Ok, let me dust off this thread... Now that BBPress.org (wordpress) has been out; what are the thoughts on it? They claim less bloated and hack safe. Does anyone have experience with BBpress AND the others that can make a comparison?
Me myself, I'd say phpBB is the best open-source bulletin board. I mean, fact is this: Its easy to install, has a multitude of phpBB modifications and styles and it stays updated constantly. When it comes to phpBB3, I'd wanna say it could give vB a run for its money, but I don't know, vBulletin stays more updated then CNN
How can you say that it stays updated constantly? phpBB has not had any major improvements or new features for probably 5 years or so. phpBB3 is the first improvement of any kind in who knows how long.
PhpBB - not for lazy bums though .. you have to install hacks (they're easy once you installed some). the template system is awesome .. separate files, HTML code .. love it. myBB - the "free vbulletin". Same admin based template system (hate it), more features. Not too many hacks though .. SMF - template based on php .. too hard to create a unique skin on, unless you're good with php (am not). the hacks are plentiful (not as many as in phpBB's case), seem to be installed easy I chose phpBB at any time.. I know how to install the hacks and after 5 years of working on the script I still don't have any problems. I also use the other 2 platforms, but I don't like them that much
As a free open source I prefer myBB hands down, and there is even a vBulletin style available, have a look http://www.patrickjung.info/mybbdesign/downloads.php?action=view&did=122