Scarlet iOS vs AltStore: Which App Installer is Better?

ByScarlet iOS Team 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 signs apps with a shared enterprise certificate. It can be installed directly from Safari without a computer, and support is confirmed up to iOS 26 (iOS 27, out since September 2026, is reported by third parties to work but not officially confirmed).

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. SideStore, a fork of AltStore, can refresh on the iPhone itself after a one-time setup with a computer; see how to install SideStore on iPhone. In the EU, Japan and Brazil there is also AltStore PAL, an Apple-approved marketplace whose apps do not expire after 7 days. For other options, see our list of alternatives to Scarlet iOS.

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
  • No 3-app limit with a paid Apple 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
  • Can also import your own IPA files; library contents change over time

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:

  • Signs with a shared certificate instead of your Apple ID
  • Uses third-party certificates
  • You trust a developer you do not control in VPN & Device Management

AltStore:

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

Winner: AltStore – Open source and more transparent

At a Glance

Scarlet iOSAltStore
ComputerNoYes (AltServer)
Apple IDNot used (shared certificate)Yes
Apps lastUntil revoked7 days, auto refresh
Free app limitNone3 active
Developer Mode (iOS 16+)Not neededNeeded

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
  • Prefer an installer that signs with a shared certificate instead of 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AltStore safer than Scarlet iOS?

AltStore is open source and signs with your own Apple ID, so you know exactly what signs your apps. With either tool, the bigger risk is the IPA file you install; see is iOS sideloading safe.

What happens to my apps when Scarlet’s certificate is revoked?

They stay installed but will not open until you reinstall them with a new certificate. AltStore apps are not affected. See Scarlet certificate revoked: how to fix it.

Where does Sideloadly fit in?

Sideloadly signs with your Apple ID like AltStore but has no store. Our AltStore vs Scarlet iOS vs Sideloadly guide compares all three.

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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