How Much Does It Cost To Build An Apps Like Snapchat?

Snapchat remains one of the most popular social media platforms with Android and iOS Platforms globally, known for its disappearing messages, fun filters, and real-time interactions. With millions of users, it’s no surprise that many entrepreneurs and businesses are considering developing a Snapchat-like app. Whether you're interested in replicating its core features or innovating with something new, understanding the cost to build an app like Snapchat, its key features, and the process behind Snapchat clone app development is essential for successful execution.

Every day, more than 422 million people around the world use Snapchat. It's among the prominent messaging apps due to its active users. Also, many users like Snapchat because it always has something new to offer its users.   
   

As per Statista, it is clear that in the third quarter of 2024, 361 million users will use the Snapchat app every day. You must know that everyday, users send over five billion snaps. The story of Snapchat's success has made many business owners look for a mobile app development company. They can make social media mobile apps that can copy the app's functions and features.  

 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the costs involved in creating a Snapchat-inspired app, the key features to incorporate, the benefits of Snapchat clone development, and how to go about building your own Snapchat alternative.

It's still asked of specialists in the field: "how much will you pay or cost to build an apps like Snapchat?" For answers, read the blog all the way through. A plan and budget for creating an apps like Snapchat will be provided. 

 

Understanding the Cost to Build an App Like Snapchat

Building an app like Snapchat isn't a simple task. The cost to develop a Snapchat clone app can range significantly, depending on various factors like the app's complexity, the number of features you want to include, and the platforms you want to target (iOS, Android, or both). Below is a breakdown of the cost of developing a Snapchat clone:

Cost Breakdown for Snapchat Clone App Development

• Basic Version (Essential Features): $50,000 – $100,000

  • This includes features like messaging, multimedia sharing, and basic filters.

• Advanced Version (Additional Features): $100,000 – $250,000

  • Features such as augmented reality (AR) filters, geolocation services, video sharing, and advanced chat functionality.

• Platform Selection:

  • Developing for both iOS and Android can add 20-50% to the overall development cost, depending on the complexity of the features.

Factors Influencing the Cost

• Design: Custom and intuitive UI/UX design can add to the cost.

• Location of Developers: Hiring developers from countries like the USA or Europe may cost more compared to regions like India or Eastern Europe.
   
• App Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance and updates are additional costs that should be factored in.

 

*Note: In Detailed Informations; You'll get below!

 

What Is a Snapchat App?

Snapchat is a social networking app that enables users to chat, share stories, and photos on the app itself. Within the IT sector, Snapchat is among the greatest and most remarkable success stories. Take pictures and videos with the Snapchat application and add graphics, filters, or captions. Movies and photos delete themselves after a few seconds because of a special security feature. 

 

Benefits of Snapchat Clone App Development

• Faster Time to Market: Instead of building an app from the ground up, you can leverage the features and functionality of Snapchat.
   
• Customizability: Tailor the app to meet the specific needs of your users and industry, adding unique features and design elements.
   
• Cost-Effective: Skip the initial research and development phase, reducing overall costs and accelerating the process.
   
• Scalable: Start small and grow the app's functionality as your user base expands.
  
   

How to Create an Apps Like Snapchat
 

To create an apps like Snapchat, you need to:
 

1. Hire a skilled development team: A team of developers proficient in mobile app development, augmented reality (AR), and real-time chat functionalities is essential.
    
2. Select the Right Features: Focus on features that will engage your target audience and keep them coming back to the app.
    
3. Build a User-Friendly Interface: Ensure the app is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and offers seamless functionality.
    

 

Is it Worth the Investment to Build An Apps like Snapchat? 

 

Source: Statista 

 

• It was believed that between 2024 - 2028, there would be 5.7 million more Snapchat users in the US.
• As of January 2024, there were more than 201 million Snapchat users globally. Of these, 106 million were in the US and 30 million were in Pakistan. 
• Snapchat has already developed 101 distinct product features for its users to enjoy since its 2011 debut.
• Snapchat said they now had over 750 million active users on the app each month during their October 2023 Investor Presentation.
• Comparing Snapchat to the other leading social media sites, it comes in at number ten.  

