Many social networks have millions of users but do not get as much attention as the biggest names. Some dominate certain regions, while others focus on specific interests. Video chat has also become a popular way to meet new people.
Unlike standard social media websites, video chat is usually random, which is the main reason why it is so fun. Platforms like InstaCams make it easy to connect face-to-face, offering a different way to socialize beyond traditional social media feeds.
The platforms in this list may not be household names everywhere, but they have built strong communities. Some are alternatives to major networks, while others serve unique purposes that set them apart. Each one plays a major role in how people interact online.
1. VKontakte (VK)
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | Russia |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 70 million |
| Main Features | Social networking, messaging, music streaming, video sharing |
VKontakte, often called VK, is Russia’s largest social network. Many compare it to Facebook, but VK has carved out its own space with unique features. Users can create profiles, join communities, and share photos and videos. One standout feature is its built-in music and video streaming, which makes content discovery a big part of the experience.
VK is more than a Russian social platform. It is widely used across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where millions rely on it for communication. Businesses, influencers, and content creators also thrive on VK, using its advanced advertising tools and direct engagement options.
Privacy and security concerns have been raised over the years due to government regulations, but that has not slowed its growth. Many Western social platforms struggle to gain traction in Russia, which keeps VK at the top. It remains a dominant force in social media, even if it is rarely mentioned outside its main user base.
2. Weibo
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 580 million |
| Main Features | Microblogging, trending topics, multimedia sharing, live streaming |
Weibo is often called “China’s Twitter,” but it has evolved into much more. Unlike Twitter’s character limits, Weibo allows longer posts, along with images, videos, and interactive features. The platform thrives on trending discussions, with hashtags and real-time news dominating user feeds.
Major brands, celebrities, and influencers use Weibo to reach audiences in China. It is a primary news source for many, blending social interaction with information-sharing. Live streaming and e-commerce integration have made it a go-to for marketing, with brands selling products directly through interactive content.
3. Line
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Japan |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 180 million |
| Main Features | Messaging, stickers, social feed, mobile payments |
Line is more than a messaging app. In Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan, it is an essential tool for communication. Unlike WhatsApp or Telegram, Line integrates social media features, allowing users to follow official accounts, post status updates, and interact with content creators.
Stickers are one of Line’s biggest draws. Custom-designed stickers, often created by independent artists, have become a cultural phenomenon. Many users buy and trade them, making Line’s sticker market a major revenue source.
Beyond messaging, Line offers mobile payments, shopping, news, and even job listings.
4. Kuaishou
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 600 million |
| Main Features | Short videos, live streaming, e-commerce |
Kuaishou may not be as famous as TikTok, but it is one of the biggest short-video platforms in the world. It focuses on a different audience than its rival, catering more to small-town and rural users in China. The content often feels more personal, with creators sharing daily life, skills, and hobbies rather than polished viral trends.
Live streaming is a huge part of Kuaishou. Many users make money through virtual gifts, e-commerce, and partnerships with brands. Unlike TikTok, which relies heavily on algorithm-driven discovery, Kuaishou emphasizes social connections. Users build follower relationships rather than going viral overnight.
5. Xing
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 18 million |
| Main Features | Professional networking, job listings, business news |
Xing is Europe’s answer to LinkedIn. It dominates in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, where professionals use it to connect, find jobs, and share industry news. Unlike LinkedIn, which has a global focus, Xing tailors its features to European business culture.
One key difference is privacy. Xing allows users to control who sees their profiles, making it less aggressive with networking. The platform also integrates with local job markets, providing region-specific career opportunities. Companies use it to find talent without relying on international recruiting sites.
6. Caffeine
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2016 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Monthly Active Users | Estimated in the millions |
| Main Features | Live streaming, gaming, sports content |
Caffeine set out to challenge Twitch and YouTube in the live-streaming space. It focuses on interactive, low-latency streaming, allowing real-time engagement without delays. Gamers, musicians, and sports personalities use it to connect with audiences in ways that feel more immediate than traditional platforms.
The platform’s partnership with sports leagues and entertainment brands gives it an edge. Unlike Twitch, which is gaming-heavy, Caffeine has positioned itself as a broader entertainment network. Users can watch live shows, eSports events, and even rap battles.
7. Nextdoor
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 40 million |
| Main Features | Neighborhood news, local recommendations, business listings |
Nextdoor is not about influencers or viral trends. It connects people based on location, making it a hyper-local social network. Neighbors use it to share community news, report lost pets, and recommend businesses.
Unlike Facebook groups, Nextdoor requires address verification, ensuring real people join local discussions. It has become an important tool for small businesses, who use it to promote services directly to their communities.
8. Rumble
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2013 |
| Headquarters | Canada |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 80 million |
| Main Features | Video sharing, monetization, alternative news |
Rumble is a video-sharing platform that has gained attention as an alternative to YouTube. Many users join because they want fewer content restrictions and better earning opportunities. Creators can make money directly through ad revenue, tipping, and licensing deals.
The platform attracts a mix of independent creators, news outlets, and live streamers. Some use it because they feel other platforms limit their reach. Others like that Rumble makes it easier to get paid without relying on unpredictable algorithms.
It may not replace YouTube, but it has built a solid user base. People looking for different voices and content styles continue to move to Rumble.
9. Mastodon
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2016 |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 10 million |
| Main Features | Decentralized social media, open-source, customizable feeds |
Mastodon is a social network that works differently from mainstream platforms. It is not owned by one company. Instead, it runs on independent servers, letting users pick communities that match their interests.
People use Mastodon for more control over their social media experience. There is no central algorithm deciding what they see. Users can follow accounts freely and engage without ads getting in the way.
Growth has been steady, especially among those leaving Twitter.
10. Bluesky
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 2021 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Monthly Active Users | Over 3 million (growing fast) |
| Main Features | Decentralized networking, customizable algorithms, open-source |
Bluesky started as a Twitter alternative but is building something different. It runs on the AT Protocol, allowing users to choose how their feeds work. Unlike other platforms that control what users see, Bluesky lets them customize the experience.
Many early users joined because they wanted a better version of Twitter. It has a familiar interface but gives more power to individuals. Developers can even create their own feed styles, making it one of the most flexible social networks out there.
Bluesky is still growing, but its focus on decentralization keeps attracting users.
The Bottom Line
Many social networks operate on a massive scale but do not get the same attention as global giants. Some dominate entire countries, while others focus on niche communities or offer features not found elsewhere.
Video-based platforms like Rumble and Kuaishou compete with YouTube and TikTok, while professional networks like Xing cater to specific job markets. Decentralized platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky give users more control, and local networks like Nextdoor connect people in ways bigger platforms cannot.
Each of these networks plays a major role in shaping online interactions. Even if they are not on your radar, they are influencing millions of users every day.
