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What is the best forum software to use for a new online community?

Uptrend's Avatar
Uptrend · in Webmaster Discussions 6 replies 153 views
#1

I have try different options like phpBB for free but my forum look like it was designed in the dial-up era, and the mobile experience is like a torture. Then, also you have XenForo that is so beautiful but the license fee is something else, very expensive. What do you recommend?

#2

I’m almost referring people to Forum Spark who want to pay and SMF who want something free.

Trail Running Forum - A forum dedicated to trail running, gear, training, and more.

#3

On Sep 8, 2026, Shawn said:

I’m almost referring people to Forum Spark who want to pay and SMF who want something free.

Why is that?

#4

On Sep 9, 2026, Jason said:

Why is that?

I just assume XenForo is eventually going to either shut down or go to a cloud-hosting-only platform.

I doubt they get a lot of new customers. So, their main customer base is renewals.

Trail Running Forum - A forum dedicated to trail running, gear, training, and more.

#5

ForumSpark is really cool. I also love phpBB.

PopFuse – Your hub for movies, TV shows, music, gaming, celebrities, and pop culture.

Community Interviews – Get to know the people behind online communities through interviews.

Bingely – Your blog for movies, TV shows, reviews, and entertainment news.

Gizmo Network – Where chaos meets creativity! Explore forums, websites, and creative projects.

#6

You can use premium themes for open source forum platforms to create amazing design. For instance, you try premium theme for phpbb. You will get a fresh look. If you are low on budget, phpBB is the best one.

#7

On Sep 9, 2026, Shawn said:

I just assume XenForo is eventually going to either shut down or go to a cloud-hosting-only platform.

I doubt they get a lot of new customers. So, their main customer base is renewals.

Around 60 USD a year for Forum Spark - compared to around 200 for XenForo.

But these days 60 is 30 in 2005 money and 200 is 100.

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