Instagram is branching out with the features and abilities it offers to users and businesses. When it launched back in 2010, it was a simple photo sharing app. With its ability to create, edit, crop, and filter both short and long videos, Instagram is so much more than that now.
Two of the most utilized features on Instagram right now are Reels and Stories. What’s the difference? How should your approach to each differ?
Let’s first take a look at the technical differences between Reels and Stories:
| Features | Stories | Reels |
|---|---|---|
| Ratio | 9:16 Full Mobile Screen | 9:16 Full Mobile Screen |
| Format | Video – Photo – Posts from Instagram feed | Video |
| Lifespan | 24 hours, can be saved to Highlights | Unlimited |
| Length | Up to 15 seconds | Up to 60 seconds |
| Editing | Photo filtering | Slow down & speed up videos – Trim and align videos together |
| Audio | Add and select the part of a music piece from the Instagram’s music library | Add and select the part of a music piece from the Instagram music library + Automatic musical sequence from one clip to another |
| Draft | None | Save to publish later option |
| Caption | None | Full caption like a post |
| Gif & Sticker | Yes | Yes |
| Hashtag & Mentions | You can mention people and hashtags, but the Stories are not directly displayed on the explore / hashtags page | You can mention people and hashtags, and the reels are displayed on the explore / hashtags page |
| Placement & Ability to Share | Share to your followers, close friends group only or Individually via Instagram messaging. | On the explore tab (public accounts only) + on your own Reels feed & general Insta feed (shared with your followers like a post)+ as Story (your Reel will be displayed as a Story) |
| Engagement | All private engagement: likes and comments arrive in your direct messaging | Like feed posts, people can publicly comment Reels |
Reels and Stories are both crucial to a strong social media plan. When creating reels, remember that they are your “pitch” for new users to follow you. Focus on creating more reels that send your message to consumers for new growth! Your stories are meant for your current audience, so you can be a little more laid back and casual. Stories deepen relationships with your current audience and encourage engagement.