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How to Put Two Pictures Side by Side on iPhone

Posted on December 23, 2023January 12, 2024 by Vaibhav

As you go through your iPhone’s gallery, you stumble upon some of your childhood photos, and now you’re super excited to share them on social media. But then, you’re wondering how you can create a side-by-side picture, comparing your past and present appearances. Fortunately, there are many apps available that you can use to make perfect side-by-side pics. The social media platform you’re planning to post on may itself have this capability. Let’s get started.

1. Combine 2 Pictures Side by Side Using PicsArt

One of the easiest ways to create a side-by-side comparison photo is by installing the PicsArt app. This app provides you with absolute control over the appearance of your photos. You can adjust various elements, including the grid size, border size, filters, and the ability to add text and stickers. Enough talk – let’s get into the action:

1. Launch the PicsArt app, then tap on the Plus (+) button and select the Collage style.

2. Next, select the two photos that you want to combine and then select the template of your choice.

3. If you want to adjust the grid layout to fit your favorite social media post ratio, tap the Layout button. From there, navigate to the Ratio section and select the desired image ratio. In this article, we will choose Instagram’s Portrait style.

You can even adjust the border thickness and radius to your liking. Overall, if you have plenty of time on your hands, you can play around with other editing tools.

adjust the border thickness and add filters

4. Once you’re done with everything, you can hit the Download button (Down Arrow icon) at the top position and it will save the image on your iPhone.

hit the Download button to save the picture on iPhone

Pros:

Intuitive UI
Customizable grid layout
Lots of photo editing features
Saves pictures in a high-quality
You can put more than two photos side by side

Cons:

You may be asked to sign in to the PicsArt account
Comes with ads

2. Create 2 Side by Side Photo Using Shortcuts

If you want to quickly combine 2 photos side by side without installing additional applications on your iPhone, you can try the Shortcuts app, which comes pre-installed on your iPhone. In case, you have uninstalled it, you can download it from the App Store again. Once that’s done, you can follow the guide below:

1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone, and then switch to the Gallery tab. From there, search for the Photo Grid shortcut. Once found, tap on the ‘+’ button to add it to your Shortcuts.

2. Next, switch to the Shortcuts tab, and then tap on the Photo Grid shortcut.

3. Now select the 2 images and once done, tap Add.

4. As you can see in the screenshot below, it has created a collage for you. To save the image to your phone’s gallery, tap on the Image dropdown menu icon and select the Save to Photos option.

That’s it. As you can see, your image has been saved to the Photos app.

Pros:

It comes pre-installed on iPhone
Simple to use
You can create a collage of more than two pictures

Cons:

Image resolution is decent (1000 x 500 pixels)
No easy way to change the grid size (PS: You can edit the Proto Grid command but one might get overwhelmed by its complication)
Can’t move the photo inside the grid
No customization options available
Can’t add borders

3. Put 2 Photos Side by Side Using Instagram

So, the magic you’re looking for may already be inside your phone. Yes, we are talking about Instagram. If you’re an active user, you can create side-by-side pictures within the app and post them directly from there. Here’s how it works:

1. Launch the Instagram app on your iPhone, then tap on the Plus button, and from there switch to the Story tab.

2. Afterward, tap the Layout icon (rounded square with grid) and then tap on the Change grid option.

3. From the collage, select the one that has the option to add two vertical images. After that, tap on the Photo Viewer icon to view all your pictures.

4. Next, select the photos. Then again go to Photo Viewer to select the picture for the second grid.

5. In case, you want to remove the photo to replace it with even better, tap on the image and a Delete icon will appear. You can then repeat Step 4 to add a new picture.

6. Once done, hit the Tick icon (Checkmark icon).

7. If you wish to edit the image before saving it on your iPhone, you can use Instagram’s editing tools (displayed at the top) to do so.

8. Once you’re satisfied with the final result, you can tap the Meatball icon (3-dotted icon) and hit the Save button to store the image in your phone’s gallery. Alternatively, you can tap the Right Arrow button (bottom right corner) to post it directly on your Instagram Story.

As you can see the image is saved on an iPhone.

Pros:

Easy to use
You don’t have to install additional apps, since you already have an Instagram app
No compromise on image quality
You can combine more than 2 images
A good amount of customizations are available

Cons:

You need to have an Instagram account
No option to change the grid size
Can’t add borders

4. Join 2 Pictures Side by Side Using Google Photos

Many of us use Google Photos to store precious memories of our loved ones. If you happen to use this app on your iPhone, you’ll be delighted to know that you can create two side-by-side photos with it. Here’s how:

1. Open the Google Photos app, then select two images by holding onto each image. After that, tap the ‘Add to’ button (+ icon).

2. Next, choose the Collage option.

3. On the following screen, you will be presented with a list of templates. We will be opting for a simple design, but you can choose any design that you like.

NOTE: To use some designer templates, you need to have a Google One membership.

4. Once you’re done, hit the Save button, and your image will be saved on your iPhone.

Pros:

Minimal user interface
Ad-free experience
Saves the image in high-resolution
You can place multiple photos side by side

Cons:

There’s no option to customize the grid layout
Can’t adjust the position of the image inside the grid
Limited templates are available for free users
Can’t remove or reduce the border thickness

FAQs

1. What image file formats are supported?

We tested various popular image formats such as JPEG, PNG, and WebP, and all of them worked perfectly.

2. Can I adjust the size, spacing, and borders between the pictures?

From this list, only the PicsArt app is capable of adjusting the size, spacing, and borders between the images.

3. Can I add text, captions, or other decorative elements?

Apps like Instagram and PicsArt allow you to add decorative elements to the pictures.

Get Two Pictures to Hang Out Together

While creating two photos side by side may sound like an easy task, depending on the use case people may prefer one app over the other. For example, people who just want to post side-by-side photos on Instagram might not feel the need to install powerful photo editing apps like the PicsArt app. We hope the above guide was helpful to you. And in case, you want to create a side by side pictures on an Android phone, you can check our comprehensive guide on it.

7 Best Reaction Time Improvement Games for Android and iOS

Posted on July 12, 2021July 12, 2021 by Vaibhav

Reaction time is an important aspect of gameplay. Whether it’s a simple puzzle game with an inbuilt timer or your favorite first-person shooter game, you are likely to lose if you don’t react fast enough. If you haven’t measured your reaction time, we will share some apps that will allow you to do so. Some of these reaction time measurement and gaming apps will also give tips on how you can try and improve it. So without further ado, here are the best reaction time improvement games for Android and iOS.

Best Rection Time Training Games

1. Reaction Time

Let’s start with an app that easily lets you measure your reaction time. It will track your progress as you practice. The Reaction Time app exactly lets you do that without any pop-ups or annoying full-screen ads. Moreover, it’s completely free.

The app is extremely easy to use. In order to measure your reaction time, simply press and hold your finger on the screen. As soon as the screen turns green, release your finger. Although it sounds easy, the app shows other colors to confuse the mind, so try and maintain focus only on the green screen. You have five tries in total after which, the app will calculate and display your average reaction time.

Get Reaction Time for Android | iOS

2. Reaction Time

While the previous app is basic and only allows you to measure your reaction time, this one takes it up a notch. In addition to measuring reaction time, you can also track previously measured time along with the date and time of the test. Another major difference from the previous app is in-built mini-games that target your reaction time and accuracy.

