Comparison of forum software

If you want to run a forum, you have the choice between different forum software providers. In this comparison we show you the differences and advantages of the individual forum operators.

Power package with costs: "Woltlab Burning Board" with integration of social networks

The 4th generation of "Woltlab Burning Board" offers clear and simple features in addition to modern security standards.

• "Burning Board" has some useful functions and is particularly suitable for beginners. You can use plugins developed by the community to expand your forum. With a large selection of themes, you can easily customize your forum.
• The developers always keep the board up to date - this should also withstand hacker attacks or data theft. So that you always have an overview, there is a feed in which all activities are listed.
• Plus point: The software also looks good on smartphones and tablets. You can also integrate all social networks.
• With around 80 euros, the software is unfortunately not a bargain, but you get great features and numerous plugins - overall a good price-performance ratio.

Large free package - With "phpBB" you maintain your community completely free of charge

With the free software "phpBB" you have a successful alternative to the paid software from other providers.

• Extensive functions and a clear user interface speak for "phpBB". In contrast to the "Burning Board", the software is completely free.
• Plus point: You can find out how to install your forum in a detailed tutorial. You also get some help with updates.
• With the help of plugins, you can also expand your forum with numerous functions, such as a chat or one or the other small game. In addition, "phpBB" has around 60 different languages. You can also easily import backups from other forum systems - so your forum can be moved quickly.
• Unfortunately, the software does not offer support for a mobile display.

Professional forum software: "vBulletin"

Particularly suitable for professionals and experienced users: the paid software "vBulletin".

• The powerful software "vBulletin" is particularly suitable if you want to run a professional forum. For this you get some useful functions included and with various addons and themes you can expand and design your forum personally.
• Safe: All extensions are tested before publication. This way you are guaranteed not to install any malware.
• Even beginners have a lot of fun with "vBulletin": Installation and administration are easy with this software.
• Quality comes at a price: At around 180 euros, "vBulletin" is more than twice as expensive as the "Burning Board". Therefore, when deciding, you should be aware of exactly what you need.

"Invision Power Board" - good basis for large communities

The paid software "Invision Power Board" is particularly suitable for professional users of large communities.

• The name says it all: "Invision Power Board" offers the necessary power, especially for large and complex pages. However, the software is only available in English - so you must have the necessary language skills with the installation. After that you can download and install other languages.
• There are also a number of designs and add-ons for "Invision Power Board". For example, you can also add a chat here or add other so-called "anti-spam" functions. Also on board: the display for mobile devices.
• The forum software is the strongest in comparison, but also not cheap: With the equivalent of around 130 euros you get a large power pack and thus a good basis especially for large communities. However, you should only choose "Invision Power Board" if you want to run a really large forum.

Conclusion: forum software according to need

There are a number of different forum software. If you are still at the very beginning, you should first grab the free "phpBB".

• If your requirements and knowledge are greater, you have the choice between "Woltlab Burning Board" and "vBulletin". For larger communities, "Invision Power Board" is your all-round solution.

If you still need a location for your forum, we will show you an overview of web space providers for free hosting.