It’s no secret: most of our digital lives run on products from a handful of US tech companies. But what if you want to take back control — of your privacy, your data, and your digital independence? Europe has quietly built an impressive ecosystem of alternatives that rival the giants in usability, innovation, and trustworthiness.

Below, we’ve reviewed 10 standout European platforms that show it’s possible to live online without being tied to Silicon Valley.

1. Vivaldi — Browser

https://vivaldi.com

Vivaldi isn’t just another browser — it’s a statement. Built by former Opera engineers, Vivaldi gives users an unprecedented level of customization and privacy. From tab stacking to custom themes, keyboard shortcuts, and built-in ad blockers, this browser is designed for people who want control.

Why it stands out: You can tweak almost every element of your browsing experience. Vivaldi doesn’t sell your data or track your behavior.

Pros

• Advanced privacy settings and tracking protection
• Deep customization (themes, layouts, gestures)
• Fast, Chromium-based performance

Cons

• Interface can feel dense for beginners
• Slightly heavier on memory usage

2. Qwant Search

https://www.qwant.com

Qwant positions itself as Europe’s ethical alternative to Google. It delivers unbiased search results without tracking or profiling users. Qwant also integrates a “Qwant Junior” version for kids and a music search engine.

Why it stands out: It’s built around privacy by design — no cookies, no ad targeting, no data resale.

Pros

• No personalized tracking
• Clean interface with neutral results
• Operates under strict EU data laws

Cons

• Search depth lags behind Google
• Image and news results can feel limited

3. Deezer Streaming

URL: https://www.deezer.com

Before Spotify went global, Deezer was already streaming. It’s now one of the largest music services worldwide — with strong European roots. Deezer’s Flow feature learns your taste and builds endless playlists without selling your data to advertisers. A massive catalog with localized recommendations, plus HiFi audio for audiophiles.

PRO

• Huge music library
• Personalized playlists with minimal tracking
• Competitive HiFi audio option

Cons

• Interface updates roll out slowly
• Exclusive US releases sometimes delayed

4. OVHcloud — Web Hosting

URL: https://www.ovhcloud.com

OVHcloud is Europe’s cloud heavyweight — the go-to provider for developers, startups, and enterprises seeking GDPR-compliant infrastructure. With data centers across the EU, OVHcloud guarantees full sovereignty and transparency. You know where your data lives — and under which laws.

PRO

• Full control over hosting and data locality
• Competitive pricing and scalability
• Open, standards-based infrastructure

Cons

• Technical setup for non-developers
• Customer support varies by country

5. Jolla — OS

URL: https://sailfishos.org

Built by ex-Nokia engineers, Sailfish OS is the last major mobile operating system that isn’t controlled by the US or China. It runs on select Android devices, offers privacy-first app permissions, and encourages open-source development. A mobile OS that doesn’t phone home.

PRO

• Privacy-focused architecture
• Smooth multitasking and gesture-based UI
• Works without Google Services

Cons

• Smaller app ecosystem
• Limited hardware compatibility

6. HERE WeGo — Maps

URL: https://wego.here.com

HERE WeGo started as Nokia Maps and evolved into a serious competitor to Google Maps. With robust offline navigation, real-time transit updates, and accurate European mapping, it’s used by automakers and logistics companies worldwide. Reliable offline maps with zero data profiling.

PRO

• Excellent European coverage
• Offline navigation
• Trusted by major automotive brands

Cons

• UI feels dated
• Missing some crowdsourced features

7. DeepL — Translation

URL: https://www.deepl.com

DeepL, built in Germany, is widely regarded as the most accurate translator on the planet. It uses neural networks to produce natural, human-like translations while keeping all text private — even on the free version. Best-in-class translation quality combined with strict privacy standards.

PRO

• Unmatched accuracy in European languages
• Secure, GDPR-compliant processing
• API and desktop app options

Cons

• Smaller language set than Google Translate
• Limited features on the free plan

8. Sketch — Design

URL: https://www.sketch.com

Sketch has become the standard UI/UX design tool for Mac users. Unlike Figma or Adobe XD, Sketch keeps your files local and your workflow private. It’s clean, fast, and integrates seamlessly with developer handoff tools. Professional-grade design with total data control.

PRO

• Intuitive and lightweight
• Excellent plugin ecosystem
• One-time license option (no forced cloud)

Cons

• macOS only
• Cloud collaboration less advanced than competitors

9. Standard Notes — Notes

URL: https://standardnotes.com

For anyone tired of note-taking apps that mine user data, Standard Notes is a breath of fresh air. It uses end-to-end encryption and never stores readable copies of your data. It’s simple, fast, and completely open source. Real privacy in everyday productivity.

PRO

• True zero-knowledge encryption
• Clean, distraction-free UI
• Syncs across devices

Cons

• Basic feature set in the free version
• Limited formatting tools

10. Threema — Messaging

URL: https://threema.ch

Threema proves that a messaging app doesn’t need your phone number or your data to work. It’s fully encrypted, anonymous, and based in Switzerland — outside the reach of US surveillance. Communication built on privacy, not ads.

PRO

• End-to-end encryption by default
• No personal data collection
• One-time purchase model (no ads, no tracking)

Cons

• Smaller user base than WhatsApp or Signal
• Paid app may deter casual users

Turning $500 into $10 million sounds like a fantasy. For most, it is. But for Karthik, a tenacious entrepreneur with an immigrant's drive, it became a reality. He built a multi-brand e-commerce powerhouse not with venture capital or a stroke of luck, but through relentless hustle, smart strategy, and the grit to work until midnight after his full-time job.

