How we test unfollow checkers
Every comparison and “best of” page on this site is built from the same five checks, run on a real account. Where a competing tool is the better choice for a particular need, the page says so. Each comparison lists the date it was last checked; if a tool has changed since, tell us at the address on the about page and we'll re-run the checks.
- 1
Does it ask for your password?
We install the app or extension on a test device and record every credential it requests before it shows any result. A tool that needs your Instagram login is logging in as you, which Instagram's terms prohibit.
- 2
Does it use Instagram's private API?
Login apps and most extensions call the same endpoints the Instagram app uses, from a device or IP Instagram doesn't recognise. That is the signature that triggers "Action Blocked" and suspicious-login warnings. We note which tools do this.
- 3
What do real users report?
We read the most recent App Store, Google Play, and Chrome Web Store reviews looking for three things: accounts locked or banned after use, surprise subscription charges, and results that didn't match Instagram.
- 4
What does it actually show?
Non-followers, unfollowers over time, mutuals, fans, ghost followers, CSV export, history. We check each claim against a real account rather than taking the listing's word for it.
- 5
What does it cost?
The listed price, the real price after the trial, and whether the free tier is usable or just a teaser. Weekly subscriptions are called out, because they are the most common complaint in reviews.
What we don't do
- We don't accept payment or affiliate commission from any tool we compare.
- We don't rate tools with stars. A feature table and a plain verdict are more useful than a number.
- We don't test tools by logging in with a real personal account. Test accounts only.
Where UnfollowChecker fits
UnfollowChecker passes the first two checks by design: it has no login and never touches Instagram's API, because it only reads the data export you download yourself. It fails one check that login apps pass: it can't alert you the moment someone unfollows, because it has no connection to your account. If instant notifications matter more to you than account safety, a login app is the better fit, and our comparison pages say that.