Scarlet iOS vs Altstore

Sideloading apps on an iPhone or iPad can be a complicated and challenging process, especially when it involves jailbreaking. While jailbreaking provides more control over devices, it comes with its own set of risks. It is a complex procedure that compromises your device’s security and privacy by modifying the iOS core files, making it more vulnerable to malware and viruses from hackers.

However, tools like Scarlet iOS and AltStore have allowed the installation of external IPA files without jailbreaking. These tools simplify the sideloading process while maintaining your device’s security integrity. But which one is better? If you’re trying to decide between these two, this blog post—Scarlet vs AltStore—will help you understand their key features, advantages, and drawbacks, making choosing the right tool easier.

Scarlet Introduction: Scarlet is an unofficial app store that lets you install tweaked apps, modified games, and other applications unavailable on the official App Store.

AltStore Introduction: AltStore is an alternative and unofficial app store that allows you to sideload various external apps, emulators, and custom IPA files onto iOS devices.

Scarlet iOS vs Altstore Comparison

Direct installation: Winner Scarlet 

Unlike other alternative app stores, which require a computer for setup, Scarlet doesn’t need a PC installed. You can directly install it on your iPhone or iPad without connecting your device to a computer. On the other hand, AltStore cannot be installed directly on your device. You must connect your iPhone or iPad to a Windows or Mac PC to set it up.

App Availability – Winner Altstore

Both alternative app stores provide access to external, banned, and modified games and support installing custom IPA files. However, Scarlet primarily offers modded games and tweaked apps, which you can easily install on your device. AltStore allows you to install external apps unavailable on the official App Store, including tweaked and beta versions of popular software. 

Additionally, its library features emulators like Delta, enabling you to play retro games from systems like the Game Boy and Nintendo DS. These can also be sideloaded without following any complex steps.

Certificate Management – Winner AltStore

Custom Certificate management is important when choosing an unofficial app store for your iOS device. Scarlet uses a publicly shared certificate to sign apps. This lets you quickly install and use external apps without purchasing a developer account. However, the biggest drawback of shared certificates is that Apple frequently revokes them, causing sideloaded apps to stop working until you apply for a new certificate.

On the other hand, AltStore takes a different approach to certificate management. Setting up AltStore using AltServer generates a personalized certificate using your Apple ID to sign sideloaded apps. This method avoids the issue of certificate revocation because AltStore doesn’t rely on shared or public eSign for signing.

Additionally, AltStore automatically refreshes app certificates every seven days, ensuring they remain active. You can refresh them manually with a single click on the “Refresh All” button if needed. 

Interface – Winner Scarlet iOS

Regarding the interface, Scarlet and AltStore each offer a unique design and style that meet different user preferences. Scarlet features a clean, simple, and user-friendly interface, allowing users to sideload apps without dealing with complicated steps. Its other features are also easily accessible. Another significant advantage of Scarlet is that it doesn’t require a PC for installation. However, occasional revoke issues can interrupt the user experience.

On the other hand, AltStore has a simple and functional interface, though it feels slightly more basic. Setting it up requires using AltServer on a PC or Mac, which might be challenging for some users. This setup process is generally better for those with a technical background.

Pricing and Availability – Winner Both

These tools are freely available, and anyone can easily download and set them up on their iOS device.

Which One Should You Choose?

Scarlet and AltStore are excellent options for installing tweaked apps, banned apps, external tools, modded games, and emulators. However, the right choice depends on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a simple installation process and an easy-to-use alternative app store, Scarlet iOS is a great choice. It offers additional features like backup and restore options, app management, a clean interface, robust security, and fast download speeds. However, its biggest drawback is the frequent issue of certificate revocation.

On the other hand, if you want to avoid problems with certificate revocation, AltStore is a better option. It also provides access to a more extensive library of external tools, including apps and Android emulators, making it a more versatile choice for many users.