Is TikTok Getting Banned? 12 TikTok Alternatives For TikTok Refugee

With all the buzz about a potential TikTok ban in the U.S., you might be wondering, "Is TikTok getting banned?" The news has left many TikTok fans and creators wondering what’s next. If you’re one of those TikTok refugees looking for a fresh start, don’t worry—there are plenty of TikTok alternative out there. From Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts and even some newer apps, you’ve got options to keep creating and watching the short videos you love. Let’s check out the 12 best TikTok alternatives to keep your video journey going!

Is TikTok Getting Banned?

“Is TikTok getting banned?” has become a hot topic lately, and things are looking serious. The U.S. government is pushing for TikTok’s Chinese parent company to sell the platform due to concerns over national security. Officials worry that sensitive data from American users could be shared or that TikTok might influence the spread of information.

As of January 19 at 12:00 AM EST, a nationwide ban officially took effect, blocking internet service providers and app stores from offering TikTok. However, by 10:00 AM, President Trump announced plans to delay the ban for 90 days with an executive order expected on Monday. By 1:50 PM, TikTok had restored access for many U.S. users, greeting them with a “Welcome back!” message.

Currently, you can continue using the TikTok app directly on your phone, but for those who haven't downloaded TikTok, they cannot download the app from Apple's or Google's app stores.

12 Best TikTok Alternatives For TikTok Refugee

With the TikTok ban looming, it’s a good idea to start exploring other platforms where you can continue sharing and enjoying creative content. Whether you’re into short videos, live streaming, or social shopping, these TikTok alternatives are ready to welcome TikTok refugees.

1. Xiaohongshu (RedNote)

Official website: https://www.xiaohongshu.com

Recommendation rating: ★★★★★

Why we recommend it:

If you're exploring TikTok alternatives, Xiaohongshu (RedNote) is a platform worth checking out. Known as "Little Red Book," it's a Chinese social media app that blends elements of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. Users share lifestyle content, including beauty tutorials, product reviews, fashion tips, and travel experiences. As of early 2025, Xiaohongshu boasts over 300 million monthly active users, reflecting its widespread popularity.

Sure, there’s a bit of a language gap for some since the app originates from China, but that hasn’t stopped U.S. users from jumping on board. Many are even picking up basic Mandarin, while Chinese users are practicing their English—it’s also a two-way cultural exchange.

What’s cool about RedNote is how familiar it feels. The content is super relatable, with beauty hacks, DIY tutorials, and honest product reviews that mirror what you’d see on TikTok. Whether you’re looking to share your own lifestyle moments or explore global trends, Xiaohongshu offers a refreshing, interactive experience.

2. Bilibili

Official website: https://www.bilibili.com/

Recommendation rating: ★★★★★

Why we recommend it:

If you’re looking for a TikTok alternative with a unique twist, Bilibili might be right up your alley. Originally known for its focus on anime, comics, and gaming (ACG) content, this platform has expanded to cover a wide range of topics like music, dance, science, movies, and lifestyle vlogs. One of its standout features is the "danmu" system—real-time comments that float across the screen, making watching videos feel more interactive and engaging.

Bilibili isn't just for passive viewing; you can create and share your own videos, much like YouTube. Whether you’re into short clips or long-form content, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with its built-in live streaming service, you can watch your favorite creators in real time and even shop directly from their streams.

3. YouTube Shorts

Official website: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/

Recommendation rating: ★★★★☆

Why we recommend it:

If you're looking for a TikTok alternative that feels familiar but offers something extra, YouTube Shorts is worth checking out. It’s basically YouTube’s take on short-form videos—up to 60 seconds long and super easy to scroll through, just like TikTok. Since it's part of YouTube, you can expect tons of content, from dance challenges to DIY tips, and even educational clips.

One cool thing about YouTube Shorts is that it’s connected to the larger YouTube platform. It also offers great tools like filters, music, and text options, so if you're someone who enjoys both quick clips and longer videos, it's a perfect mix.

And if you're thinking about making content, YouTube Shorts might be a better option in the long run. YouTube’s monetization options, like ad revenue and the Shorts Fund, give creators more ways to earn than TikTok. So, if TikTok does get banned in future, YouTube Shorts is a solid alternative to TikTok to keep sharing and enjoying short videos.

4. Instagram Reels

Official website: https://about.instagram.com/features/reels

Recommendation rating: ★★★★☆

Why we recommend it:

If you're used to scrolling through TikTok, Instagram Reels might feel like a familiar interface. Launched in 2020 to compete with TikTok, Reels lets you create and discover short videos that range from 15 to 60 seconds. Whether you're into dance trends, beauty tips, or quick DIYs, Reels has a little bit of everything.

With built-in tools like speed control, timers, and multi-clip recording, you can easily put together engaging content. Since it's integrated into Instagram, you can share Reels directly to your feed, Stories, or the dedicated Reels tab, helping you reach both your followers and a wider audience through the Explore page.

5. Facebook Reels

Official website: https://www.facebook.com/reel/

Recommendation rating: ★★★★☆

Why we recommend it:

If you want a alternative to TikTok but easy and familiar, Facebook Reels could be just what you need. It’s a short video feature from Meta where you can make and watch clips from 3 to 90 seconds, all in a vertical format—perfect for scrolling on your phone. The editing tools are simple to use, with options like adding music, text, and fun AR effects. You can quickly create cool videos and share them with friends or a wider audience.

Since it's built into Facebook, Reels gives you a chance to reach your friends, family, and even a broader audience through the platform's massive user base. Whether you want to share daily moments or jump on the latest trends, it's a solid choice. Plus, with features like monetization through ads and Facebook Stars, there's potential to earn while you create.

