Live video is quickly becoming the best way to interact and engage. If you want to have a thriving audience online, you need to include streaming video. A few years ago Snapchat released it’s live chat and video to the world. Like every other trend, teens picked it up first and used it as a way to send sometimes inappropriate pictures and videos that would be safely deleted in 24 hours. Then, we all caught on to the trend and brands learned that coercing users to watch their stories meant more interaction and even more sales.

Snapchat became the favorite platform for many since we could showcase unedited and unstated views of our real life. While Instagram still gained popularity to capture beautiful snapshots of our life.

Then Instagram decided to change the game and introduce “Instagram Stories.” Let’s just be frank, this is a direct rip off of Snapchat. Short videos that disappear in 24 hours where you can watch whoever you follow. Not saying this a bad thing, but it did put a kink in the system, especially for those that are avid Snapchat users.

So, the debate is, which should you use? Snapchat or Instagram Stories? Today I want to break down the pros and cons of each and learn which one might be best for your goals.

First, download Snapchat in the app store. To take videos or images press and hold the button on the bottom middle of the screen. Press and hold for video or just click once to take a picture. Add stickers (emojis), text, or draw all from the top right of the screen. Then, add friends by clicking on the Snapchat icon on the top middle, then type in their username. Watch stories by clicking on the top and watch in chronological order (starting with most recent) or click on the username.

 

How do Instagram Stories Work?

 

Snapchat Pros

 

Snapchat Cons

Insta Stories Pros

Insta Stories Cons

 

Snapchat vs Instagram Stories, Which Should You Use?

I also prefer to watch Snapchat, you can find me @helenesula. They seem to have less bugs. Sometimes Instagram will show me the same image or video over and over again and it drives me nuts so I just give up. I also like adding in the geo filters, especially since I travel, and I want to designate where I am. I like Instagram (@heleneinbetween) as a way to tell a story and share my best pictures, espeically when it comes to my journey of moving abroad.

My friend Taylor prefers Insta stories. She has a strong audience there and uses it in a way that everyone who follows her wants to watch her stories. Side note, you should follow her, she’s hilarious (@thedailytay).

My little sisters (who are 22) wouldn’t dream of uploading a video to Insta stories. They use each platform for what it was intended for. Plus “mom is on Instagram.” Meaning, what they upload to Snapchat isn’t necessarily what you’d want your mom seeing.

Many view Snapchat as more casual and interactive. You basically upload and go, where as with Instagram you craft a more elegant look at your life. I personally like to keep these somewhat separate but I can definitely see the benefits of both. I really think it’s a personal decision and depends on what kind of “material” you’ll be sharing.

As a social media marketer, I pay attention to different social media trends and try to see what sticks and what doesn't. When Periscope came out, I said, “Pass.” But I don't think that's the case with either Snapchat or Instagram Stories. They are both here to stay because people have created loyal followings on each. My best advice is to test each and see which one you like best. Play around with both and you'll find your groove.

So, now I ask you, which one do you choose? Discuss why you use it in the comments below, I’d love to hear your opinion!