Honest comparison · Updated July 2026

Mela vs PlanPlate

Both apps save recipes. The difference is what happens between saving and actually cooking dinner. Here's a fair look at where each one shines.

PlanPlate mascot weighing options
7
Features PlanPlate Wins
8
Import Sources (PlanPlate)
4
Languages (PlanPlate)
7
Days Free Trial

In short TL;DR

PlanPlate wins on 7 key features. You get 8 import sources (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest), automatic Thermomix conversion, and smart prep planning, none of which Mela offers. Mela's biggest gap: no social media import. Our pick: PlanPlate for most home cooks. Consider Mela instead if this describes you: Apple ecosystem enthusiasts (iCloud sync).

Feature Comparison

Side-by-side feature comparison between Mela and PlanPlate

Feature
PlanPlate
Mela
TikTok Import
Instagram Import
YouTube Import
Dish Photo Import
Thermomix Conversion
Smart Prep Plan Batching
Meal Planning
Shopping List
Cooking Mode
Multi-Language Support
Recipe Export (CSV/PDF)

Feature data checked July 2026. Spot an error? Tell us and we'll fix it.

Why choose PlanPlate

  • Smart Prep Plan Batching
  • Thermomix Recipe Conversion
  • 8 Import Sources (most in market)
  • Dish Photo Reverse-Engineering

Mela limitations

  • No social media import
  • No Thermomix support

What users say about Mela

“No social media import - limited to websites only”

— App Store Review

When Mela is the better pick

Mela is worth considering if this describes you: Apple ecosystem enthusiasts (iCloud sync), or privacy-focused users (no data collection). PlanPlate earns its keep when your recipes live in TikTok, Instagram, and your camera roll, and you want to actually cook them, with Thermomix conversion that no other app on this list offers.

PlanPlate

Choose PlanPlate if you…

  • Home cooks who save recipes from social media
  • Thermomix owners wanting to convert any recipe
  • Meal preppers who batch cook on weekends
  • European users (4 languages supported)
Mela

Choose Mela if you…

  • Apple ecosystem enthusiasts (iCloud sync)
  • Privacy-focused users (no data collection)
  • Users who primarily save from food blogs

Switching from Mela?

Mela supports export to json, paprika. You can import recipes into PlanPlate via text or start fresh with our 7-day trial.

PlanPlate lets you export your library as CSV or PDF anytime, and share any recipe via text message.

Pricing comparison

Mela

USD4.99 one-time

Desktop: USD9.99

  • Doesn't include: TikTok Import
  • Doesn't include: Instagram Import
  • Doesn't include: YouTube Import
PlanPlate mascot

Built by Matthias

Built by a single dad of three who wanted a better way to organize family meals.

Read the full story

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Mela and PlanPlate?

PlanPlate offers 7 more features than Mela, including Thermomix conversion, smart prep planning, and 8 import sources (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, etc.). Mela's biggest gap: no social media import.

Is PlanPlate better than Mela?

PlanPlate is better if you want Thermomix support, smart prep planning, or need to import recipes from social media. Mela may be the better fit if this describes you: Apple ecosystem enthusiasts (iCloud sync).

Can I switch from Mela to PlanPlate?

Yes! PlanPlate offers a 7-day free trial to test all features. Mela allows export to json, paprika, which you can import into PlanPlate.

Try the difference tonight

Start your 7-day free trial today, with full access to every feature, including Thermomix conversion.

Download on the App Store

Free to start. 7-day Premium trial included.

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