6. Lemon8

Official website: https://www.lemon8-app.com/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Lemon8, created by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, is a social media platform that feels like a mix of Instagram and Pinterest. This TikTok alternative focuses on lifestyle content like fashion, beauty, food, travel, and wellness. Posts are displayed in a grid layout, making it easy to browse through multiple images at once.

If you enjoy sharing your daily life in a visually appealing way, Lemon8 offers creative tools to help you personalize your content with stylish templates, captions, and tags. Many TikTok refugees are turning to Lemon8 as it provides a similar vibe.

7. Triller

Official website: https://triller.co/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Triller, a music-focused social media app, that’s a perfect alternative to TikTok if you love creating fun, energetic videos without spending hours editing. With Triller, you can shoot multiple takes of yourself dancing or lip-syncing, and its AI-powered editing tool automatically stitches everything together into a polished video.

Whether you’re new to content creation or just want something quick and easy, Triller’s auto-editing features and 100+ filters help you achieve a professional look with easy steps. You can add trending tracks, collaborate with friends, and even discover challenges to boost your visibility.

8. Fanbase

Official website: https://www.fanbase.app/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

If you're looking for a TikTok alternative that helps you grow and get paid, Fanbase might be worth checking out. It is a social media app that gives you a way to make money from your content. Unlike other platforms, it lets you post both free and paid content, so you can earn right from the start.

You can share photos, videos, stories, and even livestreams content from TikTok or Instagram and start earning without starting from scratch. What’s more, fans can subscribe to your exclusive content at a price you set, and every like you get can turn into real earnings.

9. Snapchat Spotlight

Official website: https://www.snapchat.com/spotlight

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Snapchat Spotlight is a great option if you want a TikTok alternative that’s fun and easy to use. It’s all about short, engaging videos, just like TikTok, but with a focus on creativity and validity. You can create Snaps using Snapchat's built-in filters, AR effects, and music, then share them on Spotlight.

If you’re already a Snapchat user, Spotlight feels pretty familiar. You can scroll through videos endlessly, like and share them, and discover trending videos tailored to your interests. However, unlike TikTok, there's no public comment section.

10. Likee

Official website: https://likee.video/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Likee is another popular alternative to TikTok. It offers a lot of the same features, like short-form videos, special effects, and music integration. But what sets Likee apart is its huge library of filters and AR effects. You can create videos with cool effects like 4D magic, AI face swap, and even cartoon filters that aren’t available on TikTok.

Like TikTok, you can browse endless videos, follow creators, and interact with content through likes and shares. But Likee also has a unique livestreaming feature where you can earn virtual gifts from your audience if you’re looking to make money from your content.

11. Clapper

Official website: https://www.clapperapp.com/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Clapper is a great TikTok alternative, especially if you're looking for a more community-focused experience. Unlike TikTok, which leans heavily on trends and viral content, Clapper is all about real, unfiltered connections. It’s a platform where you can share short videos, go live, and even join audio-only rooms to chat with others about different topics.

One big difference from TikTok is that Clapper doesn’t rely on fancy effects or filters. Instead, it focuses more on authentic content and meaningful interactions. Plus, Clapper offers a monetization feature that lets you earn directly from your followers through subscriptions and gifts.

12. Neptune

Official website: https://theneptuneapp.com/

Recommendation rating: ★★★☆☆

Why we recommend it:

Neptune is another TikTok alternative that offers a different take on social video sharing. Unlike TikTok, where algorithms decide what you see, Neptune lets you customize your feed based on your interests. You can explore videos from different categories like lifestyle, tech, and entertainment without feeling bored by endless scrolling. Neptune even allows you to create short videos, share thoughts through text, and collaborate with others on projects.

Tips: How to Watch TikTok in US if TikTok is banned?

If TikTok ever becomes completely unavailable in the US, it would be a real loss. Whether it's dance trends, hilarious skits, or valuable life hacks, TikTok offers something for everyone. To make sure you don't miss out, you can download your favorite TikTok videos ahead of time using a TikTok video downloader and watch them anytime, even if the app gets blocked.

VidiCable is a reliable tool that helps you download TikTok videos directly to your device. With support for 1000+ popular streaming sites including TikTok, VidiCable lets you download videos in MP4/MKV format, making it easy to watch them offline. It also offers customizable options, so you can choose video quality, subtitles, and audio tracks to match your needs. Whether you want to keep your favorite clips for entertainment or inspiration, VidiCable makes it simple and hassle-free.

Tutorial: Save Movies from Pirate Movie Websites

Step 1 Select TikTok from Support List

Open VidiCable and select TikTok from the available platforms. Log into your TikTok account within the app.

Step 2 Access Settings Window

Click the settings icon to choose the video format, quality, and output folder.

Step 3 Search for TikTok Videos

Search for the TikTok video you want to download.

Step 4 Download MP4 TikTok Videos

Click the download button and save the video to your device.

FAQs about TikTok Ban

When is TikTok getting banned?

As of now, the nationwide TikTok ban in the US has been delayed by 90 days. Originally set to take effect on January 19, an executive order signed by President Trump pushed the ban back to allow more time for negotiations between TikTok's parent company and the US government. If no agreement is reached within this period, the ban will go into effect.

Is there a better alternative to TikTok?

While there are several alternatives to TikTok, none fully replace the unique content and community that TikTok offers. To make sure you don’t lose access to your favorite videos, it’s a good idea to download them in MP4 in advance using VidiCable, then you can keep enjoying TikTok’s best moments without worrying about potential bans.

Conclusion

If TikTok eventually gets blocked in the US, it would be disappointing for many fans who love the platform’s unique content. However, there are several alternatives that can help fill the gap, offering similar short video experiences. To ensure you don’t lose access to your favorite TikTok videos, using a tool like VidiCable to download and save them is a great option.