This is the step-by-step story of how Karthik built his four apparel companies—Greek House, College Thread, Threadly, and the game-changing Athlete's Thread—from the ground up, creating a blueprint for anyone dreaming of bootstrapping their way to success.

Step 1: Find a Niche and Hustle (The Greek House Era)

The journey began in 2013, not in a Silicon Valley garage, but in a fraternity house. Karthik and his co-founder, Luke, saw a gap in the market: the custom apparel space for fraternities and sororities was clunky and underserved. With just $500 in their pockets, they launched Greek House.

Their initial strategy wasn't about complex marketing funnels or paid ads. It was pure, old-fashioned hustle.

• Network-Driven Sales: They texted friends in different Greek organizations on campus.
• Direct Pitching: They attended student organization meetings to pitch their services directly to decision-makers.
• Being the Customer: As students themselves, they understood the market intimately. They knew what their peers wanted, and they used that insight as their competitive edge.

While running Greek House part-time between classes, they were already building their entrepreneurial muscles, simultaneously launching a promotions company, a discount card business, and even a student storage company. But it was apparel that stuck, growing from $50,000 in revenue in its first year to $100,000 in its second—all while they were still in school.

Step 2: The Unbelievable Grind: Building an Empire While Working Full-Time

Upon graduation, Karthik didn't go all-in on his business. He took a demanding full-time job at Amazon, followed by another at Salesforce. This is where his story becomes a masterclass in dedication. His schedule was brutal:

• Work a full day: Go into the office from 8 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Build the dream: Come home and work on his business from evening until midnight.
• Sacrifice weekends: Dedicate at least one weekend day to the business.
• Repeat: He maintained this six-days-a-week grind for over two years.

What fueled this fire? Karthik credits his immigrant background. His parents moved from India, giving up everything to provide him and his siblings with opportunities. That sacrifice instilled in him a powerful work ethic and a deep desire to make them proud. He wasn't just building a business; he was honoring their journey.

Step 3: Strategic Expansion and Facing a Near-Death Experience

With Greek House proving successful, Karthik and his team strategically expanded into adjacent markets, creating new brands for each niche:

• College Thread: Serving college departments and organizations.
• Threadly: Providing custom merchandise for corporate businesses, fundraisers, and non-profits.

However, just four months after finally going full-time in 2016, disaster struck. They received a notice for $40,000 in unpaid licensing royalties. They had been operating without realizing the complex legal requirements of the industry. With less than that amount in the bank, the business was on the verge of collapse.

Instead of folding, they faced it head-on. They contacted the licensing agency, explained their mistake, and negotiated a payment plan. It was a terrifying, expensive lesson, but it taught them the critical importance of understanding industry regulations—a lesson that would later become their greatest strength.

Step 4: The Game-Changer: Capitalizing on the NIL Revolution with Athlete's Thread

The team's biggest breakthrough came from a monumental shift in college sports: the Supreme Court's "Name, Image, and Likeness" (NIL) ruling, which allowed student-athletes to finally monetize their personal brand. Having spent years navigating the complex world of collegiate licensing, Karthik was perfectly positioned.

They launched Athlete's Thread, a direct-to-consumer brand (built on Shopify) that creates co-branded merchandise for athletes and their colleges. This move was brilliant for several reasons:

1. A Massive Moat: The licensing hurdles are immense. A company needs licenses from hundreds of colleges andindividual rights from each athlete. This complexity keeps 99% of potential competitors out of the market.
2. A Passionate Market: Fans are eager to support their favorite college players directly.
3. Perfect Timing: They entered the market just as it was created, establishing themselves as a dominant player from day one.

The Blueprint: How They Built a $10M Marketing and Operations Machine

Karthik didn't just outwork his competition; he outsmarted them. Here is the operational and marketing playbook that powers his $10 million empire today.

1. A Tech-Powered, Asset-Light Supply Chain They don't own any manufacturing facilities. Instead, they built a robust network of print and production partners across the US. Their "secret sauce" is a custom-built Vendor Portal. This software makes it incredibly easy for their partners to manage orders, automating and streamlining their workflow. By providing free tech that saves their partners time and money, they become the preferred client and ensure high-quality, fast production.

2. A Multi-Channel Marketing Strategy (Without Wasting Money) Karthik has scaled to millions in sales without being overly reliant on expensive ads. His approach is diverse and cost-effective:

• Outbound Sales: They started with one-to-one cold emails and direct outreach—a cheap and effective way to land their first big clients.
• Affiliate & Ambassador Programs: They built a community of advocates who promote the brand in exchange for commissions or free products. This generates authentic content and word-of-mouth marketing simultaneously.
• High-Intent Paid Search: Instead of broad social media ads, they focus on Google Search. When someone searches for a "Bryce Young t-shirt," the intent to buy is extremely high, making ad spend far more efficient.
• Marketplace Domination: They list their products on platforms like Etsy and Google Shopping. This taps into existing marketplaces, providing a stream of "free marketing" to customers who are already in a shopping mindset.

3. Building a Brand, Not Just Selling Products In a world where anyone can start a Shopify store, Karthik differentiates his brands by focusing on the customer experience:

• Speed: A response to every customer inquiry in under four hours.
• Reliability: Shipping products within the guaranteed 2-3 business days.
• Premium Feel: Using custom neck labels and packaging to elevate the brand experience.
• Engaging Content: Creating social media content that truly resonates with young sports fans, athletes, and teams.

