TL:DR – There are lots of Mastodon servers, choosing the best is down to personal needs. Choose one in your niche that has a good number of users, more than one admin, and a good financial base.
If you’re new to Mastodon, then have a quick read of my Mastodon FAQ to get an idea of what it’s all about.
Once you’re ready to grab Mastodon by the tusks you will need to choose a server or instance with which to sign up. The following list are the servers most commonly used by the people I follow.
This list is substantially the same as when I last did an analysis of the most popular Mastodon servers, but with a few important exceptions.
Some additional “thoughts” via ChatGPT about Mastodon:
Mastodon is a decentralized social network that is part of a larger network of federated social media platforms known as the Fediverse. As a newcomer to Mastodon, choosing the right instance is an important decision, as it can impact the quality of your experience on the platform. Here are some tips for choosing a Mastodon instance:
Identify your interests and values: One of the advantages of Mastodon is the ability to join instances that cater to specific interests or values. Before selecting an instance, identify what you are looking for in a community. For example, if you are interested in technology, you may want to join an instance that focuses on tech discussions.
Research the instance: Once you have identified your interests, research the Mastodon instances that cater to those interests. Look for information on the instance’s rules, moderation policies, and user demographics. It’s also a good idea to check out the instance’s timeline to get a sense of the content that is shared.
Consider the size of the instance: Mastodon instances can vary in size, from small communities to large ones. Larger instances may have a wider range of users and content, but they can also be overwhelming for newcomers. Smaller instances may offer a more intimate experience, but the content may be limited.
Check the instance’s uptime: As a decentralized network, Mastodon instances can experience downtime or technical issues. Before joining an instance, check its uptime record to ensure that it is reliable.
Look for a welcoming community: Mastodon is known for its friendly and inclusive communities. Look for instances that prioritize inclusivity and have policies in place to prevent harassment and hate speech.
Try multiple instances: Mastodon allows users to have accounts on multiple instances. If you are unsure which instance to join, try a few and see which ones feel like the best fit for you.
Overall, choosing a Mastodon instance requires some research and consideration of your interests and values. By selecting the right instance, you can join a welcoming community that shares your passions and engage in meaningful discussions.