This thread focuses on older-user friendly options. I asked the same thing because it is hard to tell whether a platform is actually active or just full of empty promises.
I keep coming back to the same question: whether the free tier is actually usable or just a front for a paywall. I also pay attention to how much personal data the app asks for at signup, since privacy matters more than flashy branding.
The people who seem happiest usually keep expectations low, test the free features first, and never rush into an upgrade.