monkey app had a simple premise: random video chat with a snap-like interface. match with someone, chat for a few seconds, add them as friends if you click. it got popular fast, especially with teenagers.
problem is, monkey's moderation was always questionable. the app has been on and off the app store multiple times. if you're looking for something similar but more reliable, here's what works.
best monkey app alternatives
tjub
similar random video chat concept but with actual moderation. ai catches inappropriate content in real time. also has text and voice modes if you don't want video.
age verification is required for video chat, which means fewer sketchy situations. free to use, ios only for now.
safest optionometv
larger user base than most alternatives. works on web, ios, and android. matching is fast because there's always people online.
moderation exists but isn't as tight as tjub. still better than monkey was. the interface is dated but functional.
most usersholla
closest to monkey in terms of vibe and interface. aimed at younger users with a more playful design. has filters and effects.
moderation is hit or miss. smaller user base means slower matching at off-peak times.
most like monkeyyubo
not exactly video chat but worth mentioning. it's more like a social network with live streaming. you can go live and chat with viewers.
different format but scratches a similar itch. more curated than random matching.
different formatwhy people left monkey
monkey had real problems:
- weak moderation. inappropriate content was common. reports were ignored or handled slowly.
- app store issues. the app was removed from the app store multiple times for safety concerns.
- young user base. the app attracted a lot of minors which created serious safety issues.
- unreliable service. servers were often slow or down. matching could take forever.
what to look for in a monkey alternative
real moderation
this is non-negotiable. any app without proper moderation will end up like monkey did. look for apps that mention ai moderation or real-time content detection.
age verification
apps that just ask "are you 18?" are not serious about safety. proper verification keeps younger users safer and makes the experience better for adults too.
stable presence
check if the app has been consistently available on app stores. apps that keep getting removed and reinstated are red flags.
active development
is the app still being updated? old apps with no updates usually have growing problems and shrinking user bases.
staying safe on random chat apps
whichever app you use:
- don't share personal info. no real name, no school, no address, no phone number.
- check your background. make sure there's nothing identifying visible on camera.
- use the report button. if someone does something inappropriate, report them.
- trust your gut. if something feels wrong, skip immediately.
the verdict
monkey was fun but flawed. there are better options now that give you the same random video chat experience without the safety issues.
tjub is the safest choice. ometv has the most users. holla is the most similar to monkey's vibe.
whatever you choose, make sure it has real moderation. the wild west days of random chat are over, and that's actually a good thing.