Rising Creators Forum

Alright, let’s be real, Meta really threw us a curveball with Threads. When it launched, everyone thought it was just a “Twitter copy.” But fast forward to 2025, and a lot of small creators are quietly saying Threads is doing more for them than Instagram ever did.

I’ve been testing both platforms for a few months now, and there are some major differences in how each one rewards creators. Some of the results honestly surprised me. If you’ve been wondering “should I put more energy into Threads or stay focused on Instagram? This might clear things up.


1. Engagement Feels More “Real” on Threads

Threads is still the new kid on the block, but that’s actually a good thing. There’s less noise, fewer ads, and more genuine interaction. Posts there don’t have to be perfect, people just talk, reply, and connect fast.

On Instagram, you kinda feel like you’re performing all the time. You need the right thumbnail, the right Reel timing, the right sound… it’s a lot. Threads, on the other hand, is raw. You can post something as simple as “Struggling to find ideas today” and get five replies from other creators who feel the same.

That’s the magic, the engagement rate on Threads (for small accounts) often beats Instagram by miles.

For example, my 1K-follower Instagram page gets around 2–3 comments per post. But my 500-follower Threads account gets 20–30 replies easily. It’s smaller numbers, but way deeper conversation.

Question for you: Have you noticed people seem more relaxed and chatty on Threads compared to Instagram?


2. Instagram Still Has the Edge for Discovery

Let’s not count Instagram out, though. In 2025, Instagram’s discovery features like Reels, Explore, and Recommendations are still unmatched. Threads doesn’t yet have that kind of viral engine.

If your goal is to reach new people fast, Instagram is still stronger. One good Reel can bring in hundreds of followers overnight. Threads doesn’t do that yet, it’s more of a “relationship builder” platform.

To give you an idea: I tested the same quote-style post on both platforms, one went out as a Reel on Instagram, the other as a text post on Threads. The Instagram one got 12K views. The Threads version? Around 2K impressions. But I got more profile visits on Threads because people actually cared to read and talk.

So maybe it’s not about which one is “better.” It’s more about what kind of growth you want.

Question for you: Would you rather have fast viral reach or slower but more loyal followers?

3. Content Lifespan — Threads Wins Big Here

This was one of the biggest surprises for me. Instagram posts usually fade after 48 hours unless they blow up. Threads? Your posts can keep getting replies for a week straight.

People there scroll differently. They read conversations. So if you join an ongoing thread or reply to a trending post, your visibility can last way longer.

That’s one thing small creators need, content that keeps working even after day one. You don’t have to post 24/7 to stay visible.

I remember posting a short tip about burnout (“take one no-camera day weekly”), and three days later, it was still getting likes and comments. That doesn’t happen often on Instagram anymore.

Question for you: Do you think longer content lifespan helps small creators stay consistent?

4. Monetization and AdSense Potential

Here’s where Instagram still leads the race. It already has built-in monetization like Reels bonuses, subscriptions, and affiliate links. Threads hasn’t fully rolled that out yet.

However, what many small creators are doing now is using Threads as the “top of the funnel.” They build genuine connections there, then send followers to Instagram, YouTube, or blogs where the real monetization happens.

It’s actually a pretty smart combo. You post short, chatty updates on Threads → build trust → link your Instagram or YouTube for deeper content.

I’ve seen a few creators go from zero to 1,000 Instagram followers in just a month by being active on Threads daily.

Question for you: Have you used Threads to bring traffic to your Instagram or YouTube yet?


5. Algorithm Differences in 2025

Instagram’s algorithm is built around “signals.” It checks for watch time, saves, comments, and even early likes. Threads algorithm, on the other hand, favors active engagement like replies and conversations.

In other words:

• Instagram = performance platform.
• Threads = conversation platform.

If you’re a creator who loves visuals, Reels, and polished posts, stick to Instagram.
If you’re more about ideas, quotes, community talk, and daily thoughts, Threads will feel more natural.

And the truth is, most creators now use both. They post Reels on Instagram, then talk about those Reels or topics on Threads. It’s like running two gears of the same machine.

Question for you: Which one fits your personality better, performing visually or chatting casually?

So yeah, both platforms work, but in different ways. Threads helps you connect, while Instagram helps you scale.

Question for you: Have you seen anyone grow faster on Threads than on Instagram?


7. My Honest Take (After 3 Months of Testing Both)

Personally, I think Threads feels like how Instagram used to be years ago, less pressure, more conversation, more fun. There’s no chasing perfect lighting or hashtags.

But I still use Instagram for visuals, reels, and brand deals. So if you ask me which one helps small creators grow faster, I’d say this:

• Threads helps you grow a community.
• Instagram helps you grow visibility.

If you combine both smartly, you can grow twice as fast. Post something visual on Instagram, then discuss it on Threads. That’s what’s working right now in 2025.

Join the discussion:
Which one are you focusing more on this year, Threads or Instagram? Share your wins, frustrations, or small tips that worked for you. Let’s swap notes and help each other out.

I totally agree with this. Threads feels like early Instagram before everyone turned into a brand. I’ve made more genuine friends there in 3 months than 3 years on IG.

Also, that part about “content lifespan” is so true! My post about burnout kept getting engagement for days. Instagram could never!

Good breakdown! I’m using both too. Threads feels more personal. So, I can just share my random thoughts without overthinking it. But Reels still bring the followers in fast.