Google Podcasts is gone. The streaming platform recently went offline on April 2, bringing the six-year saga to a close. Now it joins the likes of YouTube Stories and the Stadia console over in the Google Graveyard.
If you open the app or go to the official website, you get a message stating the service is no longer available. Google asks you to transfer your subscriptions to either YouTube Music or export them to a third-party service.
We recently published a guide teaching you how to migrate subscriptions over. Moving things to YouTube Music is pretty straightforward as it all can be done on the Google Podcasts app. Migrating to a third-party is a little trickier as it requires creating an OPML file then uploading that file to a supporting service. Be aware you have until July 31 to move your data. After that, you’re out of luck.
The push for YouTube Music
YouTube Music will take the place of Google Podcasts as the company coalesces its audio content onto the app. As a service, it’s not the worst replacement, but it’s nowhere near the best.
The main problem with podcasts on YouTube Music is it plays second fiddle to, well, music. It’s not the main appeal. Yes, the platform has made multiple updates to improve podcast support, however there’s a lot of work to be done. The search bar still prioritizes musical artists and playlists, even if the “Podcast” filter is on. Some people find the user interface to be really messy since it’ll be clogged with song recommendations, making it difficult to find shows. The list goes on.
So, for those of you who are looking for a new podcast home besides YouTube Music, below is a list consisting of the best alternatives.
1. AntennaPod – Best alternative on Android
(Image credit: Future)
AntennaPod is a volunteer-built platform that is totally free. It has no ads whatsoever (unless the publisher of a podcast puts them in there), and you can subscribe to whatever show you want via RSS feed. New episodes will appear on the home screen with the option to download them for offline listening. You can set up a queue for back-to-back episodes with a history tab for future reruns. What’s more, it’s all easy to use. The UI is streamlined to minimize headaches.
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The developers posted a series of instructions last November teaching people how to migrate over to AntennaPod from Google Podcasts. Like we mentioned, it involves creating an OPML file. The main problem with this app is it’s only available on Android. iPhone owners will have to look elsewhere.
2. PocketCasts – Best feature rich alternative
(Image credit: Future)
Compared to AntennaPod, PocketCast has way more features. It offers a wide array of resources to discover new shows. Categories include content that’s popular in the US, podcasts originating from Ireland, books, Women’s History Month, music, and so on. The player has an interesting set of tools as well. You can increase the playback speed to be twice as fast and trim the silent parts in episodes. You can even set up sleep timers.
Everything we just mentioned is available completely for free. You can add more by purchasing a subscription. Pocket Casts Plus, for example, offers access to both a desktop and smartwatch app among other things. The app is available on Android and iOS.
3. Overcast – Best features for iOS
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Rounding the trio is the iOS-exclusive Overcast. It’s an incredibly popular app on iPhone, currently sitting with a near-perfect 4.7 out of 5 rating on the Apple App Store. Much of its praise is levied at its intuitive design, and reviews mention its “many useful features.” It’s similar to the previous entries as Overcast shares some of the same capabilities, like downloading episodes for offline listening, although it boasts some unique tricks up its sleeve.
Voice Boost cleans up audio mixing so all podcasts play at the same volume. Smart Speed cuts out those awkward silences. Overcast does have ads, but you can get rid of them with the Premium subscription.
We also want to give an honorable mention to Spotify. It’s done a lot of work in fostering that side of its business, becoming a major player in the podcasting world. However, it’s difficult to recommend it as a replacement to Google Podcasts for the same reason we can’t really suggest YouTube Music. Spotify is a space for a variety of content, not just one.
If you want something solely for enjoying podcasts, go with the three above. Be sure to check out TechRadar’s list of the best earbuds for 2024 while you’re at it too.
Spotify is reportedly set to raise the prices again. This news from a recent Bloomberg report that cites anonymous sources who told the publication of the streaming giant’s future plans.
According to the insiders, Spotify intends to “increase prices by about $1 to $2 a month” across five markets by April 30. These include the UK, Australia, and Pakistan. The other two regions were not mentioned. Users in the United States are slated to see the same changes, but they won’t happen until later in the year.
The reason why the company is bumping subscriptions up again is to “help cover the cost of audiobooks,” a new type of content that was introduced back in November. Bloomberg explains Spotify has to pay publishers for the books, however the platform only has so much money. They apparently need to charge more to keep them.
New tiers
Although audiobooks have proven themselves to be popular on Spotify, not everyone listens to them. For those who don’t, the company is going to add another subscription plan “that will offer music and podcasts” only, removing audiobooks as an option. This will keep the current price for individual premium plans. People who buy the new tier will have to pay for audiobooks separately.
No updates were given about the long-awaited Supremium plan. It’s presumably still in the works, and the launch of the tier may just be around the corner. A user on the truespotify subreddit shared a screenshot of what appears to be the Dolby Atmos logo appearing on the official player, indicating that spatial audio may be an upcoming feature.
Hearing the news about yet another price yet hike will probably elicit audible groans, especially if Spotify is charging more for content you may not enjoy. If you’re not happy with the direction Spotify is taking and want an alternative, below are the best three recommendations.
Tidal – Best overall alternative
(Image credit: Tidal)
$10.99 / £10.99 / AU$12.99 for HiFi tier
$19.99 / £19.99 / AU$23.99 for HiFi Plus
Tidal is the best alternative to Spotify for music fans. It offers great audio quality thanks to high resolution streaming, offer an easy-to-navigate UI, millions of songs, and thousands of music videos; all for the same cost as a standard Spotify subscription. You can get CD-quality audio coming through your headphones by opting for HiFi Plus, although it is rather expensive at $20 a month.
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It’s important to mention that Tidal doesn’t have a lot of podcasts available. There are a few, but the selection pales in comparison to what Spotify has. This isn’t a big deal you’re someone who doesn’t care about podcasts and prefers music. The service, again, is meant for music aficionados who want to hear their favorite artists in an impeccable quality.
Qobuz – Best alternative for audiophiles
(Image credit: Qobuz)
$12.99 / £12.99 / AU$24.99 for the Studio tier
$17.99 / £17.99 / AU$29.99 for Sublime plan
If you want a service that has the best audio quality out there, check out Qobuz.
You can stream music in the 24-bit FLAC format up to 192KHz. In plain English, that means songs coming from Qobuz are better than the CD-quality tracks. It blows what Spotify has out of the water. What’s great about the service is you don’t need to pay extra for Hi-Res audio. The 24-bit FLAC format is part of the basic tier. And if you don’t want to commit to a subscription, that’s okay because you can purchase individual albums.
It is the most expensive alternative. However, at the time of writing, the platform is offering a discount for people who buy the yearly plan. The cost comes out to $10.83 a month for a single person. Similar to Tidal, Quboz lacks podcasts. Again, it’s aimed at music fans.
YouTube Music – Best content alternative
(Image credit: YouTube)
$10.99 / £10.99 for YouTube Music Premium.
In Australia, it’s a part of YouTube Premium which is $16.99
YouTube Music is an underrated service. Not enough people give it the credit it deserves as a music streaming platform. It does lack hi-res audio. The stream quality on YouTube Music is the same as on Spotify, however, it excels in other areas.
The content library on YouTube Music eclipses what you find on its rival. You get millions of songs, tons of podcasts, and a wide assortment of audiobooks, all for free. Plus, you can control what you listen to at any given time. You won’t be forced to listen to a radio playlist.
Speaking of which, the platform has tons of playlists covering a variety of topics from favorite artists to Adult Swim bumps. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We didn’t even mention other notable features like the ability to upload your own files, the download function, and the opportunity to find rare releases like early demos.
You can’t listen to music without a good pair of headphones. For recommendations, check out TechRadar’s list of the best headphones for 2024.
Galaxy AI is now rolling out to more devices through the One UI 6.1 firmware update, but Samsung’s Advanced Intelligence suite won’t be available across the board.
As you likely know, if you don’t own a Galaxy S24 or one of the few 2023 high-end phones that got Galaxy AI through the One UI update this week, Samsung’s AI systems will stay out of your reach.