The game also has two reaction time test modes — touch and click. The touch mode is similar to the first one where you have to release the finger after the screen changes to green. On the other hand, click mode adds an extra step where you have to touch the screen again after the color changes. This allows you to test and improve your reaction time for first-person shooter games in a dynamic environment. This app is only available to Android users, so if you are on an Apple device, here’s an app to measure reaction time on iOS.

Get Reaction Time for Android

3. Reaction Training

Whether you wish to test your reaction time or indulge yourself in a few games to improve it, this app has everything for you in one place. There are over 30 games such as color change, find the number, catch the ball, etc. which allow you to test and improve your reaction skills in a fun manner. The graphics of the game are old-school. You can also change theme, number of rounds for each game, add countdown before exercises, etc.

The stages are locked. One way to unlock them is by finishing each stage within a specific time. So, a user may only be able to go through all the stages by mastering one stage at a time. If you are curious to try other stages, you also have the option to watch ads or open all exercises for a $1, a one-time fee.

Get Reaction Training for Android

4. Piano Tiles

Piano Tiles doesn’t need an introduction. It couples classical piano pieces with easy on-screen piano. For those of you who aren’t aware, the user has to tap on selected tiles or notes on the screen which move vertically. You press the wrong tile and the game ends. The reason why I suggest playing Piano Tiles to improve your reaction time is that it helps a lot in improving hand-eye coordination.

The game has several game modes, choices for song selection and you can even battle others players online. The gameplay will get harder with time.

Get Piano Tiles for Android | iOS

5. Reaction Trainer

Reaction Trainer is another battle royal game that tries to improve your reaction time with muscle memory. The game is simple. All you have to do is tap on the glowing circles and burst them as quickly as possible. The catch is that the speed keeps increasing with time and as you hit more and more right circles.

I highly recommend playing these games with both your thumb at the same time. It will not only make you faster but also help improve reaction time for games like PUBG and other shooting games. Apart from that, the game has multiple difficulty levels that can be tweaked plus, a timed play mode as well.

Get Reaction Trainer for Android

6. Brain Spark: Fast Reaction

Brain Spark is an arcade game that works both on concentration and reaction skills. It’s similar to the previous games where you need to tap on the correct color. You can add a twist to the color game by playing the reverse mode where you have to select the wrong color instead.

The gameplay also throws some bonus points towards your way if you are quick enough while tapping. Lastly, the background music will keep you engaged until the game gets too hard to handle. All in all, it’s a simple game, or is it?

Get Brain Spark: Fast Reaction for Android | iOS

7. Dumb Ways to Die

Dumb Ways to Die is probably my favorite reaction time improvement game. It not only has multiple mini reaction time games but also animated characters that’ll keep you hooked. There are 82 mini-games (time-based) in total so you won’t be bored too soon. The game is fun and many users have also commented that it helps them calm down and deal with their anxiety.

Once you are done with Dumb Ways to Die, do not forget to download and try out other versions of the game by the same developer. They are themed and come with a completely new set of challenges.

Get Dumb Ways to Die for Android | iOS

Closing Remarks: Games to Improve Reaction Time

Getting a faster reaction time is advantageous for everyone. It will not only help with games you play on the phone, but also in sports and other real-life situations. If you need a break from reaction games, here are some casual games for Android and iOS that do not require dedicated concentration while you play.

Also Read: 13 Best Word Games on iOS and Android

Signal vs Threema: Which Is Better Messaging App

Posted on June 23, 2021June 23, 2021 by Vaibhav

The Signal messaging app saw a steep rise in the number of users after WhatsApp updated its privacy policy. So much so that even Elon Musk suggested users replace WhatsApp with Signal. While Signal can be an easy first choice for privacy fanatics, another messaging app called Threema based out of Singapore is often pitted against Signal in multiple tech forums. Unlike Signal, it doesn’t require your phone number to sign-up, which is why I gave the app a try. Now before you draw conclusions and install either one of these apps, we will compare Signal vs Threema to give you a holistic perspective of which messaging app should be your top choice.

Signal vs Threema Comparison

1. Sign-Up Anonymously

Winner: Threema

The reason Threema found a place in our list of best secret texting apps is primarily because of anonymity. As soon as you use a personal identifier to register for a service (however secure that may be), you are giving away a part of your identity. The idea of using a phone number to register didn’t appeal to me. Threema’s sign-up process is flawless as you do not need any personal information to register and use the app. Rather it generates a unique code for each user that can be shared with others when starting a chat.

On the other hand, when you first register for Signal, you need to feed in your phone number. Hence, it is necessary to have an active connection that can receive messages (OTP) when you sign-up.

2. Number of Users

Winner: Signal

With over 100 million downloads and 40 million active users on Signal until January 2021, it’s one of the fastest-growing messaging apps. This figure makes Threema’s user base look pea size with approximately 10 million users. So chances are most of your contacts are already on Signal. Since Signal’s user base is huge, there is no need to ask your friends, family, or other contacts to specially download the app in order to talk to you.

This is the same argument when it comes to WhatsApp vs other messaging platforms. Since WhatsApp is so widely used and some manufacturers even pre-install it with the new phones, it automatically becomes the first choice.

3. Group Features

Winner: Signal

Both Signal and Threema allow users to create groups. Singal app allows you to make a group for up to 1000 users. On the other hand, Threema is still pretty restricted and caps the number of users to 256. Besides that, there are some handy features that make each standout. For example, Threema allows you to create polls which isn’t an option in Signal. Likewise, being able to group video call is a sought-after feature that is missing on Threema.

Signal also features disappearing messages in groups for both messages sent and received. You can choose a time starting with 30 seconds to 4 weeks or set a custom time as well. This makes Signal’s group features very contemporary. Features such as large user group support, disappearing messages, and video calls are a must when more and more organizations are using these platforms for daily operations.

4. Platform Availability

Winner: Signal

Platform availability is a major factor in any messaging app nowadays. Whether you’re working on your laptop or phone, access to messages should be a blink away. The signal app is not only available on iOS, Android, web but also has a desktop app for Mac and Windows. In comparison, Threema can just be downloaded on iOS and Android in addition to the web version.

If you trying to find an app and use it professionally for a small team, I highly recommend going for Signal. It not only allows voice and video calls on mobile but on the desktop app as well.

5. Self-Destructive Messages

Winner: Signal

Self disappearing is one of the main factors when we talk about privacy in-app. You can enable it with friends, family and it even comes in handy while talking to strangers in any chat head. If you are a privacy fanatic, you can make use of the disappearing messages option in both private and group chats. Couple this with the setting to disable screenshots and you get a fool-proof chat. Threema doesn’t score a goal on this point as there is no disappearing messages option in the app.

In our opinion, current implementations of self-destructing messages provide a false sense of security due to insufficient reliability. We suggest securing your device and the app with a strong password or code.
Threema on Twitter

While this may be true, self-destructing messages are an added layer of security that should be left on the users to enable or not just like we see on Signal and WhatsApp.

6. Privacy and User Data

Winner: No clear winner

Signal has been the industry leader when it comes to privacy. It is lauded by experts and users alike. However, privacy is put at stake on various levels as I have mentioned before. Signal mandates you to share your phone number which is a personal identifier. Since it’s based out of the U.S, it’s is subjected to the law of the land that may require authorities to access the service provider’s data.

