If you’re a content creator wondering how to turn your creativity into cash, you’ve probably asked yourself: Instagram Reels and TikTok earnings—where can I make more money?” It’s a question on the minds of many, as these two social media giants dominate the creator economy. 

Both platforms offer exciting opportunities for creators to monetize their content, but they approach payouts differently, leaving many wondering which one holds the edge.

The point is, the answer isn’t black and white. Tiktok’s creativity program which replaced the creator fund in 2023 does payouts based on views, while Instagram Reels has introduced monetization features like bonuses and ad revenue sharing to compete. But does one platform truly outshine the other when it comes to paying creators?

In this article, we’ll break down exactly how TikTok and Reels pay their creators, compare their earning structures, and help you decide which platform might be the best fit for your goals

The Monetization Models of TikTok and Instagram Reels

To understand which platform pays more, we first need to unpack how Instagram Reels and TikTok earnings are structured. Both platforms offer creators opportunities to monetize their content, but the mechanisms behind these earnings differ significantly.

TikTok

TikTok introduced its creativity program as a way to compensate creators for their contributions to the platform’s growth. Here’s how it works:

1. Earnings per view: TikTok pays creators based on the number of views their videos receive, but the exact payout varies. On average, creators earn $0.4 to $1 per 1,000 views from the creativity program. While this might sound small, it can add up for videos that go viral and rack up millions of views.

2. Eligibility requirements: To join the creativity program, creators must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a minimum of 10,000 followers.
• Accumulate at least 100,000 video views in the last 30 days.
• Reside in an eligible country.

3. Additional revenue streams: Besides the creativity program, TikTok allows creators to earn through:

• LIVE gifts: Fans send virtual gifts during live streams, which can be converted into real money.
• Brand collaborations: TikTok creators often partner with brands for sponsored content, which can be lucrative for influencers with strong engagement.

While the creativity program provides a consistent structure for earnings, many creators have criticized it for its low payouts and lack of transparency. 

TikTok distributes a fixed amount from the creativity program across all eligible creators, meaning the per-view payout can fluctuate as more people join.

Instagram Reels

Instagram’s reels monetization options focus on rewarding creators through bonuses and ad revenue sharing.

1. Reels play bonus program: Instagram offers eligible creators a bonus based on the performance of their Reels. Payments can range from $100 to $10,000+ per month, depending on the number of views a creator’s Reels accumulate. The exact payout varies, as Instagram calculates bonuses on a case-by-case basis.

2. Ad revenue sharing: Instagram recently introduced a system where creators can earn a share of ad revenue generated from their content. This model rewards creators for driving engagement and keeping users on the platform.

3. Eligibility Requirements:

• Creators must have a professional or business account.
• Consistent posting of reels is often necessary to qualify for bonuses.

Instagram typically invites creators to participate, especially those with a track record of high-quality, engaging content.

Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to monetization. TikTok offers more diversified ways to earn (e.g., LIVE gifts), while Instagram Reels seems to focus on rewarding viral success through bonuses.

Factors That Influence Reels and TikTok Earnings

When comparing Reels and TikTok earnings, it’s not just about the platform—it’s about how various factors influence the money creators can make. 

From the number of views to audience demographics, let’s take a  detailed look at the elements that impact earnings on both platforms.

1. View counts and engagement

Both TikTok and Reels reward creators based on how much attention their content garners, but the algorithms behind these rewards differ.

TikTok: The creativity program pays per view, but views alone don’t always guarantee higher payouts. TikTok’s algorithm emphasizes audience retention, meaning that a video with higher engagement—likes, comments, shares, and watch time—earns more than a video with passive views.

Instagram Reels: Instagram’s bonus system similarly relies on views, but the threshold for earning higher bonuses can feel steeper. Reels that go viral (accumulating millions of views) stand a better chance of maximizing bonuses. However, creators also report that smaller accounts with consistent engagement can see modest but steady payouts.

Viral content drives earnings on both platforms, but TikTok’s engagement-driven model may offer more consistency for creators with highly interactive audiences.

2. Ad Revenue and Sponsorships

Ad revenue sharing and brand sponsorships significantly impact how much creators can earn, especially as platforms experiment with monetization models.

