I use matrix.

I run an instance for myself an immediate family. I also federate with other instances to participate in some dev groups.

The most active matrix space I’m in, is the one hosted by ani.social. Daily activity on anime-related topics, and also fediverse, lemmy and software.

If you want to try it, the main “matrix.org” instance is far from easy to recommend though. Finding good public matrix instances is a challenge. As such the best way is probably to either host one yourself or know someone who does.

They are out there, though. I’ve seen people be happy with pikaviestin.fi, but that’s only for finnish people. Mozilla also has an instance, though I’ve no experience on it.