In the ever-evolving world of social media, two platforms are currently vying for our attention: Threads and Twitter. Both platforms offer unique features and experiences, but which one is right for you, especially if you're an influencer or content creator? In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the similarities, differences, and unique opportunities each platform offers.

Introduction to Threads

So you might have heard of Threads, the new kid on the block. It's an offshoot of Instagram and part of Meta Platforms, the company formerly known as Facebook. Since its launch on July 6, 2023, Threads has been growing rapidly, attracting a significant number of users. As of July 2023, Threads has amassed an impressive user base, over 100 million, and the platform continues to grow at time of writing.

On the other hand, Twitter, a veteran in the social media space, boasts a substantial active user base. As of the first quarter of 2023, Twitter reported 330 million monthly active users, but as of July 2023, it has a total of about 237.8 million daily active users. This large and diverse user base is one of Twitter's key strengths, making it a hub for real-time news, discussions, and content sharing.

User Demographics

Threads, an offshoot of Instagram, and Twitter cater to different demographics globally. As of January 2023, according to Statista, Instagram boasts a global user base of 2 billion, with a slight female majority (56.3%) and the largest age group being 25-34 years old. The top five countries with the most Instagram users are the United States, India, Brazil, Indonesia, and Russia. On the other hand, Twitter, as of July 2023, has a global user base of 330 million, with a slight male majority (56.4%) and the largest age group being 25-34 years old. The top five countries with the most Twitter users are the United States, Japan, India, Brazil, and Indonesia.

Threads, despite being a newer platform with a global user base of 100 million as of July 2023, has not yet released its user demographic data. However, it's speculated that Threads may appeal more to younger users seeking a positive and creative space for expression. It may also attract users dissatisfied with Twitter’s policies, features, or culture. However, due to regulatory issues, Threads is currently unavailable in Europe, which may limit its reach in that region.

Twitter vs. Threads: A Comprehensive Comparison

When comparing Twitter and Threads, it's essential to look at the unique features and limitations of each platform.

Future Updates

Threads' Updates

Threads is a relatively new app that was launched on July 6, 2023, and has been growing rapidly since then. According to some sources, Threads has some future feature updates planned or in the works, such as:

• An edit button that will allow users to edit their posts after publishing them.
• A timeline of people you follow, similar to Instagram’s feed, that will show you the latest posts from your followees.
• The ability to search posts by keywords, topics, or accounts, which is currently missing from the app.
• A revamped user interface that will make the app more user-friendly and intuitive.
• Refined dark mode that will improve the app’s appearance and readability in low-light conditions.
• New options to like, reply, repost, and share posts within the app or on other platforms.

These are some of the possible upcoming features for Threads, but they may not be confirmed or finalized by Meta. Threads is still in its early stages of development and may introduce more features or changes in the future.

Twitter's Updates

In 2023, Twitter has introduced several significant updates aimed at enhancing user experience and providing more opportunities for content creators. These include Twitter Blue, edit button, Communities, and they plan on rolling out more such as:

• Twitter Downvotes: Twitter has now begun rolling out downvotes for some users. Unlike likes or retweets, or Reddit’s downvotes, Twitter’s downvotes are not visible. Twitter claims downvotes will help decide whether the content is relevant, encouraging users to downvote content that “isn’t adding to the conversation”.
• New Video Carousel: A new feature that allows users to post multiple videos in one tweet.
• Long-form text to tweets: Twitter is testing a feature that would allow users to post longer tweets.
• Twitter Payments: Twitter is working on a feature that would allow users to send and receive payments.

These updates reflect Twitter's ongoing commitment to improving user experience and expanding its functionality.

Character Limit and Content Creation

One of the most significant differences between the two platforms is the character limit for posts. Unlike Twitter's 280-character limit, Threads allows you a generous 500-character limit, double that of Twitter’s. This freedom can be liberating for content creators, allowing for more concise discussion threads without having to scroll through massive twit longers. However, it's worth noting that the lack of a character limit could also lead to longer, more rambling posts, which might not always be to everyone's liking.

Privacy, Security, and Ads

• Privacy and Data Collection: Threads vs. Twitter

When it comes to privacy and data collection, Threads and Twitter have different approaches. Threads, being part of Meta Platforms, has a more extensive data collection policy, which has already led to scrutiny and even prevented its launch in the EU.

• Data Collection Practices

Threads collects a wide range of data, some of which are more sensitive than what Twitter collects. This includes health and fitness data, biometric information, sexual orientation, and ethnic data. Both platforms collect and/or track browsing history, search history, contacts, financial information, usage data, diagnostic information, identifiers, purchase history, and precise location.

User-generated data such as photos, videos, audio, and gameplay content are collected by both platforms. However, Threads goes a step further by collecting additional information about user activity on the platform, something that Twitter does not do.

Common data like names, emails, and phone numbers are collected by both Twitter and Threads. But again, Threads goes a step further by collecting physical addresses and other contact information that can be used to contact a user outside the app.

• Comparison with Other Platforms

Compared to other microblogging sites like Bluesky, Mastodon, and Spill, Threads collects significantly more user information. Bluesky only collects user IDs, email addresses, user-generated content, and diagnostic data. Spill collects some sensitive information alongside contact details, user content, and coarse location. Mastodon, on the other hand, collects absolutely no user data, making it the most privacy-centered microblogging platform among the five.

Availability and Accessibility

Currently, Threads is only available as a mobile app, with no web version. This mobile-first approach aligns with the trend of increasing smartphone usage but may limit accessibility for users who prefer browsing on a desktop. In contrast, Twitter is available on both web and mobile, making it more accessible to a wider range of users.

Direct Messaging and Post Editing

Threads also lacks a direct messaging feature, a staple on Twitter that allows for private conversations between users. This absence simplifies the user experience but also limits the ways users can interact on the platform.

Another notable difference is the ability to edit posts once they've been published. On Threads, once you've published a post, you can't edit it, so you'll need to double-check your content before hitting the post button. On the other hand, Twitter recently introduced the ability to edit tweets for premium users, a long-requested feature that allows for the correction of typos and mistakes.

Monetization Options

Twitter offers a variety of monetization opportunities for content creators. The platform's video monetization programs, Amplify Pre-Roll and Amplify Sponsorships, allow publishers to earn from pre-roll ads and exclusive sponsorship opportunities for their video content, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. Additionally, Twitter's new Creator Ads Revenue Sharing initiative enables select content creators to earn a portion of the advertising revenue generated by the company. This requires a subscription to Twitter Blue or Verified Organizations, a minimum of 5 million impressions on posts, and adherence to Twitter's Creator Monetization Standards.



Furthermore, creators can engage in affiliate marketing, promoting products or services relevant to their niche or audience, and earning a commission for every sale or action resulting from their referral link. Sponsored posts also offer a way for creators to monetize their content on Twitter, where they partner with brands to create promotional posts in exchange for a fee or other benefits. However, it's important to note that Threads, a newer platform, currently does not have any monetization programs in place. This lack of monetization options may influence your decision when choosing between Twitter and Threads, as the ability to monetize content is often a key consideration for creators.

Opportunities for Influencers and Content Creators on Threads



Despite its limitations, Threads presents exciting opportunities for influencers and content creators. As a new platform, early adopters have the chance to establish a strong presence and following on Threads. The user-friendly interface, absence of a character limit, and focus on privacy make Threads an appealing platform for content creation.

Fresh Start and Early Adoption

Being an early adopter on a social media platform can have its advantages. You have the opportunity to grow with the platform, understanding its nuances and features before it becomes saturated. Early adopters often have a higher chance of getting noticed and building a significant following. With Threads still in its growth phase, now is the perfect time for influencers and content creators to join and start building their presence. You can also learn new Threads features as and when they appear and master them quickly, meaning you’ll know how to use them while other influencers are still getting to grips with them.

500 Generous Character Limit and 10 Images Per Post

The user-friendly interface of Threads allows for a more focused content creation and consumption experience. Without the clutter of ads or the pressure of trending topics, influencers and content creators can focus on producing high-quality content that resonates with their audience.



The 500 character limit on Threads opens up new possibilities for content creation. Whether it's detailed product reviews, in-depth discussions on specific topics, or longer-form storytelling, Threads gives you the freedom to express your thoughts with less constraints. Also the 10 images per post is excellent for artists, photographers, cosplayers and other image-focused creators. 

Leveraging Threads for International Reach

Threads' global platform provides a unique opportunity for influencers and content creators from non-English speaking countries like China, Japan, and Korea to reach an English-speaking audience. Here's how:

• Collaborating with English-speaking influencers can be a great way for influencers from non-English speaking countries to reach a wider audience. These collaborations could take the form of guest posts, joint live streams, or shared projects. Collaborations not only provide exposure to a new audience but also offer opportunities for cross-cultural learning and exchange.

• Engaging with the international community is crucial on any social media platform, and Threads is no exception. Responding to comments, participating in discussions, and being active in the community can help influencers build a strong relationship with their English-speaking followers. Even simple actions like reacting to followers' posts or thanking them for their support can go a long way in building a loyal and engaged audience.

• Monetizing Your Influence: for influencers and content creators looking to monetize their content, combining the use of Threads with a membership subscription platform like UniFans can be a game-changer. Threads allows you to build and engage with your audience through its user-friendly platform, while UniFans provides a way to earn passive income from exclusive, fans-only content. By creating premium content for your most dedicated fans on UniFans, you can generate a steady stream of income while also providing additional value to your audience. This could include behind-the-scenes content, exclusive insights, early access to new posts, and more. This strategy not only helps you monetize your influence but also deepens your relationship with your audience, creating a win-win situation for both you and your fans.Learn more here.
  

Tips for Success on Threads

If you're considering making the switch to Threads, or even just adding it to your social media repertoire, here are some tips to help you succeed:

Create original and engaging content 

Threads is a text-based app that allows you to post up to 500 characters per thread, along with photos or videos. This means that you have more space and flexibility to express your ideas, opinions, stories, or insights in a creative and captivating way. You can also use emojis, stickers, or GIFs to add some personality and humor to your posts. Try to create content that is relevant, timely, informative, or entertaining for your target audience, and that showcases your unique voice and style.

Focus on High-Quality Content

High-quality, engaging content is key to attracting and retaining followers. Spend time planning and creating your posts, ensuring they provide value to your audience. Whether it's informative, entertaining, or inspiring, make sure your content stands out and resonates with your followers.

Interact with your followers and other users

Threads is a conversational app that encourages real-time discussions and feedback. You can reply to other users' posts, join existing threads, or start your own threads on topics that interest you or your niche. You can also like, repost, or share posts that you find valuable or inspiring. By interacting with your followers and other users, you can build rapport, trust, and loyalty, as well as increase your visibility and reach on the app.

Cross-promote your Threads account on other platforms

Threads is linked to your Instagram account, which means that you can easily share your Threads posts to your Instagram stories, or share your post links on any other platform you choose. This can help you drive more traffic and followers to your Threads account, as well as expose your content to a wider and more diverse audience. You can also invite your existing followers on other platforms to join you on Threads and follow your updates there.

Experiment with different formats and topics 

Threads is a new app that is still evolving and growing, which means that there are no fixed rules or formulas for success. You can experiment with different formats and topics for your posts, such as polls, quizzes, lists, tips, reviews, Q&A, etc., and see what resonates with your audience and generates more engagement. Hopefully they will soon add an analytics tool in Threads, so you can see metrics such as impressions, views, likes, replies, reposts, etc., and use them to optimize your content strategy.

Have fun and be yourself 

Threads is a platform that aims to create a positive and creative space for users to express their ideas and connect with others. You don't have to be formal or professional on Threads, unless that's part of your brand identity. You can have fun and be yourself on Threads, and share your passions, hobbies, interests, or experiences with others who share them or want to learn from them. You can also use Threads as a way to showcase your personality, humor, values, or opinions, and attract followers who relate to you or admire you.

Strategies for Transferring Your Audience

If you're moving from another platform, or want to expand your audience to Threads, it's important to have a strategy for transferring your audience. Here are a few tips:

• Cross-Promotion: Regularly promote your Threads account on your other social media platforms. Encourage your followers to join you on Threads by teasing exclusive content or hosting special events on the platform.
• Exclusive Content: Offer exclusive content on Threads that your audience can't get anywhere else. This could be behind-the-scenes content, early access to new posts, or Threads-only discussions or Q&As.
• Engage with Your Audience: Once your followers join you on Threads, make sure to engage with them. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and show appreciation for your followers. This will help build a strong community on Threads and encourage your followers to stay active on the platform.

FAQs

In this section, we'll address some common questions about Threads and Twitter:

1. Is Threads better than Twitter? 

This depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value a simplified, less cluttered social media experience and have less privacy concerns, Threads might be the better option for you.

2. Why should I use Threads over Twitter? 

Threads offers a user-friendly interface, no character limit, a stronger focus on user privacy and data security, and an ad-free experience. However, it lacks some features that Twitter offers, such as direct messaging and trending topics. See our comparison chart above for more details.

3. Will Threads replace Twitter? 

While Threads has gained significant popularity since its launch, Twitter has a well-established user base and is deeply integrated into many aspects of online culture and discourse. The future of these platforms will likely depend on how they evolve and adapt to meet the needs and preferences of their users.

4. How can I grow my audience on Threads? 

Growing your audience on Threads involves creating high-quality, engaging content, regularly interacting with your followers, and promoting your Threads account on other platforms. It's also beneficial to post consistently and at times when your audience is most active.

5. What kind of content performs well on Threads? 

Given the absence of a character limit, detailed, informative, and story-driven content tends to perform well on Threads. There are a lot of cosplayers and artists who post artwork on Threads because of its user-friendly carousel user interface and generous limit of 10 images. However, the best type of content will depend on your audience's interests and preferences. Experiment with different types of content to see what resonates most with your followers.

6. How can I transfer my followers from other platforms to Threads?

While you can’t automatically transfer your followers from say Instagram to Threads, you can guide your followers to Threads by promoting your Threads account on your other social media platforms. There’s also a share profile link feature that you can use for your followers to find you easily. Make sure to provide clear instructions on how to find and follow you on Threads.

7. Can I schedule posts on Threads, or do I need to post in real time? 

As of July 13, 2023, Threads does not have a built-in feature for scheduling posts. You'll need to post in real time. However, you can prepare your posts in advance and save them as drafts.

Conclusion

Threads and Twitter each offer unique opportunities and challenges for content creators. Twitter, with its large user base, monetization options, and established presence, remains a powerful platform for content sharing. However, Threads, despite being a new platform, offers a user-friendly interface, a generous character limit, and a focus on privacy, making it an appealing platform for early adopters. The choice between the two will depend on individual needs, preferences, and goals. Regardless of the platform chosen, the key to success lies in creating high-quality, engaging content, interacting with followers, and staying updated with the latest features and trends.