Samsung won’t update devices older than 2023 with Galaxy AI. And if you own a Galaxy A phone, you can forget all about Samsung’s AI suite.
However, the good news is that there are alternatives to some of the tools Samsung offers through Galaxy AI. These alternatives are not developed by Samsung but by Google and Microsoft. And most importantly, you can use them with virtually any Galaxy phone. Even if it doesn’t run One UI 6.1.
Alternatives to Galaxy AI tools
You won’t find substitutes for every Galaxy AI feature, but there are a few. Starting with Google Lens.
We previously talked about this in greater detail, but in short, Samsung’s Circle to Search is more or less based on the technology underlying Google Lens.
As a result, you could use Google Lens on pretty much any Galaxy phone to get similar results to Circle to Search. Now, granted, Lens is not quite as fast or convenient as Circle to Search, but if you’re looking for this kind of search tool, Lens certainly is better than nothing.
You can access Google Lens by tapping the photo icon in the Chrome browser search bar or the Google Search widget on your phone’s home screen.
Interpreter is built into Google Assistant
If you regret not having access to the Galaxy AI Interpreter feature, you might be happy to learn that your phone probably already has an interpreter tool ready to be used.
You can try it out by opening the Google Assistant on your Galaxy phone and asking the digital assistant to “interpret for me in [language].”
Get Generative Wallpapers without Galaxy AI
Galaxy AI’s Generative Wallpapers are a fun way to customize your phone and give it a unique look. But, once again, this tool is very limited in reach, as far as Galaxy phones go.
Fortunately, there is an alternative you can install on your Galaxy phone right now. It’s called ‘Wallpapers’ by Google, and it is available via the Galaxy Store.
Using Google’s Wallpapers app, you can generate AI wallpapers for your phone using keywords. It works very much like Galaxy AI’s Generative Wallpaper tool does.
Here’s one unexpected reason you might like Microsoft Edge
Chances are that your mobile browser of choice is Samsung Internet, Google Chrome, or even Firefox. However, Samsung limiting the Galaxy AI’s summarize tool to select devices and its Internet app may have backfired and given people one extra reason to look elsewhere for similar AI tools.
Surprisingly, that’s where Microsoft Edge: AI browser, for Android, comes in. You might have never considered using Edge on your Galaxy phone, but the Copilot AI could change your mind. The Edge browser is available via the Galaxy Store and Play Store.
The Copilot AI in Microsoft Edge is powered by ChatGPT4 and it is capable of summarizing articles you find online. In fact, since it is powered by ChatGPT4, it can do much more.
Using Microsoft Edge on Android and its Copilot feature, you can identify objects (similar to Google Lens and Circle to Search) and even create digital art using DALL-E 3. All without Galaxy AI.
The popular budgeting app Mint will be sunset soon. Parent company Intuit will shut Mint down on March 24, 2024, and have suggested users migrate to its other personal finance app, Credit Karma. I’ve been a Mint user for a long time, as have 3.6 million others (as of 2021, according to Bloomberg), using the budgeting app to track all of my accounts in one place. I also use Mint to monitor my credit score, stick to a monthly spending plan and set goals like building a rainy-day fund or paying down my mortgage faster.
Given the impending shutdown, I gave Credit Karma a shot but was left unimpressed. It’s not a true Mint substitute, so finding an alternative app that could be became a top priority for me. The following guide lays out my experiences, the results of my testing and our picks for the top Mint replacement apps available today. If you’re also on the hunt for a Mint replacement, we hope this guide can help you figure out which of the best budget apps available today could meet your needs once Mint goes away for good.
How to import your financial data from Mint
Mint users should consider getting their data ready to migrate to their new budgeting app of choice soon. Unfortunately, importing data from Mint is not as easy as entering your credentials from inside your new app and hitting “import.” In fact, any app that advertises the ability to port over your stats from Mint is just going to have you upload a CSV file of transactions and other data.
To download a CSV file from Mint, do the following:
Sign into Mint.com and hit Transactions in the menu on the left side of the screen.
Select an account, or all accounts.
Scroll down and look for “export [number] transactions” in smaller print.
Your CSV file should begin downloading.
Note: Downloading on a per-account basis might seem more annoying, but could help you get set up on the other side, if the app you’re using has you importing transactions one-for-one into their corresponding accounts.
How we tested
Before I dove into the budgeting-app world, I had to do some research. To find a list of apps to test, I consulted trusty ol’ Google (and even trustier Reddit); read reviews of popular apps on the App Store; and also asked friends and colleagues what budget tracking apps they might be using. Some of the apps I found were free, just like Mint. These, of course, show loads of ads (excuse me, “offers”) to stay in business. But most of the available apps require paid subscriptions, with prices typically topping out around $100 a year, or $15 a month. (Spoiler: My top pick is cheaper than that.)
Since this guide is meant to help Mint users find a permanent replacement, any services I chose to test needed to do several things: import all of your account data into one place; offer budgeting tools; and track your spending, net worth and credit score. Except where noted, all of these apps are available for iOS, Android and on the web.
Once I had my shortlist of six apps, I got to work setting them up. For the sake of thoroughly testing these apps (and remember, I really was looking for a Mint alternative myself), I made a point of adding every account to every tracking app, no matter how small or immaterial the balance. What ensued was a veritable Groundhog Day of two-factor authentication. Just hours of entering passwords and one-time passcodes, for the same banks half a dozen times over. Hopefully, you only have to do this once.
The best Mint alternative: Quicken Simplifi
Quicken
A complete, easy-to-use app that costs less than the competition — and feels the most like Mint.
Pros
Easy-to-use app with a gentle learning curve
Does a good job detecting recurring income and bills
Less expensive than the competition
Lets you share app access with a spouse or financial advisor
Handy refund tracker
Cons
No free trial
You can’t create an account using your Apple or Google ID
No pun intended, but what I like about Quicken Simplifi is its simplicity. Whereas other apps try to distinguish themselves with dark themes and customizable emoji, Simplifi has a clean user interface, with a landing page that you just keep scrolling through to get a detailed overview of all your stats. These include your top-line balances; net worth; recent spending; upcoming recurring payments; a snapshot of your spending plan; top spending categories; achievements; and any watchlists you’ve set up. You can also set up savings goals elsewhere in the app. I also appreciate how it offers neat, almost playful visualizations without ever looking cluttered. I felt at home in the mobile and web dashboards after a day or so, which is faster than I adapted to some competing services (I’m looking at you, YNAB and Monarch).
Getting set up with Simplifi was mostly painless. I was particularly impressed at how easily it connected to Fidelity; not all budget trackers do, for whatever reason. This is also one of the only services I tested that gives you the option of inviting a spouse or financial advisor to co-manage your account. One thing I would add to my initial assessment of the app, having used it for a few months now: I wish Simplifi offered Zillow integration for easily tracking your home value (or at least a rough estimate of it). Various competitors including Monarch Money and Copilot Money work with Zillow, so clearly there’s a Zillow API available for use. As it stands, Simplifi users must add real estate manually like any other asset.
Dana Wollman / Engadget
In practice, Simplifi miscategorized some of my expenses, but nothing out of the ordinary compared to any of these budget trackers. As you’re reviewing transactions, you can also mark if you’re expecting a refund, which is a unique feature among the services I tested. Simplifi also estimated my regular income better than some other apps I tested. Most of all, I appreciated the option of being able to categorize some, but not all, purchases from a merchant as recurring. For instance, I can add my two Amazon subscribe-and-saves as recurring payments, without having to create a broad-strokes rule for every Amazon purchase.
The budgeting feature is also self-explanatory. Just check that your regular income is accurate and be sure to set up recurring payments, making note of which are bills and which are subscriptions. This is important because Simplifi shows you your total take-home income as well as an “income after bills” figure. That number includes, well, bills but not discretionary subscriptions. From there, you can add spending targets by category in the “planned spending” bucket. Planned spending can also include one-time expenditures, not just monthly budgets. When you create a budget, Simplifi will suggest a number based on a six-month average.
