Surprise! Longer TikTok videos are taking the lead in views and watch time. While short, snappy clips are TikTok’s bread and butter, recent data shows that videos longer than one minute are outperforming their shorter counterparts.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
After analyzing 1.1 million TikTok videos, here’s what we found:
- 86% of TikTok videos are under a minute, yet those longer than 60 seconds get:
- 43.2% more reach than 30-60 second videos
- 70.3% more reach than 10-30 second videos
- 95.7% more reach than 5-10 second videos
And when it comes to watch time, longer videos dominate too, earning:
- 63.8% more watch time than 30-60 second videos
- 175.6% more watch time than 10-30 second videos
- 264.5% more watch time than 5-10 second videos
Why Are Longer Videos Performing Better?
- Less Competition: Only 12.3% of TikToks are over a minute long, giving longer videos more room to stand out.
- Algorithm Preference: TikTok wants to keep users engaged longer, so its algorithm may favor videos that hold viewers’ attention.
Key Takeaways for Creators
- Short Videos Still Win — Sometimes: Short content is easier to make and still has viral potential. But engagement can be harder to maintain.
- 30-60 Seconds is a Sweet Spot: This range balances quick content creation with higher engagement rates.
- Longer Videos Are Worth the Effort: With fewer competitors in this space, longer content can help you stand out and boost your reach.
Pro Tip: Quality Still Beats Length
A long video won’t win just because it’s long — it must grab attention fast and hold it. Nail these essentials to succeed:
A strong hook in the first 2 seconds
Captions and on-screen text for accessibility and SEO
Fast-paced edits to maintain momentum
Clear calls-to-action (e.g., comment, share, follow)
Consistent posting to build audience trust
If you’ve already got the basics down, experimenting with longer videos could give you the edge you need. So go ahead — hit record and let your content shine!
