You've probably noticed that content creation on TikTok and Reels is growing exponentially these days, but are they the same? Is one a better fit for me than the other?
Although these two platforms are similar, since both are used to create short videos with effects, text, etc., there are major differences between them, and we'll explain them here.
1.- Audience
It may not seem like it, but the IG Reels and Tiktok audiences are very different.
If your audience is 35 and older, IG Reels is most likely your best option, since you'll find a larger and more “formal” or “professional” audience.
It's important to mention that the advantage Reels has by being part of IG is that this platform has far more users, and you can also share your Reels in stories or posts, giving them more reach.
You can also mix into your marketing strategy Reels, posts, stories, IG TV, live streams, etc.
Now, TikTok is a platform aimed at young people and teenagers (Centennials). It's a fun platform where you don't have to upload highly produced or carefully planned content; it's more spontaneous. And here you can only create videos and go live.
What's interesting about this platform is its algorithm and how easily it makes videos go viral. On each profile, the “For You” section shows content that is fully personalized for each user. This makes it easier to reach exactly the segment we want (Note: that doesn't mean it has more reach than Reels)
You may be interested in: How do I start using TikTok in my marketing strategy?
2.- Video Length
This is one of the most important points, since the type of content you upload will also determine which platform suits you best.
Tiktok lets you upload videos from 15 seconds up to 1 minute. Lately they've started rolling out 3-minute videos, but not everyone has access to creating them yet.
Meanwhile, on IG Reels, videos are 30 seconds long… If you want to upload longer videos, you have to upload them as IG TV and the reach changes noticeably; however, you can upload much longer videos this way (a maximum of 10 minutes for "regular" accounts and up to 1 hour for verified profiles).
So, if 30 seconds isn't enough for your videos, Reels won't be your best option.
3.- Music
One of TikTok's features is music. If the sound you use is trending, your video is more likely to be shown to more people. There's even a section that shows you viral sounds so you can use them.
On Reels, by contrast, there aren't many options, and so far there's no proof that this platform's algorithm works based on the sounds you use.
In fact, to add sounds that grab users' attention (such as the music from TikTok trends), you would have to edit the video with an external program or app.
4.- Analytics
Knowing our audience and seeing the results of our content is essential for decision-making.
IG's disadvantage here is that it won't show you detailed analytics for Reels, only for your entire IG profile. The only metrics you'd have specifically for the videos would be likes, comments, and views.
Since TikTok is a video-focused platform, it will show you more complete analytics that will help you analyze whether your content is successful.
You may be interested in: How do I increase my followers on TikTok?
Conclusion
The reality is that content creators are choosing to use both and basically post the same thing.
Uploading videos with the Tiktok logo to your Reels used to be allowed, but it's no longer recommended because IG is penalizing it (obviously, it's their competitor) and reducing their reach. So, if you choose this option, it's best to remove the watermark. BUT posting videos on both platforms will depend on your audience and the type of content you create.
- IG Reels is recommended when you have an audience aged 35 and up, your content is more formal or professional, and it doesn't need more than 30 seconds per video. The big advantage is that you can create a more complete strategy on a single platform (Reels, IG TV, posts, stories, etc.)
- Tiktok is recommended when you want to create more casual, fun, and spontaneous content aimed at young people, with videos up to 1 minute long.
Keep this in mind and start creating videos! It's a format with huge potential right now, and you can make the most of it to boost your business.
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