As we can see, the above stats says that creating an apps like Snapchat is a brilliant idea. But the Snapchat concept dates back to 2011, hence even with frequent upgrades, it can be a little out of date. Thus, you must use the original as a guide and do market analysis. It will help you know the USP before developing a Snapchat-like app.  

What Is the Cost to Build an Apps like Snapchat? 

An app intricacy affects the total snapchat-like app development cost. If you are a business or startup, you can pay the cost to build an apps like Snapchat between $10,000-$30,000. Also, you can use the below formula to get an idea of the cost to build an apps like Snapchat: 

Total Snapchat App Development Cost = Developers Hourly Rate * Development Time 

The cost to build an apps like Snapchat will rely on the mobile development services you select. An hourly rate of $90 to $200 will be the range if you choose snapchat-like app developers from the US or Western Europe.

Although, it is the priciest option, the best one. For instance, Indian development businesses can create the software you desire or even better. About $20 to $30 an hour is the rough wage, much less than in the US. Examining the cost to build an apps like Snapchat table:  

 

Factors Impacting the Cost to Build an Apps like Snapchat

Factors are responsible for the Snapchat app development cost variation. These elements will clarify to you how different stages of the development process can affect the total cost to build an apps like Snapchat: 

 

 

App Platform

Remember that creating an app for the iPhone costs differently than creating one for the Android platform when creating one similar to Snapchat. It doesn't really differ all that much, though. Better start off with just one platform if you are a low-budget startup; you can go to more later. Cross-platform development is another option which can cost to build an apps like Snapchat. 

Feature List

The extensive feature set of Snapchat is the primary driver for brands' continued development of apps that are similar to it. The social media business saw the introduction of disappearing messages by Snapchat. When you know every element that goes into social media app development. It becomes crucial to figure out the cost to build an apps like Snapchat.

Team Size

The team you select will also affect the snapchat-like app development cost. A project manager and native app developers for both iOS and Android make up a normal app development team. You might hire more developers to expedite the development process. You must appoint experts to your team if you wish to incorporate more sophisticated features, such as face recognition software.  

App Design

A beautiful and simple design is crucial to the success of your Snapchat-like software. The price to construct an app similar to Snapchat will depend on the specifications of the design. The total revenue from an app can be greatly increased by having an aesthetically beautiful design that keeps users engaged and raises overall engagement. Depending on your requirements, designing each component of your app—such as the UI/UX design and wireframes—will take time. You must spend more money if you require a more intricate design.  

Tech Stack

Selecting a clear tech stack typically has an impact on the total cost to build an apps like Snapchat. Your app will be able to provide you with the maximum return on investment if it is built using the strongest and most recent technologies.  

App Size

You can also find out "how much will it cost to build an apps like Snapchat?" by looking at the scope of the app. An early attempt to add a lot of features raises the overall cost of growth. Therefore, it's best to focus just on the essential aspects of the app when it's first released. It will enable you to provide excellent customer service at reasonable prices. 

 

 

 

Cost Breakdown for Developing an App Like Snapchat

Developing an app like Snapchat involves significant resources, including time, expertise, and advanced technologies. Below is a detailed cost breakdown based on key factors and features:

 

1. App Development Stages and Costs

 

A. Research & Planning

 

• Cost: $5,000 - $15,000
• Details:
  • Market research
  • Competitor analysis
  • Requirement gathering
  • Project scope and roadmap

 

B. UI/UX Design

 

• Cost: $8,000 - $20,000
• Details:
  • Wireframes and mockups
  • User journey mapping
  • Interactive prototypes
  • App design for both iOS and Android platforms

 

C. Development

 

1. Frontend Development

 

• Cost: $20,000 - $50,000

• Details:
  • React Native, Flutter, or native coding for platforms
  • Design implementation
  • Responsiveness and animations

