Scarlet iOS vs AltStore: Which App Installer is Better?

Bypetsnary Updated on

Scarlet iOS vs AltStore – which third-party app installer should you use? Both are popular options for sideloading apps on iPhone and iPad without jailbreaking. This detailed comparison will help you choose the right one for your needs.

Overview

Both Scarlet and AltStore allow you to install apps outside the App Store, but they work differently and have distinct advantages.

Scarlet iOS Overview

Scarlet is a third-party app installer that uses enterprise or developer certificates to sign apps. It can be installed directly from Safari without a computer.

AltStore Overview

AltStore is an alternative app store that uses your personal Apple ID to sign apps. It requires a computer running AltServer to install and refresh apps.

Feature Comparison

Installation Process

Scarlet iOS:

  • Can be installed directly from Safari
  • No computer required
  • Takes only a few minutes
  • Simple one-tap installation

AltStore:

  • Requires a Windows PC or Mac
  • Need to install AltServer software first
  • Must connect your iPhone to the computer
  • More complex initial setup

Winner: Scarlet iOS – Much easier installation process

Certificate Stability

Scarlet iOS:

  • Uses enterprise certificates
  • Apple can revoke these certificates at any time
  • Apps may stop working unexpectedly
  • Need to reinstall when certificates get revoked

AltStore:

  • Uses your personal Apple ID
  • Certificates are personal and cannot be mass-revoked
  • Apps need refreshing every 7 days (free Apple ID)
  • More stable long-term

Winner: AltStore – More reliable certificates

App Limit

Scarlet iOS:

  • No strict app limit
  • Can install as many apps as you want
  • Limited only by your device storage

AltStore:

  • Limited to 3 apps with free Apple ID
  • 10 apps with paid developer account ($99/year)
  • Must remove apps to install new ones over the limit

Winner: Scarlet iOS – No app limit restrictions

App Refresh/Maintenance

Scarlet iOS:

  • No regular refresh needed
  • Apps work until certificate is revoked
  • Less maintenance required

AltStore:

  • Apps must be refreshed every 7 days
  • Requires computer connection or Wi-Fi sync
  • Can be automated with AltServer running

Winner: Scarlet iOS – Less maintenance when working

Built-in Apps and Repos

Scarlet iOS:

  • Includes built-in repo system
  • Access to many apps directly
  • Can add custom repos
  • Large selection of tweaked apps

AltStore:

  • Curated selection of apps
  • Supports AltStore Sources (repos)
  • Focus on quality over quantity
  • Popular emulators like Delta available

Winner: Tie – Both have good app libraries

Privacy and Security

Scarlet iOS:

  • Does not require your Apple ID
  • Uses third-party certificates
  • Some risk with enterprise profiles

AltStore:

  • Requires your Apple ID
  • Open source and auditable
  • Uses official Apple signing process

Winner: AltStore – Open source and more transparent

When to Use Scarlet iOS

Choose Scarlet if you:

  • Do not have access to a computer
  • Want to install many apps without limits
  • Prefer a simple installation process
  • Do not want to use your Apple ID
  • Are okay with occasional certificate revocations

When to Use AltStore

Choose AltStore if you:

  • Have regular access to a computer
  • Want more stable and reliable app signing
  • Only need a few sideloaded apps
  • Value open source software
  • Do not mind the 7-day refresh requirement

Can You Use Both?

Yes. Many users have both Scarlet and AltStore installed. You can use AltStore for your essential apps that need reliability, and Scarlet for additional apps when you want to try something new. This gives you the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

Both Scarlet iOS and AltStore are excellent choices for sideloading apps. Scarlet wins on convenience with no computer needed and unlimited apps. AltStore wins on reliability with personal certificates that cannot be mass-revoked. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize convenience or stability. Many users find that having both installed provides the ideal solution.

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