Not dealbreakers, but two things to keep in mind as you get started: Simplifi is notable in that you can’t set up an account through Apple or Google. There is also no option for a free trial, though Quicken promises a “30-day money back guarantee.”
The best Mint alternative (runner-up): Monarch Money
Monarch Money
A robust budgeting app that’s a little harder to use than our top pick, but not prohibitively so. (Power users might not mind.)
Pros
Lots of detail and opportunities for customization
Helpful “goals” feature
You can grant account access to other people
Chrome extension for importing from Mint
Month-in-review recap is more thorough than most
Car value syncing
Zillow integration
Cons
Steeper learning curve than some other budget trackers
The mobile app feels restricted and less intuitive than the web version
Doesn’t seem to distinguish between bills and other recurring expenses
Some bugginess on mobile around creating rules for expense categories
Monarch Money grew on me. My first impression of the app, which was founded by a former Mint product manager, was that it’s more difficult to use than others on this list, including Simplifi, NerdWallet and Copilot. And it is. Editing expense categories, adding recurring transactions and creating rules, for example, is a little more complicated than it needs to be, especially in the mobile app. (My advice: Use the web app for fine-tuning details.) Monarch also didn’t get my income right; I had to edit it.
Once you’re set up, though, Monarch offers an impressive level of granularity. In the budgets section, you can see a bona fide balance sheet showing budgets and actuals for each category. You’ll also find a forecast, for the year or by month. And recurring expenses can be set not just by merchant, but other parameters as well. For instance, while most Amazon purchases might be marked as “shopping,” those for the amounts of $54.18 or $34.18 are definitely baby supplies, and can be automatically marked as such each time, not to mention programmed as recurring payments. Weirdly, though, there’s no way to mark certain recurring payments as bills, specifically.
Dana Wollman / Engadget
Not long after I first published this story in December 2023, Monarch introduced a detailed reporting section where you can create on-demand graphs based on things like accounts, categories and tags. That feature is available just on the web version of the app for now. As part of this same update, Monarch added support for an aggregator that makes it possible to automatically update the value of your car. This, combined with the existing Zillow integration for tracking your home value, makes it easy to quickly add a non-liquid asset like a vehicle or real estate, and have it show up in your net worth graph.
The mobile app is mostly self-explanatory. The main dashboard shows your net worth; your four most recent transactions; a month-over-month spending comparison; income month-to-date; upcoming bills; an investments snapshot; a list of any goals you’ve set; and, finally, a link to your month-in-review. That month-in-review is more detailed than most, delving into cash flow; top income and expense categories; cash flow trends; changes to your net worth, assets and liabilities; plus asset and liability breakdowns. In February 2024, Monarch expanded on the net worth graph, so that if you click on the Accounts tab you can see how your net worth changed over different periods of time, including one month, three months, six months, a year or all time.
On the main screen, you’ll also find tabs for accounts, transactions, cash flow, budget and recurring. Like many of the other apps featured here, Monarch can auto-detect recurring expenses and income, even if it gets the category wrong. (They all do to an extent.) Expense categories are marked by emoji, which you can customize if you’re so inclined.
Monarch Money uses a combination of networks to connect with banks, including Plaid, MX and Finicity, a competing network owned by Mastercard. (I have a quick explainer on Plaid, the industry standard in this space, toward the end of this guide.) As part of an update in late December, Monarch has also made it easier to connect through those other two networks, if for some reason Plaid fails. Similar to NerdWallet, I found myself completing two-factor authentication every time I wanted to get past the Plaid screen to add another account. Notably, Monarch is the only other app I tested that allows you to grant access to someone else in your family — likely a spouse or financial advisor. Monarch also has a Chrome extension for importing from Mint, though really this is just a shortcut for downloading a CSV file, which you’ll have to do regardless of where you choose to take your Mint data.
Additionally, Monarch just added the ability to track Apple Card, Apple Cash, and Savings accounts, thanks to new functionality brought with the iOS 17.4 update. It’s not the only one either; currently, Copilot and YNAB have also added similar functionality that will be available to anyone with the latest versions of their respective apps on a device running iOS 17.4. Instead of manually uploading statements, the new functionality allows apps like Monarch’s to automatically pull in transactions and balance history. That should make it easier to account for spending on Apple cards and accounts throughout the month.
Monarch also recently launched investment transactions in beta. It also says bill tracking and an overhauled goals system are coming soon. Monarch hasn’t provided a timeline for that last one, except to say that the improved goals feature is coming in early 2024.
The best up-and-comer: Copilot Money
Copilot Money
A beautifully designed and reasonably priced app with lots of features in development — including Android and web apps.
Pros
Slick UI
Standalone Mac app
Lower monthly price than some competing apps
Does a good job visualizing recurring expenses
Optional Amazon, Venmo and Zillow integration
“To review” section is handy
Cons
No web or Android app yet
Miscategorized more expenses than our top pick
Lots of otherwise common features are still in development
Copilot Money might be the best-looking budget tracker I tested. It also has the distinction of being exclusive to iOS and Macs — at least for now. Andres Ugarte, the company’s CEO, has publicly promised that Android and web apps are coming in 2024 (more likely the second half of the year, Ugarte tells me). But until it follows through, I can’t recommend Copilot for most people with so many good competitors out there.
Copilot Money for Web and Android!
Thanks to the support from our users, and the overwhelming positive reception we’re seeing from folks migrating from Mint, we can now say that we’ll be building @copilotmoney for Web and Android with a goal to launch in 2024.
There are other features that Copilot is missing, which I’ll get into. But it is promising, and one to keep an eye on. It’s just a fast, efficient, well designed app, and Android users will be in for a treat when they’ll finally be able to download it. It makes good use of colors, emoji and graphs to help you understand at a glance how you’re doing on everything from your budgets to your investment performance to your credit card debt over time. In particular, Copilot does a better job than almost any other app of visualizing your recurring monthly expenses.
Behind those punchy colors and cutesy emoji, though, is some sophisticated performance. Copilot’s AI-powered “Intelligence” gets smarter as you go at categorizing your expenses. (You can also add your own categories, complete with your choice of emoji.) It’s not perfect. Copilot miscategorized some purchases (they all do), but it makes it easier to edit than most. On top of that, the internal search feature is very fast; it starts whittling down results in your transaction history as soon as you begin typing.
Dana Wollman / Engadget
Copilot is also unique in offering Amazon and Venmo integrations, allowing you to see transaction details. With Amazon, this requires just signing into your Amazon account via an in-app browser. For Venmo, you have to set up [email protected] as a forwarding address and then create a filter, wherein emails from [email protected] are automatically forwarded to [email protected]. Like Monarch Money, you can also add any property you own and track its value through Zillow, which is integrated with the app.
While the app is heavily automated, I still appreciate that Copilot marks new transactions for review. It’s a good way to both weed out fraudulent charges, and also be somewhat intentional about your spending habits.
Like Monarch Money, Copilot updated its app to make it easier to connect to banks through networks other than Plaid. As part of the same update, Copilot said it has improved its connections to both American Express and Fidelity which, again, can be a bugbear for some budget tracking apps. In an even more recent update, Copilot added a Mint import option, which other budgeting apps have begun to offer as well.
Because the app is relatively new (it launched in early 2020), the company is still catching up to the competition on some table-stakes features. Ugarte told me that his team is almost done building out a detailed cash flow section, which could launch before the end of 2023, but more likely in early 2024. On its website, Copilot also promises a raft of AI-powered features that build on its current “Intelligence” platform, the one that powers its smart expense categorization. These include “smart financial goals,” natural language search, a chat interface, forecasting and benchmarking. That benchmarking, Ugarte tells me, is meant to give people a sense of how they’re doing compared to other Copilot users, on both spending and investment performance. Most of these features should arrive in the new year.
Copilot does a couple interesting things for new customers that distinguish it from the competition. There’s a “demo mode” that feels like a game simulator; no need to add your own accounts. The company is also offering two free months with RIPMINT — a more generous introductory offer than most. When it finally does come time to pony up, the $7.92 monthly plan is cheaper than some competing apps, although the $95-a-year-option is in the same ballpark.