 

2. Backend Development

• Cost: $25,000 - $60,000

• Details:
  • Cloud database integration (e.g., AWS, Firebase)
  • APIs development
  • Real-time communication protocols (WebSocket, MQTT)
  • Media storage and compression

 

3. Features Development

 

Key Features and Their Costs:

 

Feature	Cost Range	Details
User Registration/Login	$2,000 - $5,000	Social media login, email/phone-based authentication
Chat and Messaging	$10,000 - $20,000	Real-time chat, multimedia sharing, emojis, message status (seen/delivered)
Stories	$15,000 - $25,000	Story creation, viewing, and disappearing features
Augmented Reality (AR)	$30,000 - $50,000	Advanced filters, face tracking, 3D elements
Video/Photo Filters	$10,000 - $20,000	Image/video editing tools, custom filters
Snap Map	$15,000 - $30,000	Geo-location features with interactive maps
Push Notifications	$3,000 - $6,000	Timely notifications for stories, chats, and updates
In-app Purchases	$5,000 - $10,000	Subscription models, coin purchases, premium filters

 

D. Quality Assurance & Testing

• Cost: $10,000 - $20,000

• Details:
  • Manual and automated testing
  • Device and platform compatibility checks
  • Performance and security testing

 

E. Deployment & Launch

• Cost: $3,000 - $8,000
• Details:
  • App Store/Google Play submissions
  • Compliance with platform guidelines
  • Initial app version roll-out

 

2. Team Composition and Rates

 

The cost varies depending on the development team's location and expertise.

 

Role	Hourly Rate (USA)	Hourly Rate (India)
Project Manager	$50 - $100	$20 - $40
UI/UX Designer	$40 - $80	$15 - $30
Frontend Developer	$50 - $120	$20 - $40
Backend Developer	$60 - $150	$25 - $50
QA Engineer	$40 - $80	$15 - $30

 

 

3. Other Costs

 

A. Third-party Tools & APIs

 

• Cost: $10,000 - $25,000 (annually)

• Examples:
  • Cloud Services: AWS, Firebase
  • AR SDKs: Snap Kit, Banuba
  • Push Notifications: OneSignal, Firebase

 

B. Maintenance & Updates

 

• Cost: $5,000 - $15,000 (monthly)

• Includes bug fixes, performance updates, and new features integration.

 

C. Marketing & Promotions

 

• Cost: $10,000 - $30,000

• Pre-launch campaigns, influencer marketing, social media ads.

 

 

Estimated Total Development Cost

 

App Type	Cost Range
Basic MVP (Minimum Features)	$70,000 - $100,000
Mid-level App	$150,000 - $250,000
Advanced App (Like Snapchat)	$300,000 - $500,000+

 

 

Cost to Develop an Apps Like Snapchat: Basic, Advanced, and Emerging Technology Integration

 

Creating an app like Snapchat requires careful planning, especially when deciding the scope of features and technology. Below is a detailed cost breakdown based on three levels: Basic, Advanced, and Emerging Technology features.

 

 

1. Basic App Development Cost

 

Purpose: To create a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with essential features.

Estimated Cost: $70,000 - $120,000
 

Features Included in Basic Version:

 

1. User Registration & Profile Management
    

   • Email/Phone authentication, profile setup.
      
   • Cost: $2,000 - $5,000
      

2. Chat & Messaging
    

   • Text-based chat, basic multimedia sharing.
      
   • Cost: $8,000 - $15,000
      

3. Photo & Video Sharing
    

   • Capture and share photos/videos with basic filters.
      
   • Cost: $10,000 - $20,000
      

4. Stories
    

   • Ability to upload and view 24-hour disappearing stories.
      
   • Cost: $12,000 - $18,000
      

5. Push Notifications
    

   • Notify users about messages and updates.
      
   • Cost: $3,000 - $6,000
      

6. Admin Panel
    

   • For managing users, content moderation, and analytics.
      
