Many years ago I started a forum on phpBB then later converted to IPB. It was a good choice and worked well for me. Much success there.

But now I'm thinking of a new project. I'll start out w/ no budget but would eventually like to convert to either IPB or vB. But I would like to start out w/ a free forum software. phpBB hasn't changed much since I started my other one...excepting for phpBB3. It's in RC3 right now.

But how do you compare phpBB and MyBB? Or is SMF a better choice to throw in there?

In the next few days I'm going to do a test install of each of these, but wondered people's opinions on the front end.

Or would you bite the bullet and go ahead and purchase IPB/vB and go at it from that direction?

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MissSportsTalk.com <----THE PLACE to talk sports in Mississippi.

If I had the money I would bit the bulletin and go with the paid software, but if you really don't want to spend money I have never had any problems with MyBB and it is really improving dev wise.

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Is there a converter for MyBB to IPB or vB ?

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MissSportsTalk.com <----THE PLACE to talk sports in Mississippi.

I know you can go MyBB to vB not sure about IPB but I guess you could go MyBB -> phpBB -> IPB

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Actually, both have converters. IPB's is in testing I believe

If you want to compare the two side by side or demo them without having to install them, look here

As far as a recommendation, I'm not sure...I haven't used MyBB extensively enough to say, and only have experience with phpBB2. phpBB3, however, looks very promising.

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...some super-sweet signature

If you need a free one, go with MyBB. I've never liked phpBB2, and I've heard that 3 is better, but I still have my doubts.

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The Nerd Council
Nerd Log: Bringing you the Latest in Science and Technology
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Who Will Live and Who Will Die? Debate it now!

I really like PHPBB3 and I hated the 2 series. After everything, it comes down to preference. Try out both and pick the one that is easier to use for you.

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I really like SMF. And their support forum is also really helpful. I use SMF myself.
It's your choice actually. I haven't used Phpbb3, but have used the previous versions, and i didn't like them. MyBB is good.
But, as everyone said, it's your choice!

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If you're already planning to convert to a particular system in the future, I'd just recommend using that particular system from the start - you can spend time taking advantage of the features of that system instead of having to hold back because you don't want to have to redo all the customizations after converting. Plus, you won't have to worry about broken links or having to answer questions from users who can't figure out how to do something that they knew how to do with the old system.

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The Oldiesmann
SMF Webmaster
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