TikTok: TikTok’s direct ad revenue-sharing program is still in its infancy. Most creators rely on partnerships with brands to supplement their creativity program income. Branded content campaigns often pay well but typically require a larger following and niche-specific influence.

Instagram Reels: Instagram’s introduction of ad revenue sharing positions it as a competitive option for creators. Since Instagram is already a go-to platform for influencer marketing, creators can leverage Reels to attract high-paying sponsorships alongside ad revenue.

Reels currently edges out TikTok in ad revenue opportunities, but TikTok’s brand partnership ecosystem is stronger for creators with large, engaged followings.

3. Audience Demographics and Location

Where your audience is located plays a surprisingly big role in determining your earnings.

TikTok: TikTok’s payouts vary by region. Creators in countries with high advertiser demand, such as the U.S. or the U.K., often earn more than those in smaller markets. Similarly, the purchasing power of your audience impacts your ability to attract brand deals.

Instagram Reels: Instagram’s bonuses and ad revenue are similarly affected by location. Creators in countries where Instagram Reels monetization programs are fully rolled out (like the U.S.) have a clear advantage. Additionally, Reels creators targeting affluent or niche audiences may secure higher-paying sponsorships.

Both platforms prioritize creators in high-demand regions, but Reels creators targeting premium demographics may have an edge in attracting lucrative deals.

4. Consistency vs. Virality

Consistency and virality are key to earning on both platforms, but they play different roles in sustaining income.

TikTok: Regular posting increases your chances of going viral, but TikTok’s creativity program often requires consistent high-performing content to generate significant earnings. A one-off viral hit may bring attention, but consistent engagement is critical for long-term income.

Instagram Reels: Instagram rewards consistency through its bonus program, with some creators reporting higher payouts for steady performance over time. This makes it a viable option for creators who may not have the same viral reach as TikTok stars but maintain loyal, engaged audiences.

TikTok rewards bursts of viral success, while Instagram Reels values consistent engagement over time.

Instagram Reels vs. Tiktok: Which Pays More?

Now that we’ve explored the factors influencing earnings, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how much do TikTok and Reels pay their creators?

If we’re comparing raw payout rates, Instagram Reels offers significantly higher potential earnings per view through its bonus programs. TikTok, however, provides more diverse revenue streams, such as LIVE gifts and its rapidly growing sponsorship ecosystem. 

That said, many creators report that Reels offers better consistency for mid-sized accounts, while TikTok tends to favor creators who can consistently go viral.

The numbers make one thing clear: the platform that pays more depends on your content style, audience size, and ability to maintain engagement.

Conclusion

TikTok and Reels both offer incredible opportunities for creators to earn money, but their monetization systems cater to different strengths. TikTok rewards creativity and virality, while Reels provides higher payouts for consistent, high-performing content. The best platform for you ultimately depends on your goals, audience, and content style.

Instead of choosing one over the other, why not explore both? You can tap into the unique benefits of each platform, maximize your earnings, and reach a wider audience by diversifying your efforts.

Reels

Instagram’s reels monetization options focus on rewarding creators through bonuses and ad revenue sharing.

1. Reels play bonus program: Instagram offers eligible creators a bonus based on the performance of their Reels. Payments can range from $100 to $10,000+ per month, depending on the number of views a creator’s Reels accumulate. The exact payout varies, as Instagram calculates bonuses on a case-by-case basis.

2. Ad revenue sharing: Instagram recently introduced a system where creators can earn a share of ad revenue generated from their content. This model rewards creators for driving engagement and keeping users on the platform.

3. Eligibility Requirements:

• Creators must have a professional or business account.
• Consistent posting of reels is often necessary to qualify for bonuses.

Instagram typically invites creators to participate, especially those with a track record of high-quality, engaging content.

Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to monetization. TikTok offers more diversified ways to earn (e.g., LIVE gifts), while Instagram Reels seems to focus on rewarding viral success through bonuses.

Factors That Influence Reels and Tiktok Earnings

When comparing Reels and TikTok earnings, it’s not just about the platform—it’s about how various factors influence the money creators can make. 