   • Cost: $5,000 - $10,000
      

Who is it For?
 

Startups or businesses looking to enter the market with a scalable MVP.
 

 

2. Advanced App Development Cost
 

Purpose: To replicate Snapchat-like functionalities with high scalability and advanced features.

Estimated Cost: $150,000 - $300,000

 

Features Included in Advanced Version:
 

1. Enhanced Chat & Multimedia Sharing
    

   • Real-time chat, emojis, message reactions, and disappearing messages.
      
   • Cost: $15,000 - $25,000
      

2. Advanced Filters and AR Effects
    

   • Dynamic AR face filters, stickers, and geofilters.
      
   • Cost: $30,000 - $50,000
      

3. Snap Map Integration
    

   • Interactive map to share and view live locations of friends.
      
   • Cost: $20,000 - $35,000
      

4. Cloud Storage
    

   • Integration with AWS, Google Cloud, or Firebase for storing media securely.
      
   • Cost: $10,000 - $20,000
      

5. Monetization Features
    

   • In-app purchases, premium filters, and subscription options.
      
   • Cost: $10,000 - $20,000
      

6. Data Analytics & AI Recommendations
    

   • User activity tracking and personalized content suggestions.
      
   • Cost: $20,000 - $30,000
      

Who is it For?
 

Mid-sized to large companies aiming to build a fully-featured, competitive app.
 

 

3. Emerging Technology Integration Cost
 

Purpose: To add cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain to enhance user experience and security.

Estimated Cost: $300,000 - $500,000+
 

Features Included with Emerging Technologies:
 

1. AI-Powered Augmented Reality (AR)
    

   • Advanced 3D face tracking, voice effects, and personalized AR experiences.
      
   • Cost: $40,000 - $80,000
      

2. AI-Based Content Moderation
    

   • Automated detection and removal of inappropriate content.
      
   • Cost: $15,000 - $25,000
      

3. Blockchain for Data Security
    

   • Ensuring secure and tamper-proof data sharing.
      
   • Cost: $20,000 - $50,000
      

4. Voice and Gesture Recognition
    

   • Voice-activated commands and gesture-based navigation.
      
   • Cost: $25,000 - $50,000
      

5. Metaverse Integration
    

   • Virtual social spaces for events and interactions in 3D environments.
      
   • Cost: $50,000 - $100,000
      

6. AR Shopping & E-commerce Features
    

   • Try-before-you-buy experiences and seamless shopping through AR.
      
   • Cost: $30,000 - $70,000
      

Who is it For?
 

Established enterprises or innovators targeting a tech-savvy audience.

 

 

Comparison Table
 

App Version	Estimated Cost	Key Features
Basic	$70,000 - $120,000	Essential features like chat, photo sharing, and stories.
Advanced	$150,000 - $300,000	Features like AR filters, Snap Map, monetization, and analytics.
Emerging Technology	$300,000 - $500,000+	AI-powered AR, blockchain security, gesture recognition, and metaverse integrations.

 

 

Tips to Reduce the Cost to Build an Apps Like Snapchat

An efficient app can make the objectives of your business a reality, but you must ensure that you have the funding to pursue it. You may maximize your return on investment and stick to your budget by optimizing the cost to build an apps like Snapchat. And to assist you with it, the following advice is listed: 

 

Choose to Develop an MVP 
 

An MVP is a brief form of the app that just has the most vital features of snapchat. You may test the market and validate your app idea without having to pay for the entire development process by concentrating on creating a Minimum Viable Product first.
 

Additionally, an MVP enables you to solicit user input at an early stage of the development process. The program can then be improved using these comments, and new features can be added as needed. By employing an MVP strategy, you may cut down the cost to build an apps like Snapchat. It concentrates on delivering the most important features first and making sure the program fulfills user needs. 
 

Clearly Define Your Project Requirements  

 

Uncertain or insufficient requirements are a major contributing factor to cost overruns in app development initiatives. Entrepreneurs may prevent scope creep and lessen the need for further development effort by clearly defining the needs for their product. By doing this, the project's budget may be maintained.

