Are.na vs AList Directory
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
Are.na
This platform allows creatives and researchers to save and organize any type of content into collections. It provides a distraction-free space to connect and build ideas, fostering collaboration and community. It is independent, ad-free, and algorithm-free.
- Save any content type
- Organize into collections
- Distraction-free space
- Collaborate on projects
- Share ideas privately or publicly
- Thoughtful community
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Since 2011, Are.na has been the platform of choice for creative researchers, designers, artists, academics, and rabbit-hole enthusiasts. Completely independent, free from ads, algorithms, and unhealthy business practices, Are.na is a calm, thoughtful space for you to connect your ideas and build new ones. - Save any kind of content into collections. - Organize links, videos, images, and texts in a clean, distraction-free space. - Share ideas and collaborate on projects with anyone, anywhere. - Invite friends to work together privately or in public. - Tap into a thoughtful community where curiosity is valued. - Break out of your filter bubble. Are.na is powered by people, not ads.
AList Directory
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Browse trusted profiles, discover the right people faster, and reach out with thoughtful message requests designed for more relevant conversations. Whether you are looking for insight, introductions, or professional context, AList helps you connect with verified industry professionals in a more focused way. With AList, you can: - Browse a curated directory of creative professionals - View trusted profiles with clear professional context - Send thoughtful message requests - Keep requests and replies organized in one place - Apply for verification to join the directory AList is built for more intentional networking across creative industries.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is iOS requirement: AList Directory at 15.1 against Are.na's 17.0. On price, update cadence, ads and in-app purchases there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
Both ship on a similar rhythm, roughly fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on October 24, 2026 and October 19, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | Are.na | AList Directory |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.9 (342 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 52.1% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 342 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Fortnightly | Fortnightly |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 15.1 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 85 MB | 44 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 17+ |
| Developer | When It Changed Inc. | SHINIK YU |
Bugs and requests
Are.na
Reported bugs
5 issues- Inability to login or sign up
- Blocks not loading or duplicating
- App crashing when viewing GIFs/animations
- Inconsistent behavior across iOS versions
- Navigation issues due to 'Dynamic Island'
Requested features
5 requests- Ability to sort channels by connections
- Landscape mode support on iPad
- Password reset functionality
- Multiple image/video uploads
- Improved channel management
AList Directory
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
Are.na
No in-app purchases
AList Directory
No in-app purchases
