AltStore vs SideStore vs Sideloadly 2026: Which to Choose?

March 2026

Choosing how to sideload apps on your iPhone can be confusing. AltStore, SideStore, and Sideloadly are three of the most popular options. Here's a straightforward comparison so you can pick the right one for you—and how iLoader fits in with SideStore.

Quick Overview

  • SideStore — Open-source iOS app for installing and refreshing sideloaded apps. Works with your free Apple Developer account. Can be installed and managed using iLoader on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  • AltStore — The original "AltStore" app plus AltServer on your computer. Windows and Mac only. Also uses a free Apple ID; refresh typically requires being on the same Wi‑Fi as your computer (or using a companion app).
  • Sideloadly — A desktop-only sideloading tool. You connect your iPhone to your PC or Mac and Sideloadly signs and installs apps. No persistent "store" app on the device; apps still need to be re-signed every 7 days by connecting again (or using their optional services).

SideStore: Best If You Want an On-Device Store + Flexible Refresh

SideStore gives you an app on your iPhone that can hold multiple sideloaded apps and refresh them. Benefits:

  • Open source and free.
  • Refresh options: over Wi‑Fi, or in some setups without needing your computer every time.
  • Built-in app sources so you can browse and install apps from within SideStore.
  • Works with iLoader for one-click install on Windows, Mac, and Linux—no command line.

You need to install SideStore once (e.g. with iLoader), then you can add IPAs and refresh from the device. Great for users who want minimal PC use after initial setup. See SideStore vs AltStore for a deeper comparison.

AltStore: Familiar Name, Desktop-Dependent Refresh

AltStore was one of the first user-friendly sideloading solutions. Pros:

  • Well-known and widely used.
  • Uses your free Apple ID.
  • AltServer runs on Windows and Mac (no Linux).

Cons: Refresh usually requires your device to be on the same network as the computer running AltServer, or you use a workaround. No native Linux support. If you prefer SideStore's refresh model or use Linux, iLoader + SideStore is a better fit.

Sideloadly: Desktop-Only, No On-Device Store

Sideloadly is a desktop application that signs and installs IPAs when your iPhone is connected. Pros:

  • Simple for one-off installs.
  • Works on Windows and Mac.

Cons: No "store" app on your phone. To refresh apps (every 7 days with a free account), you typically reconnect to the computer and run Sideloadly again, or use their optional subscription for wireless refresh. Less convenient if you want to manage multiple apps from the device itself.

Summary: Which Should You Use?

  • Choose SideStore + iLoader if you want an on-device app store, flexible refresh, and support for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Choose AltStore if you're on Windows or Mac and are fine with computer-assisted refresh.
  • Choose Sideloadly if you only need to install a few apps occasionally and don't mind reconnecting to your computer to refresh.

Get Started with SideStore and iLoader

To install SideStore with one click and manage certificates from your computer:

More comparisons and guides