Final Takeaways: Karthik's Advice for Every Entrepreneur

1. Just Get Started: You will learn more by doing than by reading. Create a basic plan and start executing immediately.
2. Become a Self-Learner: When you hit a problem, don't wait for an answer. Go to Google. The solution is almost always out there if you're willing to find it.
3. Embrace Humility and Curiosity: You don't know everything. Immerse yourself in your industry, learn from the ground up, and never lose your genuine curiosity.
4. Communicate Obsessively: Especially in a remote team, clear, constant, and multi-format (written, verbal, video) communication is the key to success.

Karthik's story is the ultimate testament to the power of bootstrapping. It proves that with the right niche, an intelligent strategy, and an unbreakable work ethic, you don't need millions in funding to build a multi-million dollar empire. You just need to start.

The social media landscape is in constant flux, but few platforms have generated as much buzz and controversy in recent years as x.com, formerly Twitter. What was once considered a digital town square for global conversations and the rapid exchange of information has, for many users, become a source of frustration. The moderation policies seem increasingly arbitrary, the promised "free speech absolutism" has revealed itself to be selective censorship, and a palpable political agenda appears to have taken hold. Anyone searching for a platform where open debate is possible, free from the constant worry of censorship and one-sided influence, is now forced to look for alternatives.

Fortunately, a growing number of networks are promising just that: a return to the original ideals of social media. Whether decentralized, focused on niche communities, or built on a clear commitment to free expression, here are the eight best alternatives to X.com to consider in 2025.

1. Mastodon

https://mastodon.social/

Mastodon isn’t a single website, but a vast network (the "Fediverse") of thousands of independent servers, known as "instances." Each instance has its own rules and its own community, yet users can communicate with each other no matter which server they are on.

• No single entity controls the entire network. Power rests with the administrators of each instance.
• No algorithms dictating what you see. Your feed is purely chronological.
• Most instances allow significantly more than X's 280 characters.
• Non-commercial and is supported by donations and volunteers.

2. Bluesky

https://bsky.app/

Originally initiated by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, Bluesky has evolved into a promising, decentralized alternative. The platform feels familiar to former Twitter users but operates on revolutionary technology under the hood—the "AT Protocol"—which is designed to provide greater transparency and user control.

• Similar to Mastodon, the AT Protocol allows users to control their data and even migrate their account to another provider without losing their followers.
• Users can create and subscribe to their own algorithms to curate their timeline according to their preferences.
• The user experience is highly intuitive and strongly reminiscent of Twitter in its prime.

3. Threads

https://www.threads.net/

Launched by Meta (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram), Threads rapidly acquired millions of users by leveraging Instagram's existing network. It aims to be a public conversation app that integrates seamlessly into the Meta ecosystem while offering a distinct, text-focused experience.

• Effortless sign-up and follower import for existing Instagram users.
• A familiar microblogging interface for quick updates and public discussions.
• Meta has announced plans to make Threads compatible with the ActivityPub protocol, which would allow interaction with Mastodon and other federated platforms.

4. Gab

https://gab.com/

Gab positions itself as a champion of "free speech absolutism," attracting users who feel censored or de-platformed by mainstream sites. It is known for its minimal moderation policies, which has fostered a user base dedicated to unrestricted expression.

• A very broad interpretation of free speech, with few content restrictions beyond what is legally required.
• The look and feel are similar to classic Twitter, making it easy to use.
• A large portion of the platform is dedicated to political and social commentary.

5. GETTR

https://gettr.com/

Founded on the principle of fighting "cancel culture," GETTR is another alternative that prioritizes freedom of expression. It has attracted a significant number of conservative voices and media personalities who have left mainstream platforms.

• Allows for posts up to 777 characters, as well as high-quality video uploads and livestreaming capabilities.
• A dedicated feature for longer-form articles and statements.
• Aims to be a source for news and opinions without the editorial filter of Big Tech.

6. Nostr

https://nostr.com/

Nostr (Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays) is different from the others on this list. It's not a single app or website, but a decentralized protocol, much like email. Users can choose from many different client apps (like Damus or Amethyst) to access the same global network of notes and posts.

• Because it's a protocol, there is no central server to shut down or company to pressure. Your identity is a cryptographic key that you own.
• You decide which relays (servers) you connect to, giving you full control over your data and who you interact with.
• A vibrant community of developers is constantly building new apps and features on the Nostr protocol.

7. Tumblr

https://www.spill.com/

The platform, which had its golden era a decade ago and lost many users due to controversial content decisions, is anything but dead. In fact, it has evolved into a resilient oasis for visual and creative expression, cultivating a loyal and active user base away from the mainstream. for many, it's the perfect antidote to the text-based and often toxic debate culture of other networks.

• At its core, Tumblr is a blogging platform. Users create and curate content in the form of images, GIFs, text, videos, and "photosets." Aesthetics and visual expression are clearly the main focus.
• The heart of Tumblr is the "reblog." Instead of just sharing, users add their own comments and tags, creating conversational threads that can evolve over years and become a cultural artifact in their own right.
• There is arguably no better platform for deep dives into niche interests. Whether it's art, TV series, gaming, literature, or specific humor—subcultures find a home on Tumblr and can thrive without the noise of general timelines.
• Unlike the uniform profiles of X or Instagram, Tumblr allows for extensive customization of one's own blog through countless themes. Every blog can be a unique visual experience.

With so many bookmark managers available in 2025, it’s hard to know which one truly fits your workflow — from minimal tools to full-featured dashboards, here are personal reviews

1. Raindrop.io

https://raindrop.io/

Raindrop.io is one of the most popular bookmark managers, known for its beautiful UI, tagging system, and powerful search. It syncs across devices and integrates with numerous apps.