The best free budgeting app: NerdWallet
NerdWallet
The best free budget tracking app you can get (and there aren’t many compromises besides the ever-present ads).
Pros
Free
Easy to use
Helpful weekly insights
NerdWallet has a deep well of helpful financial explainers and guides
One of the few options that offers credit score monitoring
You may know NerdWallet as a site that offers a mix of personal finance news, explainers and guides. I see it often when I google a financial term I don’t know and sure enough, it’s one of the sites I’m most likely to click on. As it happens, NerdWallet also has the distinction of offering one of the only free budget tracking apps I tested. In fact, there is no paid version; nothing is locked behind a paywall. The main catch: There are ads everywhere. To be fair, the free version of Mint was like this, too.
Even with the inescapable credit card offers, NerdWallet has a clean, easy-to-understand user interface, which includes both a web and a mobile app. The key metrics that it highlights most prominently are your cash flow, net worth and credit score. (Of note, although Mint itself offered credit score monitoring, most of its rivals do not.) I particularly enjoyed the weekly insights, which delve into things like where you spent the most money or how much you paid in fees — and how that compares to the previous month. Because this is NerdWallet, an encyclopedia of financial info, you get some particularly specific category options when setting up your accounts (think: a Roth or non-Roth IRA).
Dana Wollman / Engadget
As a budgeting app, NerdWallet is more than serviceable, if a bit basic. Like other apps I tested, you can set up recurring bills. Importantly, it follows the popular 50/30/20 budgeting rule, which has you putting 50% of your budget toward things you need, 30% toward things you want, and the remaining 20% into savings or debt repayments. If this works for you, great — just know that you can’t customize your budget to the same degree as some competing apps. You can’t currently create custom spending categories, though a note inside the dashboard section of the app says “you’ll be able to customize them in the future.” You also can’t move items from the wants column to “needs” or vice versa but “In the future, you’ll be able to move specific transactions to actively manage what falls into each group.” A NerdWallet spokesperson declined to provide an ETA, though.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that NerdWallet had one of the most onerous setup processes of any app I tested. I don’t think this is a dealbreaker, as you’ll only have to do it once and, hopefully, you aren’t setting up six or seven apps in tandem as I was. What made NerdWallet’s onboarding especially tedious is that every time I wanted to add an account, I had to go through a two-factor authentication process to even get past the Plaid splash screen, and that’s not including the 2FA I had set up at each of my banks. This is a security policy on NerdWallet’s end, not Plaid’s, a Plaid spokesperson says.
Precisely because NerdWallet is one of the only budget trackers to offer credit score monitoring, it also needs more of your personal info during setup, including your birthday, address, phone number and the last four digits of your social security number. It’s the same with Credit Karma, which also does credit score monitoring.
Related to the setup process, I found that NerdWallet was less adept than other apps at automatically detecting my regular income. In my case, it counted a large one-time wire transfer as income, at which point my only other option was to enter my income manually (which is slightly annoying because I would have needed my pay stub handy to double-check my take-home pay).
Budgeting apps we also tested
YNAB
YNAB
An app with a cult following that promotes a different, more hands-on approach to budgeting. Not for people who want a set-and-forget experience.
Pros
Particularly strong emphasis on budgeting
Unique “zero-dollar” approach to financial planning that some people swear by
Cons
Steep learning curve
Harder to use certain features on the mobile app than on the web
YNAB is, by its own admission, “different from anything you’ve tried before.” The app, whose name is short for You Need a Budget, promotes a so-called zero-based budgeting system, which forces you to assign a purpose for every dollar you earn. A frequently used analogy is to put each dollar in an envelope; you can always move money from one envelope to another in a pinch. These envelopes can include rent and utilities, along with unforeseen expenses like holiday gifts and the inevitable car repair. The idea is that if you budget a certain amount for the unknowns each month, they won’t feel like they’re sneaking up on you.
Importantly, YNAB is only concerned with the money you have in your accounts now. The app does not ask you to provide your take-home income or set up recurring income payments (although there is a way to do this). The money you will make later in the month through your salaried job is not relevant, because YNAB does not engage in forecasting.
The app is harder to learn than any other here, and it requires more ongoing effort from the user. And YNAB knows that. Inside both the mobile and web apps are links to videos and other tutorials. Although I never quite got comfortable with the user interface, I did come to appreciate YNAB’s insistence on intentionality. Forcing users to draft a new budget each month and to review each transaction is not necessarily a bad thing. As YNAB says on its website, “Sure, you’ve got pie charts showing that you spent an obscene amount of money in restaurants — but you’ve still spent an obscene amount of money in restaurants.” I can see this approach being useful for people who don’t tend to have a lot of cash in reserve at a given time, or who have spending habits they want to correct (to riff off of YNAB’s own example, ordering Seamless four times a week).
My colleague Valentina Palladino, knowing I was working on this guide, penned a respectful rebuttal, explaining why she’s been using YNAB for years. Perhaps, like her, you have major savings goals you want to achieve, whether it’s paying for a wedding or buying a house. I suggest you give her column a read. For me, though, YNAB’s approach feels like overkill.
PocketGuard
PocketGuard
A slightly rougher-around-the-edges user experience, but you still get lots of functionality for a lower price than others and more features coming in early 2024.
Pros
One of the only budget trackers with a free plan
You can avoid an ongoing subscription fee by opting for a one-time lifetime license
Less expensive than most competitors
Helpful “upcoming bills” view in the app
Cons
The free version is so restricted that the “free” label feels misleading; the user experience feels less polished than some competing apps
The web app doesn’t take advantage of the larger screen space on desktop
PocketGuard is one of the only reputable free budget trackers I found in my research. Just know it’s far more restricted at the free tier than NerdWallet or Mint. In my testing, I was prompted to pay after I attempted to link more than two bank accounts. So much for free, unless you keep things simple with one cash account and one credit card. When it comes time to upgrade to PocketGuard Plus, you have three options: pay $7.99 a month, $34.99 a year or $79.99 for a one-time lifetime license. That lifetime option is actually one of the few unique selling points for me: I’m sure some people will appreciate paying once and never having to, uh, budget for it again.
From the main screen, you’ll see tabs for accounts, insights, transactions and the “Plan,” which is where you see recurring payments stacked on top of what looks like a budget. The main overview screen shows you your net worth, total assets and debts; net income and total spending for the month; upcoming bills; a handy reminder of when your next paycheck lands; any debt payoff plan you have; and any goals.
Dana Wollman / Engadget
Like some other apps, including Quicken Simplifi, PocketGuard promotes an “after bills” approach, where you enter all of your recurring bills, and then PocketGuard shows you what’s left, and that’s what you’re supposed to be budgeting: your disposable income. Obviously, other apps have a different philosophy: take into account all of your post-tax income and use it to pay the bills, purchase things you want and maybe even save a little. But in PocketGuard, it’s the “in your pocket” number that’s most prominent. To PocketGuard’s credit, it does a good job visualizing which bills are upcoming and which ones you’ve already paid.
PocketGuard has also publicly committed to adding some popular features in early 2024. These include rollover budgeting in January 2024, categorization rules in February and shared household access in March.
Dana Wollman / Engadget
Although PocketGuard’s UI is easy enough to understand, it lacks polish. The “accounts” tab is a little busy, and doesn’t show totals for categories like cash or investments. Seemingly small details like weirdly phrased or punctuated copy occasionally make the app feel janky. More than once, it prompted me to update the app when no updates were available. The web version, meanwhile, feels like the mobile app blown up to a larger format and doesn’t take advantage of the extra screen real estate.
Of note, although PocketGuard does work with Plaid, its primary bank-connecting platform is actually Finicity. Setting up my accounts through Finicity was mostly a straightforward process. I did encounter one hiccup: Finicity would not connect to my SoFi account. I was able to do it through Plaid, but PocketGuard doesn’t make it easy to access Plaid in the app. The only way, as far as I can tell, is to knowingly search for the name of a bank that isn’t available through Finicity, at which point you get the option to try Plaid instead. Like I said: the experience can be janky.
