commons
Built in the open
THE REPLACEMENT INDEX

Open alternatives to Google Photos.

Compare projects for photo libraries. Pick the workflow you need, then check the gaps and adoption documentation.

Want to help build an alternative?

Platforms describe available clients; self-hosted services still need a server. “Mixed licenses” means editions or components have different terms.

A PLACE TO START

Open alternatives exist. Start a Commons project.

The curated references below are independent upstream projects. A member-owned Commons project is a separate place to share work and coordinate a team.

No Commons project is linked to Google Photos yet. Add yours or use the guide to start one.

How to start one
1 project for this comparison

Reviewed upstream alternatives

Comparisons cover specific workflows, not complete feature parity. An active alpha can be worth building while still being unsuitable for daily work.

Productivity

Immich

Established project

Self-hosted photo and video libraries with mobile backup and search.

Web / Android / iOSSelf-hostedAGPL-3.0Open source
Personal photo libraries and mobile backupSelected workflows

Plan hosting, storage, backups and import. The project cautions against using it as your only photo storage.

Sources, activity & license scope

Operating the server and safeguarding the library remain your responsibility.

License source Release: 3.3.1 · Oct 8, 2026
Workflow source

Reviewed Oct 14, 2026 · Commons editorial research

Explore project Adoption & documentation

Independent curated reference · discuss it here; contribute upstream.