12 TikTok Alternatives and Competitors [As of 2025]

With over 1.8 billion monthly active users and an average user spending around 58 minutes per day on the platform, TikTok has revolutionized how we consume short-form video content. It was ranked as one of the most valuable brands globally in 2024, with an estimated brand value exceeding $84.2 billion. [1]

However, despite its popularity and ability to influence 49% of users’ purchase decisions, TikTok isn’t for everyone. Growing concerns over data privacy, government regulations leading to bans in countries like India (where it once had 200 million users), and saturation of content have left many users searching for alternatives. 

Whether it’s the $379 million fine by the EU for mishandling child data or ongoing scrutiny in the US market, these controversies have further fueled the demand for competitor platforms. A significant number of creators are exploring platforms that provide better monetization opportunities, fewer algorithm challenges, and specialized features. 

In this article, we explore the best TikTok alternatives, showcasing their standout features, user base, and why they might become your next favorite platform for creating and enjoying short-form video content. Whether you’re a content creator looking for better monetization or a viewer eager for fresh, diverse content, these competitive platforms have something for everyone. 

Did you know? 

In 2023, TikTok was fined $379 million by the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) for failing to keep kids’ data safe on its platform, reflecting ongoing regulatory concerns. [2]

12. Smule

Launched in 2012
Monthly Active Users: 52 million+ 
Competitive Edge: Focuses on music and singing

Smule is a leading social singing and music app designed to let users sign karaoke, record songs, and collaborate with others globally. Unlike other short-video platforms, it focuses exclusively on music-based content, offering a community-driven, performance-oriented experience for users who love singing and performing.

Smule has an extensive library of over 14 million songs with scrolling lyrics, including chart-topping hits from renowned artists, making it a paradise for music enthusiasts. The platform also highlights regional song catalogs, enabling users to enjoy music in their native languages.

With professional-grade audio tuning, pitch correction, and mixing tools, Smule ensures users can create high-quality recordings. In 2024, it further elevated the experience by introducing AI-powered vocal coaching, providing real-time feedback to help users refine their singing skills.

Pros  Cons
Extensive music library across genres Ads can be intrusive for free users
Voice filters and effects for professional sound Limited appeal outside music enthusiasts
Creative audio tools  

11. Kwai

Launched in 2011
Monthly Active Users: 678 million+  
Competitive Edge: Focuses on localized content and regional preferences

Launched in 2011, Kwai has become one of the largest competitors of TikTok globally, particularly in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, South America, and the Middle East. It is designed to entertain and engage users through dynamic, personalized video content. 

The platform excels at tailoring its content to local cultures and languages. It emphasizes authenticity over glamor, enabling everyday users to gain visibility and success without needing professional-grade production.

For creators, Kwai provides extensive opportunities to monetize via live streaming, gifts, and brand deals. Plus, its collaborations with eCommerce platforms like MercadoLibre and Shopee have enhanced its shoppable video content. 

Kwai has reported continuous growth in its active user numbers. By the end of 2023, it had close to 380 million daily active users and over 678 monthly active users. Despite its large user base, Kwai has faced challenges in profitability. The company has reported significant losses in recent years, attributed to high promotional expenses and intense competition in the short-video market. [3][4]

Pros  Cons
Strong presence in emerging markets Profitability Challenges
Localized content and language support Limited brand recognition globally
Multi-page format for detailed tutorials  

10. Pinterest Idea Pins 

Pinterest Idea Pins Pinterest Revenue Growth Trend

Launched in 2021
Monthly Active Users: 537 million+ (Pinterest) 
Competitive Edge: Prioritizes search-driven discoverability

Initially launched as “Story Pins” in 2020, they were rebranded to “Idea Pins” in 2021. They were introduced as a feature to enable creators to share engaging, multimedia content directly on Pinterest.

Unlike Snapchat Stories and Instagram Stories, Idea Pins are persistent, meaning they don’t disappear after 24 hours. They allow users to showcase multi-page, interactive content that combines images, text, videos, music, and stickers. This format is perfect for sharing tutorials, DIY projects, recipes, and other engaging, step-by-step content. [5]

Idea Pins align with Pinterest’s visual discovery engine model — they drive creator-led engagement and increase time spent on the platform. They also support product tagging and shopping features, streamlining users’ journey from inspiration to purchase. 

In 2024, Pinterest enhanced Idea Pins voiceovers, auto-captioning, and video editing tools, competing directly with TikTok and Instagram. What sets the platform apart is its focus on search-driven discoverability rather than follower count, creating a level playing field for new creators. Plus, creators can track their Idea Pins’ performance, including impressions, saves, clicks, and engagement, offering valuable insights for growth.

