8 TikTok Alternatives – Where to Go if the App Gets Banned
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With TikTok warning of a potential shutdown in just a few days, as the Supreme Court considers legislation that could ban the app in the U.S., many users are wondering where they’ll get access to the short-form video if the app goes away.
The January 19 deadline for TikTok parent company ByteDance to sell its U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban has arrived, leaving millions of users potentially looking for and using new platforms. While there’s no exact replica of TikTok’s unique mix of content and its remarkably precise algorithm, many platforms have spent years developing similar features.
From established social media giants to emerging platforms, here are some of the best alternatives to consider in case TikTok gets banned.
Instagram Reels
Instagram’s take on short-form video has become TikTok’s strongest competitor, and for good reason. Most of your favorite TikTok creators are already cross-posting their content here, as well as trending sounds and topics you like.
While Reels’ algorithm isn’t as unique at guessing your interests as TikTok’s, Instagram is constantly improving its recommendation system. If TikTok disappears, Reels is well-positioned to become the new home for short-form video, thanks to Instagram’s huge user base and familiar content styles.
Plus, you get photos, Stories, and Reels all in one place — no app-switching required when you want to see what your friends are up to. You can find all of Tom’s Guide’s Instagram Reels right here.
Download Instagram: Android | iOS
Youtube Shorts
Getting into YouTube’s short-form video space comes with a unique benefit: access to YouTube’s vast library of music and songs. If you’re already a regular user of YouTube or use TikTok primarily to discover music, this could be the perfect choice for you.
The integration with long-form content means you can seamlessly move between quick clips and deeper dives into your interests. Just be prepared for some content that feels more like chopped-up YouTube videos than original short-form content.
And if you haven’t yet subscribed to Tom’s Guide on YouTube, you can find us here.
Download YouTube: Android | iOS
Snapchat Spotlight
Unlike TikTok’s everywhere-everything-at-once-in-a-while approach, Snapchat’s Spotlight feed keeps things light and entertaining. You won’t find political debates or news content here — just fun, trendy content organized by topics and popular songs.
The platform’s Trending section makes it easy to find out what’s trending right now, and its robust search features let you track down specific content via keywords and hashtags, just like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
However, keep in mind that the content is heavily populated by younger audiences, which may not appeal to you if you’re accustomed to TikTok’s wider age range.
Download Snapchat: Android | iOS
RedNote
This Chinese platform (“Xiaohongshu” in its native market) is quickly becoming a favorite among “TikTok refugees” looking for an alternative to TikTok. Imagine the visual appeal of Pinterest mixed with social shopping features and short-form videos — that’s RedNote’s vision.
This app specializes in beauty tutorials and product reviews, offering a mix of video and livestreaming capabilities. While it’s gaining momentum, there’s an elephant in the room: As another Chinese-owned app, it could potentially face similar scrutiny as TikTok if it gains significant U.S. market share.
Download Rednote: Android | iOS
Triller
Originally created as a TikTok competitor, Triller is all set to attract displaced TikTok users. They’ve launched SaveMyTikToks.com to help creators migrate their content, and the recent hiring of ex-TikTok executive Sean Kim as CEO (who helped develop TikTok’s famous “For You” feed) signals serious ambitions.
While its user base is smaller than TikTok, Triller’s focus on music and dance content could make it the perfect new home for creators in these areas. The platform seems well-positioned to capitalize on any exodus from TikTok.
Download Triller: Android | iOS
Lemon8
Known as the “lifestyle community,” TikTok’s sister app is taking steps to attract displaced users, recently enabling TikTok account integration for a seamless transition. The platform feels like a hybrid of Instagram and Pinterest, allowing you to create stylish slideshows and photo collections through the familiar “Following” and “For You” feeds.
With similar creative tools, filters, and effects to TikTok, it could be a natural transition — but, of course, there’s a slight catch: as another ByteDance product, it could get caught in the same regulatory crosshairs as TikTok.
Download Lemon8: Android | iOS
Likee
With hundreds of millions of users worldwide, Likee has evolved into a comprehensive short-form video platform that punches above its weight. The platform’s filters rival Snapchat’s, while its extensive editing suite includes everything from beauty filters to background changers.
Monetization happens through superlikes and live streaming, where creators can receive gifts from viewers, just like TikTok. While the user base isn’t at TikTok’s level, Like’s creative tools and focus on live interactions make it stand out.
Download Like: Android | iOS
Fanbase
Imagine TikTok, Instagram, Patreon, and Clubhouse all on one platform — that’s the goal of Fanbase. At its core, the app’s “Flickz” feature shows you short videos you’re used to, but it’s the platform’s broader mission that makes it interesting.
Created with a focus on giving Black creators the recognition they deserve, Fanbase takes a refreshingly different approach to content promotion. The subscription model means there won’t be any ads in your feed, and creators get a fair chance to reach their audience without worrying about algorithm changes or shadowbanning.
Download Fanbase: Android | iOS
Other options
As the social media landscape continues to evolve, these options can become increasingly important for both creators and audiences alike. And while the platforms above are the most established alternatives to TikTok, several other apps offer unique approaches to short-form video.
For younger users, Zigazoo offers a safe, moderated environment. Meanwhile, newcomer Favorite is gamifying livestreaming with a creator-friendly 70/30 revenue split, already attracting 750,000 users.
Clapper offers a more unfiltered experience with three-minute videos and audio rooms for up to 2,000 listeners, though it trades polish for authenticity. Whether you’re looking for advanced editing features, a strong community focus, or just a different take on short-form video, there’s a platform that matches your needs.
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