Anonymous or Real Identity - What Works Best for Online Communities?

I’m launching a new community with my friend and debating whether we should allow members to stay anonymous or force them to use their real identity.

Look at Reddit and Team Blind. Both communities have grown massively with anonymous users. People feel safe sharing honest opinions, personal struggles and do not have the fear of getting judged. It feels like very authentic conversations and experience sharing.

But platforms like FB Groups, LinkedIn rely on real identities. Having members use their real names and identities helps build trust faster. I think it helps people build personal relationships.

We are unable to decide as both approaches have their own merits and trade-offs.

So - what’s your recommendation? Would love to know about real-world experiences.