Another point to consider is the servers. While Signal’s servers are completely open-source, Threema’s isn’t. However, you can add contacts without being dependent on a directory server on Threema which is not the case with Signal. If you are concerned about security audits, both Signal and Threema have been audited in recent times and generally considered safe to use.

7. Paid vs Free

Winner: Signal

There is no debate that people prefer free apps and services over paid ones. It a major reason why the user base on Signal is substantially large when compared to Threema. To put it into perspective, in order to use Signal, all you have to do is search for the app and download it. Threema on the other comes at a cost of $2.99 which presumably shoves users away. Moreover, Threema doesn’t have a trial version that allows people to try it out before buying. While three dollars isn’t a big amount for most, it can keep many users at bay.

Get Threema | Signal

Closing Remarks: Signal or Threema

So which one should you choose between Signal and Threema? Well, Threema checks a lot of boxes like security, exclusive features, and most of all, anonymity when you sign up for the app for the first time. Both have a few nifty features like native blur option, basic photo editor, privacy settings, etc. in common. So if you ask me which one to choose, I’d say pick Signal. It’s secure but majorly, it enjoys a large user base which makes it easy to connect with others (plus it’s free).

Also Read: Signal vs WhatsApp: Which Messaging App Is Better for You

How to Record on Screencastify on Chrome With Example

Posted on May 31, 2021May 31, 2021 by Vaibhav

There are plenty of screen recording applications available in the market. Depending on what you are looking for, the choice can get really confusing. In my case, I mostly use the recording in my blogs with the length ranging from a few seconds to a minute. If you are in the same boat as me and need a lightweight yet fully capable tool to record screen, I suggest giving Screencastify a try. So today, I’ll walk you through the extension and how to record on Screencastify. Let’s jump right in.

Screencastify: How to Record, Edit, and Export

What Is Screencastify

Screencastify is a Chrome extension that allows you to record your computer’s screen. Unlike other apps which mainly focus on screen recording, this one also allows you to edit the video once you are done recording. There are two main reasons why I recommend this to users. Firstly, since it’s a Chrome extension, it doesn’t take up much space. Secondly, Sccrencastify allows you to even record desktop and other windows and not just Chrome windows or tabs.

Get Screencastify Extension for Chrome

How to Add Screencastify Extension to Chrome

1. You need to install the Screencastify extension from the Chrome Web Store in order to use it. To do that, open the link we shared just above.

2. On the Screencatify extension page, click on Add to Chrome to install it in your browser. As soon as you do that, you’ll see another prompt asking if you wish to install the extension. Click Add again and the extension will be installed in no time.

3. If you have installed an extension for the first time and cannot find the Screencastify icon, don’t worry. All you need to do is click on the extension option (jigsaw puzzle piece) on the top right corner and select the pin icon. This way you can pin any extension and make it visible on the top right corner for quick access.

How to Record on Screencastify

After you install Screencatify in Chrome, it’s time to put the extension to work. Simply follow the steps below.

1. Click on the Screencastify extension icon on the top right corner of Chrome browser. It’ll open a new tab along with a Google sign-in prompt. Select Sign in with Google and choose the Google account you want to sign in with.

2. Now select Grant access to allow access to Google Drive. The reason you need to do that is that Screencastify saves the video directly to Google Drive. This makes it extremely easy to share it with others.

3. Screencastify will ask for permissions to access the microphone, webcam, and annotation tools. Enable and allow access to the prompts to save yourself from back-to-back pop-ups asking for permission while recording.

4. With the set-up process complete, we can now start recording with Screencastify. To begin, click on the Screencastify extension icon on the top right corner. From the pop-up, select whether you wish to record your browser’s tab, webcam, or the desktop. After selecting the recording screen, click on Record at the bottom to start recording. Here are some common but helpful keyboard shortcuts for Windows and macOS users.

	Windows	Mac
Start/Stop	Alt + Shift + R	Option + Shift + R
Pause/Resume	Alt + Shift + P	Option + Shift + P

Recording Shortcuts

5. One has three options in terms of choosing the video source. As mentioned in the previous step, you can either choose to record:

Browser Tab – Records Chrome browser tab
Desktop – Allows you to select a specific window or the entire screen (as shown in the picture below)
Webcam Only – Record your webcam

Select recording source on Screencastify

6. Since we’re recording the browser tab, choose Browser Tab from the source option and hit record. Once you are done recording, you can either click the stop button from the extension bar or from the annotation tools at the bottom left corner of the browser.

Other options such as pause, stop, restart, or delete while you are recording can be accessed from the extension icon on the top right.

Screencatify Sharing and Export Options

As soon as you stop the recording, it opens in a new tab where you can preview it. This tab also allows you to trim videos from the start and end of the video. As screencasting uploads the recorded video directly to Google Drive, you can generate a shareable link in no time. There are plenty more export options you can choose from like:

Download to PC (WebM format by default)
Download as MP4
Generate Google Drive link
Export as GIF
Publish to YouTube

If you are a teacher and use teaching apps such as Google Classroom to take online classes, you would be happy to know that Screencastify integrates with Google Classroom. So teachers can share prerecorded classes and give detailed feedback using the annotation and submit tool.

Annotation Tools and Dedicated Video Editor

As soon as you hit record, the annotation tools will appear at the bottom left of the screen. There are several tools that come in handy if you want to focus or highlight any area of the screen. The pen tool allows you to write and rectangle tool to create boxes along with the option to change colors. Not just that, you can add stickers or use the eraser to scrub off any marking from the screen.

Screencastify Video Editor

The editor not only allows you to open files directly from Google Drive but also from your local storage. This way, you can also add and edit videos that were not recorded using Screencastify. The video editor has all the basic tools like cut, crop, text option, etc. Since the edit bay is in a timeline format, you can easily move multiple videos around and rearrange them.

The editor bay will be visible in the preview window once you’re done recording. Simply click on Open in Editor on the top.

Remember that the preview window only allows you to trim the recording. On the other hand, the video editor offers far more editing tools and options.

Screencatify Unlimited vs Free Version

The extension has two versions – free and unlimited. The free version limits your screen recording time to 5 minutes. On the other hand, the pro version has no such cap on the recording length. The 5-minute length also applies to exports. On the other hand, the good news is that there is no watermark in the free version which is a rarity for a free screen recording extension like this.

The screen recording time is limited to 5 minutes on the free version. However you can record multiple 5 minute videos without any hassle.

	Cost	Record Limit	Watermark
Free	N/A	5 minutes	No
Paid	$49/yearly	Unlimited	No

Closing Remarks: Screencastify Chrome Extension

I hope now you know how to record on Screencastify and if need be use other annotation tools with ease. As I have mentioned before, Screencastify is a great Chrome extension for recording. If you do not require more than five minutes of recording time, the free version will suffice.

Also Read: 8 Best Screen Recorders for Ubuntu

10 Best Drum Apps to Get Good at Drumming

Posted on May 30, 2021May 30, 2021 by Vaibhav

I have always fancied learning drums but the only reason I stayed away is that they’re extremely bulky. You need a big room to keep it, they can be expensive, transportation is an issue, and above all, the sound can make even the calmest neighbors frown. If you are a beginner, these reasons are enough to pick another musical instrument like a guitar or the ukulele. But do not worry, you still can enjoy the drum sounds and make beats without investing any time or space. Confused? Here are the 10 best drum apps to get good at drumming.

