Dear Socially Confused,
We know you may have JUST go on board with this whole TikTok thing, just to have a brand new platform take the social world by storm. We also know that many people, just like you, are wondering what the differences and similarities are in these video sharing channels.
Let’s Start With A Brief Explanation of TikTok
TikTok is the oh-so-beloved short-form mobile video app that started as a fun, playful, dance-filled place where *typically* young people came to be themselves. It has since transformed into a platform where artists have the opportunity to go viral, individuals share their personal stories, mentors & leaders have the opportunity to share tips to thousands, if not millions, of people, and so much more.
Although there are still plenty of silly pet videos and viral dance vids, TikTok has really grown to be a space where anyone can become a social media mogul overnight.
Now There’s Reels
It is no secret that Instagram tends to take what’s popular on other channels and work it into an update on their own platform. For example, we saw this with the introduction of Instagram Stories (based originally off of Snapchat) as well as IGTV (YouTube). Doing this makes it easier for creators to have all of their content in one place! In August, Instagram rolled out new update called Reels, and it wasn’t too hard to figure out where they got their inspiration! Reels is a short-form video sharing platform separate from standard IG posting.
Similarities & Differences Between TikTok & Reels
- Time Limit – Although both TikTok and Reels have a 15 second recording limit, TikTok has the capability of creating up to 60 seconds when uploading your own footage instead of recording in-app.
- Music & Sound Capabilities – On Both TikTok and Reels, one of, if not the biggest way to “hop on a trend” is to use a trending sound. The sounds/music shows up on the bottom of the screen, and you are able to click the sound and create a video using that sound. On TikTok, you are able to save that sound to your favorites to use later. On Reels, adding music can sometimes be a little tricky for businesses and some accounts. This issue has been seen before on Instagram stories.
- Algorithm – Both TikTok and Instagram’s Reels use an algorithm to deliver us the content we most want to see or engage with most often. TikTok’s algorithm works *very* quickly and is very directly related to things that you like, comment on or spend most time watching. Reel’s algorithm is very similar to that of the regular Instagram feed – providing you with accounts that you engage with most, those with the most followers. With that being said, Reels videos that are also added to your profile perform better on the Instagram feed algorithmically. Both TikTok and Reels have the occasional paid ads sprinkled in to their feeds as well.
- Popularity – With the introduction of Reels, many TikTok’ers were nervous that TikTok would lose its shine or popularity, but that has no been the case so far. Some people are picking sides, and some people are using both, but it seems as though these two platforms can coexist nicely at the moment!
Looking to learn more about the latest social media tools and how you can use them for your business? Contact us for a free consultation today.
