Instagram came forward with a great update in November 2019, that is, the Instagram Reel is a video feature that allows users to make 15-second multi-clip snaps. You can add various effects, set a time limit for the clip, set the speed, and most importantly, you can also add audio (similar to Instagram Music). It was first launched in Brazil as a trial run and is now available in about 50 countries worldwide. Reels have been extremely successful as people from other such apps, e.g., Tiktok, are attracted towards it. Content creators and brands use it for the promotion and marketing of their products. Moreover, in the lockdown, it has also proved to be a fun and exciting time pass.
Instagram Stories - another product of Instagram is also a video-sharing platform. For some of you, you may be wondering which one should you upload your video to. We may be able to help you choose the right platform for you by providing their comparison in the following.
In the following, we'll explore the key differences between Reel and Story, how to use each feature effectively, and the creative tools available. By understanding their unique strengths, you can choose the best option to connect with your audience most engagingly and creatively.
In this article
Part 1. What's the Difference Between Instagram Stories and Reels
Let's first take a look at the difference between story and reel:
| Feature | Instagram Stories | Instagram Reels |
| Time Availability | Disappears after 24 hours (unless saved in Highlights) | Stays in the Reels tab and feed |
| Length | Maximum 60 seconds per clip (up to 15-second increments) | Maximum 90 seconds |
| Hashtags | Less effective, adds visual clutter | Less effective, adds visual clutter |
| Reach | Primarily visible to followers | Can be seen by both followers and non-followers, increasing reach |
| Saves | Cannot be saved for later viewing | Can be saved by users for later viewing |
| Editing Tools | Filters, stickers, text overlays, basic effects | Additional tools like AR effects, audio editing, speed control, alignment, and countdown |
| Music Library | Limited access to the music library | Full access to the music library and other audio features |
| Sharing | Can be shared as a story or sent to inbox (disappears after 24 hours) | Can be shared by anyone and does not disappear |
| Analytics/Insights | Limited insights (views, replies, shares) | Full insights available (views, likes, comments, shares, saves) |
In short, Instagram Stories are temporary and mainly for followers, ideal for quick, casual updates. Instagram Reels, however, offer greater reach, lasting visibility, and advanced editing tools, making them better suited for creative, discoverable content.
Part 2. How to Use Instagram Reels & Instagram Stories
Many people get a little confused about making Instagram reels and Stories, so we will explain the easiest way to do so here.
#How to Use Instagram Reels?
To make perfect and creative Instagram Reels, follow the below-mentioned process:
1. Swipe left or click on the camera button on the top left corner to open the camera.
2. At the bottom of the screen, tap on REELS to make a Reel.
3. You will now have tools for editing your Reel on the left of your screen.
4. The four tools you can use are Audio, AR effects, Timer and Countdown, Align, and Speed.
- Audio: You can add audio from Instagram's music library or use original audios, which will be attributed to you. Viewers can then use your audio in their own Reels by selecting "Use Audio."
- AR Effects: Choose from various AR effects to enhance your Reels, which can be created by Instagram or by other users.
- Timer and Countdown: Use the Timer to set a time limit for a single clip and the Countdown to give yourself time before recording starts.
- Align: The Align feature helps smooth the transition from one clip to another.
- Speed: You can adjust the speed of your Reel, either speeding it up or slowing it down.
5. Use these tools to make a Reel as per your choice. Click on Next or Done.
6. You can add your caption and choose a cover for your Reel from the video or gallery on the Share page. You also have the option to Share to Feed. You can also save it as a draft if you don't wish to upload it immediately. Otherwise, just click on "Share" to share it on the Explore page.
#How to Use Instagram Stories?
Instagram Stories are a way for people to interact with their followers on a day-to-day basis. For this purpose, people often make stories of themselves or their surroundings. To do that, follow these steps.
1. Tap on the camera icon on the top left corner or swipe left to open the camera.
2. You can then record a video or capture a photo. You can use various filters or add text and stickers to your Story, move and resize the text and stickers as per your need. You can also upload anything from your camera roll. To do that, simply swipe up after the camera opens.
3. When you are done editing your Story, tap on "Your Story" to upload it. You also have the option to share it only with your "Close Friends" or DM it to someone by tapping on "Send to."
4. You can view your own Story by tapping on your profile picture at the top of the Home page.
Part 3. Is My Video Suitable for Instagram Reels or Stories?
As discussed above in the section that focuses on using both the features, the type of content can be understood. Instagram Reels focuses more on content creation, while Instagram Stories focuses more on real-time events. A dance video is suitable for Instagram Reels, while a video made while traveling is suitable for an Instagram story. Sometimes an edited travel video can also be shared on Reels as content, while a rawer version is suitable for Instagram Stories.
So, in essence, anything that you want to reach to the world, anything that showcases your talents, is suitable for Instagram Reels. While anything you do as a recreational activity, whether it is dining out, reading a book, visiting a new place, or capturing a momentous occasion that is mostly personal, all these things is perfect and suitable for Instagram Stories.
Part 4. How to Make Engaging Instagram Reels & Stories with Filmora
Now that you've learned more about Instagram Reels vs Story, let's move on. To increase your views on Instagram Reels, a well-edited video is a must-have. However, for some of us, editing a video could be difficult as it is not easy to master tricks like adding elements to moving objects or reducing the volume of the background music when you are speaking.
To help make video editing easy for you, we would like to recommend Wondershare Filmora as a useful tool for you. As a video editing software, Filmora cares about what video creators care about most. Here are some of its useful advanced features.
- Smart Short Clips: Automatically extracts highlights from long videos and transforms them into multiple viral short clips for Instagram.
- Motion Tracking: Track the movement of an object in the video, and pin graphics or stickers to the moving objects more easily.
- Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce your background sound to make your dialogue stand out.
- Creative Editing Tools: Offer a wide range of tools to enhance your Instagram Reels and Stories, featuring smooth transitions, stylish filters, dynamic effects, and customizable text overlays.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between Instagram Stories and Reels is essential for maximizing your content's impact. Stories are perfect for delivering quick, fleeting updates that engage your audience, while Reels offer the potential for wider reach and deeper engagement that lasts. With Filmora, you can easily craft stunning, professional content tailored for both formats. Keep trying new ideas and improving your videos to grow your presence on Instagram!
