Wondering if you should be using Instagram Reels or Stories for your business marketing? Both features offer unique opportunities to engage with your audience but deciding which is right for your business can be tricky. Let’s break down the key differences between Instagram Reels and Stories, so you can decide which one is best for your needs.
Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels was introduced in 2020 to compete with the popular short-form video app TikTok. Reels are 15-second, Instagram-native videos that can be edited with creative tools like filters, AR effects, and music. You can also share Reels on your Instagram feed or in a dedicated space on the Explore page.
Reels are a great way to show off your brand personality and engage with your audience in a fun, creative way. Because they’re native to Instagram, they’re also easy to create and share for businesses of all sizes.
Reels is also one of the best ways to increase reach and engagement on Instagram. When you share a Reel on your feed, it has the potential to be featured in the Explore section, where millions of users can discover your brand.
How to create reels?
To create Instagram Reels, open the Instagram app and tap on the camera icon in the top left corner. Then, select “Reels” from the bottom menu. You can either record a new video or upload an existing one from your camera roll. Once you’ve chosen your video, you can edit it with filters, effects, and music. After editing, tap “Share” to share your Reel on your feed or in the Explore section.
Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories was introduced in 2016 as a way for users to share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. Since then, Instagram has added several features to Stories, including filters, stickers, and interactive elements like polls and quizzes. You can also share Stories on your Instagram feed or in a dedicated space on the Explore page.
Stories are a great way to give your audience a behind-the-scenes look at your business or product. They’re also perfect for highlighting user-generated content or running quick contests or polls.
Because Stories disappear after 24 hours, they’re a low-commitment way for users to engage with your brand. This can be especially valuable for businesses starting on Instagram or trying to grow their following.
How to create stories?
To create Instagram Stories, open the Instagram app and tap on the camera icon in the top left corner. Then, select “Stories” from the bottom menu. You can either record a new video or upload an existing one from your camera roll. Once you’ve chosen your video, you can edit it with filters, stickers, and other creative tools. When you’re finished editing, tap “Share” to share your Story on your feed or in the Explore section.
Instagram Reels vs. Stories: The Key Differences
Size orientation: Instagram Reels are designed for vertical videos, while Stories can be vertical or horizontal.
Expiration: Instagram Reels don’t expire, but they can be deleted anytime. Instagram Stories expire after 24 hours.
Shareability: Both Instagram Reels and Stories can be shared on your feed or in the Explore section.
Time Limit: One of the key differences between Instagram Reels and Stories is the time limit. Reels can be up to 30 seconds long, while Stories are only 15 seconds. This may not seem a big difference, but it gives you more time to tell a story or showcase a product with Reels. If you’re thinking about using video for your business marketing, Reels is the way to go.
Editing Tools: Another key difference is the editing tools available on each platform. Instagram Reels offers a variety of editing tools that allow you to edit your videos before you post them, including the ability to add filters, music, and text overlays. Stories also have some editing capabilities, but they are more limited. With Stories, you can only add text and stickers and draw on your images or videos after you’ve posted them.
Viewing Stats: Regarding viewing stats, Instagram Reels and Stories are similar. Both features show how many people have viewed your post and who have liked it. However, Reels offers additional insights, such as the number of views from each country and how many times your video has been shared. These additional insights can help you understand your posts’ reach and tailor your content accordingly.
Privacy Settings: When it comes to privacy settings, Instagram Reels and Stories differ slightly. With Reels, you have the option to share your videos with everyone on Instagram (Public), just your followers (Friends), or only specific people (Private). With Stories, you can share with everyone (Public), just your followers (Friends), or hide them from everyone except for specific people (Direct).
Final Thoughts
So, which is better for business marketing—Instagram Reels or Stories? Both features offer unique benefits that can be leveraged for business purposes. If you’re looking to use video for your business marketing, then Instagram Reels is the way to go, thanks to its longer time limit and robust editing tools. However, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to share images or videos with a smaller group of people, then Instagram Stories may be a better fit. Ultimately, the best platform for your business will depend on your specific marketing goals.