What is Plaid and how does it work?
Each of the apps I tested uses the same underlying network, called Plaid, to pull in financial data, so it’s worth explaining in its own section what it is and how it works. Plaid was founded as a fintech startup in 2013 and is today the industry standard in connecting banks with third-party apps. Plaid works with over 12,000 financial institutions across the US, Canada and Europe. Additionally, more than 8,000 third-party apps and services rely on Plaid, the company claims.
To be clear, you don’t need a dedicated Plaid app to use it; the technology is baked into a wide array of apps, including the budget trackers I tested for this guide. Once you find the “add an account” option in whichever one you’re using, you’ll see a menu of commonly used banks. There’s also a search field you can use to look yours up directly. Once you find yours, you’ll be prompted to enter your login credentials. If you have two-factor authentication set up, you’ll need to enter a one-time passcode as well.
As the middleman, Plaid is a passthrough for information that may include your account balances, transaction history, account type and routing or account number. Plaid uses encryption, and says it has a policy of not selling or renting customer data to other companies. However, I would not be doing my job if I didn’t note that in 2022 Plaid was forced to pay $58 million to consumers in a class action suit for collecting “more financial data than was needed.” As part of the settlement, Plaid was compelled to change some of its business practices.
In a statement provided to Engadget, a Plaid spokesperson said the company continues to deny the allegations underpinning the lawsuit and that “the crux of the non-financial terms in the settlement are focused on us accelerating workstreams already underway related to giving people more transparency into Plaid’s role in connecting their accounts, and ensuring that our workstreams around data minimization remain on track.”
My top Mint alternative picks: Quicken Simplifi and Copilot Money
To conclude, you might be wondering what app I decided on for myself after all of this research. The answer is actually two apps: Quicken Simplifi, my overall top pick, and Copilot Money. For now, I am actively using both apps and still deciding, long-term, which I feel more comfortable with. I tend to prefer Copilot’s fast, colorful user interface, but as I explained above, it’s too lacking in table-stakes features for me to go so far as to name it the best overall option.
If there’s one camera that’s catching the attention of the wider world right now it’s the Fujifilm X100VI. By all accounts, this stylish rangefinder is likely to be the most popular release of the year – so much so, in fact, that Fujifilm X1000VI preorders are currently facing months of backlogs.
Got your eye on this camera but don’t want to wait? Don’t fear – there are some fantastic alternatives right now that are arguably as good. While some may lack the certain je ne sais quoi that the X100VI exudes, there are some options right now that are lightweight, offer similar film presets, and are in some cases cheaper.
Firstly, there are plenty of decent older options from Fujifilm. These cameras still hold up great for 2024 and offer those coveted presets for film-like JPEGs straight out of camera. Just note, however, that second-hand prices for Fujifilm gear are massively inflated due to the brand’s popularity.
Outside of Fuji, we’re spoilt for choice with compelling options like the Ricoh GIII and Leica Q3 offering some of the best compact cameras on the market. In particular, the Ricoh offers a more budget-friendly option that’s super easy to fit into any pocket – although it doesn’t have those shiny film presets like the X100VI. Anyway, on with our top alternative recommendations just below – and be sure to swing by our freshly published Fujifilm X100VI review while you’re here.
Three excellent Fujifilm alternatives
Excellent alternatives from other brands
Honorable mentions
(Image credit: Future)
You’re probably thinking – why not mention the Fujifilm X100V? Overall, the last-gen model is a fantastic camera but it’s absolutely plagued by the ‘Fujifilm curse’ currently – meaning you’re paying a hefty surcharge on the second-hand market due to popularity. This may gradually change over the next few months as more people off-load their old cameras, but right now, the X100V is almost as pricey as the new model so you’re probably better off just waiting it out.
This is also the case for the X-Pro 3 and X-Pro 2 – both of which are excellent Fujifilm cameras with gorgeous range-finder style bodies and optical viewfinders. The X-Pro line still hasn’t been refreshed to bring it into line with the X-T5 and X100VI so you’re paying a premium for an older camera here, although the X-Pro 3 absolutely ticks all the boxes for a stylish retro camera.
One camera that may be worth keeping an eye out for is the Olympus PEN-F. This one is a dark horse being a Micro Four Thirds camera released in 2016, but it does feature a gorgeous range-finder design that harkens back to Olympus’ glory days. The downside? It’s surprisingly expensive for a camera of its age – likely because it’s still a relatively unique camera in the Olympus / OM System range. For my money, the GX9 is the better value choice.
ChatGPT 4 is the paid version of ChatG{T, in this guide we look at several free alternatives that offer something similar to the paid version of ChatGPT. In the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, the quest for efficient and versatile AI tools is unending. If you’re on the lookout for alternatives to ChatGPT 4, you will be pleased to know that the market offers a variety of free options, each boasting unique features and capabilities. From enhancing your conversations with AI to mastering industry-specific tasks, these alternatives are not just versatile but also cater to specific needs like creativity, reasoning, and information retrieval.
Bing AI: Stepping up as a strong contender to ChatGPT, Bing AI merges the power of conversational AI with real-time internet information. It stands out by providing current event updates and a commendable fact-checking feature, citing sources to back its statements. If you are wondering how it surpasses ChatGPT, its integration with live data is a key differentiator.
Perplexity AI: Positioned as a conversational search engine, Perplexity AI mirrors some of ChatGPT’s functionalities but with added efficiency. It’s known for generating concise responses, pulling real-time data from platforms like Wikipedia and Amazon, which is ideal for those seeking quick and sourced information.
ChatSonic: This platform takes conversational AI a notch higher by enabling the creation of chatbots and voice assistants. Its broader knowledge base, compared to ChatGPT, and the ability to scour the internet for responses, makes it a robust tool for more accurate and informed interactions.
YouChat: Utilizing OpenAI’s GPT-3, UChat is an AI-driven chatbot that addresses a wide array of queries. Its internet access allows it to stay current, providing citations for its responses, which is a boon for those seeking information backed by sources.
DeepL: For those needing translation services or a writing assistant, DeepL is a fantastic resource. Supporting 31 languages, it also aids in refining your writing with suggestions for grammar, spelling, and style, making it a valuable tool for global communicators.
Otter AI: Otter AI revolutionizes note-taking by offering AI-powered transcription services. It can record and summarize meetings, integrating seamlessly with platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. Its basic free plan includes monthly transcription limits, which is perfect for professionals and students alike.
Playground: Developed by OpenAI, this platform allows users to experiment with the GPT-3 model. Unlike ChatGPT, Playground provides an interactive interface for real-time text generation, offering a unique hands-on experience with AI text generation.
Spinbot: A boon for content creators, Spinbot specializes in rewriting and generating new text variations while retaining the original context. This tool is particularly useful for crafting unique SEO-friendly content.
Lexica Art: Venturing into the realm of AI-generated art, Lexica Art transforms text prompts into realistic images. It caters to both hobbyists and professionals with its free and paid plans, although the free version has certain limitations on image generation.
Marmoff: As a comprehensive AI solution for content creation, Marmoff offers various tools and templates for generating diverse types of content. It allows customization in terms of tone and word limit, aiding in overcoming writer’s block and enhancing creative output.
Each of these alternatives to ChatGPT 4 presents its unique strengths, addressing different aspects of AI interaction and utility. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a professional looking to streamline your workflow, or someone exploring the realm of AI, these tools provide a gateway to an enhanced digital experience.
As you delve into these alternatives, remember that the world of AI is constantly evolving. Staying informed and experimenting with different tools will not only expand your technological horizons but also open doors to new possibilities in the realm of artificial intelligence.
Source Be Productive
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In the dynamic world of compact computing, the System on Module (SoM) technology has taken center stage, with the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) playing a crucial role in the development of tailored computing solutions. The CM4’s design, which omits standard interfaces like USB and HDMI, necessitates the use of carrier boards to unlock its full potential. After facing significant supply issues since early 2021, the CM4 is making a comeback, much to the delight of developers and tech enthusiasts.
