In addition, you have the option to refer to your own Instagram profile in your Reel, for example with a link in your biography. You do not have this option with TikTok (yet). There you can only refer to an Instagram page or a YouTube channel, without a link.
TikTok
Reels
There are also some minor differences when it comes to content creation. Basically, the tools work exactly the same, but there are a few points that could give you a slight preference for TikTok or Reels.
5. TikTok has more options for the length of your videos
One of the biggest differences between TikTok and Reels is the options for video length. These are a bit more extensive on TikTok.
For example, TikTok gives you the option to choose between a 15 or 60 second video and you can also make a video with just photos. This will then be a slideshow of 5 photos with a special effect . With Reels, you only have the option to make a 15 second video.
6. TikTok has more editing options
Before you start making a video, TikTok allows you to set various things to make a cool video. For example, you can choose which sound you want under the video, which way the camera should be and how fast the video should be played for slow motion or extra speed. You can also put a filter over the video and set a timer if you want your video to consist of multiple fragments.
In principle, you can do all of these things with Reels as well. But with TikTok, you have a bit more choice in terms of effects, and with Reels, not everyone has access to the audio option.
7. In TikTok you can upload existing videos or photos
In TikTok, you can also upload existing videos or photos from your camera roll. In Reels, you only have the option to import videos from your camera roll.
TikTok
Reels
Once you have recorded several fragments, it is time to give your video a finishing touch . Think of adding text or stickers. Here too I have discovered a number of small differences. Simply because TikTok has been around longer and has had more updates.
In Reels you have the option to add a gif or sticker, add text and filters and draw on the screen afterwards. These are pretty much the same options as in Instagram Stories.
TikTok takes this a step further. For example, in TikTok you can also edit clips afterwards, add c level executive list speech effects, record a voice-over, shorten the audio and adjust the volume of the original sound and the added audio. But you can also assign effects and filters to different fragments, where with Reels you throw a filter over the entire video.
The choice: use TikTok or Reels?
After reading this article, you may have a slight preference for one or the other. But basically, TikTok and Reels are very similar, although TikTok has simply been further developed. The difference is mainly that TikTok is a separate channel and that Reels is part of Instagram. The choice is yours: do you want a new channel or not? And where is your target group?
TikTok still has a lot of young people and companies are still lagging behind. Of course, Instagram has a lot more companies and a wider range of ages. It is also important to be aware of the fact that TikTok is under fire. Trump even wants to ban TikTok. And this has everything to do with the fact that it remains unclear what exactly happens with TikTok's data.
What you also see a lot at the moment is that people repost their TikTok videos on Reels or only prepare them in advance in TikTok. Precisely because TikTok has more content creation options. This is a handy option if you prefer to post Reels on Instagram, but want to use the extra possibilities of TikTok.
Have you made a choice? I'm curious about your preference. Let me know in a comment!