Instagram Reels vs TikTok: what’s best?
22 February, 2022
3 mins
In 2020, Instagram launched Reels, a format of short videos that are often mistaken with TikTok’s format of videos. Similar on sev...
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What are Instagram Reels? Where can you find Reels on Instagram? How long are Instagram Reels? What aspect ratio are they? Why do they have a high engagement rate? Don’t bother searching for the answers; there are all here.
You can find Reels in the center of the Instagram bottom menu. You have no chances to miss it. If they made a grand entrance on social media, it is because the project, launched by Instagram in August 2020, was promising.
When Tik Tok became viral during the lockdown, Instagram thought of this new short video format so that creators can design entertaining videos competing with the Chinese social media, Tiktok.
You don’t know them yet? Really? Let’s shift up a gear together.
Instagram Reels are short videos of 15 to 30 seconds, full-screen, designed to be displayed vertically on a 9:16 ratio. They can last until 60 seconds, but it is not always advised as users may scroll if the content is not interesting enough to justify a 60 seconds-long Reel.
How are they displayed on your user interface? They can find Reels:
An Instagram Reel starts automatically when the user clicks on it and stops as soon as he either clicks on it again or scrolls. It is an easy taking in hand format that helps you create entertaining content for your audience. Reels have a high impact on your engagement rate. They help your business reach out to new audiences and retain your customers.
Reels are not stories. They are not IGTV or Tiktok either. They are way more than that. Knowing the assets of this format can help you determine whether or not Reels are more appropriate to your content.
To create a Reel, all you have to do is record and edit a short clip. Reels can be rapid to post if you do not edit them much, but editing is worthwhile as it keeps your audience entertained and helps personalize your content. At the moment of creating a Reel, some functionalities are worth being known:
Also note that you can post Reels on your feed or only store them on your Reels tab.
Why are Reels interesting to build your business’ audience? Why do you need them to promote your brand? In other words, why is it worth your weight in gold? There are many ways to include Reels in your social media strategy:
If you consider getting into Reels, think about tracking Instagram Reel analytics such as plays, likes, saves, shares, comments. Comparing your Reels’ performance can help you readjust your Reels’ strategy.
Instagram is not only for private individuals. In early 2021, according to Instagram, there were more than 200 million business accounts on Instagram visited every day.
How do Reels help businesses attract that much?
Thanks to Reels, you can appear on your audience’s Reel Explorer page if Instagram considers your content pertinent. The Reel page can be an exciting means to showcase your brand to new people with its prominent tab.
The content shared on Reels is permanent. Unlike stories, it will not disappear after 24 hours. Take your time to create and edit engaging content. There are many ways to personalize your Reel and make it entertaining.
Shopping features can direct your viewers directly to your e-commerce website. An interesting solution to boost conversions. Do not neglect tutorials and unboxing. It is real added value for indecisive customers.
With the dogged competition between Reels and Tik Tok clips, you may wonder why you should not give up on Reels. The Reel format is included on Instagram. If you already have an audience on this social media, it helps you retain and nurture your followers.
Please do not underestimate the necessity of providing them with personalized and entertaining Reels. They have a high conversion rate. They help creators boost the engagement of their audience. Do you want to know more about how Tik Tok and Instagram Reels differ?
By Emma Jeanpierre
14 Feb, 2022