# HackStream vs Skim Reader

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Skim Reader at none against HackStream's 1. On price, update cadence, ads and device support there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. HackStream sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Skim Reader asks for nothing beyond the download.

HackStream ships an update every 3 weeks, Skim Reader monthly. Both last shipped on November 9, 2026.

## The numbers

| Metric | HackStream | Skim Reader |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| In-app purchases | Yes | **No** |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Every 3 weeks** | Monthly |
| Size | 13 MB | 12 MB |
| Requires iOS | 26.0 | 26.0 |
| Devices | iPhone | **iPhone, iPad** |
| Age rating | 12+ | 17+ |
| Developer | [FiveSheep OU](https://appshunter.io/developer/1725654318) | [Lucas Young](https://appshunter.io/developer/303586609) |

## What reviewers say

### HackStream

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/hackstream-hackernews-feed/id6757635951)

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Safari Extension, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Notifications | $1.99 | one-time |


### Skim Reader

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/skim-reader/id6758281041)

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is HackStream free?

HackStream is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is Skim Reader free?

Skim Reader is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Do HackStream or Skim Reader have ads?

Neither HackStream nor Skim Reader shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, HackStream or Skim Reader?

HackStream ships an update every 3 weeks, and Skim Reader monthly. Most recently, HackStream was updated on November 9, 2026 and Skim Reader on November 9, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*