Difference: Finger Drumming App vs Real Drums

Well, there is no comparison in terms of feel, since you are simply tapping the screen to create sound. However, accurate responsiveness and real drum-like sounds make apps a good alternative. Most users also simply want to try their handout before buying real drums. Although drum apps won’t allow you to improve your hand coordination, they are great to ascertain if you have a sense of rhythm or not. You can also check out digital drums that allow you to plug your headphones and practice in silence. Here are two Amazon bestsellers you can check out.

I’m going to cover an array of apps to displace real drums with your phone. You’ll read about apps like beat maker machine, metronome, lo-fi drum pad machine, real drum apps, and ones that help you learn the basics. If you wish to create songs, you can also check out must-have apps for every musician.

1. Learn How to Play Drums

You actually need to know the basics of drumming to be able to understand how everything works. Learn How to Play Drums, as the name suggests, teaches you to play drums via animations instead of letting you actually do it. The app gives you six genres like Rock, Jazz, Blues, Funk, Latin, and Fusion to choose from. Once you choose a genre and difficulty level, the app shows you the music being played on the drum via animation in real-time.

Although not a drawback, I wish this app updates to a better UI. Also, if they could add a drum that can be played along with the staff notation, I’d gladly keep this app on my phone. Nonetheless, it’s a good app if you want to get into the head of a real drummer, but remember the key to getting better is always practice!

Pros

Great for visualizing a drummer play the song
Multiple genre support
Easy to hard tutorials

Cons

Lacks real drums
UI isn’t that great

Download Learn How to Play Drums Android | iOS

2. Simple Drums Rock

The first question that comes to my mind when I think about a drum app is “How close it is to a real drum set?”. Simple Drums Rock, not only has high ratings on the app store but it is able to simulate real drums with near perfection. To give you an idea, you get all the parts of a drum like double bass, snare, multiple cymbals, etc. Tapping on individual drum parts lets you create the desired sound. This app also lives up to my expectations as the tap-to-sound delay is non-existent. Therefore you get a very quick touch response.

In case you are someone who loves custom sounds like rainfall, bird chirps, etc. You can replace individual sounds with whatever you like. Hence, you don’t have to be restricted to the six drum sound options. Although the basic version of the app is sufficient for most, you have the option to remove ads at $2.

Pros

Real drum stimulation
Six drum variants to choose from
Drum pitch can be tweaked
In-built track recorder

Cons

Banner ad at the top
A full-screen ad pops up when you open the settings menu
Available only on Android

Download Simple Drums Rock

3. Real Drum

Unlike Simple Drum Rock, Real Drum is present both on Android and iOS. Similar to the previous drum app, you get a drum-based UI and the option to record sound. The feature that makes this better than the previous one is multiple drum kit options. This basically means that changing the standard drum kit will not only make it look different but sound different too. For example, a standard drum kit can be swapped with jazz or death metal sound. Besides the standard drumkit, a new kit is updated every week, so you never run out of fresh sounds.

Real Drum has a great UI with some features missing like volume for individual drum parts. You’ll also be annoyed with ads whenever you change the drum kit. So, I highly recommend paying $2.5/month to remove them and have an extra metronome feature.

Pros

Available on both iOS and Android
New drum kits every week
Inbuilt loop and lesson section

Cons

No volume control for individual drum parts
Intrusive ads

Download Real Drum Android | iOS

4. Drum Pad Machine

If you don’t want to play drums but still wish to give beat-making a shot, the Drum Pad Machine is a good option. When you open the app, it shows you colored grids with single tiles. Tapping on the tile which is in the same color scheme will give you similar sounds. These sounds are designed in such a way that whichever tile you click plays it in a rhythm, so you will sound good with any permutation and combination. If even that doesn’t instill confidence, you can learn basic beat-making with the tutorial section.

What I like the most about the app is its ability to change the sound in the entire grid. So whether you’re interested in Hip-hop beats, Trap music, or EDM, you can experiment with them all. I personally suggest trying the app first regardless of the ads. If you get fluent in making beats, the Pro version comes at $12/annually. This not only removes ads but gives you access to all the sounds and packs that are updated every week.

Pros

Great for beat-making
Beat-school helps you learn
You can unlock sounds by watching short videos
In-built recorder
Great for EDM, dubstep, and hip-hop artists

Cons

Doesn’t have the classic drum sound
Long full-page banner ads

Download Drum Pad Machine Android | iOS

5. Loopz

While the previous app gives you loops in the form of grids you can play yourself. This drum app already has pre-made grooves which can just be played as loops. So, you’re dealing with repetitive sounds (loops) and grooves (feel of the sound). You can practice playing other instruments along with the loop or use it with a split-screen with other real drum apps. The app is not just restricted to patterns. You can change the tempo of any given loop. If you have any other instrument, let’s suppose the guitar. You can choose from different styles of music along with the time signature.

The app doesn’t come with intrusive ads but features that can help you practice like tap tempo and automatic BPM speed will cost you a one time fee of $4.

Pros

Rich loop database
Tempo tweaking option
Patterns have multiple time signature

Cons

No recording option
Can’t actually play the drum yourself

Download Loopz

6. Drum Tuner

We hear guitarists adjust their knobs after every song. Similarly, drums need to be in tune to be able to match the pitch of other instruments. A handy drum tuner app lets you do the same. It asks to create a new account but you can sign in with Facebook straightaway. You start by choosing the type of drum. Then play the drum for the app to detect the fundamental tone and the lug pitch. You can further set this as a target pitch and tune the lugs accordingly. You can also change the sensitivity depending on the ambient noise level.

The app is extremely convenient if you’ve multiple drums or if you play for multiple bands as you can save multiple kits and choose from predefined presets. The app isn’t free so you get a full-fledged seven-day free trial after which you have no option but to upgrade at $7.99 else it’ll be deactivated.

Pros

One-stop solution for drum tuning
Create tuning presets
Tutorial video for tuning

Cons

Might be of no use to beginners
No free version

Download Drum Tuner Android | iOS

7. Dragon Drum Machine | Glitch Lo-Fi

Everyone loves a vintage vibe. Sounds that are not only glitchy but have technical flaws such as background noises and hums. If you’re particularly interested in creating a Lo-Fi drum sound, Dragon Drum Machine is by far the best I could find. There are three drum synths namely bass, snare, and a hi-hat. You can easily create a unique sound as all of these drums have individual sequencers and the effects are also independent. For example, you can have an extreme delay on the bass and snare but have a low intensity on the hi-hats.

There is a global effect control as well with tape distortion, bit-reduction, reverb, etc. So you can sculpt the drum sound in real-time. If you are familiar with sequencing or you have a little bit of knowledge about rhythm, you can undoubtedly create unique sounds. But if you want to save the project and record it live, you will have to upgrade to the full version for $2.5.

Pros

Only good Lo-Fi drum machine
Multiple sequencers
Global effect control

Cons

Only available on iOS
Not for someone looking for a traditional drum sound

Download Dragon Drum Machine

8. Drum Machine

Drum Machine is a highly rated drum pad app that allows you to play most kinds of vintage drum sounds. You’ll find eight touch-sensitive drum pads with the ability to change or modify the sound of each individual pad. You’ll also find a quick record and play option right above the drum pads. This makes it extremely easy to record and play drums in a loop.

