Instagram Feed vs Stories: Which One Is Better?
What’s the difference between Instagram Feed and Instagram Stories?
In this blog we’ll break down the distinctions, discuss when you should use each type of video, and share templates that make Instagram video creation even easier. We’ve put together an infographic-style cheat sheet to help you understand the differences at a glance. Check it out and continue reading below for a deeper dive.
Instagram Feed
"Instagram Feed" refers to your main Instagram profile page and the photos and videos you post there. These photos and videos can show up in the feeds of your followers and those that are following any of the hashtags you use in your post.
Speaking of following hashtags, they’re a great way to get your feed posts discovered by new audiences. By using hashtags related to your business, industry, or the topic of your post, you can get your content in front of more people who are interested in just the kind of content you’re sharing. Learn more in our guide on how to use Instagram hashtags.
The posts you share to your Instagram feed live on your profile forever unless you archive or delete them. According to our 2021 marketing survey 34% of respondents said they first discovered a new brand and subsequently purchased something from them after being served a video ad on social media. So in that respect, your Instagram profile also serves as the face of your company and a source of information. You should feel good about the content in your feed shaping their first impression of you.
Video ideas for Instagram feed
Not sure what to post on your business’s Instagram feed? Find inspiration below! Note that feed videos are best displayed in a square 1:1 ratio, but you can also display Reels here as well. With Animoto, you can change the ratio of your videos with the click of a button.
Introduce a product
Get followers excited about your newest product by showcasing it in your Instagram feed using our New Product Intro template. Easily upload your own photos and video clips to make your product shine.
Bring your product intro video on-brand in seconds using Saved Brands. With Saved Brands, you can apply your brand’s logo, colors, and font to your entire video with just a click. Professional plan users can create one Saved Brand, while Professional Plus users can create multiple Saved Brands for multiple business lines or clients.
Highlight a collection
Want to get eyes on and generate buzz around your latest collection? Spotlight handbags, home decor, and everything in between with our Collection Portfolio template.
Give a look behind the scenes
Grab customers’ attention by giving them a behind the scenes look at your business. Humanize your brand by showing the funny, frenzied, and authentic moments that go into running your business with video.
Instagram Stories
Unlike feed videos, "Instagram Stories" are vertical photos or videos, up to 15 seconds, that disappear 24 hours after posting. Users can also save select stories to Story Highlights. Instead of being displayed in the feed, they’re displayed at the top of an active user’s app when they’re logged in, and are tapped through to view. You can learn more in our guide to getting started with IG Stories.
Instagram Stories offer a wide range of tools that encourage engagement. This includes stickers that let you ask questions, set up polls, and more. The more engaging your Stories are, the more Instagram’s algorithm is likely to boost your Stories.
Because Stories disappear after 24 hours, they’re often used much more casually than the Instagram feed. Stories are often shared in the moment. Nothing is going on your permanent record here, so feel free to try new things and engage with your audience.
Video ideas for Instagram Stories
Need some Instagram Story inspiration? We’ve got you covered.
Note that Instagram Stories work best in a vertical 9:16 ratio and that you can change the ratio of any of our templates with the click of a button in Animoto.
Short narrative Stories
Help customers get to know the face behind the business with our Personal Story template. Walk them through how you founded your company or what inspires you. Talk to them like you’re talking to a friend to create a deeper connection and learn more about your audience.
Quiz or poll-centered Stories
Stories are a great time to get feedback and engage with your audience! Let followers know about recent releases with our Just Dropped template. Include stickers like polls, quizzes, and a link to your website for increased engagement.
Share a flash sale
Reward your loyal social followers by sharing an exclusive stories-only flash sale. Try out our Graphic Story Promo template and include a link so your viewers can start shopping ASAP.
Make an Instagram video with Animoto
Are you ready to start creating more videos for Instagram? Browse through our hundreds of free video templates for work and life and start creating in a matter of minutes. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for even more IG video inspiration!