From the number of views to audience demographics, let’s take a  detailed look at the elements that impact earnings on both platforms.

1. View counts and engagement

Both TikTok and Reels reward creators based on how much attention their content garners, but the algorithms behind these rewards differ.

TikTok: The creativity program pays per view, but views alone don’t always guarantee higher payouts. TikTok’s algorithm emphasizes audience retention, meaning that a video with higher engagement—likes, comments, shares, and watch time—earns more than a video with passive views.

Reels: Instagram’s bonus system similarly relies on views, but the threshold for earning higher bonuses can feel steeper. Reels that go viral (accumulating millions of views) stand a better chance of maximizing bonuses. However, creators also report that smaller accounts with consistent engagement can see modest but steady payouts.

Viral content drives earnings on both platforms, but TikTok’s engagement-driven model may offer more consistency for creators with highly interactive audiences.

2. Ad Revenue and Sponsorships

Ad revenue sharing and brand sponsorships significantly impact how much creators can earn, especially as platforms experiment with monetization models.

TikTok: TikTok’s direct ad revenue-sharing program is still in its infancy. Most creators rely on partnerships with brands to supplement their creativity program income. Branded content campaigns often pay well but typically require a larger following and niche-specific influence.

Reels: Instagram’s introduction of ad revenue sharing positions it as a competitive option for creators. Since Instagram is already a go-to platform for influencer marketing, creators can leverage Reels to attract high-paying sponsorships alongside ad revenue.

Reels currently edges out TikTok in ad revenue opportunities, but TikTok’s brand partnership ecosystem is stronger for creators with large, engaged followings.

3. Audience Demographics and Location

Where your audience is located plays a surprisingly big role in determining your earnings.

TikTok: TikTok’s payouts vary by region. Creators in countries with high advertiser demand, such as the U.S. or the U.K., often earn more than those in smaller markets. Similarly, the purchasing power of your audience impacts your ability to attract brand deals.

Reels: Instagram’s bonuses and ad revenue are similarly affected by location. Creators in countries where Instagram Reels monetization programs are fully rolled out (like the U.S.) have a clear advantage. Additionally, Reels creators targeting affluent or niche audiences may secure higher-paying sponsorships.

Both platforms prioritize creators in high-demand regions, but Reels creators targeting premium demographics may have an edge in attracting lucrative deals.

4. Consistency vs. Virality

Consistency and virality are key to earning on both platforms, but they play different roles in sustaining income.

TikTok: Regular posting increases your chances of going viral, but TikTok’s creativity program often requires consistent high-performing content to generate significant earnings. A one-off viral hit may bring attention, but consistent engagement is critical for long-term income.

Reels: Instagram rewards consistency through its bonus program, with some creators reporting higher payouts for steady performance over time. This makes it a viable option for creators who may not have the same viral reach as TikTok stars but maintain loyal, engaged audiences.

TikTok rewards bursts of viral success, while Instagram Reels values consistent engagement over time.

TikTok vs. Reels: Which Pays More?

Now that we’ve explored the factors influencing earnings, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how much do TikTok and Reels pay their creators?

If we’re comparing raw payout rates, Instagram Reels offers significantly higher potential earnings per view through its bonus programs. TikTok, however, provides more diverse revenue streams, such as LIVE gifts and its rapidly growing sponsorship ecosystem. 

That said, many creators report that Reels offers better consistency for mid-sized accounts, while TikTok tends to favor creators who can consistently go viral.

The numbers make one thing clear: the platform that pays more depends on your content style, audience size, and ability to maintain engagement.

Conclusion

TikTok and Reels both offer incredible opportunities for creators to earn money, but their monetization systems cater to different strengths. TikTok rewards creativity and virality, while Reels provides higher payouts for consistent, high-performing content. The best platform for you ultimately depends on your goals, audience, and content style.

Instead of choosing one over the other, why not explore both? You can tap into the unique benefits of each platform, maximize your earnings, and reach a wider audience by diversifying your efforts.If you’re a content creator wondering how to turn your creativity into cash, you’ve probably asked yourself: