Looking for a platform to promote your app deals? There are several platforms dedicated to helping users discover app deals and developers promote their apps. Today, we'll compare three popular platforms: Apps.Deals, AppAdvice, and Indie App Santa, to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Overview
Apps.Deals
Apps.Deals is a specialized platform focused exclusively on macOS apps. It's the newest entrant in the app deals space but fills an important gap by being the only platform dedicated to Mac app deals. The platform allows developers to list promotional offers and distribute promo codes while helping users discover great deals on premium Mac software. Developers can create an account and easily manage their submissions through a self-service dashboard, streamlining the entire process without requiring external assistance.
AppAdvice
AppAdvice is a well-established platform primarily focused on iOS apps. Through their "Apps Gone Free" section, they curate a daily list of premium iOS apps that have temporarily gone free. The platform has a strong editorial approach, providing detailed app reviews and explanations of why each app was selected.
Indie App Santa
Indie App Santa is known for its unique approach to iOS app deals, particularly during the holiday season. The platform helps indie iOS developers connect with users through daily deals and promotions, with a strong focus on building a community around indie apps.
Platform Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the three platforms:
| Feature | Apps.Deals | AppAdvice | Indie App Santa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | macOS | iOS | iOS |
| Deal Types | Discounts, promo codes, free, BF/CM offers | Free apps primarily | Discounts & free offers |
| Deal Duration | Flexible | Daily | Daily |
| Self-Service Dashboard | Yes | No | No |
| Newsletter | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RSS Feed | Yes | Yes | No |
| Promo Code Distribution | Yes (with claim tracking) | No | No |
| Editorial Approval | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free To Submit Apps | Yes | Yes | No ($300+/app) |
| Featured App Options | Yes | No | No |
| Search and Filter | Yes | No | No |
| Dedicated Page For Each App | Yes | Yes | No |
Key Differentiators
Apps.Deals
- Mac-Exclusive: The only platform dedicated to macOS app deals
- Promo Code Management: Sophisticated system for distributing and tracking promo code claims
- Self-Service Dashboard: Comprehensive dashboard for managing app listings and deals
- SEO Benefits: Offers permanent backlinks and dedicated app pages
- Flexible Timing: No strict daily schedule for deals
- Curated Selection: Each and every app is reviewed and approved before being listed
AppAdvice
- Curated Selection: Strong editorial focus with detailed app reviews
- Daily Schedule: Consistent daily updates of free iOS apps
- Quality Standards: Apps must maintain at least a three-star rating
- No Ads Requirement: Free versions must not include ads
- Historical Tracking: Monitors frequency of apps going free
Indie App Santa
- iOS Focus: Exclusively for iOS app developers and users
- Community Focus: Strong emphasis on indie developer community
- Success Stories: Features developer testimonials and case studies
- User Engagement: Attracts engaged early adopters
- Seasonal Campaigns: Special focus during holiday seasons
- Premium Platform: Paid submissions with high success rates
Who Should Use Each Platform?
Use Apps.Deals if you:
- Are a Mac developer or primarily interested in Mac apps
- Want flexible control over your promotional timing
- Need a sophisticated promo code distribution system
- Want SEO benefits from your app listings
- Value quality control in app selection
Use AppAdvice if you:
- Are primarily interested in iOS apps
- Want detailed editorial reviews of each app
- Prefer a daily curated list of completely free apps
- Value quality control in app selection
Use Indie App Santa if you:
- Are primarily interested in iOS apps
- Want to connect with an engaged community of early adopters
- Are an indie developer looking for significant exposure
- Want to participate in seasonal promotional campaigns
Conclusion
Each platform serves a unique niche in the app deals ecosystem:
- Apps.Deals fills the gap for Mac-specific deals with sophisticated self-service dashboard
- AppAdvice provides carefully curated iOS app deals with 3 star rating or higher
- Indie App Santa focuses on iOS indie developer community building and support
For iOS developers, using both AppAdvice and Indie App Santa can maximize exposure. For Mac developers, Apps.Deals is currently the go-to platform.
For users, following the platform that matches your device ecosystem ensures you never miss a relevant deal - Apps.Deals for Mac apps, and AppAdvice or Indie App Santa for iOS apps.