If design and visuals matter, Raindrop.io is probably the best-looking bookmark manager out there. Collections feel polished, previews are elegant, and it works equally well for individuals and teams. It’s a solid “all-rounder” — but it may feel heavy for users who only want the basics.

PRO

• Stunning, modern UI
• Robust tagging and organization system
• Syncs across devices
• Team collaboration features

CONS

• Premium subscription required for advanced features
• May feel over-engineered for light users

2. Bookmer

https://bookmer.com/

Bookmer is one of the newest entrants in the bookmark management space, designed with a minimalist and productivity-first mindset. It focuses on being lightweight, fast, and uncluttered — just bookmarks, cleanly organized.

Bookmer feels refreshing. Where many tools overload with features, Bookmer keeps it simple and lightning-fast. Adding, organizing, and sharing bookmarks is seamless. It shines for users who want a focused, distraction-free way to manage resources, especially freelancers, researchers, and teams.

PRO

• Super fast and lightweight
• Minimalist, modern design
• Easy to create and share collections
• No unnecessary clutter

CONS

• Smaller ecosystem, fewer integrations than older players
• Power-users may miss advanced customization

3. Start.me

https://start.me/

Start.me has been around for years as a dashboard-style start page. It combines bookmarks with widgets, RSS feeds, calendars, and productivity tools.

This is more of a personalized homepage than a pure bookmark manager. It’s fantastic if you like to open your browser and see a control panel of your digital life: news, tasks, and your most-used links. However, the UI can feel a little dated and cluttered.

PRO

• Highly customizable dashboard
• Supports RSS feeds, widgets, and productivity tools
• Great as a browser start page

CONS

• Interface looks a bit old-fashioned
• Can feel overwhelming for users who just want simple bookmarking

4. Atavi

https://atavi.com/

Atavi is a cloud-based bookmark manager that doubles as a browser start page. It emphasizes cross-device syncing and simplicity.

Atavi is clean and simple, perfect if you want bookmarks accessible on any browser or device. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done. However, it lacks some of the power-user features like nested folders or deep tagging.

PRO

• Cloud-based, works across browsers
• Clean and straightforward
• Good as a start page

CONS

• Lacks advanced features (tags, automation)
• UI is functional but not inspiring

5. Pearltrees

https://www.pearltrees.com/

Pearltrees organizes bookmarks visually, in a mind-map/tree structure. It’s part bookmark manager, part curation tool.

This tool is ideal for people who think visually. Instead of lists, you create “pearls” (nodes) that branch into collections. It feels like building a personal web of knowledge. On the downside, it can become messy and isn’t as fast for quick retrieval as a search-based system.

PRO

• Unique visual organization (tree/mind-map style)
• Great for brainstorming and research projects
• Collaborative collections possible

CONS

• Can get visually cluttered with many bookmarks
• Not as efficient for quick keyword searches

6. Infinity New Tab

https://inftab.com

Infinity New Tab is a browser extension that turns your new tab into a customizable dashboard of bookmarks, apps, and widgets.

It’s excellent for people who live inside Chrome or Edge and want every new tab to be productive. You can add bookmarks, shortcuts, weather, and notes. However, it’s less of a traditional bookmark manager and more of a productivity dashboard.

PRO

• Beautiful, customizable dashboard
• Perfect for quick-access links and tools
• Lightweight and browser-native

CONS

• Limited deep organization features
• Not great for large bookmark collections

7. Are.na

https://www.are.na/

Are.na is a creative bookmarking and curation tool, often used by designers, artists, and researchers. It emphasizes collaborative “channels” of content.

Are.na feels different: more like a creative moodboard meets bookmarking tool. It’s less about saving every article, more about curating inspiration. If you’re a designer or researcher, it’s inspiring; if you’re a business user, it may feel too abstract.

PRO

• Beautiful, creative interface
• Great for inspiration and visual curation
• Collaborative channels for teams

CONS

• Less suited for productivity-focused bookmarking
• Limited search/organizational depth

8. Diigo

https://www.diigo.com/

Diigo is an academic-style bookmarking tool that focuses on annotations, highlighting, and note-taking alongside saved links.

This is perfect for researchers, students, and knowledge workers. You don’t just save links — you can highlight, comment, and tag them. It feels like building a personal research database. The interface isn’t modern, but the power is in the annotation features.

PRO

• Annotation and highlighting tools
• Strong tagging and metadata
• Great for research and study

CONS

• UI feels outdated
• Sync and sharing can be clunky

9. Papaly

https://papaly.com/

Papaly is a social bookmarking manager that makes it easy to organize links and share curated boards with others.

Papaly’s strength is in shared boards — you can build a collection of resources and send it to colleagues or students. It feels less polished than Raindrop, but it’s simple and social.

PRO

• Shared boards for collaboration
• Simple, easy interface
• Free to use

CONS

• Limited advanced features
• UI design feels dated

10. Pinboard

https://pinboard.in

Pinboard is a minimalist bookmarking tool beloved by developers, writers, and long-time web users. It’s text-based, fast, and privacy-focused.

Pinboard is the opposite of flashy. It’s spartan, but extremely reliable. It’s perfect for people who want to own their data and don’t care about visuals. However, it’s not beginner-friendly.

