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Best Food Tracking AppsThe food tracking app awards

Re-checked monthly · last full review October 23, 2026

Awards › Head to head › FatSecret vs MyNetDiary

Head to head

FatSecret vs MyNetDiary (2027): Two Classic Free Food Diaries

Our call: FatSecret

FatSecret wins this match-up for its active community and a catalogue used by other companies across many countries. MyNetDiary is the better choice for a calm, structured diary with calorie and macro targets on the free plan, and for people who want its separate diabetes companion app.

By Owen Castell · Reviewed by Josh Robertson, RD, registered dietitian · published October 23, 2026 · updated October 23, 2026

Round by round

RoundFatSecretMyNetDiaryEdge
Free planDiary, barcode scanner, exercise and weight logs, communityDiary, barcode scanner, calorie and macro targetsEven
Food catalogueLicensed to other companies; many countries and brands—FatSecret
CommunityActive member forums—FatSecret
StructureStraightforward diaryTidy, structured diary with clear remaining totalsMyNetDiary
PlatformsiPhone, Android, webiPhone, Android, webEven
Diabetes—Separate diabetes-focused companion appMyNetDiary
"—" means the company's own pages, as we read them, do not say. Prices as published by each company.

Official sites: FatSecret · MyNetDiary

The short answer

FatSecret and MyNetDiary are dependable diaries from before AI logging became common, and both keep their core features free. FatSecret wins the match-up for its community, members sharing meals, recipes and progress in forums, and for a catalogue that other companies license through its developer platform. MyNetDiary wins on structure: a calm diary with calorie and macro targets and a clear view of what is left for the day.

What each does best

FatSecret is the friendlier choice if company helps you keep going. Its free plan includes the diary, barcode scanner, exercise and weight logs and the community.

MyNetDiary suits people who like order. The free version includes the diary, barcode scanning and calorie and macro targets, and the same company offers a separate app for people managing diabetes.

Platforms and price

Both run on iPhone, Android and the web. Both offer optional paid tiers priced by country; see the store listing where you live.

Who should choose which

  • Choose FatSecret for a free diary with a community behind it.
  • Choose MyNetDiary for a structured diary, or for its diabetes companion app. Anyone managing diabetes should set targets with their clinician.

See both scorecards: FatSecret · MyNetDiary.

Questions readers ask

Is FatSecret or MyNetDiary better?

FatSecret if you want a free diary with a community around it; MyNetDiary if you prefer a calm, structured diary with calorie and macro targets, or want the company's separate diabetes app.

Are FatSecret and MyNetDiary free?

Both have free versions with a food diary and barcode scanner, and both offer optional paid tiers priced by country; check the app store for the current price where you live.

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