A user can easily replace the default pad sound with plenty of other inbuilt options. If the pre-loaded sound does not suit your playing style, you can also upload or record you own audio for each pad. Apart from that there are tons of small but useful add-on features. For example, you can add effects (reverb, echo, vibrato, etc), pan the audio left/right, change tuning, etc.

Pros

Record option (play it as a loop)
Multiple sound effects
Easy to learn (simple UI)

Cons

Banner ad at the top (homepage UI)
Only available on Android
Quick patch (sound) change option would’ve been great
Pad velocity option doesn’t work

Download Drum Machine

9. Garage Band

Most iOS users must already know about Garage Band. Also considered as a little brother to Logic Pro (a pro-grade DAW), it comes pre-installed in Mac and is completely free on mobile as well. In terms of drumming, you can choose between different drum sounds, add effects, create a live loop, and of course record your performance with ease.

It’s only available for iOS users. So if you are on Android, here are the best Garage Band alternatives you can check out

Since it’s not a dedicated drum app, you will find plenty of other instruments, sound packs, and an array of 32 recording tracks at your disposal. Moreover, with the recent iOS 14 updates, you get the ability to record from third-party music apps directly in Garage Band.

Pros

32 tracks for recording
Multiple instrument option
Free of cost

Cons

Only available on iOS
Steep learning curve for someone looking for a drum app

Download Garage Band

10. The Metronome by Soundbrenner

Why a metronome app in the list of best drum apps? If you are someone who simply wishes to practice timing, a metronome app is a better option. Unlike other drum apps, it comes without any bells and whistles. Just set the tempo and you are good to go. This app is one of the best metronome apps I’ve tried. It’s has a simple UI and most of the app can be managed through the home page itself. You can set the tempo, tap tempo, change the metronome sound and time signature.

Apart from that, the app can also be paired up with a watch-like wearable that vibrates to keep you in rhythm. If you have an Apple watch consider yourself lucky. There are plenty of apps specially made for the Apple Watch as well. You can tweak the tempo, change the sound, save the tempo speed, etc. So if you have an Apple Watch here are the best Apple Watch metronome apps you should try.

Pros

Simple UI
Lot of options to tweak the sound, speed, etc.
Can be paired with a wearable

Cons

Nothing much to complain about

Get The Metronome by Soundbrenner Android | iOS

Closing Remarks: Which is the Best Drumming Apps

If you’re serious about learning drums, I suggest enrolling in formal drum classes. If you just want to try your hands on it, Real Drum app is a great option. For someone who wants to produce beats and experiment with multiple sounds, the Drum Pad Machine packs up a lot. You can even record and set the tempo which is great if you are a singer-songwriter. Drum Tuner and How to Learn Guitar are great but you’d only need them if you have a drum or you want to figure out how drums actually sound along with a song.

Also Read: 5 Best Music Production Apps on Android

9 Best Quote Apps for Your Android

Posted on May 28, 2021May 28, 2021 by Vaibhav

Everyone has read quotes at some point in their lives. Whether it’s, “Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish” by the late Apple co-founder, Steve Jobs, or Gandhi’s “An eye for an eye, makes the whole world blind”. Quotes not only motivate individuals but also push you to think as other renowned personalities do. So, if you’re feeling demotivated and just want some inspiration, here are the best quote apps for your Android phone. Let’s jump right into it.

Best Quote Apps for Android

1. Best Quotes and Status

This app is for anyone looking for a large collection of quotes and yes it works offline. The app comes with a minimal home screen and the quotes are segregated into categories like anger, birthday, love, and even break-up (yes, there’s an entire category devoted to it). Tapping on the categories gives you a list of quotes that you can save, copy, and share straightaway either as a text or an image on social media.

By default, the quotes are displayed in plain text. However, tapping on the quotes gives you plenty of background options ranging from a gradient to a picture and solid color. You can even bookmark your favorite quotes which will appear in your Liked Quotes section. There is also an ad-free version which costs $1 and also removes watermark from the images. This app is great for basic usage, however, I would have loved a home page widget that delivers new quotes every day.

Pros

A large collection of quotes
Quotes are categorized
Option to change image background
Works Offline

Cons

Banner ads
Full page video ads
Watermark on saved images
No widget option

Download Best Quote and Status

2. Brilliant Quotes

Like the Android quotes app, Brilliant Quotes has a huge collection of handpicked quotes and support widgets. You can tweak the layout, appearance, and content of the widget within the app itself. The app is divided into several sections such as morning quotes, trending quotes, quotes based on hashtags, picture quotes, etc.

Coming to the widget again, you can choose which type of quotes to display in the widget. However, if you want specific quotes on each day of the week, there is no option but to go premium at $1.7. In addition to that, you also remove ads and get daily quote notifications.

Pros

Customizable widget
Handpicked quotes
Trending quotes section

Cons

No option to edit images
Banner ads at the bottom
Need to sign in to add favorites
No offline support

Download Brilliant Quotes

3. Motivation – Daily Quote

Like most of you, I don’t want to restrict my motivation just to the morning hours and this app is the ideal solution for it. The motivation app lets you choose a time frame where you’ll be notified with a quote. The app is simple and doesn’t have too many bells and whistles. You can choose a start and end time and also the number of times you want to be notified with a quote, the maximum being 30.

I like the app, however, most categories like body positivity, goal focus, coping with death, are locked for premium users. The app has a 7-day trial period but is activated only after you pay for the plan you choose, which doesn’t make sense. It costs $3.15 which gives you all the categories, full reminders, and also removes ads. Oh, If you’ve your own quotes, you can add them to the list, but that’s just restricted to plain text.

Pros

Time frame reminders
Clean UI
Can watch ads to access certain features

Cons

Most categories are paid
No free trial

Download Motivation

4. Quotee

Quotee is a new quote app for Android phones but doesn’t shy away from having a large database of quotes. Similar to the first quotes app, Quotee also groups the same type of quotes in a single tab such as motivation, hope, funny, anger, etc. It aces in terms of a simple UI that lets you either browse through categories or search for a specific type/keyword. You also have the option to download the quote to your gallery, share it or add it to favorites.

The app has a fresh quotes section which touts to fetch new quotes from the internet. In my opinion, the app can improve on two fronts. Firstly, I miss a solid/gradient background on my quotes which makes the current quotes UI look more text-based. Secondly, an option to save quotes to the gallery without the watermark.

Pros

Database of quotes
Zero ads
Fresh quotes from the net

Cons

No option to add color to quotes background
Watermark on the download (can be cropped)

Download Quotee

5. Musixmatch

Songs can be a great source of motivation and you will find several quotes to share on your Android phone. All you need is Musixmatch is the app you need. To make a lyrics card, all you have to do is open the app and search for the lyrics you want to add. Select lyrics that’ll go into your lyrics card. This gives you a few customization options. For example, you can change the image background with pre-loaded pictures or choose one from your gallery. There is a font section as well, which allows you to make the font small to large, along with alignment options.

Some extra details like the singer and song title are embedded in the quote along with a watermark. Nevertheless, it’s so subtle that it doesn’t bother me. So, the next time you’re listening to a song and you get emotional, simply select lyrics, add an image and share it with others.