The scarcity of CM4s has led to the rise of alternative boards, often referred to as CM4 clones. These clones are compact computers that serve a wide range of uses, from gaming emulators to smart lighting and industrial controls. It’s important to note that these clones are not carbon copies of the original CM4. They often feature different chips and additional functionalities, which can lead to compatibility concerns and booting problems.
Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 (CM4) alternatives
When evaluating CM4 clones, it’s essential to consider their performance and compatibility. Each clone has its own set of features and strengths, and while some may excel in certain areas, they might fall short in others. Conducting a thorough performance review and compatibility assessment is crucial to ensure that the clone you choose meets the specific needs of your project.
Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 :
Looking ahead to 2024, we’re on the brink of seeing some exciting projects come to fruition. The field of industrial touchscreen computers is advancing, and an inventive TV stick adapter for the CM4 is in the works, promising to expand the versatility of your setups. Additionally, specialized flashing tools are being developed to streamline the programming of CM4s.
In the realm of industrial computing, advancements in automation and remote sensing are noteworthy. A particularly impressive innovation is the Pi KVM box, now equipped with USB-C connectivity, which simplifies power and networking arrangements for managing servers remotely.
Despite these advancements, there are concerns about some organizations not adhering to open-source licenses. Maintaining the integrity of the open-source community by respecting these licenses is vital, as they are foundational to much of the innovation in this field.
CM5
There’s also growing speculation about the potential release of a Compute Module 5. While details are still under wraps, the community is buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting updates that are expected to come out in the first half of 2024. As always we will keep you up to speed as any new information, specifications or news is released. In the meantime the Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 is available to by from a number of worldwide resellers.
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Here is the page if you want to hear about Doublelist alternatives. We’ve prepared a list of ten such resources and offered in-depth assessments.
Because you are here, you are presumably already aware that fraudsters have found a way to exploit Doublelist. Spammers are regularly spamming this site with absurd and fake advertising.
Scammers and other Doublelist users rapidly discover any changes or moderations made to the site. It has gotten more challenging to locate a credible ad on this site, particularly in the “women seeking men” area. The administrators of Doublelist are working on a more rigorous security system to retrieve the lost data, and they aim to have it ready soon.
Meanwhile, explore the suggested links below, where you’ll discover classified advertisements and many dating options.
Related:How Technology is Impacting Online Dating
What is Doublelist?
It’s a classifieds-style online dating service encouraging chance connections and spontaneous partnerships. Personal advertising should be posted here by persons who are serious about meeting new people, dating, and forming meaningful relationships. This platform offers a straightforward and essential user experience.
You won’t be able to create a customized dating profile with picture albums and other bells and whistles since it isn’t a fully-featured, user-friendly service. Who precisely is this dating site targeted at? It caters to people seeking spiritual connections or one-night hookups.
How To Use Doublelist.com
All you need to do is sign in to the website. Ads will be everywhere. Select a city from the drop-down menu to see local ads. When hunting for a date, you may come across two categories of individuals. Let’s Date and Connect Now are two options.
There will be a “gay for straight,” “guys for guys,” and “women for guys” section, as well as a “dating miscellaneous” category, for example. You may look at advertisements without making an account. However, before you can submit advertisements, you must first join up and validate your account.
Most Popular Doublelist Cities
Below are the top most popular Doublelist Cities. You’ll never have a problem finding the most suitable partners.
Doublelist Chicago
Dublelist Tampa
Doublelist Denver
Doublelist Boston
Doublelist Phoenix
Doublelist Nashville
Doublelist Dallas
Doublelist Las Vegas
Top 10 Sites Like Doublelist
Below are the top 10 best sites like Doublelist:
WannaHookUp
WannaHookUp
WannaHookUp is not intended to be a serious dating site. Because the readership there is more similar to Doublelist’s, it is a better alternative. There are no adverts on this site. However, readers are open to new experiences and would love to meet in person. Furthermore, it offers regional dating choices.
WannaHookUp, like Doublist, has a large and diverse user base: over 1 million members in the United States alone, with over 250K weekly active users. You may get unlimited access to the site’s services for as low as $39.95. Nonetheless, there are several excellent zero-cost solutions. WannaHookUp’s best features include a fun dating service, advanced search filters, and enhanced security.
FreeAds Time
FreeAds Time
This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a replacement for Doublelist. FreeAdsTime includes some areas comparable to Doublelist, which may be more appealing to you as a result.
FreeAdsTime works with English-speaking nations and places where English is not the first language. If you believe you may identify your city, you should try it, and if you do, keep on. Use its simple interface and navigation to post a free image-based classified ad.
UkraineBride4You
UkraineBride4You
As the name suggests, it’s a place to meet lovely Ukrainian women. Women from other Eastern European countries are also accessible, so don’t limit yourself to Ukraine. On our dating service, you may discover thousands of eligible people from all around the globe. Signing up, creating a profile, and being verified will take you up to 10 minutes.
You can rapidly find the best shapes that meet your tastes in age, hobbies, physical type, and more using sophisticated search parameters.
Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison
Looking for Alternative Hookup Sites to Doublelist? Ashley Madison is currently regarded as one of the top websites accessible. It’s not a typical matching service, but it’s lovely for meeting new people on the site. It’s also more appealing and user-friendly than Doublelist. Ashley Madison stands out when compared to other clandestine affair dating sites.
This page contains further information. There are millions of individuals accessible for hookups and casual dating. Unfortunately, this isn’t a free classifieds website. Nonetheless, there are several zero-cost solutions. The bare minimum for joining an online dating service and receiving 100 monthly credits is $49. This dating service does not charge women seeking for men any fees.
FinderMaster
FinderMaster
If you’re searching for a good substitute for Doublelist, FinderMaster is your best bet. This should be examined with other top options. The website has adverts and classifieds for practically every product or service conceivable. You may use the maps supplied to explore the different regions and find the exact things you want. The website’s design is very user-friendly, with each area identified. Enter your search term into the Advanced Search Box, and the results will appear!
OneNightFriend
OneNightFriend
One Night Friend is an excellent place to start if you want a one-night encounter. Even though the profiles could be more detailed, most feature image galleries. The site’s one-of-a-kind matching services and effective search criteria make it simple to find a matched mate fast. The website also includes a roulette-style matching tool to assist users in finding their perfect companion.
However, the app’s intriguing features aren’t the only incentive. This business is well-known for its strict security protocols, which aid in preventing fraud and false accounts. Accounts may be validated in two ways: by email or by uploading a photo. It’s one of the most affordable alternatives for scheduling informal encounters, with daily rates starting at $0.54. Stop perusing personal ads on Doublelist and look for the most fascinating profiles on One Night Friend.
OneNightStand
OneNightStand
Even though it is not a classified ads website, One Night Stand is one of the most well-known casual dating websites. It’s not a standard personal site but an excellent Doublelist with profiles that seem like classified ads for real people. Not only does One Night Stand offer a sizeable single-user base, but it is also the best alternative to dating services like Doublelist and Craigslist Personals.
Please don’t dismiss the quality of this site due to its small size. On this website, all necessary safeguards have been taken to secure users’ personal information. When problems happen, you can always rely on the skilled support team for assistance. Not to add that starting your love story here won’t break the wallet. So, go to the home page and begin the registration and profile creation procedure. It just takes around 5 minutes to complete.
Adult Friend Finder
Adult Friend Finder
Doubelist has swiftly established itself as a reputable alternative to Craigslist Personals and other comparable sites. However, Doublelist may provide some of the most excellent options for casual encounters. Adult Friend Finder is the most comprehensive service of its type. What are we going to do with this website? It provides several options for singles like you to connect with others.
Is Adult Friend Finder equivalent to classified websites? It’s unusual, yet it works great for impromptu connections. This is one of the most popular dating apps, with over 80 million members. Some services are free, but the service shines when you join up for the premium, unlimited subscription for $10 per month. There are better ways to meet gorgeous people online than this dating app, but it is worth the cost.