PRO

• Simple, lightweight, privacy-first
• Fast and reliable
• Great for power-users

CONS

• Very plain UI
• Steeper learning curve for casual users

This isn’t another “listicle.” Each section below is a mini-playbook: what the model is, how money actually flows, where the failure modes are, and the step-by-step workflow you can copy. Throughout the text, you’ll see direct links to platforms and tools. The idea is simple: as you read, save what matters into a dedicated Bookmer collection (e.g., “Freelancing Funnel,” “Affiliate SEO,” “Dropshipping Unit Economics,” etc.) and turn this article into an actionable knowledge system you can return to.

1. Freelancing — from “time for money” to leverage

Freelancing is the fastest, lowest-friction way to earn online because you monetize skills you already have. You can start on marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr to validate demand, but the goal is to escape commodity pricing by repositioning toward premium networks like Toptal (vetted experts), Contra (0% fees for independents), or Malt (strong European client base).

Business mechanics (the part most skip)

• ICP + Promise: Define a tight ideal client profile (ICP) and a result-oriented promise. “Copywriter” is generic; “B2B SaaS onboarding email specialist who lifts activation by 10–30%” commands a premium.
• Acquisition funnel:
  1. Outbound (warm, not spam): case-study-driven messages on LinkedIn + email.
  2. Inbound: a one-page site (Webflow/Framer) with 2–3 case studies and a clear CTA to book.
  3. Platform presence: keep an optimized profile on Upwork/Malt to catch passive demand.
  4. Referrals: systematize asks at project milestones.
• Pricing that scales: start with project fees (fixed scope), then move to value-based (tied to outcomes) and retainers (e.g., 20 hours/month for advisory + implementation).

Workflow

• Discovery → proposal → statement of work → kick-off → weekly async updates → deliverables → retro.
• Bookmark this tools: Calendly for booking; Notion for client hubs; Loom for async demos; contracts/invoicing via Bonsai or Wise for cross-border payments.

Risks

• Client concentration: don’t let one client exceed 40% of revenue.
• Scope creep: lock SOWs; upsell as new phases.
• Pipeline dips: maintain weekly outbound, even when booked.

Bookmer move: Create collections “Prospecting Messages,” “Case Study Library,” “Proposal Templates,” and save best-in-class examples you find so you never write from scratch again.

3. Affiliate Marketing — content that compounds

You build content assets (SEO blog, YouTube, newsletter) that attract qualified intent, then monetize with affiliate programs. The best programs today are SaaS/B2B because of recurring commissions via PartnerStack and Impact; consumer programs like CJ Affiliate and Amazon Associates still work but typically pay less.

Business mechanics

• Topical authority > random posts. Design a cluster map: one “hub” page + 10–20 “spokes” that answer adjacent queries. Use Ahrefs or Semrush to mine low-KD, buyer-intent keywords; use SurferSEO to match intent and structure.
• Funnel: Search → in-depth comparison/review → email capture (lead magnet) → follow-up sequence → affiliate offer. ConvertKit or beehiiv make the capture/sequence easy.
• Trust signals: show screenshots, disclose affiliations (FTC), and demonstrate use.
  

Workflow

1. Keyword research (100+ terms bucketed by intent).
2. Draft outlines in Notion; validate search intent with SERP checks.
3. Publish 2–3 long-form assets/week for 90 days.
4. Interlink hubs/spokes; measure in Google Search Console.
5. Add CTAs only where the reader is ready.
   

Risks

• Algorithm updates can nuke traffic. Hedge with YouTube and a newsletter (your owned list is algorithm-proof).
• Don’t rely on one program; use 3–5 high-fit offers via Impact / PartnerStack.

Bookmer move: Save “Keyword Map,” “SERP Teardowns,” “Affiliate T&Cs,” and “Email Sequences” as separate collections so you can iterate like a newsroom, not a hobbyist.

3. Digital Products — scale knowledge, not hours

Turn expertise into assets: templates (Figma/Notion), ebooks, micro-courses, playbooks. Sell via Gumroad, Lemon Squeezy (great VAT handling), or, for courses/memberships, Kajabi and Teachable. For printable planners and digital kits, Etsy still converts.

Business mechanics

• Validation before creation: pre-sell with a landing page (Framer/Carrd + Stripe checkout). Collect feedback; if conversion <1–2%, refine the promise.
• Offer architecture: entry ($19 template) → core ($99 system) → premium ($299 cohort).
• Distribution: Twitter/LinkedIn audience + partner cross-promotions + your email list.

Workflow

• Discovery: 10–15 customer interviews; capture pains/phrases (copy fuel).
• Build: outline → script → produce with Canva/Figma (design), Descript (audio/video), Loom (screen).
• Launch: 5-day email runway (tease → problem → solution → social proof → last call) with ConvertKit.
• Post-launch: update/iterate; create LTV with a lightweight membership in Kajabi or a private community in Circle.

Risks

• Commoditization: differentiate via outcomes and implementation detail (bonus checklists, templates, office hours).
• Piracy/refunds: watermarks, clear policy, generous but boundaried guarantees.

4. E-commerce & Dropshipping — from arbitrage to brand

“Classic” dropshipping (cheap product + cheap ad = profit) is largely dead. What works in 2025 is brand-led commerce: sharp positioning, UGC-driven acquisition, tight retention. Start lean on Shopify (default) or WooCommerce (if you’re already on WordPress). For catalog ops: DSers (AliExpress automation). For no-inventory designs: Printful and Printify.

Unit economics

• Margin = AOV − COGS − Shipping − Payment fees − CAC (ad cost/order).
• Track break-even ROAS and contribution margin before you “scale” a winner.
• Push LTV with email/SMS flows in Klaviyo and Postscript.

