FlekStore vs AltStore: Which is better?
If you're looking to expand your iOS app options, you've probably heard of FlekStore and AltStore. Both offer unique advantages, but which one suits you best? Let's break it down and compare these two App Stores.
AltStore is one of the most popular IPA installers for iOS, but it requires a computer to sideload apps. On the other hand, FlekStore is an on-device IPA installer that doesn’t need a computer. This comparison will guide you through the pros and cons of both apps and help you decide which one is better to install apps.
1. Getting Started
FlekStore keeps things simple. You can install apps straight from the web without needing a computer or developer account. It's super convenient, especially if you're not too tech-savvy. What's most impressive, it comes with an included certificate to sign and install IPA files directly on your iPhone or iPad.
AltStore requires a bit more effort. You'll need to install it through your computer using AltServer (available for both Mac and Windows). It's not rocket science, but it does involve a few more steps than FlekStore. Plus, you'll need to refresh your apps periodically via your computer or Wi-Fi.
My take: If you want a quick and easy setup, FlekStore is your best bet. But if you don't mind a little extra work, AltStore is worth considering if you have access to a computer and can re-sign apps every 7 days.
2. App Selection
FlekStore offers a wide range of tweaked apps, games, and jailbreak tools. You'll find popular options like Spotify++, Fortnite, and iPogo. The app library is frequently updated with the latest versions of apps, tweaks, and games. There is also support for AltStore Sources, and an option to sideload own IPA files.
AltStore is known for supporting apps like Delta Emulator (for retro gaming) and unc0ver (for jailbreaking). While its pre-made app selection is smaller than FlekStore’s, AltStore allows you to sideload any IPA files. However, the 7-day re-signing limit and the restriction of up to 3 apps per Apple ID still apply.
My take: FlekStore wins for variety of ready-to-use apps and support for installing own IPA files. AltStore's sideloading feature makes it much more versatile if you don't want to pay for a signing service.
3. Keeping Apps Active
FlekStore doesn't require you to re-sign or refresh apps regularly. Once installed, they're good to go (unless revoked, which can happen). There are also no limits applied on how many apps or games you can install. This gives you full freedom to install an unlimited number of applications on your iOS devices.
AltStore needs you to refresh apps every 7 days. But don't worry – its automatic Wi-Fi refreshing feature means you rarely have to think about it. The only requirement is to have your computer turned on with the AltServer app running in the background. The downside is that you can only install up to three apps at a time.
My take: FlekStore is simpler in this aspect, but AltStore's auto-refresh feature provides more stability in the long run if you have a computer. FlekStore has an advantage when it comes to installing and running apps without worrying about whether they’ll get revoked unexpectedly. This is a big win factor for me.
4. Reliability
FlekStore uses enterprise certificates to install apps and games. The benefit is that you can install an unlimited number of apps on your device without any restrictions. However, the downside is that Apple can revoke these certificates, causing the apps to stop working suddenly. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it can be frustrating. Fortunately, FlekStore guarantees a working certificate whenever needed.
AltStore is generally more reliable because it uses your own Apple ID to sign apps, reducing the risk of them being revoked. However, all installed apps (up to 3) will expire after 7 days unless you re-sign them from your computer. Despite this, the ability to sideload apps adds to its long-term stability.
My take: If you value reliability, AltStore is the clear long-term winner. However, FlekStore, as a premium service, avoids the frequent revocations that free services often face. Taking this into account, it's more of a tie when it comes to reliability. I would not worry too much about certificate revokes on the FlekStore App Store.
5. Jailbreak Compatibility
FlekStore offers a variety of jailbreak tools, making it a great choice for jailbreak enthusiasts. These tools are always up-to-date, as FlekStore monitors new releases and updates its App Library daily to provide users with the latest versions. Additionally, some tweaks can be installed without needing a jailbreak or manually injecting dylib files into IPA packages. FlekStore can also modify app icons, inject tweaks, change Bundle ID, and more.
AltStore has become the go-to for jailbreaking, thanks to its support for unc0ver and other popular tools. It's well-integrated with the jailbreaking community, where it's used to sideload popular jailbreak tools for iOS 12 and above. This was the first Cydia Impactor alternative for Desktop.
My take: AltStore is the better choice for those serious about jailbreaking. I always use sideloading tools to install jailbreaks. However, many users face the challenge of installing jailbreak tools without a computer. FlekStore offers the convenience of installing jailbreak tools directly on your iDevice, without needing a computer. If you don't have a PC or Mac, FlekStore is the way to go.
The Verdict
Choosing between FlekStore and AltStore really depends on your needs. If you want a quick setup with a wide selection of tweaked apps ready to go, FlekStore is the way to go.
However, if you're looking for the ability to sideload apps for free and have a computer and iPhone on the same Wi-Fi network, AltStore is the better option.
I prefer having more control over app installation and appreciate the option to install more than 3 apps. For me, FlekStore is the better option for signing IPA files and installing apps on my iPhone. It’s paid, but it’s worth it.
FlekStore: Easier setup, more pre-tweaked apps, it doesn't really on Desktop.
AltStore: Integration with Apple ID, allows sideloading, works only on Windows and macOS.
Choose what works best for you!
