Pinafore

Discontinued

Overview

Pinafore is a web client for Mastodon that connects directly to Mastodon instances via their public API. It supports multiple accounts, custom themes per account, and functions as a Progressive Web App for offline use and home screen installation. The client emphasizes a single-column layout and was designed for performance using Svelte, though it is now unmaintained.

Key Features

Multi-account support - Log in to multiple Mastodon instances with custom themes for each.
Offline functionality - Browse recently viewed timelines without internet connection.
Progressive Web App - Installable on phone home screens for native-like experience.
Single-column layout - Simplified interface with easy-to-read text and large images.
Client-side operation - Browser communicates directly with Mastodon API; no server tracking.
No ads or trackers - Privacy-focused with all communication between browser and instance.
Customizable settings - Options for media display, scrollbars, and link previews.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	Free	Full access to all features as open-source software.

Platforms & Requirements

Pinafore runs in any modern web browser as a client-side app and supports installation as a PWA on desktop and mobile devices. No native apps or specific hardware requirements beyond browser support for CORS and service workers. Limited to web environments; no dedicated mobile or desktop builds.

Integrations & Ecosystem

Mastodon API
Any Mastodon-compatible server
GoToSocial
Progressive Web App standards
Service Workers for offline caching

Alternatives

App	Difference
Mastodon Official Web Client	Multi-column layout with more administrative features; actively maintained by Mastodon team.
Tusky	Android-native app with push notifications; lacks web access.
Feditext	Native app for iOS, iPadOS, macOS; supports Mastodon API but platform-specific.
Elk.zone	Modern web client with similar speed focus; actively maintained.

Reputation

Pinafore was praised for its speed, simplicity, and privacy when active, with the developer using it as their primary client. It is now unmaintained since 2023, limiting future compatibility with Mastodon updates. Still functional at pinafore.social for existing users but not recommended for new adoption.

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