Workflow

1. Offer/niche: one clear story (who’s it for + why now).
2. UGC creative: seed creators to produce TikTok-first assets (social proof > studio polish).
3. Analytics: instrument day-1 with Triple Whale for MER/ROAS/LTV visibility.
4. Retention: welcome, browse-abandon, cart-abandon, and post-purchase flows in Klaviyo; run a 60-day win-back.

Fulfillment & CX

• If shipping from CN, set expectations transparently; consider EU/US 3PL as you scale.
• Returns policy is marketing — make it humane (and measurable).

5. Investing — income vs. wealth

None of this is financial advice; do your own research and consider your jurisdiction and tax situation.

Investing is wealth construction, not monthly cashflow. Your levers: asset allocation, time in market, and discipline. If you’re in the US, brokers like Robinhood or eToro make ETFs and stocks easy. In the EU (incl. Germany), look at Trade Republic and DEGIRO. For crypto exposure, Coinbase (global) and Kraken are widely used. For fractional real estate, Fundrise is a mainstream option (US).

Business

• DCA (dollar-/euro-cost averaging) beats market-timing for most.
• Core-satellite: low-fee broad ETFs as the core; selective “satellites” (themes, individual equities) sized appropriately.
• Risk budget: explicit max allocation to high-volatility assets (e.g., crypto).

Workflow

Use TradingView for charts, Morningstar for fundamentals and ETF data, and build a checklist (moat, margins, cash flow, dilution). Track everything in a Bookmer collection — watchlists, theses, post-mortems.

Risks

• Leverage, FOMO, overtrading.
• Platform/jurisdiction constraints and taxes — read the docs before you click “Buy.”

6. Content Creation — the niche authority play

The creator economy is a media business in miniature: you publish, build audience trust, and monetize via a mix of ads, sponsors, affiliates, products, and memberships. On video, YouTube’s Partner Program is still the anchor. Short-form reach comes from TikTok; monetization leans on sponsors, affiliates, and community. Writers have strong options in Substack and beehiiv; memberships via Patreon or Circle; tips via Ko-fi.

Business

• Content-market fit: a narrow, underserved problem space (e.g., “freelancer taxes in Germany,” “Obsidian workflows for PhD students,” “AI for Shopify merchants”).
• System: ideas → briefs → scripts → production → distribution → repurposing.
• Monetization ladder: CPM ads (floor), affiliates (mid), sponsorships and own products (ceiling).

Workflow

• Ideation/SEO: collect topic clusters in Notion; validate with Ahrefs; outline with SurferSEO for written content.
• Production stack: Descript or CapCut for edits, Canva Pro for thumbnails and carousels.
• Sponsorships: create a media kit and rate card; pitch brands in your niche (track via Bookmer), and manage inventory like a publisher.

Risks

• Algorithm shock: diversify formats and build an owned list (newsletter).
• Burnout: cadence you can sustain beats sprints.

7. Remote Jobs & Side Hustles — stability + experiments

For many, the sanest path is a remote salary + one or two experiments. The job pays the bills; the side project compounds into optionality.

• Job discovery: We Work Remotely, Remote OK, FlexJobs (curated). Europe-focused options: EU Remote Jobs.
• Micro-hustles: user research at Prolific, usability tests via UserTesting, online tutoring at Preply, translation at Gengo.
• Portfolio: ship work in public (GitHub for devs; case studies for PM/Design; writing samples for content).

Workflow

• Weekly cadence: apply to 10 high-fit roles, ship 1 public artifact, advance 1 side project.
• Asynchronous excellence: docs, recorded demos (Loom), and decision logs (Notion).
• Negotiation as a process: internal equity bands + market comps + a written case for impact.

Quick link recap

https://bokmr.com/4q45j

I used to think browser bookmarks were enough. A little star icon in Chrome, Safari, or Firefox, and I could “save” a page forever. Easy, right? But after a few months, my bookmark bar looked like a junk drawer: random recipes, half-read articles, tools I forgot existed, and broken links that led nowhere.

That’s when I realized something important: browser bookmarks weren’t designed for the way we work today.They’re too simple for the complex way we use the internet. Enter the bookmark manager — a tool built to actually handle the flood of information we save, share, and revisit every day.

Let’s dive into why a bookmark manager is better than browser bookmarks, and why making the switch could completely change your digital life.

1. Browser bookmarks = chaos.
Bookmark managers = organization.

A browser’s built-in bookmark feature is like tossing papers into a single drawer. Sure, you can create folders, but let’s be honest — who actually does that consistently?

A bookmark manager, on the other hand, gives you:

• Tags and categories → Save a link as “productivity,” “marketing,” or “design inspiration.”
• Search → Type a keyword and instantly find what you saved months ago.
• Visual previews → Instead of cryptic page titles, you see a clean, recognizable snapshot.

It’s the difference between a messy desk and a beautifully organized library.

2. Browser bookmarks are stuck on one device. Bookmark managers are everywhere.

Have you ever saved something on your work computer, only to realize you can’t access it on your phone later? Browser bookmarks often live inside one browser profile.

A bookmark manager is cloud-based. That means:

• Your saved links sync across devices — laptop, phone, tablet.
• Switching browsers? No problem. Chrome today, Safari tomorrow — your bookmarks stay with you.
• Travel or working remotely? Just log in, and your entire knowledge base is there.

It’s like carrying your digital brain in your pocket.

3. Browser bookmarks don’t play well with others. Bookmark managers are built for sharing.

Bookmarks used to be a personal thing. But today, saving and sharing knowledge is teamwork.

