1. TikTok is a separate platform, Reels is in Instagram
It goes without saying, but it is a big difference. TikTok is a standalone platform and Reels is interwoven into Instagram.
Because Reels is 'only' a part of Instagram, the videos are less prominent than in TikTok. For example, Reels are hidden on your profile page under a separate tab, just like the IGTV videos. You only see them in your timeline or Stories if the user chooses to share them in these places.
Reels also doesn't have its own heading on the 'Explore' page, like IGTV does. (You can see this when you click on the magnifying glass in Instagram.) In addition, it's difficult to choose which reel you want to watch. You just have to scroll through the long row of recommended Reels. You can search for a hashtag and click on the corresponding Reels.
TikTok, on the other hand, is a separate platform with only TikTok videos. This makes it easier c level executive list to search specifically. TikTok also has a 'For you' page with recommended videos. This makes it easier to get a large reach with your own videos.
3. Hashtags play a less important role in Reels
On TikTok you have trending hashtags and hashtags are used a lot to increase reach. With Reels hashtags are used even less. There are also no trending hashtags, which means that there are almost no challenges coming up. As this is very important with TikTok.
4. On Instagram you already have followers: audience
Another important point is that on Instagram you already have an audience: your current followers. Which means you already have an existing reach, if you share your Reel on your profile and in the Stories. With TikTok you start from scratch again .