Pros

Large lyrics database
Picture and text customization
Can drag and move the text

Cons

Musixmatch watermark
Not a dedicated quotes app

Download Musixmatch

6. YourQuote

YourQuote is just like Instagram but for quotes. Users share quotes that you may like and comment upon. You can also post your own quotes, however, a sign-up is required to do that. You can find writers to follow based on categories like film, politics, life, etc. You can scroll through these picture quotes and also follow profiles you like. It also somewhat mimics Instagram, where you can comment like and save quotes.

Creating a quote is fairly easy. You start by typing the quote in plain text and further add images, animations, and filters to the text to make it look appealing. You also get to change the text size, tweak the font, add the author’s name, etc. Lastly, know that once you successfully publish 48 posts, you unlock the publishing feature. With this, you can not only publish an online book but also earn royalties in the longer run. What do you do now? Post your own quotes, and let people enjoy your writing!

Pros

Lets you create quotes
Built like a social media platform
Study your channel stats
Supports regional quotes

Cons

Not for non-writers
Permanent watermark

Download YourQuote

7. Wallpaper (Reddit)

Wallpaper, as the name suggests, grabs pictures from the subreddit and sets them as your phone’s wallpaper. The best part is, it lets you choose the subreddit so you can handpick your favorite quotes like r/quotes, r/QuotesPorn, r/stoicquotes, etc., and set them as your wallpaper. In addition to this, you can time it to change automatically or add multiple subreddits for diverse options.

Another very useful feature is the favorites option, which allows you to repeat the wallpapers every once in a while. There are editing options but I feel it’s just the bare minimum. You can add blur, saturation, change brightness and also choose whether the image will be in max resolution or compressed. The app isn’t free, but for what it offers, I suggest you buy it for $1.

Pros

Automatically changes the wallpaper
Can add multiple subreddit

Cons

Just restricted to Reddit
Might not always fetch a quote but a picture

Download Wallpaper

8. The U.S. Presidents

The president of any country is a notable figure who citizens look up to (most likely). The things they speak can become widely quoted words such as this one by the former president Donald Trump – “Sometimes your best investments are the ones you don’t make”. It features a list of presidents and a few notable quotes they made.

It’s not a quote app per se as it contains only 4-5 quotes by a president, however, if you are looking to read about these figures along with a few famous quotes, it’s a very informative app.

Pros

Works offline
Handpicked quotes
Easy to browse

Cons

Not a dedicated quotes app
Banner ads at the bottom

Download The U.S. Presidents

9. The Bible App

If you are someone who is fond of their daily dose of motivation through the Bible, this app is all you need. A very thoroughly designed app, it covers all the things that you would need as a reader. You get one daily verse highlighted on the homepage every single day. Moreover, if you do not wish to open the app, you can enable notifications as well. The takeaway for me is the widgets. Depending on your liking you can either add plain text or an image as a widget on your home screen.

Apart from that, the app allows you to customize the image from Bible verses. You can change the font style, change letter height/spacing, color, and even blur the background image in case you are using your own image. With the app’s inbuilt crop option, you can make the photo square without cropping. This makes it easy to post on Instagram.

Pros

Complete Bible app
Widget options
Tools to customize verse of the day (add a picture, change font, etc.)

Cons

Nothing to pinpoint if you have to use it as a quotes app

Download The Bible App

Closing Remarks: Quotes Apps for Android Phones

Finally, these are some apps that might motivate and inspire you but hard work has no substitute. So rather than a long closing statement, I’ll leave you with what Maria Sharapova, the veteran tennis player said –

I have had lots of luck in my career but there has also been a lot of hard work.

4 Ways Upload Video to Instagram from Computer Directly

Posted on May 26, 2021May 26, 2021 by Vaibhav

More and more people are editing their Instagram videos on their computers using video editing software and then push them to their smartphone to upload them on Instagram. But wouldn’t it be awesome if you can just upload videos to Instagram from a computer directly. Turns out, you can. Here are a few native Instagram desktop clients as well as third-party apps that will allow you to post videos to your Instagram stories, feed, reels, and even IGTV. Let’s check them out.

Instagram Video Specifications

Before you upload your video, make sure that it adheres to the following rules as prescribed by Instagram:

File size limit is 4 GB
Playback length is capped at 60 seconds
Frame rate should be 30 FPS or less
The maximum dimension should be 1080 or less
The preferred format is MP4 (H.264 Codec & AAC audio, 3,500 kbps video bitrate)
Landscape aspect ratio is 1:91:1
Square aspect ratio is 1:1
The vertical aspect ratio is 4:5.

How to Upload Video to Instagram from Computer Directly

1. Creator Studio for Instagram

This is probably the simplest method and since it’s native to Instagram, all you need to do is sign in to the Instagram Creator Studio using your username and password. It not only gives you the option to post photos/videos to your feed but also doesn’t lose out on mobile features like tagging people, selecting a cover, adding a caption, etc. In case, you want to schedule your videos, there’s an option for that as well.

1. To get started, make sure you have an Instagram business account. If not, you can easily change that from Settings > Account > Switch to Business Account.

2. Next, from the PC, open browser and head to Creator Studio, and click on the Instagram logo on top.

3. Then simply log in using your username and password. If you’re logged in using the same Google account which has your saved password, you’re likely to see the ID password in the autofill suggestions. You’ll be redirected to the homepage of your Creator studio where you can see all the stories, posts along with an option to upload videos as well.

4. Next tap on the Create a post icon on the top-left of the screen and select an Instagram feed to publish a post. You can also tap on IGTV if you have a longer video to post.

5. You’ll see a new dialogue box just like the picture below. Tap on Add content at the bottom and choose a file to upload.

6. Then browse to the file location and select the picture or video you want to upload and post.

7. Once you’re done, take your cursor and tap on the downward arrow sign at the bottom (next to the Schedule icon), and choose a date and time to publish your post. That is it, now simply tap on Schedule and now you’ve successfully scheduled your Instagram post from PC. Easy, right?

2. INSSIST Chrome Extension

Another way to upload videos to Instagram from computer is Instagram Creator Studio, but what it lacks is a phone-like UI. I know it’s not a big deal, but if you want to add a cherry on top, you can upload videos and enjoy the mobile UI on your PC using a Chrome extension called INSSIST.

You can also post stories, IGTV videos, view direct messages, generate analytics and much more.

1. Visit the INSSIST Chrome extension page and click on Add to Chrome to download and install.

2. Click on the extension icon to open Instagram and you’ll see the familiar Instagram app sign-in options.

3. After you log in, click on + sign as you do on Instagram mobile. Click on Photo/Video in the pop-up that follows which will open a new file explorer window. Note that you can also post a story, IGTV video, and more in the same tab.

4. In the file browser tab, find the photo or video you’d like to post, and hit Open. This opens the content in the Inssist Instagram UI.

5. Hit Next on the top right corner of the screen once the uploading and processing are done.

INSSIST Chrome extension video upload option

6. The next step allows you to add a caption, tag people, add location, and even select auto-generated hashtags. The video upload feature is free, however, there’s also a pro version at $4.99/month that lets you add custom video thumbnails/covers, a zen mode for a cleaner experience, bulk scheduling, etc. Read our detailed review of the INSSIST Chrome extension.