With a bookmark manager, you can:

• Share collections with colleagues, friends, or study groups.
• Collaborate on reading lists or research projects.
• Turn your personal library into a team knowledge hub.

Browser bookmarks just don’t offer that kind of flexibility.

4. Browser bookmarks get cluttered. Bookmark managers fight digital overload.

Think about how many tabs you have open right now. (Be honest.) Browser bookmarks are basically just a way to shove those tabs into long-term storage — without solving the real problem: too much information.

Bookmark managers help by:

• Letting you archive old links you don’t need every day.
• Highlighting what’s most important with tags or favorites.
• Keeping things clean, minimal, and easy to revisit.

Instead of hoarding links, you’re curating them.

5. Browser bookmarks are fragile. Bookmark managers are reliable.

Ever click on an old browser bookmark, only to land on a 404 page? Websites change, links die. Browser bookmarks don’t protect you from that.

A good bookmark manager:

• Checks links for you.
• Alerts you to broken URLs.
• Sometimes even saves a cached copy so the content doesn’t disappear forever.

Your knowledge stays safe, even when the internet isn’t

6. Productivity: the real win.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about saving links. It’s about saving time and mental energy.

• With browser bookmarks, you waste minutes digging through a chaotic list.
• With a bookmark manager, you type a keyword, find your link, and move on.

Those little time savings add up. Over a year, it could mean hours of regained focus — hours you can spend working, learning, or just relaxing.

7. The bigger picture: knowledge management

A bookmark manager is more than just a place to store links. It’s a knowledge management system. It helps you:

• Build a personal learning library.
• Collect resources for future projects.
• Turn browsing into actual productivity.

Browser bookmarks? They’re just a list of links. A bookmark manager? It’s a tool for turning information into insight.

Conclusion: Time to upgrade from the star icon

Browser bookmarks were fine in the early days of the web. But the way we work, learn, and collaborate online has changed. We need more than a star in the browser bar — we need tools that help us stay organized, productive, and connected.

That’s why a bookmark manager is better than browser bookmarks. It’s not just about storing links; it’s about taking control of your digital life.

So the next time you’re tempted to click that star icon, ask yourself: do I want another messy folder… or do I want a library I can actually use?

I still remember the time when creating an online account felt like magic – one password, and everything was secure. At least, that’s what I thought. Then I discovered something called 2FA, and it completely changed the way I thought about security. Let’s explore what Two-Factor Authentication really is, why it exists, how it evolved, how to use it, and just how safe it actually is.

Why does 2FA exist?

Relying on just one password is risky. Password leaks, phishing scams, reused logins – once your password is compromised, your entire account can fall into the wrong hands. That’s why 2FA exists.

Instead of relying on only one piece of proof (your password), 2FA requires two different forms of verification:

• Something you know (your password),
• Plus something you have (like your phone or a hardware key),
• Or something you are (like a fingerprint).

This double check makes it far harder for hackers to get in, even if they know your password.

A quick history of 2FA

The idea isn’t new.

• 1960s: Early forms appeared in banking, like chip-and-PIN cards.
• 1990s: AT&T introduced a pager-based system that sent one-time login codes.
• 2000s: Token devices like RSA SecurID gained traction in businesses, generating time-based codes.
• 2010s: The smartphone made 2FA practical for everyone – with apps and push notifications.
• Today: We have advanced, phishing-resistant options like hardware security keys (YubiKey, FIDO2/WebAuthn).

From banks to Big Tech, 2FA has become a standard layer of protection in digital life.

How do you use 2FA?

Turning on 2FA is easier than you might think:

1. Go to your account’s security settings and enable 2FA.
2. Log in with your password (the first factor).
3. Enter your second factor – usually a 6-digit code via SMS, an authenticator app, a push notification, or a physical key.
4. You’re in – with far stronger protection than a password alone.
5. Always keep backup codes or spare devices, in case you lose your phone or hardware key.

How safe is 2FA really?

The strengths:

• Adds a major layer of protection: hackers need more than just your password.
• Authenticator apps and hardware keys are very secure.
• Hardware-based 2FA (like YubiKey) resists phishing entirely – it only works with the real website.

The weaknesses:

• SMS codes can be intercepted through SIM-swapping attacks.
• Some phishing sites can still trick users into entering both password and 2FA code.
• If you lose your second factor and have no backup, you can get locked out of your own account.

The big idea behind 2FA

At its core, 2FA is about trust. Instead of putting all your faith in a single password, you spread security across two factors. That way, even if one fails, the other still stands guard.

It’s not perfect, but it’s a huge step forward. And in today’s world – where online identity is as valuable as money – that extra step is worth it.

Next time you log in somewhere important, don’t just settle for one password. Turn on 2FA. Your future self will thank you.

Today I’m writing the first Bookmer blog post. We’ve wanted to do this for a long time, but between studies, work, and life, it never quite happened. Now it does. And in the coming weeks and months, there’ll be more—curiosities, honest behind-the-scenes notes, tips and tricks, things we learned the hard way, and small stories that (I hope) are genuinely worth your time.

First launch December 17, 2022

Let me rewind to the beginning.

Around 2022 I was still in university, and already drowning in links. Papers, articles, tools, random late-night finds—my browser was a skyline of tabs and a graveyard of “I’ll read this later.” I tried a bunch of bookmark managers. Many of them, actually. For different purposes, different tools. And every single time, something felt off: the structure didn’t fit how my brain organizes things; the mobile experience was awkward; sync felt brittle; the flexibility I wanted just wasn’t there. Even at my first job I found myself juggling links all day. Yes, you can toss them into your browser, but a real manager gives you a lot more—context, order, trust.