Pros  Cons
Persistent stories drive consistent engagement over time May require time for new users to master
Tools for e-commerce and affiliate marketing Less effective for non-visual content
Multi-page format for detailed tutorials  

9. BlueSky

Launched in 2021 
Registered Users: 29.9 million+
Competitive Edge: Operates on a decentralized network

BlueSky is a decentralized social networking platform that emerged as an alternative to conventional centralized social media giants like X and TikTok. It was initially conceptualized by Jack Dorsey, the co-founder and former CEO of Twitter, as a project to develop a more open and user-centric social media ecosystem. 

Bluesky now operates independently on a decentralized network, meaning no single entity has control over the platform. Users can choose their own algorithms and moderation policies, creating a more personalized experience.

The platform strongly focuses on privacy, minimizing data collection and giving users granular control over their information. It primarily attracts tech-savvy users, content creators, and privacy advocates, differentiating itself from mass-market platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

In 2025, Bluesky unveiled customizable video feeds, allowing users to swipe through and curate video-only timelines based on specific hashtags. Although the platform offers a promising vision for the future of online interaction, its success will depend on its ability to attract mass audiences while maintaining its core principles. [6]

Pros  Cons
Decentralized and user-controlled Still in early development and testing
Codebase is open-source Steep learning curve for non-technical users
Focus on privacy and data ownership Monetization strategy still unclear

8. Lemon8

Launched in May 2020
Monthly Active Users: 12.5 million+
Competitive Edge: Focuses on lifestyle content

Lemon8 is a content-sharing developed by ByteDance, the same company behind TikTok. It is often described as a mix between Instagram and Pinterest, focusing on aesthetic lifestyle content, such as fashion, beauty, travel, food, and fitness.

The platform leverages ByteDance’s AI-driven recommendation system to personalize the user experience. It also incorporates shopping features, allowing users to discover and purchase products directly through the app, making it a hub for influencer-driven e-commerce. For those who prefer in-depth storytelling, Lemon8 supports detailed captions and multi-image posts, providing a platform for more comprehensive and engaging content.

Lemon8 has gained significant reactions in regions like Japan and Southeast Asia. Following this success, the platform expanded aggressively into the US and European markets in 2023-2024. As of 2025, Lemon8 has over 1 million daily active users in the United States and 12.5 million monthly active users globally. Its popularity is particularly strong among millennials and Gen Z audiences. [7]

As a ByteDance-owned app, Lemon8 can be integrated with TikTok, allowing users to link their profiles between the services and find their followers. This is why the platform faces scrutiny similar to TikTok regarding data privacy and national security concerns. In 2025, the Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA) led to the removal of ByteDance apps, including Lemon8, from US app stores. [8]

Pros  Cons
Cross-promotion with TikTok Limited global reach
Shopping-friendly features Faces regulatory scrutiny in Western markets
Full-featured live-streaming service  

7. Likee

Launched in 2017
Monthly Active Users: 100 million+
Competitive Edge: Focuses on emerging markets

Likee is a short-form video creation and sharing app developed by BIGO Technology, a Singapore-based tech company owned by JOYY Inc. It offers a mix of short video content, live-streaming features, and unique tools like face filters, special effects, and AI-powered editing tools.

The app comes with a suite of editing features, including 3D filters, AR effects, and beautification tools. Other key features like face morphing, background editing, and voice changers set it apart from competitors. 

Unlike many platforms, Likee combines short video creation with live streaming capabilities, allowing creators to interact with their audience in real time and monetize their content through virtual gifts. Although Likee is available worldwide, it mainly focuses on India, Indonesia, and the Middle East, investing in localized marketing and partnerships.

The company operates on a freemium model, providing free access to its platform while generating revenue through in-app purchases and advertising. Users can purchase virtual gifts to support their favorite creators during live streams, while brands can advertise within the app to extend the reach of their user base. 

Pros  Cons
Strong presence in emerging markets Less sophisticated algorithm
Advanced video editing tools Occasional issues with content moderation
Full-featured live-streaming service  

6. Triller

Launched in 2015
Monthly Active Users: 65 million+
Competitive Edge: High-quality music video content 

Initially developed as a music video creation app, Triller has grown into one of TikTok’s key competitors, focusing on music, entertainment, and user creativity. It allows users to effortlessly create music videos, skits, and other content using its AI-powered tools.

