TikTok has taken the world by storm, becoming one of the most popular apps for sharing short, creative videos. But if you’re looking for something similar — whether for variety, extra features, or different audiences — there are several other platforms that offer TikTok-like experiences. Many of them focus on short-form videos, editing tools, social engagement, and viral trends.
Here’s a look at the top apps similar to TikTok that are worth checking out.
1. Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels is Meta’s direct response to TikTok. It allows users to create short videos up to 90 seconds long, complete with music, filters, and editing features. Since it’s integrated with Instagram, it offers the advantage of an existing audience and easy sharing across Stories, the Feed, and the Reels tab.
Why it’s similar to TikTok:
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Short, vertical videos
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Music, effects, and transitions
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Viral challenges and trends
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Huge user base and integration with Instagram
2. YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts is Google’s answer to TikTok and focuses on 60-second vertical videos. It’s built directly into the YouTube app and designed to help creators gain views without needing long-form videos. Shorts also benefit from YouTube’s powerful recommendation engine and monetization tools.
Key features:
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Access to YouTube’s massive audience
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Integration with YouTube channels
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Familiar video creation tools
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Shorts Fund and monetization options
3. Snapchat Spotlight
Snapchat Spotlight is a short-form video section within the Snapchat app. It allows users to share fun, vertical videos with the chance to go viral — even if they don’t have a large following. Snapchat also rewards top-performing creators through its Spotlight rewards program.
Why it stands out:
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Focus on viral content and discovery
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Built-in filters and AR effects
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Monetization for creators
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Content curated by algorithm, not followers
4. Triller
Triller is another app often compared to TikTok, especially in the music and entertainment industry. It allows users to create high-quality videos with advanced editing tools and a strong focus on music and celebrity content.
Features:
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Powerful editing and auto-syncing to music
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Popular among artists and influencers
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Short, music-driven content
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Focus on creativity and style
5. Likee
Likee is a social video app from Singapore that offers a wide range of effects, filters, and editing options. It’s popular in Asia, Europe, and parts of the Middle East. Likee features “superpowers,” animated effects, and beauty tools that make videos visually unique.
What makes it similar to TikTok:
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Vertical short videos with effects
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Real-time filters and stickers
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Live streaming options
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Local and global content feeds
6. CapCut (for creation)
While CapCut is technically a video editing app (developed by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance), it’s often used by creators to prepare polished content for TikTok and other platforms. It doesn’t have a social feed, but it offers advanced tools like transitions, filters, and audio syncing.
Ideal for:
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Editing TikTok-style content
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Adding effects, captions, and overlays
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Preparing videos for multiple platforms
7. Kwai
Popular in Latin America and Asia, Kwai is a short video platform with a focus on entertainment, comedy, and personal stories. It includes video editing tools, rewards for creators, and a community-driven feed similar to TikTok’s For You Page.
Highlights:
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Localized content feeds
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Daily challenges and contests
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Creator rewards and monetization
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Emphasis on fun and storytelling
Conclusion
TikTok may be the most dominant short-video app today, but it’s far from the only option. Whether you’re looking to experiment with different features, reach new audiences, or try new formats, apps like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, Triller, Likee, and Snapchat Spotlight offer great alternatives.
Each platform has its own unique strengths, so the best one for you depends on your content style and audience goals. Why not try a few and see which one fits your creative vibe best?