 
Select the Right Mobile App Development Company 

 

The cost to build an apps like Snapchat can be significantly impacted by selecting the best app development firm. A seasoned business with a strong track record has a better chance of finishing the job on schedule and under budget. A company with suitable experience and a track record of accomplished projects is what you should be looking for. 

Opt for Fixed Price Model

 

Before you invest, you know roughly what the premiere fixed-price model will cost to build an apps like Snapchat. This lowers the chance of cost overruns, which helps make sure the project stays on budget. Under a fixed-price model, you pay a set fee for the full project after the development company offers a quote for it. 

Use an Agile Development Methodology 

 

Agile development methods provide flexible and iterative development, which lowers the Snapchat app development cost. As a result, the app may be created gradually and modifications can be made as needed without adding to the overall cost to build an apps like Snapchat. By making sure the app satisfies user needs, an agile strategy can also help you avoid subsequent, expensive adjustments to the program. 

 

These techniques can help you produce an outsourced Snapchat app at a lower cost while still satisfying user needs and producing a high-caliber product. 

 

 

List of Top 12 Snapchat Alternatives: Features, Development Costs, and Why They Shine

 

Below is a list of Snapchat alternatives, their features, and estimated development costs. Each app is unique in its offering, which makes them popular among users worldwide.

 

1. Facebook Messenger
 

• Key Features: Text/voice chat, video calls, stickers, games, integrations with Facebook.
   
• Development Cost: $150,000 - $300,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Seamless integration with Facebook and rich communication features.

 

 

2. Instagram
 

• Key Features: Photo and video sharing, stories, reels, live streaming, direct messaging, and shopping.
   
• Development Cost: $250,000 - $400,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: A highly visual platform for sharing moments with a strong focus on user engagement.

 

 

3. TikTok
 

• Key Features: Short-form video creation and sharing, advanced editing tools, AI-based content recommendations.
   
• Development Cost: $300,000 - $500,000+
   
• Reason for Popularity: Viral content, community-driven trends, and engaging features.

 

 

4. Telegram
 

• Key Features: Encrypted messaging, cloud storage, groups with large user limits, bots, and channels.
   
• Development Cost: $100,000 - $250,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Security, scalability, and robust features for group communication.

 

 

5. WhatsApp
 

• Key Features: Messaging, voice/video calls, file sharing, status updates, and end-to-end encryption.
   
• Development Cost: $150,000 - $300,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Simple interface, secure communication, and global reach.

 

 

6. Wickr Me
 

• Key Features: Secure messaging, disappearing messages, screen sharing, and file encryption.
   
• Development Cost: $80,000 - $150,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Focus on privacy and secure communication.

 

 

7. Signal

 

• Key Features: Encrypted messaging, video calls, disappearing messages, and open-source platform.
   
• Development Cost: $120,000 - $200,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Privacy-first app with user trust and transparency.

 

 

8. Snow

 

• Key Features: AR filters, beauty effects, photo editing, and short video creation.
   
• Development Cost: $200,000 - $350,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Focused on AR filters and appealing to younger audiences.

 

 

9. iMessage

 

• Key Features: Rich messaging features for Apple devices, multimedia sharing, and Memoji.
   
• Development Cost: $100,000 - $200,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Pre-installed on Apple devices and highly integrated with iOS.

 

 

10. Viber

 

• Key Features: Voice/video calls, messaging, stickers, communities, and group chats.
   
• Development Cost: $100,000 - $200,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Versatile communication tool with free international calls.

 

 

11. Slingshot

 

• Key Features: Instant photo and video sharing, reply-to-unlock content.
   
• Development Cost: $70,000 - $120,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Simple yet engaging, with unique reply-to-view functionality.

 

 

12. Marco Polo

 

• Key Features: Video messaging, asynchronous communication, and multimedia tools.
   
