With the popularity of Instagram Reels and TikTok, it’s tempting to wonder: are they much different?
Length of videos
One of the main differences is the length of videos. Both platforms are mainly for short form videos, but how short exactly?
On TikTok, users can record videos up to 10 minutes long when recording in the app. If you’re uploading a video to the app, then it can be up to 60 minutes.
Instagram Reels are 3 minutes maximum. Initially the limit was 90 seconds.
This doesn’t necessarily mean TikToks and Reels will meet these maximum lengths, of course. Many of the videos are 1 minute or shorter. If you aren’t happy with what you’re seeing on Instagram, there are a few quick steps you can take. Resetting your Instagram algorithm lets you start afresh, so that you see posts and accounts that you’re actually interested in.
Target audiences
Instagram caters to a wider audience in terms of content. Reels are just one part of the platform. Many users will be more interested in images.
Instagram users are generally slightly older; TikTok is popular with young people.
TikTok isn’t solely used by young people, but 1 in 4 TikTok users are under 20. The majority of creators are aged 18-24.
TikTok is most popular with users aged 18-24, followed by those aged 25-34, then 35-55, then 45-54, then 55+.
According to Statista, “28.3 percent of Instagram users in the United States were aged between 25 and 34 years, making up the platform’s largest audience in the country.” The stats were extremely similar in the UK: 29.7 percent of users were aged between 25 and 34.
Video options
Both platforms offer video editing. TikTok has various features such as Duet (where you can watch two videos side by side) and Stitch (where creators include parts of others’ videos to create new ones). Instagram has its own version of Duets with the Remixes feature, but doesn’t currently have a Stitch equivalent.
Both platforms allow you to upload pre-recorded videos, and both allow for filters and stickers.
Instagram’s built in editing tools include transitions, AR effects, and the draw tool, as well as standard editing features like effects and filters, voiceover, and video trimming and syncing.
Takeaway
The two platforms have many similarities. Both are hugely popular, with over one billion active monthly users. Users and creators often use both Instagram Reels and TikTok. The latter has generally led the way in short form videos, with Instagram Reels playing catch up. Trends will generally be found on TikTok first, but that might change with Meta now prioritising video.
Choosing the Right Platform for Your Needs
When deciding between Instagram Reels and TikTok, it’s important to consider what you want to achieve. If you’re looking for the widest range of content formats—photos, stories, live videos, and reels—Instagram is the better option. However, if you’re focused purely on video engagement and trending content, TikTok is the go-to platform.
TikTok’s algorithm is highly effective at pushing content to new audiences, making it easier to go viral even with a small following. Instagram Reels, on the other hand, often favors established accounts with more engagement. If you’re a brand or influencer, you may find that TikTok provides better organic reach, while Instagram allows for a more curated and polished brand presence.
Both platforms continue to evolve, with Instagram adapting features from TikTok and TikTok expanding its video length options to compete with YouTube. Ultimately, the best platform depends on your goals, audience, and content style. Many creators use both to maximize their reach and take advantage of each platform’s strengths.