So the idea was simple: build something very small and very me. Just enough to customize, just flexible enough to get out of my way. A few lines of code turned into a little project; a little project turned into a living thing. I had no name for it at first. For a while I used Bookmarker.me—then I stumbled onto Bookmer, and it clicked.

I worked on it for about a year, on and off. No master plan to commercialize anything. No pitch deck. It was a thing I needed, and since the market didn’t give me what I needed, I built it. Honestly, that’s still the DNA of Bookmer: an idea that exists because I love it and I use it myself.

At some point I put it on Product Hunt—New Year’s Eve, 2022 into 2023. I assumed you launch something cool and upvotes just show up. They don’t. Turns out, Product Hunt tends to reward whoever can mobilize the loudest campaign, DM half the planet, and remind them to click. That never felt like me, so Bookmer stayed small. It stung at the time; today I’m okay with it. Bookmer doesn’t exist because an algorithm said it should. It exists because I keep opening it every day.

About the market: yes, it’s crowded. I once made a list of bookmark tools and passed 300. That could have been the moment to quit. Instead, I kept going—not out of some delusion that Bookmer would crush them all, but because I love building this. Some days I hated it, too. There were ugly bugs. Servers stalled. Users couldn’t log in. I learned how heavy “infrastructure” is—even for a small platform that looks simple from the outside. Costs that don’t announce themselves. Work that no one ever sees. Still, the ride is worth it. Bookmer is my daily driver. I use it literally every day—not as my only manager (my browser still holds my top five links for instant reach), but as the place where everything else I care about actually lives.

A quick word on pricing, because this part matters. From the beginning, Bookmer was paid. Not because I wanted to squeeze it for cash, but because I wanted people to value it. When something is completely free, we often don’t see the time and the ideas behind it. That said, I’m going to release a free version in the coming months. Most casual users don’t spend money unless they feel the value every day, and that’s fair. The free version will make sense, and for those who want more, there’ll be a path.

That path—this is where it gets interesting—is add-ons. Think of them as extensions you can choose: some free, some paid, similar to an app-store model. You pick what you need. That way, the project can sustain itself even if you’re on the free tier. Alongside that, I’m working on local partnerships—cases where Bookmer becomes a standard place for shared links in a specific community or organization. That can generate modest revenue and help cover operating costs in a way that feels aligned with the product.

There’s also a business/teams angle I’m excited about. Imagine a company using Bookmer to set standard links for employees—central profiles that define the everyday essentials: onboarding docs, internal tools, policies, the stuff every new teammate hunts for on day one. Shared structure. Less “where’s that link?” and more “it’s right there.” It’s simple, but it changes how teams start working together.

Since we’re being honest, here’s another line I drew early: I don’t sell user data. I’ve never wanted to. I don’t run creepy tracking. I even booted Google Analytics out of the system and only ever had it briefly. I wired up a sign-in flow at one point but didn’t fully roll it out—time and resources are real. Could I collect more metrics and optimize funnels? Sure. But I’d rather keep Bookmer clean and human, and earn trust the hard way.

Technically, Bookmer has been rewritten more than once. 3.0 isn’t a marketing label; it’s a fact. The very first version was plain JS, HTML, and CSS. Today it’s far beyond that. The iOS app right now is a native web integration, but the plan is to go fully native in Swift. There’s a list of small ideas and long-standing wishes that quietly shape the roadmap; some will ship soon, some will take their time, and some will probably surprise even me when they finally land.

I’ve also spent time on the naming and domain side of things—more than I wanted to. I tried to buy the .com once and got quoted a six-figure price. Not happening. For a while I even considered a rebrand, but nothing felt right. Then I got lucky and found the Bookmer domain you see today, and I grabbed a bunch of related domains while I was at it. Even as a “hobby,” I see real potential for Bookmer to grow internationally, so language support and translations are coming too. Slowly but surely.

In between all of this, development has been… sporadic at times. Life happens. Sometimes I put Bookmer aside, then I come back and fix a dozen little things. I’m picky about marketing while bugs still annoy me—I know most people wouldn’t notice, but if I can see them, I won’t push hard. Lately, though, the project has picked up again. I’m putting in more focus, more time. I’m exploring help from freelancers, maybe even hires, and leaning on partnerships where it makes sense. That’s how Bookmer moves faster without losing what makes it personal.

What is Bookmer trying to be? A central place to discover and keep the links that matter. A way to share interesting finds and new services. A small community space where you can react, leave comments, upvote or downvote, and help each other separate the signal from the noise. Not a loud social network. More like a calm network of curiosity. I want the community to be the point—not the growth curve.

If all of that sounds a little contradictory—paid but also free, simple but ambitious, personal but open to teams—yeah, that’s fair. It’s the real story. Bookmer wasn’t built to chase a trend. It’s a quiet thing that survived because it turned out to be useful to me, and to a few others, and then a few more. Some days it’s a love story. Some days it’s a bug report with feelings. But it’s mine, and if you’re here reading this, maybe it can be a little bit yours, too.

There’s more to come—why a bookmark manager is still worth having in 2025, where Bookmer helps in ways a browser can’t, what I’ve learned from running a “small” platform that never feels small on the inside. And of course: the add-ons, the free tier, the teams edition, the native iOS build, and the community features that will either be brilliant or teach me something quickly.

For now, thank you for being here at the very first post. This whole thing started because nothing out there fit me, and it grew because I cared enough to keep going. That’s still the plan.

It stays exciting to see how this all evolves.