Reels Vs. TikTok: Which is Better?

Instagram Reels is here! As always, I have strong feeling about Instagram especially when it relates to TikTok. So, let’s get into it!

Reels is the Instagram version of Tiktok where you can create short-form videos about 15 seconds long. It’s another great way to create content and connect with your audience.

I’m going to be honest with you guys. I was not thrilled about Reels. As a TikTok stan, I don’t want TikTok to go away and even they see what Instagram is doing with this copy.

But as a social media manager, I’m going to try to remain impartial on this review of which is better. See our Reels Tutorial here. So, here we go!

Usability – Instagram

When thinking of this test, I think of my mother. Could she realistically use this tool as a non-digital native like myself? I could never see her being able to use TikTok. It’s one of those apps with a large learning curve. Plus, there is so much you can do with your videos on TikTok.

Instagram on the other hand is super basic. If you use Instagram Stories and have a basic understanding of TikTok, you’ll pick it up pretty quickly. Instagram is really good about making tools that are easy for everyone, so this one goes to them.

Content Creation – TikTok

This is obviously one of the biggest reasons that anyone uses these apps – to create content for their audience. Instagram allows you to share content like images, videos, stories, etc. But, when it comes to actual creation, Stories and Reels are the only places you can actually make something on the app.

With TikTok, all you do is make content on the app when you’re not scrolling. Plus, they have a lot of really cool features you can use to create amazing videos. I didn’t realize the cool things you can create with Instagram Stories until I saw a TikTok about it. We can, of course, expect Instagram to bring more to the table over time. But, for now, TikTok takes the crown on actual content creation.

Reach – TikTok

Here is where TikTok completely dominates Instagram Reels (so far). The possibility of going viral and your content reaching thousands or even millions on TikTok is much greater than Instagram. Sometimes, it seems like a matter of time when you’re consistently creating content on the app.

Instagram is known for killing reach more and more as the app has grown. You’re lucky if your current followers see your content sometimes, let alone new people. However, I did notice that my Reels got a lot of views quickly and all the likes were from new people. So, we’ll see. It’s hard to imagine Instagram sharing your content widely. So, TikTok gets this one.

Community Building – TikTok

TikTok’s algorithm is truly amazing when it comes to not just reaching people, but reaching new people. Even people who are directly interested in what you’re interested in. You’ll notice that the longer you use the app, the more TikTok tailors the content to what you like and you can really find your people on the app.

Instagram can somewhat do this. But, you really have to put in the work yourself by searching, using hashtags, meeting people IRL, etc. You won’t just find your people by using the app like with TikTok. This is one of the main reasons why I favor TikTok.

Not Potentially Getting Banned? – Instagram

So, here we are. This is why Instagram may take the thrown forever. TikTok is on the cusp of being banned by the U.S. government due to privacy concerns as TikTok is a China-owned company. So, if TikTok is banned, we will not be able to use it.

Instagram picked a perfect time to reveal their Reels feature now that TikTok is at risk. But, if TikTok can survive this, I will definitely continue to use the app and prefer it over Instagram Reels.

I think the best way to do things is to use these platforms over time is to tailor your content on both platforms and repurpose content that overlaps. That way you can create content without having to always be in creation mode.

So, now that you’ve seen what I think, what about you? Do you like Reels or Tiktok better? Let me know which one and why in the comments!