TikTok or Instagram Reels: The Most Recent Debate
As we enter a new era of content creation, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of all the platforms to create for. More specifically, which ones will bring in the type of engagements that will boost our brand. When it comes to short form video content, where should you be posting? TikTok or Instagram Reels? Well, it depends on who you talk to. Some people are dead set on TikTok while others are Instagram Reel purists. So, the tough question remains, where is best to post?
Before we can make a final decision, let’s look at what each app has to offer individually and how they can help your social media presence bloom.
TikTok
With over 1 billion users, TikTok is filled primarily with user generated content which the algorithm then strategically places onto your “for you” page based on the type of content you typically like and interact with. A straightforward algorithm. TikTok also tends to be a more laid-back platform and content usually has a less serious tone. Even with this said, brands are certainly using TikTok to their marketing advantage. With a vast audience, TikTok gives you the ability to reach all sorts of people with the videos you create.
TikTok also offers a hefty list of benefits and tools to help your brand grow:
In-app editing
Extensive music library
Videos length options varying from 15 seconds to 10 minutes
Exclusive filters and effects
Repost, duet, and stitch features
Increased interaction with content
Instagram Reels
With TikTok's sudden boom in the last few years, Instagram has implemented their own video platform to keep up with the competition. Even as they aim to keep up with competitors, Instagram Reels offers a whole different set of benefits and tools for users and brands alike to utilize. What sets Reels apart is how brands use it as an extension of their aesthetic, focusing on a clean and professional representation which is then discovered through the explore page and recommended posts.
Features that Reels provide to boost your brand awareness and impressions:
Extensive in-app editing tools
Filters and effects
Dedicated Reels page within the app
Reels incorporated onto users explore pages
Videos length up to 90 seconds
The Final Verdict
So TikTok or Instagram Reels? The answer is quite simple: both. Both TikTok and Instagram Reels have individual aspects that are sure to boost your reach in many areas. By using both apps, you are most likely to reach an even wider audience than before by targeting users from both platforms. The more you post on each, the more likely you are to increase the traffic and overall following on your accounts, working hand in hand to increase your brand awareness and visibility.
Editing your content using a third-party app versus the in-app editing tools that each app provides will also offer a seamless experience when posting across multiple platforms. Avoiding those watermarks that apps leave behind is an important trick to keeping your engagement, as many people will click out of your video if they notice the watermark of another app. This way, it looks like each video was specially catered towards that audience.
It is also important to note that not all your content will be the right fit for both apps, and that’s okay! As you continue to post, you’ll find what posting combination works best for you and your brand.