• Development Cost: $90,000 - $150,000
   
• Reason for Popularity: Combines texting with video chat, making it fun and engaging.

 

 

Why Consider Alternatives to Snapchat?
 

1. Diverse Features: Snapchat is focused on AR filters and ephemeral content, while alternatives offer additional functionalities like encryption, video editing, and broader audience engagement.
    
2. Privacy Concerns: Many users seek apps with stricter data privacy policies, like Signal and Telegram.
    
3. Business Needs: Apps like WhatsApp and Viber cater to professional communication.
    
4. Regional Preferences: Some apps, such as Snow, have region-specific popularity.
    
5. Market Trends: Apps like TikTok thrive on short-form viral content, catering to newer audiences.

 

 

How to Build An Apps Like Snapchat? 

As per the development experts, we are breaking down the process to build an apps like Snapchat into its various parts: 

Conduct Market Research 

It is critical to know who you're making it for, what they want, and how the market is currently trending before you begin development. You can find this data by doing app market research and analyzing your competitors. 

Hire an App Development Company

You can accomplish this by contacting app development companies via their official websites, social media accounts, or business networks. You must locate a trustworthy and knowledgeable app development business that can make your dreams a reality. When you hire the development experts, you can clearly create an apps like Snapchat. 

Make a Roadmap

The Snapchat app development business assists in developing a road map outlining. The app's essential features and functionality are based on needs and market research. For the Snapchat app development process, this will be the plan. As a startup, you must not skip this crucial stage to make an apps like Snapchat.
 

Design the UI/UX Of App 

Now planning the app's UI and UX is the next stage to build an apps like Snapchat. Your messaging app's graphic design, prototyping, and wireframing are all handled by the UI/UX design team. Making interesting and engaging apps that the intended users can use is the main objective. 

Develop Your Snapchat-like App

The development of the app itself starts after the design is finalized. Building the chat app's backend and front end, adding features and functionality, and testing it to make sure it works are all tasks that social media app developers take on. 

Final Release 

The photo messaging app can be released to the app stores once it has undergone extensive testing and all issues have been resolved. Submitting the chat app for evaluation, advertising it through several means, and collecting user feedback are all part of this process. 

Regularly Maintain Your App 

After the app comes out, it needs to be constantly maintained to respond to user comments and market needs. Also, it can keep up to date and be useful. Adding new features, fixing bugs, and making the app better overall are some of these tasks. 

 

 

How IMG Global Infotech Can Be Your Partner for App Development (Why Choose IMG Global Infotech?)

 

1. Expertise in Mobile App Development: With years of experience building robust, scalable apps, IMG Global Infotech has developed solutions tailored for various industries.
    
2. Focus on Emerging Technologies: From AR/VR to AI and blockchain, we integrate the latest tech to deliver innovative apps.
    
3. Cost-Efficient Solutions: Our development process ensures a balance between high quality and competitive pricing.
    
4. Customization: We work closely with clients to ensure the app aligns with their unique vision and business goals.
    
5. Post-launch Support: We provide continuous updates, feature additions, and technical assistance to ensure your app’s success.
    

Our Development Process

 

1. Requirement Analysis: Understand your needs, target audience, and goals.
    
2. UI/UX Design: Craft intuitive designs for seamless user interaction.
    
3. Development & Testing: Build scalable apps with rigorous testing for performance and security.
    
4. Deployment & Maintenance: Launch your app and provide ongoing support.

 

You might have a hard time finding the top social media app development companies. A lot of factors need to be thought about, and that might be stressful at times. Even with a limited budget, the app developers at IMG Global can collaborate with you to build a safe and scalable application.

We are happy to provide you with this service because the developers at IMG Global Infotech can make apps for any business, no matter how complicated. So that you have a finished app that you are entirely happy with, we offer professional management, quality control, and product support.

For any questions or if you want to develop an apps like Snapchat from scratch, you must contact our experts. From coming up with ideas to building the app's bones, we'll be there for you the whole way.