Together2Night
Together2Night
What do you expect to see on a site like Together2Night? The website’s distinctive features and engaged user base set it apart. You may ensure that the individuals you’re communicating with are genuine by switching to “Full Safe Mode,” limiting your interactions to confirmed users. Search criteria allow you to hone down on the perfect date quickly.
To be validated, new users must have a photo and an email address. After that, you may look for the most suitable local singles. The simplicity with which local matches may be located is one of the benefits of using an online dating service.
BeNaughty
BeNaughty
Although it is not one of the most affordable hookup services accessible today, free membership provides access to a restricted range of functions. Craigslist and Doublelist are also complete with exciting individuals searching for casual connections. Sign up to quickly establish a new account.
Why is it regarded as a top dating platform? To begin with, it boasts a large user base, with over 120K new members added each week. Furthermore, there are other avenues of communication accessible. The website’s Satisfaction Policy distinguishes it, ensuring your money is not squandered. This is a paid dating site for men seeking women but free for women looking for men.
Conclusion
There’s no question that Doublelist was a good substitute for Craigslist Personals, but there are several better and more efficient dating services worth checking out. Browse the choices above to choose your perfect online dating site.
Looking to read manga online for free or questioning the safety of your current site? Maybe you’re considering ditching your paid service to save money? ManhuaScan is your answer. With rising concerns over the cost of manga—just Google “Why is manga so expensive?”—we’re committed to offering a free, safe platform for all manga enthusiasts. Your favorite titles are just a click away on ManhuaScan.
If you’re a devoted fan of manga, it’s likely that Mangascan.com is already on your radar as a go-to platform for indulging in your favorite series. With its user-friendly interface and vast selection, Mangascan.com has truly transformed the manga-reading experience into an effortless delight. But don’t let your love for Mangascan.com deter you from exploring other gems in the world of online manga platforms. Alternative options like MangaStream offer a fresh perspective and additional features that can enhance your manga journey. Let’s dive deeper.
What is Manhua?
Manhua serves as a collective term for comics originating from China, Hong Kong, or Taiwan, though it’s more commonly associated with works from mainland China.
While Manga narratives often revolve around a singular protagonist on a well-defined journey, Manhua tends to showcase a diverse cast of characters collaborating towards a shared objective.
Instead of primarily exploring the classic good-versus-evil dichotomy as Manga often does, Manhua leans more towards examining the intricate relationships among friends and foes.
Though Manga series are generally more concise due to a restricted panel count per page, some have been expanded into extensive Manhua adaptations, such as Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece, which boasts over 500 episodes.
What is Manhuascan?
Manhuascan is a comprehensive manga-reading platform that provides free access to a vast library of manga titles across multiple genres, categories, and languages. By simply clicking the “Read” button, you can dive into your favorite manga worlds, or opt to download them for offline enjoyment with a quick click on the “Download” button.
The app is designed for an enhanced reading experience, boasting features like:
Crisp, high-definition images
User-friendly navigation controls
Customizable font sizing
Support for multiple languages
MangaDex
MangaDex serves as a comprehensive online portal for manga aficionados, offering free access to a rich array of both contemporary and classic series. If you’re in search of an alternative to Manhuascan for perusing an expansive comic book selection, MangaDex is a solid choice.
Boasting a wide variety of titles ranging from perennial favorites like Naruto, One Piece, and Bleach, to hidden gems, MangaDex offers something for every reader.
The platform is a treasure trove of comics available in multiple languages, such as English, Japanese, and Chinese, making it a go-to resource for diverse manga lovers around the globe.
Mangapark
Mangapark stands out as a premier destination for anime enthusiasts, offering a robust catalog that spans both classic and current series. With a dedicated “Animelon” section, the platform also extends the joy of anime into films and TV shows, offering an all-in-one experience for fans.
Not just limited to anime, Mangapark features a comprehensive library of manga titles, making it a dual haven for those who enjoy both forms of Japanese storytelling.
Navigating the site is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly interface that welcomes visitors of all tech-savvy levels. Best of all, Mangapark operates legally and offers its extensive collection free of charge, making it a guilt-free resource for anime and manga lovers alike.
Manga Reader
Launched in June 2015, Manga Reader has quickly become a popular online hub for free manga, offering an easy one-click reading experience with no registration needed. With an extensive library featuring Manhwa, Webtoons, Manhua, and even Hentai, the site aggregates content from diverse sources like Lezhin Comics and Line Webtoon, making it a go-to alternative to Mangascan.com.
Mangakissa
Mangakissa serves as both an image viewer and a reading platform, offering a seamless experience for manga enthusiasts. Designed with English-speaking audiences in mind, the app eliminates language barriers and opens the door to a wide world of manga that may otherwise be inaccessible due to language constraints.
Key Features of Mangakissa include:
Downloading new installments of beloved manga series directly to your device.
The capability to read downloaded chapters offline, for uninterrupted enjoyment.
An in-app search function to effortlessly discover new chapters or series to dive into.
Free to use, Mangakissa is a one-stop solution for those looking to indulge in their manga cravings without linguistic limitations.
Manga Update
Manga Update offers a streamlined, user-friendly online experience for comic and manga enthusiasts, setting it apart as an excellent alternative to Manhuascan. With an expansive collection that includes titles from around the globe, readers can effortlessly delve into their favorite stories with just a simple click.
What sets Manga Update apart are its specialized features designed to enhance your reading experience, including:
1- Readability Mode: This feature gives you the freedom to customize the page color to your liking. Whether you prefer a black background for easier night-time reading or the classic white, a few clicks in the “Readability” section and hitting “Save Changes” will tailor the setting to your preference.
2- Download Options: The site also enables you to download your preferred manga or comics, offering a variety of formats such as PDF and CBZ for offline reading.
Free to use, Manga Update is a comprehensive platform that goes the extra mile to make your manga and comic reading both enjoyable and convenient.
Anichart
Anichart serves as a comprehensive alternative to Manhuascan, offering a one-stop hub for fans of manga, anime, and light novels. More than just a listing service, Anichart provides a rich trove of details for each series, including synopses, character bios, video clips, and user reviews.
One of the standout features of Anichart is its categorization system. Not only does it cover a wide range of genres like Action, Comedy, Drama, Ecchi, and Fantasy, but it also provides curated recommendations within each category. This saves users the time and effort of having to sift through countless titles on their own.
Further enriching the user experience is the site’s interactive community features. Anichart not only allows for user-generated reviews but also enables comments on individual series. This community input can be invaluable when you’re trying to decide whether a particular series is worth your time.
In sum, Anichart is not merely a repository of information; it’s a dynamic platform that enhances the search and discovery process for fans of anime, manga, and light novels.
Masteranime
Masteranime stands out as a top-notch platform for free anime streaming, offering a rich catalog that includes both series and films. Available in high-definition quality, the website is a go-to destination for anime enthusiasts, providing instant access to blockbuster titles as well as hidden gems.
From full episodes of enduring favorites like Dragon Ball Super, One Piece, and My Hero Academia to newer sensations like Sword Art Online Season 3 and Attack on Titan Season 2, Masteranime has something for everyone. Classic series like Naruto Shippuden and Fairy Tail also find a home here.
With Manhuascan now out of commission, Masteranime rises as an excellent alternative, meeting all your anime viewing needs under one digital roof. Offering free streaming in HD, Masteranime is where quality meets convenience for anime aficionados.
Crunchyroll
Since its inception in 2006, Crunchyroll has emerged as a leading contender in the world of anime and manga streaming, drawing millions of users globally. As a viable alternative to Manhuascan, it boasts an expansive catalog of anime titles and movies, along with a diverse range of manga comics.
One of the standout features of Crunchyroll is its live streaming capability, allowing users to enjoy content on a variety of devices, from televisions to mobile phones.
