r/whatisthisthing
For the identification of mysterious objects
How to think about r/whatisthisthing
This community is dedicated to helping members identify mysterious objects, ranging from everyday items to obscure artifacts. Users post images and descriptions of items they cannot identify, and the community collaborates to provide answers. The distinctiveness of this community lies in its collective knowledge and expertise, making it a go-to resource for curious individuals seeking clarity on unknown objects.
Confidence 4/5
Audience
Members typically include a diverse range of individuals, from casual hobbyists to experts in various fields, such as science and art. The intent is primarily educational and curious, with participants eager to share knowledge and engage in discussions. The vibe is generally friendly and helpful, with a strong emphasis on community support and accurate identification.
Posting culture
The posting culture encourages clear images and detailed descriptions of the objects in question, which helps facilitate accurate identification. Content that lacks clarity or context tends to receive downvotes. Posts are often made in a steady cadence, with users frequently checking in to contribute their insights or seek assistance, fostering a dynamic and interactive environment.
Brand engagement notes
Brands should approach this community with caution, as overt promotion is generally unwelcome. Authentic engagement, such as sharing expertise or providing valuable insights related to object identification, can be well-received. Brands might consider participating in discussions or offering educational content that aligns with the community's interests, rather than direct advertising. Transparency and a genuine interest in helping members will foster goodwill and acceptance.
Similar communities
Where this audience also spends time
Topic-adjacent communities surfaced from Reddit's own related subreddit signal.
FAQ
r/whatisthisthing — frequently asked questions
Quick facts about this subreddit's size, history, focus, and related communities.
How many subscribers does r/whatisthisthing have?
r/whatisthisthing has approximately 3,079,658 subscribers as of May 27, 2026.
When was r/whatisthisthing created?
r/whatisthisthing was created on September 5, 2010 (16 years ago).
What is r/whatisthisthing about?
This community is dedicated to helping members identify mysterious objects, ranging from everyday items to obscure artifacts. Users post images and descriptions of items they cannot identify, and the community collaborates to provide answers. The distinctiveness of this community lies in its collective knowledge and expertise, making it a go-to resource for curious individua…
What subreddits are similar to r/whatisthisthing?
Communities similar to r/whatisthisthing include r/whatsthisbug, r/justrolledintotheshop, r/diwhy, r/whatsthisplant, r/crappydesign.
Ready to engage on r/whatisthisthing?
Authentic engagement, not spam.
RedPulse runs Reddit campaigns the way the platform actually rewards — high-karma accounts, native conversations, and content moderators welcome.
