Instagram Reels vs. TikTok: The Ultimate Comparison

November 18, 2022
Contents

When it comes to social media, there are a few big players in the game. Instagram and TikTok are two of the most popular, and many people are wondering which one is better.

In this article, we will compare everything between Instagram reels and TikTok – from user engagement to features. We will help you decide which platform is right for you!

What are Instagram Reels?

offeo instagram reels

Instagram Reels are short-form videos that can be up to 90 seconds long. You can create them using the Instagram app and set them to private or public.

Reels can include audio, effects, and editing tools similar to those on TikTok.

What Is TikTok?

what is tiktok

TikTok is mainly a short-form video app where users can create and share 15-second videos on any topic.

However, TikTok now lets users share videos up to 10 minutes long. TikTok is available in over 150 markets and 40 languages. Chinese company ByteDance owns it.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok Features

Both Instagram Reels and TikTok have a lot to offer users regarding features. Let’s take a look at some of the most important ones:

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok: on Video Length

Instagram Reels are capped at 90 seconds, while TikTok videos can be up to 10 minutes long. This means that Instagram Reels are more concise than TikTok videos.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok: on Voice Effects, Video, and Face Filters

Instagram Reels has a broader range of voice effects, video, and face filters than TikTok. This gives users more options to play around with when creating their videos.

Instagram Reels’ Remix vs. TikTok’s Duet

Instagram Reels and TikTok have a feature allowing users to create video content with others. Instagram Reels’ Remix lets you add your audio to someone else’s video, while TikTok’s Duet enables you to film yourself alongside another user’s video.

Instagram Reels’ Audio vs. TikTok’s Sound

Instagram Reels’ audio feature lets you choose from a library of songs and sound effects to add to your video. TikTok’s Sound feature allows you to use someone else’s audio in your video.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok Content

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok Content

Instagram Reels are primarily used for entertainment purposes, while TikTok is used for a broader range of content, including educational and informative videos.

This is a significant factor to consider when deciding which platform is right for you. Instagram Reels is an excellent choice if you want to be entertained.

But if you’re looking for videos that will teach you something new, TikTok is the way to go.

Instagram Reels’ Explore Tab vs. TikTok’s For You Page

Instagram Reels’ Explore Tab shows you various videos from people and brands you might be interested in.

TikTok’s For You Page algorithmically curates videos for each user based on what they have liked and watched in the past.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok: on Audience Reach and Engagement

Instagram Reels has a more expansive reach than TikTok, with over two billion monthly active users. TikTok has around one billion monthly active users.

In terms of engagement, TikTok reigns supreme. A study on InfluencerMarketingHub shows that micro-influencers had engagement rates of 17.96% on TikTok, but only a meagre 3.86% on Instagram.

Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, mega-influencers had engagement rates of 4.96% on TikTok, and a smaller 1.21% on Instagram.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok: on Cross-posting and Video Downloads

Instagram Reels allows you to cross-post your videos to other platforms, like Facebook and Instagram Stories. TikTok does not currently have this feature.

Instagram Reels also lets you download your videos, so you can save them or post them elsewhere. TikTok does not have this feature either.

Reels Vs. TikTok: The Similarities

While Instagram Reels and TikTok are two different platforms, they have some similarities.

Centered Around Short-Form Video

Instagram Reels and TikTok are both centered around short-form video content. This means that both platforms' videos are typically under one minute.

Access to a Massive and Ever-Growing Sound Library

Instagram Reels and TikTok give users access to a massive library of songs and sound effects they can use in their videos.

An Array of Video Editing Tools

Both platforms offer users a variety of video editing tools, like filters, voice effects, and face filters.

Plenty of Filters and Visual Effects

Instagram Reels and TikTok have a wide selection of filters and visual effects that you can use to enhance your videos.

The Ability to Duet with Other Users

Instagram Reels and TikTok have a feature that allows you to create video content with others. Instagram Reels’ Remix lets you add your audio to someone else’s video, while TikTok’s Duet enables you to film yourself alongside another user’s video.

Enables Accounts to Interact with Each Other

Instagram Reels and TikTok both have features that allow accounts to interact with each other.

For example, Instagram Reels’ Comment feature lets you leave a comment on someone else’s video, while TikTok’s Reply feature allows you to reply to comments on your videos.

Analytics

Instagram Reels and TikTok offer users analytics, so you can see how your videos perform and what types of videos resonate with your audience.

The Ability to Go Live

Instagram Reels and TikTok have live-streaming capabilities, a great way to connect with your followers in real time.

Reels vs. TikTok: The Differences

Reels vs. TikTok: The Difference

Music and Sound Options

Instagram Reels only allows you to use its library's music and sound effects. TikTok, on the other hand, lets you upload your own audio files.

Audience

Instagram Reels is available to anyone with an Instagram account, while TikTok is only available to users 13 years or older.

Downloading Videos

As we mentioned before, Instagram Reels lets you download your videos so you can save them or post them elsewhere. TikTok does not have this feature.

Availability

Instagram Reels is available in most countries, except for China. TikTok, on the other hand, is unavailable in India, Pakistan, and a few other countries.

FAQs: Instagram reels vs TikTok

Are Instagram reels the same as TikTok?

No, Instagram Reels and TikTok are two different platforms. Instagram Reels is a feature of the Instagram app, while TikTok is a standalone app.

Can you download Instagram reel videos?

Yes! Instagram Reels lets you download your videos so you can save them or post them elsewhere. TikTok does not have this.

How is TikTok different from Instagram reels?

While Instagram Reels and TikTok are centered around short-form video content, the two platforms have a few key differences. TikTok lets you upload your audio files, while Instagram Reels only allows you to use the music and sound effects available in its library.

What is the minimum age for TikTok?

The minimum age for TikTok is 13 years old. Instagram Reels does not have a minimum age requirement.

Where is TikTok banned?

TikTok is banned in India, Pakistan, and other countries. Instagram Reels is available in most countries except China.

Do Instagram Reels have ads?

Instagram Reels offers a few different advertising options for businesses and brands. 

Will Instagram Reels replace TikTok?

It's difficult to say. Instagram Reels was only recently released, so it's still too early to tell how popular it will become.

TikTok, on the other hand, has been around for a few years and is already very popular. Only time will tell if Instagram Reels will be able to replace TikTok.

How can people see my Instagram Reels?

Your Instagram Reels will be visible to anyone who follows you on Instagram. TikTok videos can be seen by anyone, regardless of whether or not they have an account.

How does Instagram penalize accounts reposting TikTok videos?

Instagram has a three-strike policy when it comes to reposting TikTok videos. The first strike will result in a warning, the second strike will result in a temporary ban, and the third strike will result in a permanent ban.

Conclusion: Instagram Reels vs TikTok

So, what’s the verdict?

Instagram Reels and TikTok are two different platforms that offer unique capabilities and features. Whatever is right for you will ultimately depend on your needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a platform that offers more music and sound options, TikTok might be the better choice. Instagram Reels might be the way to go if you’re looking for a platform available in more countries.

Try out both platforms and see which one you prefer! You might even find that you like using both Instagram Reels and TikTok for different purposes.

Written By
Rifqi Renanda

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