While the platform does offer free access, there are some restrictions. Users can only stream one episode per day under the free tier. For those who wish to binge-watch multiple episodes or series, Crunchyroll offers a premium subscription starting at $7.99 per month, unlocking unlimited access to its rich library.
MangaHasu
MangaHasu breaks new ground as the pioneer in offering manga content entirely in Spanish. While inspired by existing platforms like MangaReader and Mangafox, we chose to carve our own niche by launching a unique, Spanish-focused platform.
Our website allows users to read manga online and download their favorite titles at no cost. What sets us apart is the convenience we offer: there’s no need for any additional software to enjoy manga on your computer, making the experience hassle-free.
So, for those seeking a Manhuascan alternative with a Spanish-language focus, MangaHasu is your go-to destination. With an array of manga titles all available in Spanish, we aim to be the premier choice for Spanish-speaking manga aficionados.
MangaGo
MangaGo, currently in its beta phase, is a robust manga reader app that boasts an extensive collection of both free and premium manga and manhwa series. One of its defining features is the ad-free experience it offers, allowing readers to delve into their favorite stories without interruptions.
Equipped with user-friendly features to enhance your reading, MangaGo provides the latest chapters across various genres—ranging from romance and comedy to action, adventure, and fantasy. Not only can you read these titles online, but the app also offers a download function for offline reading on your mobile devices. For an even more immersive experience, full-screen mode is available to optimize your viewing.
With a massive catalog of over 200,000 titles available in both Japanese and English, MangaGo is your all-in-one platform for manga and manhwa. Whether you’re interested in free series or willing to invest in premium content, MangaGo has something for every manga aficionado.
Conclusion:
We’d love to hear your thoughts on these Manhuascan alternatives—your experience matters to us! Meanwhile, enjoy your comic-reading journey. At GS-JJ, customize pins and stickers to match your fandom; they’re perfect for sprucing up your gear. Join like-minded friends for a group customization! Visit our website to get started.
Are you looking for the best online dating experience with no strings attached? If so, this article is perfect for you. Numerous individuals engage in online dating because they enjoy being able to hook up and find sexual satisfaction without restrictions. Since the closure of Craigslist Personals, however, it has become difficult to find casual encounters and dates online, leaving many users stranded.
A replacement for Craigslist Personals is in demand among those who still want to meet new acquaintances or dates online for casual encounters and meetups. Finding a partner, companion, or date ideal for you will be quick and easy with these new Craiglist Personal sites and apps. Continue reading to learn more about these new Craigslist Dating Alternatives.
Top Ten Craiglist Personals Alternatives
1. AdultFriendFinder- Best alternative for Craigslist dating
AdultFriendFinder is a popular dating website and app for people over 18. It accommodates around 80 gender identities, orientations, and personal preferences. Its members are open-minded and eager to try new things.
The site provides numerous opportunities for members to interact and connect, including chatrooms and groups, magazines, live streaming, and direct messaging. You can freely discuss dating issues and preferences in chatrooms and group sections. There is also live action and a webcam, which lead you into the exciting and engaging world of live broadcasting.
2. Tinder- younger’s hookup alternative
Everyone knows that you can find someone for casual dating on Tinder. It is undoubtedly one of the best-known apps for Craiglist alternatives for personals, particularly for short-term dating and informal connections rather than serious dating.
Its sleek and simple interface has made it extremely popular among the younger generations. Tinder has free and premium versions; with the latter, Tinder Gold, you get additional features and limitless swiping and matching.
3. AshleyMadison- most accommodating for casual meetings
Ashley Madison is a premier dating website that caters to the diverse requirements of those seeking hookups, casual dates, and long-term relationships. It enables individuals to connect with compatible companions online for free.
Since its debut in 2002, Ashley Madison’s popularity has skyrocketed, establishing it as the premier venue for those seeking “sweet encounters.” With over eighty million registered users, the platform provides a large community for investigating desires. Its sleek and contemporary design app is the icing on the cake. The application includes entertaining features such as app disguise, video conversations, and secure payments. To accommodate users of varying experience levels, AM is founded on a credit system in which you pay as you go and spend as you please.
Merit of AshleyMadison: It offers women-seeking men user-friendly search and communication tools with robust security and privacy features such as anonymous profiles, free entry, and unlimited access.
4. Locanto- lookalike Craigslist personals
Locanto is another Craiglist clone, with multiple sections for different types of advertisements, and is the best Craiglist Personals alternative for online dating. There are sections for “Long-term Relationships” and “Dating” for like-minded people to meet and match, and “Casual Encounters” for the most fun for those looking for short-term connections. Locanto Personals caters to all gender identities, orientations, and interests. Whatever your interests or needs are, you can discover people who share them here.
5. Passion.com – alternative in a variety of interactions
Passion.com is a dating service specializing in gratifying casual encounters and dating pleasure. As an alternative to Craiglist Personals, the site concentrates on simple needs such as hookups and casual dating, and it has millions of users worldwide. Its varied user base comprises a sizable proportion of both males and women.
It encourages users to share images and confident models by fostering a worry-free and interactive environment. The site welcomes persons of various gender identities, orientations, and preferences as part of its inclusive service. After registering for free, you can match possible dates using extensive search and preferences criteria. Private conversations, virtual gifts, live webcams, and other forms of interaction are available. Although some of them are free, a premium subscription is recommended to gain access to all of them.
6. Reddrict Personals – alternative free to casual dating
Reddit is another well-known social app that is widely known. However, you may need to be aware that Reddit has a subforum called R4R that caters to short- and long-term online courting.
Reddit R4R is a free website with a large user base where you can discover diverse preferences for online dating. It would be best to have the patience to filter out what you seek to obtain connections. You can also post personal ads on the subreddit, increasing the likelihood of finding compatible companions.
7. NoStringsAttached – alternative with simplified
No Strings Attached is a relationship-focused platform that provides a viable alternative to Craigslist Personals. It enables users to meet for casual encounters online or in person. The website caters to those in search of simple pleasure and short-term relationships.
Privacy is a top priority, assured by robust safety and privacy precautions. Through live cams, members of No Strings Attached can also investigate improved interactions. It welcomes LGBTQ individuals and has an active user community. You can search for partners according to their location, race, hair color, and blood type. There are free and paid membership options, similar to numerous other dating sites.
8. ClassifiedAds – Unrestricted classification alternative
ClassifiedAds is similar to Craigslist in that it offers a variety of listings. In its Personals section, many categories are dedicated to online dating, including Casual Dating, Men Seeking Women and vice versa, Men Seeking Men, Women Seeking Women, and Missed Connections. Just choose the one that works best for you and begin the story. ClassifiedAds allows you to post any preferences and requirements for an ideal date, so long as the content is lawful and does not contain profanity.
9. VictoriaMilan – for NSA relationships
VictoriaMilan is another NSA dating site that caters to those desiring both long-term and short-term relationships. It is an excellent alternative to Craigslist Personals for those seeking casual courting and hookups. The website is accessible worldwide and has more than six million users, but it has a more significant presence in European nations.
Victoria Milan allows users to have anonymous accounts and unnamed billing statements to ensure that online courting is safe and private. Non-paying members have restricted site access, so it is recommended that they pay for improved services.
10. DoubleList – Popular Alternative to Craigslist Personals
DoubleList.com, one of the most archaic classifieds sites, immediately brings Craigslist to mind. It has millions of users who are actively seeking new acquaintances and potential intimate partners. An email address and phone number are required to register as a user on the website.
However, it only takes a few minutes to complete, after which you can begin interacting with other users by responding to their advertisements or posting your own. The site has a daily limit on the number of posts and images that can be assigned. When using it for relationships, you must recognize this.
Conclusion
Even though Craigslist Personals is no longer accessible, several alternatives exist. With so many options, including the best ones we’ve enumerated, it all depends on what you seek and where you are. Safety should be the priority in online dating and casual enjoyment.
Numerous Craigslist-alternative websites or applications harbor con artists; therefore, be vigilant and avoid falling victim to schemes designed to exploit lonely hearts. Never trust someone too quickly or readily; never divulge financial information or your residence.