Instagram Reels vs. TikTok

We explain you the differences

Should you focus more on Instagram Reels or TikTok after all? In this Instagram tutorial, we’ll explain the differences, what’s better for your business, and what to look out for.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok

In today’s episode, we’ll show you the differences between Instagram Reels and TikTok. You have to admit that the latest Instagram feature, Reels, is very similar to TikTok and raises the question of whether there’s a difference at all and what’s best to focus on.

What are Instagram Reels?

At first glance, it can be said that the principle is the same. The idea is to create short videos that can be edited. But then we already come to the first difference. TikToks can be up to 60 seconds long, while Reels are at 30 seconds. But since viral videos are usually the shorter videos anyway, you shouldn’t let this difference deter you and try to make your content as short and interesting as possible. If you like to edit your videos with lots of effects, filters and stickers, TikTok has a clear advantage. Reels can also be edited, but the selection of effects on Instagram is not yet very large and most of it cannot be edited afterwards. On TikTok you can let your creativity run wild and add or change filters and effects even after you’ve filmed your video.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok - The Voiceover Function

Another difference in video editing is voiceovers. Both TikTok and Reels allow you to add self-recorded voiceovers. However, on TikTok you have the possibility to change your voice with different effects, which is not the case with Reels. An effect you don’t necessarily have to have, but it remains a fun option. Another feature that is also unique to TikTok and also very interesting for businesses is the ability to interact with other user videos by inserting other videos into your own, for example, to respond to them. Unfortunately, this popular option does not yet exist on Instagram Reels.

What does the music offer look like?

A main component of the short videos is clearly the music. TikTok also scores here, as there are many music options that you can use. Even if you don’t publish your video right away, it can be saved with the music and a watermark. Reels can only be saved without the music and the music selection is sufficient, but nowhere near as large as that of TikTok. Also, it is not possible for companies to use music at all in Reels, which is a big minus point. On TikTok, it is also very popular to record your own sounds and make them available to other users as well. This possibility also exists with Reels, but the trend has not yet spilled over, whereas sounds on TikTok have high potential to go viral.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok - The Algorithm

The algorithm is not a completely transparent topic, but it contains a few important differences. On both platforms it is important to publish constantly and a lot to get attention. However, on TikTok, videos are shown to you depending on your interests, which is currently different on Reels. In Reels, you cannot yet determine the factors according to which a video is displayed to you. But the fact is that Instagram selects very specific reels and presents them to other users, and the chance of going viral is extremely high. When that happens, you’ll receive a notification and have the benefit of having your company profile linked to the reel right away, bringing lots of new potential customers to your site. On TikTok, this form of company presentation does not exist and you can only forward your viewers.
Of course, paid advertisements are very important for companies. Reels cannot be placed as ads at this time, though of course other options are available on Instagram for this and it is not absolutely necessary. Since TikTok is a video-only platform, it is possible for selected companies to advertise here.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok - A crucial point is your target audience

Very important when deciding between Reels and TikToks, is the target audience. While TikTok has a very young audience, Instagram is much broader. The opportunity to go viral exists on both platforms and since Instagram currently makes reels appear extra large, it suggests it could be a very useful tool for your business. Depending on who and what you want to reach with your videos, you can choose between Reels and TikToks. However, if you’re still not sure, we recommend trying both first. You’ll quickly notice which option is better for you and your business, or even use both platforms for yourself at the same time.

For social media questions feel free to contact eBakery

If you have any questions about organic growth, but also about placing Instagram ads, our social media agency page is ready to help. You can learn how to grow on TikTok in our TikTok SEO article. If your request goes beyond that, please make an appointment directly with our experts.

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