The long-awaited battle between Threads and Twitter has finally begun! Threads, the formidable challenger to Twitter, has entered the ring, bringing with it a text-based discussion program that allows for real-time messaging and sharing. Developed by Meta, Threads boasts several unique features not found on Twitter.
Meta is positioning Threads as Instagram’s “text-based conversation app,” offering users a fresh and engaging messaging service. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO and co-founder of Meta, recently announced the official launch of Threads, their new text-focused messaging app. With Threads, Meta aims to address the growing number of users seeking alternatives to Twitter, particularly in light of Elon Musk’s unpredictable presence on the platform.
So, what sets Threads apart in the Threads vs. Twitter showdown? Let’s delve into the distinguishing features of these two communication powerhouses.
Threads vs. Twitter: What are the biggest differences?
Threads brings a range of Twitter features tailored for Instagram users, although it’s evident that it’s still a work in progress. In fact, Threads even outshines Twitter in certain aspects. In this article, we will compare the following factors:
- Character and video limits
- Sign-up requirements
- Ad policies
- Privacy
- Safety
- Pricing
- Verification
- Messaging
However, it’s important to note that Threads is not meant to replace Twitter entirely. There are significant differences in how you would use each platform. So, let’s dive deeper into the captivating world of Threads vs. Twitter and explore their unique qualities!
Character and video limits
Threads, developed by Meta, sets a generous 500-character limit, surpassing the 280-character restriction for unverified Twitter users. Additionally, Threads requires an Instagram account, enabling users to effortlessly import their followers and bio details from their existing profiles.
Unlike Twitter, which restricts non-verified users to two minutes and 20 seconds of video, Threads grants users the freedom to share videos up to five minutes in length. Enjoy the enhanced creative possibilities with Threads’ extended video capabilities!
Sign up requirements
To join Threads, you’ll need an Instagram account. Once you’ve created your account, you can easily download the Threads app on iOS or Android devices. During the initial setup, you have the option to automatically follow all your existing Instagram accounts or select specific ones. This raises intriguing questions about the overlap between visually captivating Instagram content and thought-provoking discussions on politics and TV.
It’s worth noting that Threads is part of the shared Meta app platform, known as Fediverse, while Twitter remains a distinct and independent platform. The contrasting approaches further differentiate the two platforms and their respective ecosystems.
Ad Policies
While Twitter relies on advertisements for revenue generation, much like other social media platforms, Threads, created by Meta, offers a refreshing ad-free experience. This unique approach may suggest that the platform is currently prioritizing user experience over profitability.
However, it remains to be seen if ad integration will be introduced in the future. In terms of unnecessary ads, Threads takes the lead in this aspect of the Threads vs. Twitter comparison, providing users with a more streamlined and uninterrupted experience.
Privacy
In terms of privacy, Threads offers similar options to Twitter, allowing you to choose between a public or private account and control who can react to your posts. However, like Instagram, Threads is also invested in gathering personal data. It tracks your activities within the app, monitors your location, and utilizes the information collected by Facebook and Instagram to personalize your experience and target ads. When creating a Threads account, it’s important to understand that Meta will have access to the data collected from their various platforms.
Safety
When it comes to safety, Meta highlights an advantage over Twitter with Threads. The existing content guidelines from Instagram will also apply to Threads, prohibiting the purchase of weapons, threats towards individuals or organizations, and support for terrorists or hate groups. Furthermore, users under 16 years old are automatically given a private account. Additionally, users have control over who can comment on their conversations, allowing them to limit it to those they follow or have specifically mentioned in a post. Safety considerations play a significant role in comparing Threads and Twitter.
Pricing
Threads is completely free to download and use, with no hidden features behind paywalls. While there are currently no ads on Threads, that could change in the future, considering Instagram’s ad integration.
On the other hand, Twitter does include advertisements. In addition, certain services under the “Twitter Blue” subscription tier are only accessible to paying users. Twitter Blue is priced at $8 per month or $84 per year.
Subscribers of Twitter Blue enjoy regular updates with new features. Presently, they have the ability to edit sent tweets, customize the Twitter app icon, and, most recently, increase the daily tweet limit.
Verification
As you scroll through your Threads feed, you may notice blue checkmarks next to certain account handles. These checkmarks indicate that the user has been verified. The verification status from Instagram carries over to Threads.
If you are already verified on Instagram, you will also be verified on Threads. Make sure to review Instagram’s policies to determine if you meet the verification requirements.
On the other hand, the verification process on Twitter is slightly more complex. Twitter previously had verification criteria based on your public reputation, similar to Instagram, until Elon Musk took charge of the platform.