10 Best Social Networks Tools in 2026

Updated: February 2026

Social networking platforms

Key Takeaways

  • Discourse is our #1 pick for social networks in 2026, scoring 87/100.
  • We analyzed 4 social networks tools to create this ranking.
  • 4 tools offer free plans, perfect for getting started.
  • Average editorial score: 22/100 - high-quality category.
1
Discourse logo

Discourse

Modern forum software for community discussions

87/100
Freemium

Discourse reinvented forum software for the modern web. Clean design, powerful moderation tools, and discussion features that encourage quality conversation—community platforms that work. Trust levels encourage good behavior. The notification system keeps people engaged. Self-hosting or managed cloud deployment. Organizations building community forums choose Discourse because it's the modern standard for web discussion platforms.

2
Art Network logo

Art Network

The leading social network connecting artists and art collectors.

Freemium

ArtNetwork is a dedicated social platform designed to bring together artists and art collectors. It provides a space for artists to showcase their work, connect with peers, and reach a broader audience of potential buyers and enthusiasts. The platform aims to foster a vibrant community where creativity is celebrated and art can be discovered and appreciated. For art collectors, ArtNetwork offers a curated environment to discover new talent, browse diverse art pieces, and directly engage with artists. It simplifies the process of finding unique art and building relationships with creators, making the art acquisition journey more personal and accessible. The network facilitates interaction and collaboration within the art world.

3
Partiful logo

Partiful

Invite friends to events

Free

Partiful is an event invitation platform for personal events. Create beautiful invites, manage RSVPs, and share with friends.

4
Hacker News logo

Hacker News

A community-curated news aggregator for technology and entrepreneurship.

Free

Hacker News is a social news website focusing on computer science and entrepreneurship. It serves as a platform where users can submit articles, blog posts, and discussions related to technology, startups, and programming. The community upvotes submissions, bringing popular and relevant content to the forefront, and engages in discussions through a comment system. The platform is primarily for individuals interested in the latest developments in tech, software engineering, startups, and related fields. It provides a curated feed of news and insights, fostering a community for learning, sharing, and discussion among tech enthusiasts, developers, founders, and researchers. Users benefit from discovering new tools, ideas, and perspectives, as well as participating in conversations with a knowledgeable audience. Beyond news, Hacker News also features specific sections like 'Ask HN' for questions to the community, 'Show HN' for showcasing user projects, and 'Jobs' for tech-related job postings, making it a multifaceted resource for the tech community.

Best Social Networks For

What is Social Networks Software?

Social networking platforms

According to our analysis of 4+ tools, the social networks software market offers solutions for teams of all sizes, from solo professionals to enterprise organizations. The best social networks tools in 2026 combine powerful features with intuitive interfaces.

Common Features of Social Networks Software

Automation

Automate repetitive social networks tasks to save time

Collaboration

Work together with team members in real-time

Analytics & Reporting

Track progress and measure performance

Security

Protect sensitive data with enterprise-grade security

Who Uses Social Networks Software?

Social Networks software is used by a wide range of professionals and organizations:

  • Small businesses looking to streamline operations and compete with larger companies
  • Enterprise teams needing scalable solutions for complex social networks needs
  • Freelancers and consultants managing multiple clients and projects
  • Startups seeking cost-effective tools that can grow with them

How to Choose the Right Social Networks Software

When evaluating social networks tools, consider these key factors:

  1. Identify your specific needs. What problems are you trying to solve? List your must-have features versus nice-to-haves.
  2. Consider your budget. 4 tools in our top 4 offer free plans, including Discourse and Art Network.
  3. Evaluate ease of use. A powerful tool is useless if your team won't adopt it. Look for intuitive interfaces and good onboarding.
  4. Check integrations. Ensure the tool works with your existing tech stack (CRM, communication tools, etc.).
  5. Read real user reviews. Our community reviews provide honest feedback from actual users.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best social networks software in 2026?

Based on our analysis of features, user reviews, and overall value, Discourse ranks as the #1 social networks tool in 2026 with a score of 87/100. Other top-rated options include Art Network and Partiful.

Are there free social networks tools available?

Yes! Discourse, Art Network, Partiful offer free plans. In total, 4 of the top 4 social networks tools have free or freemium pricing options.

How do you rank social networks tools?

Our rankings are based on multiple factors: editorial analysis of features and usability (40%), community reviews and ratings (30%), pricing value (15%), and integration capabilities (15%). We regularly update rankings as tools evolve and new reviews come in.

What should I look for in social networks software?

Key factors to consider include: core features that match your workflow, ease of use and learning curve, pricing that fits your budget, quality of customer support, integrations with your existing tools, and scalability as your needs grow.

Our Ranking Methodology

At Toolradar, we combine editorial expertise with community insights to rank social networks tools:

40%
Editorial Analysis
Features, UX, innovation
30%
User Reviews
Real feedback from verified users
15%
Pricing Value
Cost vs. features offered
15%
Integrations
Ecosystem compatibility

Rankings are updated regularly as we receive new reviews and as tools release updates. Last updated: February 2026.

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