Amethyst Review
The most feature-complete Nostr client for Android with native Lightning zaps and privacy-first design.
Why We Recommend Amethyst
Amethyst stands out as arguably the most comprehensive Nostr client available on Android, implementing an exceptionally broad set of Nostr Improvement Proposals that goes well beyond basic microblogging. The app supports text notes, encrypted private messages, public chats, relay-based group communities, decentralized marketplaces, custom emojis, hashtags, and built-in media capture—all within a reactive interface built with modern Kotlin and Jetpack Compose. With over 100,000 downloads on Google Play and a 4.3/5 rating, the polished mobile experience feels familiar to users of conventional social apps while offering capabilities most competitors lack, including Tor routing for enhanced privacy and seamless Lightning integration for instant Bitcoin tips.
The project's commitment to transparency and user sovereignty is evident throughout. Released under the MIT license with an active GitHub repository sporting over a thousand stars and frequent releases, the codebase is fully auditable by the community. Private keys are stored in Android's secure KeyStore rather than on any centralized server, keeping custody entirely with the user. Unlike traditional social networks, Amethyst has no advertising, no data collection, and no algorithmic manipulation of feeds—your social experience isn't the product being sold.
Best For
Amethyst is ideal for Bitcoiners and privacy-conscious users who want a censorship-resistant alternative to centralized social platforms. If you're already engaged with the Lightning ecosystem and want to tip content creators directly, follow Bitcoin-focused conversations, or participate in Nostr communities without trusting a corporate intermediary, this app delivers that experience natively on Android. The built-in zap functionality makes value-for-value interactions seamless, letting you support creators with real Bitcoin instead of meaningless likes.
Content creators and community builders will appreciate the depth of features beyond basic posting. Group chats, relay-based communities, and marketplace functionality enable organizing around shared interests without platform risk. The multi-account support and QR login make it practical to manage separate identities for different contexts. Power users can fine-tune their relay configuration for performance or privacy, while the automatic translation feature helps engage with the global Nostr community.
Technically inclined users comfortable with key management will get the most from Amethyst. While the interface is intuitive, the underlying model of cryptographic identity rather than email/password accounts requires understanding that losing your private key means losing your identity permanently. Those willing to embrace this self-sovereign approach gain true ownership of their social presence.
Services & Features
- Lightning zaps and tips
- Encrypted private messages
- Relay-based group chats
- Decentralized marketplace access
- Multi-account management
- QR code login
- Tor routing support
- Built-in image/video capture
- Automatic translation
- Custom emoji support
Considerations
Relays can see metadata like IP addresses and activity patterns even when content is encrypted. Content propagated across relays is difficult to fully delete. Users must securely manage their own private keys—there's no account recovery if keys are lost.