Get INSSIST | Web Client for Instagram (Chrome Extension)

3. Cloud Storage (Free)

The easiest trick in the book to upload videos from PC to Instagram directly. You create an account on Dropbox or use Google Drive on your computer linked to your Gmail account. Download and install it if you haven’t done so already and create an account. Copy and paste the video into the Dropbox/Drive folder and let it sync.

Next, open the corresponding Dropbox app on your smartphone and select the video you just uploaded. When you click the Share button, you will see other options like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and more depending on which apps you have installed on your smartphone. Select Instagram and the video will be uploaded.

Do you know what the problem with the cloud storage method is? You will have to deal with the video twice. First, upload it from computer to cloud and then from cloud to Instagram. This is still somewhat acceptable if the file size is small. What if it is not? Read on.

4. Developer Tools Method (Browser)

The developer tools method is also one of the oldest methods to upload videos to Instagram via PC. It allows you to access the mobile version of Instagram through the web browser. Although a lot of websites suggest this method to upload videos, it simply doesn’t work. On the other hand, if you wish to upload a picture, this method is one of the easiest of all. It not only allows you to upload a picture from a PC, but you can also use video filters, crop option, etc.

Upload photo on Instagram through develop tools option

Wrap Up: Uploading Videos to Instagram From PC

One simple answer – Instagram Creator Studio. There are several reasons, the biggest being it’s a platform by Instagram so there are no chances that it’s going to go down anytime soon. Moreover, it’s far safer than other platforms in terms of your personal data. But if you really want a good tool that has a good UI and works instantly, INSSIST is a must-try extension. You must have noticed that the extension doesn’t allow you to upload custom thumbnails on videos after 2 free tries. Yes, it’s true however there is a way you can bypass that.

INSSIST has a clear edge in terms of a clean Instagram UI (with dark mode), suggesting relevant hashtags automatically for the post, and other useful insights and analytics. But if your sole purpose is to post videos, you know what to do.

Also Read: Upload non-square picture on WhatsApp & Instagram

7 Best Secret Texting Apps for Mobile and Desktop

Posted on May 22, 2021May 22, 2021 by Vaibhav

Nowadays, encryption is the top choice for anyone looking to download a new text messaging app. While security is important, the need for a phone number when you want to chat reduces privacy by that much. So, if you’re someone like me who’d rather show a custom username than your personal phone number, here some secret texting apps for mobile and desktops to keep your identity secret.

Messaging Apps Without Phone Number

There are pros and cons to everything. While certain text messaging apps do not require you to enter your phone number for verification, this reduces accountability. People think they can get away with anything just because they are anonymous. Be responsible and use it sensibly.

1. Telos App with WhatsApp

WhatsApp recently saw a major backlash for forcing users to accept a new privacy policy where WhatsApp user data will be shared with Facebook. Keeping that aside, a lot of users will hardly make the permanent shift because of the features and the user base that WhatsApp enjoys. But did you know you can stay anonymous on WhatsApp as well?

Technically, you do need a phone number, but not yours. Confused? We can easily generate a random phone number using an app called Telos. You need an e-mail or Facebook ID to register. Once you register, you can literally remain anonymous and create a Whatsapp account without a phone number. Check out the article for a detailed guide.

Get Telos app for Android | iOS

2. Telegram

Telegram is another alternative for Signal and WhatsApp if anonymity is on your mind. You do require a phone number to register for Telegram but not to chat. I’m talking about the username feature that allows users to search for anyone using their unique username. The best part about the username is that you can change it anytime you want.

If you’re not sure about switching to Telegram, learn more about what Telegram is and why everyone is adopting it.

To create a username, tap on the menu section on the top left corner of the screen. Now go to Settings, tap on Username and give a username of your choice. That’s it. The app is available on mobile and all desktop platforms.

Get Telegram

3. Element Secure Messenger

If you’re extremely serious about anonymity, Element is a must-try. Forget phone number, you don’t even need an e-mail ID to sign up. The secret texting app is open source and allows group chats. You can also use video or voice service without any limit which is great for users moving from WhatsApp.

The app makes use of Matrix’s open-source framework for decentralizing chats making it even more secure. Moreover, if you’re someone who is too sensitive about your conversations, you also have the option to self-host Element. These upgrades start from $2/month with a 30-day free trial.

Get Element Secure Messenger

4. Discord

It’s very unusual to see a community chat app on this list, but with increasing users, it has become a platform for personal chats as well. Similar to Telegram’s username feature, you can generate one on Discord too.

In addition, you can play songs from Spotify, add bots to Discord servers and build communities without giving away your phone number or identity. Discord is particularly popular with gamers.

Get Discord

5. Session Private Messenger

Another open-source secret text messaging app that doesn’t require your phone number or e-mail ID. Each user is assigned a unique key which is randomly generated when you sign up. Moreover, you can choose any unique username that won’t reveal your identity. You can easily start a chat and add contacts using a special Session ID.

Another interesting feature is the conversation length limit. It’s similar to Slack’s 10,000 message limit and allows you to delete messages automatically after a limit. The only drawback for most of you coming from WhatsApp will be the missing voice and video calling feature. If you still wish to try the app, I suggest checking WhatsApp vs Session detailed comparison.

Get Session Private Messenger

6. Bridgefy – Offline Messaging

We have a long list of chat apps that require you to have an active internet connection. But what if you wish for something that’s secure, offline, and would work in a crowd as well? This is where Bridgefy comes in.

It uses Bluetooth and builds a network with other Bridgefy users up to 330ft. You can talk to friends in private chats and even form a group using the broadcast feature. Two use case scenarios would be using the app with friends in a concert with a poor network or in a public protest with network curbs. If you like Bridgefy, check out apps for protestors that are privacy-focused and helps you get out of vulnerable situations.

Get Bridgefy – Offline Messaging

7. Threema

Before we talk about one of the best secret texting apps, know that Threema is a paid app ($2.99/one time), so skip this one if you are looking for free alternatives. Rather than asking for personal information like your phone number or email ID, it uses a key as your username. Although I’d not suggest it, you do have the option to link your phone number which helps your friends to find you automatically.

In addition, you can take a backup on your own server besides a default Threema Safe server option. Apart from chats, you can form groups (up to 256 users), make both voice and video calls, attach files, etc. The app also has a web version similar to WhatsApp and allows you to access it by scanning the QR code easily.

Get Threema

Closing Remarks: Best Secret Texting Apps

So these were the best apps for texting secretly whether you’re on mobile or desktop. If you’re concerned about encryption but don’t have any problem sharing your phone number, see how Signal fares when compared to WhatsApp. If you wish to stick to WhatsApp, the Telos app is a great option to sign up anonymously.

Also Read: 10 Best Anonymous Chat Apps

8 Best Vegan Apps to Get Started With Veganism

Posted on May 13, 2021May 13, 2021 by Vaibhav

While most people consider eating meat healthy, it is actually as bad as any junk food can get. I was already planning to shift to a vegan diet and this excerpt from the book How Not to Die fueled up my plans to go vegan all the way more. I admit that although I was ready to take the plunge, I knew that it won’t be an easy task. To go all vegan one needs recipes, a way to know which ingredients are vegan or not, and above all if I’m feeling lazy, is there a restaurant that delivers vegan food at my doorstep? I know that sounds like a lot of research but you can have all that info right on your phone. You don’t believe me? Here are the best vegan apps to get you started.

