With TikTok’s recent ban and then unban, many have considered turning to Instagram as an alternative. While both apps offer similar features, Instagram has several notable advantages. For starters, Instagram’s design is more organized, allowing new users to easily understand the layout. Specifically, Instagram’s “stories” feature stands out as being way more accessible and is generally implemented better within Instagram’s user interface.
Both apps target users in their late teens to mid-20s, but Instagram reaches a broader range of users than TikTok. According to the Pew Research Center, 50% of US adults have used Instagram, while only 33% have used TikTok.
An important difference between the two apps is that people use Instagram more often than TikTok for professional posts. Rolling Stone says, “For businesses, it’s a go-to for showcasing professionalism. You’ve got Stories, Highlights, Collab posts, Shopping — everything you need to create a full-on brand experience.” Sophomore Mac Bradley says, “I like Instagram because you can talk to people better in the DMs, and you post pictures and stuff, and it matters more. I use Instagram more, but I use both.”
However, some would rather spend their time using TikTok. Freshman Sofie Samiei says, “I prefer TikTok because it is easier to get hooked on because they have better videos. TikTok includes more sounds, and they have more dances and things customized to your feed.” Both TikTok and Instagram are quite similar as they both have short-form content, ways to post videos and photos, stories, messages, live streams, and “notes” features. Although TikTok seems to have some preferred features over Instagram, there is no extreme difference.
Overall, Instagram has higher-quality features that more effectively reach a broader audience than TikTok. With the possibility of another TikTok ban, Instagram is the perfect substitute.