Triller’s standout feature is its AI-driven auto-editing tool, which perfectly syncs videos with music tracks for a polished, professional feel. Backed by celebrity endorsements from stars like Justin Bieber, Cardi B, and Snoop Dogg, Triller enjoys high visibility in the entertainment industry. Plus, its licensing agreements with major labels like Sony Music, Warner Music Group, and Universal Music Group allow users to legally use licensed tracks in their videos. 

Triller expands beyond social media by hosting live events like concerts, sports matches, and fashion shows, giving it a unique crossover appeal. It has acquired FITE TV, a live-event streaming platform, to host pay-per-view boxing matches and MMA events, targeting sports enthusiasts. [9]

Pros  Cons
AI-powered tools for automatic editing Smaller creators may struggle with visibility
Partnerships with major music labels Smaller active user base than TikTok and Instagram 
Live event hosting capability  

5. Facebook Stories

Launched in 2017
Active Users: 500 million per day 
Competitive Edge: Highly engaging due to their visual and interactive nature

Stories is a short-form content feature within Facebook that allows users to share photos, videos, and posts that disappear after 24 hours. Modeled after Snapchat’s Stories, it is designed to boost engagement among Facebook’s massive user base of over 3.065 billion monthly active users. 

Stories help Facebook keep users engaged longer by promoting ephemeral content and encouraging frequent interactions. Meta now allows users to sync Stories across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, maximizing reach and convenience for creators and brands. [10]

As per recent data, more than 500 million people use Facebook Stories every day, with more than one billion Stories shared across all Facebook apps daily. 

Facebook Stories is optimized for brands, providing tools like Stories Ads and performance analytics. While Stories doesn’t directly compensate creators, it acts as a powerful tool for influencers and businesses to promote their content, products, and services, indirectly boosting revenue.

Facebook continues to improve Stories with creative tools like GIFs, emojis, stickers, and built-in camera effects such as Hyperlapse and Boomerang, allowing users to personalize their content and engage with their audience more effectively. With Meta prioritizing its Metaverse strategy, Stories may soon evolve to incorporate immersive, VR-driven experiences.

Pros  Cons
Massive user base Users should be mindful of privacy settings
Interactive features like polls and questions  Less popular among younger demographics
Cross-posting to Instagram and WhatsApp  

4. RedNote

RedNote

Launched in 2013
Monthly Active Users: 300 million+
Competitive Edge: Integrates social media with e-commerce

RedNote began as an online tour guide for Chinese shoppers, allowing users to review products and share their shopping experiences with the community. Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive social networking and e-commerce platform, blending elements of TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest.

The platform seamlessly integrates social media and e-commerce. Users can discover products through authentic reviews and purchase them within the app. Unlike TikTok, which emphasizes entertainment and viral trends, RedNote integrates product discovery and purchasing into the user experience. 

RedNote focuses on lifestyle content, particularly in fashion, beauty, and travel, which is why it is popular among young and urban demographics.  

In 2025, following discussions of a potential TikTok ban in the US, RedNote experienced a significant influx of American users seeking alternatives. The platform, which boasts over 300 million monthly active users—primarily based in China—is steadily expanding its international footprint.

The rapid increase in English-speaking users has presented challenges in content moderation. RedNote is reportedly considering isolating non-Chinese users and hiring more English-speaking moderators to manage the diverse content effectively. [11]

Pros  Cons
Seamless social commerce experience Data privacy concerns due to Chinese ownership
Niche communities and high engagement Limited English support and localization challenges
Genuine reviews and personal stories  

3. Snapchat Spotlight

Launched in November 2020
Monthly Active Users: 350 million+
Competitive Edge: Snapchat’s extensive AR technology

Snapchat Spotlight offers a unique alternative in the short-form video space by integrating creative AR tools, privacy-centric features, and content incentives within the Snapchat ecosystem. Although it faces tough competition from TikTok, its focus on AR innovation and regional content discovery positions it as a growing contender. 

Spotlight is integrated into Snapchat’s main app, seamlessly combining social networking features like messaging, Stories, and AR lenses with short-form video consumption. It benefits from Snapchat’s existing audience, particularly its dominance among 13–24-year-olds in North America and Europe. 

Spotlight allows users to create and share vertical videos of up to 60 seconds. It aims to provide a space for viral content while offering financial incentives to creators through its revenue share program.

