open source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on local. Open-source, decentralized short-video platform that gives creators control. No ads, no lock-in, built on ActivityPub for true community ownership.

### What is the trade-off or limitation of using Loops?
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Related

- [Self-Hosted Open Source Directory](https://caniforkit.com/self-hosted)
- [All Paid SaaS Alternatives Index](https://caniforkit.com/alternatives)
- [Software Categories Directory](https://caniforkit.com/categories)
- [Homepage](https://caniforkit.com)