Best Free Apps to Play Darts Online With Friends (2026 Comparison)
If you want to play darts online with a friend using real boards, there are several apps that make it possible. Some are completely free. Others limit online matches. Some require downloads, while others run in your browser.
Best Free Apps to Play Darts Online With Friends (2026 Comparison)
This guide compares the most popular options in 2026:
- DartCounter
- Nakka (N01)
- Lidarts
- Dartsy
The focus here is simple: Which apps let you play 501 online with a friend for free, with the least friction?
DartCounter
DartCounter is one of the most feature-rich darts apps available. It includes online play, multiple game modes, advanced statistics, and optional camera scoring in the paid tier.
The free version allows online play, but many features are restricted, including advanced stats, extended history, and some online functionality. It’s designed around a subscription upgrade.
This makes it powerful, but not ideal if you just want quick casual matches with friends.
Good for: Players who want advanced statistics and structured practice tools.
Nakka (N01)
Nakka is one of the longest-running online darts platforms. It’s browser-based and built around manual scoring with real dartboards.
Players typically use webcams and enter scores manually. It supports X01 games, averages, match tracking, and league/tournament structures. Many online darts communities still use it for organized play.
The interface is very basic, and setup is more manual compared to newer apps, but it’s completely free and stable.
Good for: League play, webcam matches, and traditional online darts communities.
Lidarts
Lidarts is a free, open-source browser-based darts platform. It supports online multiplayer, training modes, X01, Cricket, and statistics tracking.
It has one of the most complete feature sets among free options and includes matchmaking against other players.
The main limitation is that both players need accounts, and setup is slightly heavier than link-based solutions.
Good for: Players who want a fully featured free platform with online matchmaking.
Dartsy
Dartsy is a browser-based darts scorer built for quick online matches with a friend. It supports 501 and Cricket with real-time scoring — no install, no weekly limits. Both players need a free account to play.
For stat tracking, Dartsy saves your:
- 3-dart average
- checkout percentage
- highest checkout
- 180s
- best leg
There’s also a DartBot AI opponent (Beginner to Pro) if you want to practice solo between sessions.
It has fewer game modes than larger platforms, but what’s there works without friction.
Good for: Casual home players who want quick matches and stats without a subscription or weekly limits.
Which App Is Best for Playing With a Friend?
Best for quick casual matches
Dartsy
Best fully free platform with many modes
Lidarts
Best for leagues and tournaments
Nakka
Best advanced stats
DartCounter
How to Play Darts Online With a Friend
Most apps follow the same basic setup:
- Both players use a real dartboard
- Video call (optional but recommended)
- Each player enters their own scores
- App tracks averages and winner
Some apps require both players to register. Others allow invite links.
What to Look For in an Online Darts App
When comparing apps, the key differences are:
Browser vs download
Some apps require installs. Others work instantly.
Invite links
Useful for casual matches.
Limits
Some free tiers restrict online play.
Game modes
Some apps focus only on 501.
Stats tracking
Advanced apps provide detailed analytics.
Setup complexity
Camera scoring and leagues require more setup.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single best darts app. It depends on how you play.
If you want the fastest way to play 501 with a friend, browser-based link sharing tools are the simplest.
The best option is the one that gets you throwing darts with the least friction.