I’ve always enjoyed using Google Photos. It’s user-friendly and packed with features. But I recently shifted toward self-hosting, which helps me save money on subscriptions. Still, Google Photos is hard to completely replace—until now. I might have found just the right alternative: Immich.
Many appreciate Google Photos for quick edits, sharing, and backup, but managing large libraries can be tricky. I’ve dabbled with PhotoPrism, but it’s not quite as versatile—especially when it comes to multiple users.
Discovering Immich
My interest in Immich began after learning about its stable release in late 2025. This self-hosted solution mimics the feel of Google Photos while adding more customization options. You can easily manage multiple users, which is a big plus, especially for families.
How to Run Immich
To get started, consider where you’ll host it. If you have a Network Attached Storage (NAS) or a mini-PC, you’re set. You can also use a Virtual Private Server (VPS), but this can get pricey compared to Google One. Immich offers guides for popular NAS devices and easy setups for beginners.
The installation process is straightforward. I chose Docker for my DIY NAS setup, but options abound. They even provide apps for both Android and iOS, making it easy to back up and browse your photos.
Comparing to Google Photos
Immich isn’t a direct competitor to Google Photos, but it offers many similar features with a focus on user management. Setting up user accounts takes just a few clicks. Each user gets their own library while allowing shared access when needed. This versatility makes it an appealing choice for families.
You can monitor your storage, and the app includes several familiar features. These include geotagging, motion photos, and memory highlights, although it lacks some of Google’s advanced editing tools. However, basic photo manipulations are available on the mobile app.
User Feedback and Growing Interest
Recently, users on platforms like Reddit have expressed excitement about Immich. They appreciate the privacy benefits of self-hosting and the enhanced user management tools. Though still catching up to Google Photos in some areas, Immich is gaining traction quickly.
Conclusion
Overall, Immich could be the right fit if you’re looking to step away from Google Photos. It offers many of its appealing features while allowing for greater customization and privacy. While it’s not perfect yet—especially in terms of file management—Immich has the potential to meet the needs of users who want an alternative to cloud photo storage.
If you’re interested in exploring more, check out the official Immich website for detailed information on setups and features.
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