Monkey App Review: Features, Safety, Pricing, and Best Alternatives (2025 Guide)

What Is Monkey App?

Monkey is a Gen Z-focused social video chat app that matches users for short, live, random video conversations. With a tap, users are paired with strangers, chat face-to-face, and can choose to add each other as friends. No lengthy sign-up is required, and the app is free to download on iOS with in-app purchases.

Launched in 2016 by teen founders and acquired by HOLLA in 2019, Monkey promotes spontaneous connection through video chats and creator profiles. It includes interest tags, minimal filters, and friend streaks, offering a viral, low-friction way to meet new people.

Key Features

• Random Video Matching: Tap to connect instantly with strangers worldwide.
• Interest Tags: Choose tags (e.g. gaming, art, music) to match with similar users.
• Chat Tools: Add text, emojis, and reactions during video calls.
• Friends List: Reconnect with people you’ve added from past chats.
• Moderation Tools: Block, report, or mute users during or after calls.

Safety & Privacy Controls

Monkey has a 17+ age rating on the Apple App Store. Users can:

• Grant/revoke camera and mic access via iOS settings.
• Limit profile visibility and location sharing.
• Block and report users who violate guidelines.

However, real-time moderation is limited, and the app has faced scrutiny over content risks and age enforcement. Anonymity can be a double-edged sword, so users should remain cautious.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast, easy-to-use video matching.
• No sign-up required for basic use.
• Fun for spontaneous interactions.
• Interest-based filters help improve relevance.
• Free to use, with optional upgrades.

Cons

• Real-time moderation is imperfect.
• Exposure to inappropriate content is possible.
• Not suitable for users under 17 despite popularity among teens.
• Video chat drains battery and uses mobile data.

Tips for Safer Use

• Use headphones in public spaces.
• Avoid showing personal items or locations on camera.
• Keep conversations respectful and report violations.
• Set a time limit to avoid burnout.

Pricing and Monetization

Monkey is free to use, but users can buy in-app coins to:

• Boost profile visibility.
• Use premium filters or rematch features.
• Skip the line for faster matching.

Prices range from $0.99 to $29.99 depending on the bundle.

Best Alternatives to Monkey App

• Azar: Best for global connections with translations.
• HOLLA: Closest to Monkey for fast one-on-one chats.
• Yubo: Ideal for group sessions and social growth.

Conclusion

Monkey App is built for fast, low-effort video chats that appeal to Gen Z. It works best for creators, explorers, and social experimenters who enjoy quick interactions and viral potential. If you decide to try it, start slow, set boundaries, and explore alternatives if you’re unsure. The fun lies in the randomness—just make sure safety comes first.