Initially, the platform rewarded creators through a $1 million daily fund based on video performance. Over time, this payment structure evolved, paving the way for new strategies to incentivize high-quality and engaging content. In 2024, they announced a unified monetization program that allows influencers to earn revenue from ads placed in their eligible Stories and Spotlight posts. [12]

Pros  Cons
Privacy-centric approach Limited features compared to TikTok
Integrates with Snapchat’s AR lenses and filters Payouts are variable and competitive
Emphasizes regional trends and localized content discovery  

2. YouTube Shorts

YouTube Shorts

Launched in September 2020 in India
Monthly Active Users: 2.5 billion+
Competitive Edge: Seamless integration with long-form content

Backed by Google’s robust infrastructure and YouTube’s established ecosystem, Shorts has become a major player in the short-form video space, challenging TikTok. It appears in the dedicated Shorts feed, search results, and suggested videos. The algorithm prioritizes content based on user preferences, watch history, and engagement. 

Creators can upload videos up to 3 minutes long. They can drive traffic to their long-form YouTube videos, offering a 360-degree content strategy. Through the YouTube Partner Program, creators earn 45% of the ad revenue generated by Shorts, with an average RPM (revenue per mille) ranging from $0.01 to $0.07 per 1,000 views.

In 2024, Shorts introduced the “Dream Screen” AI feature, allowing creators to generate backgrounds for Shorts using text prompts. Plus, its AI-based dubbing tool can translate and dub shorts into multiple languages, making it easier for creators to target global audiences. [13]

Unlike TikTok and Reels, which are primarily mobile-first, Shorts is optimized for both mobile and desktop viewers. By May 2024, it had accumulated over 5 trillion views since its launch. 

Pros  Cons
Robust editing tools High ad density can affect user experience
Broad demographic reach (all age groups) Difficult to gain organic reach 
Shorts are displayed alongside long-form videos  

1. Instagram Reels 

Instagram Reels 

Launched in August 2020
Monthly Active Users: 2 billion+
Competitive Edge: Seamless integration with Facebook

Instagram Reels is a short-form video feature within Instagram, Meta’s social media platform. It allows users to create and share videos of up to 3 minutes with access to a vast library of audio tracks, AR effects, and advanced editing tools.

Reels capitalizes on Instagram’s established network of friends, followers, and brands, making it the top choice for users already active on the platform. Plus, its seamless integration with Facebook allows creators to reach an even wider audience, further enhancing its appeal.

Meta supports creators through its Reels Play Bonus Program, offering financial incentives based on content views and engagement. Creators can also monetize through branded partnerships, leveraging Instagram’s tools like the Branded Content Tag. 

To attract content creators, Instagram has been offering substantial cash bonuses, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 per month, for posting exclusive content on Reels. This approach is part of Meta’s Breakthrough Bonus program, which also offers new creators up to $5,000 in additional bonuses during their first 90 days. [14]

Instagram Reels is rapidly expanding its footprint, particularly in emerging markets. And with Meta investing heavily in AI-driven discovery tools and creator incentives, Reels has positioned itself as a formidable competitor to TikTok, especially among brands and older audiences. 

Pros  Cons
Diverse Content Formats Algorithm often favors ads
Instagram’s integration with Facebook Often viewed as a TikTok clone
Better monetization opportunities for creators   

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Sources Cited and Additional References 

  1. Advertising & Marketing, Brand value of TikTok/Douyin worldwide, Statista
  2. Natasha Lomas, TikTok fined $379M in EU for failing to keep kids’ data safe, TechCrunch
  3. Internet, Number of daily and monthly active users of Kwai, Statista
  4. Dawei Wang, Analysis of Kwai’s profit model based on the five elements theory, SHS Web of Conferences
  5. Anthony Di Feo, Everything you need to know about the new Pin update, Pinterest
  6. Jess Weatherbed, Bluesky and X launch new video feeds amid TikTok uncertainties, TheVerge
  7. Kalhan Rosenblatt, TikTok pushes users to sister app Lemon8 ahead of potential ban, NBC News
  8. Zeyi Yang, It’s not just TikTok: Other ByteDance apps are gone too, Wired
  9. Events Schedule, Live, replays and weekly shows, TrillerTV
  10. Millie Turner, WhatsApp change means you can finally use Facebook & Instagram Less, The Scottish Sun
  11. Rikki Schlott, China panicked about American users corrupting their youth via TikTok alternative RedNote, New York Post
  12. Mia Sato, Snapchat is overhauling how influencers earn money on the platform, TheVerge
  13. Help Center, Create AI-generated content in Shorts with Dream Screen, Google
  14. Breakthrough Bonuses, Get paid for getting started as a creator, Facebook
Written by
Varun Kumar

I am a professional technology and business research analyst with more than a decade of experience in the field. My main areas of expertise include software technologies, business strategies, competitive analysis, and staying up-to-date with market trends.

I hold a Master's degree in computer science from GGSIPU University. If you'd like to learn more about my latest projects and insights, please don't hesitate to reach out to me via email at [email protected].

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