“The best way to minimize your exposure to industrial toxins maybe is to eat as low as possible on the food chain, a plant-based diet” – Michael Greger

Best Vegan Apps for iOS and Android

1. Happy Cow

Happy Cow is the best app to find vegan restaurants around you. It allows you to find cafes, restaurants, grocery stores, etc. that serve vegan. You also have the option to filter these results in terms of vegan/vegetarian and distance from your location. In addition, since COVID-19 has made dine-outs really unsafe, the app offers doorstep delivery and takeaways too. Although the delivery service is only restricted to the U.S., the resource list features outlets from all around the world. This makes it one of the best vegan apps that should be on your must-try list.

You can browse the app for free, however several features such as trip saving option, saving restaurant for offline viewing will cost you $3.99.

Features I wish it had

An online scrollable menu
A critic review of food and the restaurant

Get Happy Cow for iOS | Android

2. Quit Meat

The first step towards veganism passes through being a vegetarian. This app helps you ‘Quit Meat’ by showing you your impact on the environment, every time you choose a plant-based option over a meat product. For instance, how much water you have saved, the effect on emissions, and the animals you have saved by not eating meat. You can simply click on the consumption icons, which are fish, meat, milk, eggs, etc. and add quantities that you consume. Every detail you add is updated on the homepage so you always get a perspective of both your consumption and savings whenever you open the app.

Although the app consists of vegan recipes, there are better apps that deal with recipes I have talked about below.

Features I wish it had

More recipes within the app
UI may be too flowery for some, so a sleeker UI

Get Quit Meat for iOS | Android

3. Is it Vegan?

There can be tons of products like natural vanilla ice cream, pesto sauce, processed sugar, and many more which seem vegan but aren’t. ‘Is It Vegan’ fixes this problem. You can use this app to easily ascertain any animal products or ingredients by simply scanning the UPC bar code with the scanner in the app. It tells you whether the product is vegan, vegetarian, or neither. You will also see the entire ingredients list along with a separate section for vegan ingredients.

The only downside is that the vegan app is primarily based in the U.S., so if you live somewhere else, you’ll probably end up disappointed. Don’t worry, for those living outside the U.S., the option to manually search for ingredients in the app comes in handy.

Features I wish it had

Better UPC code support globally
Detailed info on the ingredients

Get Is It Vegan for iOS | Android

4. 21 Day Vegan Kickstart App

This app aims to help anyone who wants to transition to a vegan diet with a 21-day vegan plan. You start by signing up with your email and setting a starting date. Once done, the app tells you what to eat for the next 21 days. Since they say it is based on scientific research, it can be a good starting point for someone dealing with heart diseases, type-2 diabetes, etc. However, we recommend you talk to the experts first. A clinical dietician or a doctor. You will find plenty of low-fat, plant-based recipes such as pitta pizza, vegan French toast, spiced pumpkin oatmeal, sweet potato, and more.

The app shows you the ingredient list once you fix a date to begin your vegan journey. I highly recommend setting an earlier date so that you can buy the ingredients beforehand and save on last-minute shopping spree.

Features I wish it had

An option to use it without signing-in
Frequent updates (the last update was back in 2019)

Get 21 Day vegan Kickstart for iOS | Android

5. Plant Jammer

Plant Jammer lets you select ingredients that you already have in your kitchen to generate a new recipe. Just tell the app if you’re a beginner or pro cook and select a goal (like eat more veggies). In the next step, you pick veggies that you have in the kitchen like broccoli, carrots, beets, etc. and the app gives you recipe suggestions from those very ingredients.

The best part is that the shopping list option that allows you to add ingredients you don’t have in your kitchen. So you can easily plan ahead before you head out shopping for your favorite vegan recipes in advance.

Features I wish it had

More conducive ingredient list

Get Plant Jammer for iOS | Android

6. TalkVeganToMe

The first thing that anyone trying to go vegan faces are counter-arguments such as, ‘But you kill pests while you grow vegetables’ or ‘not all animals are slaughtered in an inhumane way’. If you’re bogged down by like these, this app can be a great starting point to counter those with these arguments. You get a list of arguments and rebuttals on the home page for a glance. What I like most about this app is that the arguments are backed by sources so you can make informed points the next time your friend calls veganism a scam.

The app has a favorites section where you can save all your favorite arguments, plus you don’t need the internet to use the app which is another advantage.

Features I wish it had

A better UI with illustrative graphics and pictures
Support to submit your own questions

Get TalkVeganToMe for (iOS | Android)

7. Vegan Amino

The best vegan apps list is incomplete without a social media app, right? Consider ‘Vegan Amino’ like Instagram, a social network app to connect with fellow vegans around the world. Like Instagram, you have a home feed where you see photos posted by fellow vegans, you can chat with them, like and comment just like you do on any other platform. It’s a great place to discover new vegan dishes, get cooking tips, and also find vegan lifestyle hacks. Features like creating polls, making chat rooms are restricted for new users, and unlock as you take part in sharing, posting comments, and participating in the community, which is the only downside according to me.

If you aren’t able to find a partner because of your food choices, you can also use this as a vegan dating app as well (hope you get lucky).

Features I wish it had

A less cluttered interface
A faster and easier way to create an account

Get Vegan Amino for iOS | Android

8. HEALabel

With the HEALabel app, a user can look up details of a certain ingredient and check the effect it has on our health, environment, animals, and laborers. The app comes in handy when looking for cooking ingredients and clothing materials. Each ingredient or material is backed with a picture which makes it easy to identify. Moreover, everything is color-coded in green, yellow, and red (positive, moderate, or negative) for their effect on health, environment, animals, and labor. Unlike the Is It Vegan app, you can find detailed info on the listed ingredients. Information such as ingredient list, food allergens, pH, sustainability, are also described in detail.

Since it’s a progressive web app, you have the option to install it on your desktop. The UI is similar to what you find on the mobile. In addition, a PWA doesn’t take as much space when compared to other desktop apps.

You can’t find HEAlabel on the Play Store however you do have the option to add it to your menu by scanning a QR code from HEALabel’s website.

Features I wish it had

A dedicated app

Get HEALabel App

Other Ways You Can Learn About Veganism

Veganism is such a talked about topic that you can find a lot of information related to it all over the internet. You can begin by simply typing veganism or vegan diet on the internet and research all by yourself. In addition to that, you can also follow subreddits such as Vegan and Vegan Recipes to find a community of people to help you clear your doubts. Besides that, there are tons of great vegan YouTubers about veganism and vegan cooking, two channels I follow are The Vegan Corner and Avant-Garde Vegan.

Closing Remarks: Which Vegan App Should You Try

So these were some of the best vegan apps that would help you make a gradual shift to a vegan diet and lifestyle. In my opinion, you should give Plant Jammer a try right away as it does not focus just on a vegan diet but you can make recipes with any ingredient you have in your kitchen. Besides that, Is It Vegan app will also help you eliminate products from your shopping list which may contain dairy or animal parts. Lastly, if you’re looking for a science-based plant to switch to a plant-based meal plan, the 21 Day Vegan Kickstarter app is a great way to start and move towards veganism gradually.

Also Read: Top Apps for Diabetic People on iOS and Android