Instagram is a photo dedicated social media app that has been around for years. As of December 2014, Instagram had 300 million active monthly users. VSCO on the other hand is a baby in comparison; it was launched only two years ago, in June 2013. VSCO holds 20 million active monthly users. Each app has it's own pros and cons, leading people to wonder: Which is better?
Below are several categories in which both apps can be compared.
Editing:
Exposure
|
Clarity
|
temp.
|
tint
|
skin tone
|
grain
|
shadows tint
|
highlights tint
|
lux
| |
Instagram
|
X
| ||||||||
VCSO
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
crop
|
pic-stitch
|
filters
|
straighten
|
contrast
|
fade
|
color
|
warmth
|
tilt-shift
| |
Instagram
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
VSCO
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
brightness
|
structure
|
saturation
|
highlights
|
shadows
|
vignette
|
sharpen
| |
Instagram
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
VSCO
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
App Store Rating:
Instagram: 3.5 Stars (current version), 4.5 Stars (all versions)
VSCO: 3.5 Stars (current version), 4 Stars (all versions)
In-app Camera Adjustments:
Instagram: flash
VSCO: flash, grid overlay, instant capture, low light compensation, white balance, ISO, screen contrast control
Video Support?:
Instagram: yes
VSCO: no, but the new update allows GIFs and there is a separate app for videos
Social Aspects:
You can follow others on both apps, but only Instagram allows you to see who follows you and who others follow, on Instagram you can like photos but you cannot on VSCO
With each comparison in mind, it is up to the individual as to which app they prefer. Some people like the social media aspect of Instagram, while others like the photography focus of VSCO. Feel free to try out both apps and comment which you prefer!