TikTok vs. RedNote: comparison of differences, benefits and USPs

The times are wild right now. Everything seems to be in a state of change. The Chinese uber social media platform TikTok was even unavailable for a short time in the USA. As an artist, you are somewhat forced to be trendy, but at the same time you need stability so you can use your platforms to make sure that people out there know that you exist. TikTok is particularly relevant for musicians, but there is also another Chinese social media service that is currently trending and could be very exciting for you as an artist.

In recent years, social media platforms have diversified greatly, with some specialising in specific target groups or content. A second platform that, alongside TikTok, is attracting increasing attention for its music and short videos is RedNote. Although both platforms seem to be similar at first glance, they differ significantly in their focus, target group, and selling points. Let’s take a closer look.

TikTok: the short video revolution

This social media platform specialises in short videos, especially for a young target group between 16 and 30 years old. The focus is on user-generated content that is often humorous, creative, and trend-based.

Functions and features:

• Music integration: TikTok has a close connection to the music industry. Users can use popular songs as the soundtrack to their videos to start new music trends.
• Algorithms: the algorithm is known for its ability to deliver content specifically to interested parties, allowing unknown creators to go viral.
• Trends and challenges: the platform lives on challenges created by users and taken up by the community.
• TikTok’s unique selling point: TikTok’s USP lies in its enormous reach and ability to create viral trends. It is a central place for music promotion and the discovery of new artists.

RedNote: music is the focus here

RedNote, known in China as Xiaohongshu, meaning “little red book”, is a Chinese social media platform that is currently gaining popularity around the world. Especially in the USA, and recently also in Germany, the app has had a significant increase in users and after the short TikTok ban, people seem to be looking for alternatives. The platform presents both Chinese and international content, which promotes unique cultural exchange. Accounts from the US and Europe are reportedly growing rapidly, gaining tens of thousands of followers within days.

RedNote focuses on creative exchange in the world of music. It is aimed primarily at musicians, fans and content creators who see music as the core of their content.

Functions and features:

• Music quotes and clips: users can share quotes or short clips from songs that are directly connected to streaming services such as Spotify or Apple Music.
• Community focus: RedNote promotes exchange and interaction between musicians and their fans.
• Musical collaboration: the platform offers tools with which musicians can work together on projects or remix each other.
• A RedNote USP: the focus on music as a central form of communication makes RedNote unique. It’s not so much about entertainment and trends, but more about authentic connections within the music community.

What is the difference between TikTok and RedNote?

• Target audience: TikTok is aimed at a broad, mostly young, target group that is looking for entertainment and trends. RedNote specifically addresses musicians and fans who are looking for deeper interactions and creative exchanges in the field of music.
• Content: humorous, trend-based short videos dominate TikTok. RedNote focuses on music clips, quotes, and collaborative projects.
• Algorithm and range: TikTok offers an enormous range thanks to its powerful algorithm. RedNote is more specialised towards niche communities, which promotes personal connections. Its open algorithm, similar to TikTok in the early days, allows you as a user to achieve a wide reach, regardless of the number of followers you have.
• Music usage: TikTok uses music as part of a larger entertainment experience. RedNote focuses strongly on music and provides deeper integration with streaming platforms.

Conclusion & tips

While TikTok has established itself as a platform that creates trends and offers a huge reach, RedNote focuses on empowering communities and creative exchanges in music. Both platforms have their strengths, but their target groups and focus areas could not be more different. If you are looking for entertainment and viral trends, TikTok is the right platform for you. Musicians who want to focus on their art will be better off on RedNote. RedNote is also promising for international artists as the algorithm can trigger hype at this early stage. So don’t be afraid to include both English and Chinese text in your videos when customising your language to increase your traffic. Authentic content is desired on RedNote. In the initial phase, one to two uploads per day is preferred. Good luck!