Do Reels Get More Views Than Posts on Instagram in 2024
Discover why Instagram Reels outperform traditional posts in 2024, driven by algorithm updates, audience behavior, and multi-surface visibility advantages.
Instagram Reels vs Traditional Posts: Which Wins in 2024?
Instagram has become a powerhouse for visual content since its launch in 2010, but the way users engage with the platform has shifted dramatically. In recent years, Instagram Reels have surged ahead of traditional posts as the preferred format for driving discovery, reach, and engagement. This comprehensive guide examines why Reels typically outperform posts, how algorithm updates have shaped results, and strategies for leveraging both formats to boost your Instagram growth.
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The Rise of Instagram Reels vs Traditional Posts
While traditional photo posts and short videos dominated Instagram for years, the arrival of Reels — designed as a direct competitor to TikTok — has changed creator strategies worldwide. By 2024, brands, influencers, and everyday users are tapping into Reels for audience expansion, algorithmic prioritization, and higher engagement potential.
In most scenarios, Reels do get more views than posts, but understanding why requires exploring Instagram’s algorithm, metrics that matter, and evolving user behavior patterns.
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The Instagram Algorithm’s Prioritization of Reels in 2024
Instagram continues to refine its algorithm toward video-first content. In 2024, short-form Reels benefit from several prioritization factors outlined in Meta’s updates:
- User retention: Reels keep viewers engaged longer per session.
- Freshness: New Reels are surfaced rapidly compared to static images.
- Shareability: High likelihood of being sent via Stories or DMs.
- Cross-surface integration: Ability to appear in Explore, dedicated Reels tab, and even Facebook feeds.
These updates give Reels an inherent advantage in reach potential.
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Comparing Reach, Impressions & Engagement Metrics
Based on aggregated creator reports and analytics from 2024, the performance gap between Reels and traditional posts is clear:
| Metric | Average Reels Performance | Average Posts Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Reach | 2x–3x follower count potential via Explore & Reels tab | Typically limited to existing followers unless widely shared |
| Impressions | Higher thanks to looping playback and multi-surface distribution | Lower; typically shown only once in feed |
| Engagement Rate | 5–7% for optimized content | 3–5% on average |
| Discoverability | High, boosted by trending sounds & hashtag traction | Moderate; hinges more on hashtag relevance |
This data demonstrates why Reels tend to dominate on both visibility and engagement metrics.
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Audience Behavior: Attention Span & Format Preference
Audiences on mobile have short attention spans — averaging around 8 seconds — which shapes platform preferences.
Why Reels Excel
- Fast hooks capture interest instantly.
- Short, dynamic storytelling suits busy lifestyles.
- Vertical video offers immersive viewing.
Where Posts Still Hold Strength
- Detailed images and captions enable deeper narratives.
- Evergreen visuals can be revisited and referenced over time.
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Discoverability Through Reels Tab, Explore & Hashtags
In 2024, Instagram’s structure heavily favors content in discovery-focused zones:
- Reels Tab: Similar to TikTok’s “For You” page, autoplaying algorithmic recommendations.
- Explore Page: Personalized mix of trending Reels and posts based on user interests.
- Hashtag Pages: Trending Reels often secure top visibility on popular hashtags.
Because of these multiple distribution points, a single Reel can access far more exposure than a static post.
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Key Factors Influencing Reel Performance
Creators aiming for maximum impact with Reels should consider:
- Hook in first 3 seconds
- Optimal length of 7–15 seconds
- Captions or text overlays to improve accessibility
- Trending music for algorithmic boost
- Balanced hashtag strategy (niche + broad tags)
- High-quality vertical video with proper framing
Even small adjustments to these elements can significantly improve performance.
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Situations Where Posts Can Outperform Reels
Although Reels perform better on average, there are contexts where static posts excel:
- Carousel tutorials: Highly savable educational formats.
- Photography niches: Artistic images achieve stronger emotional resonance.
- Long-form captions: Deep storytelling builds loyalty.
- Giveaways or contests: Organized instructions work best as posts.
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Best Posting Schedule Combining Both Formats
Optimal growth often comes from a balanced mix:
- Reels: 3–4 times/week to keep momentum and stay in discovery feeds.
- Posts: 2–3 times/week for community connection and evergreen content.
Timing Insights
- Post Reels when data shows your audience is most active (from Insights).
- Many regions see higher engagement from posts in late afternoons or evenings.
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Leveraging Instagram Insights to Fine-Tune Content Ratios
Instagram’s native Insights tool allows real-time comparison between Reels and posts:
- Monitor reach, impressions, and saves on a rolling 30-day basis.
- Spot timing and content-type trends.
- Adjust the ratio to align with consistent follower growth and engagement peaks.
Some creators start heavy on Reels to gain growth, later increasing posts to deepen connections.
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Actionable Tips Without Burnout
- Batch film Reels for efficient editing and scheduling.
- Repurpose posts into motion content to enhance visibility.
- Develop consistent content themes for brand recognition.
- Participate in aligned trends rather than chasing everything.
- Cross-post to Facebook for expanded reach.
- Use analytics to eliminate low-performing formats and focus resources.
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Summary & Call to Action
So, do Reels really get more views than posts on Instagram in 2024? For most creators, yes — thanks to algorithmic favoritism, multi-surface distribution, and audience content preferences. That said, traditional posts still hold critical value for deep storytelling and high-intent engagement.
Next step: Build a hybrid strategy. Harness the growth potential of Reels while nurturing community through well-crafted posts. Track your data, test new approaches, and refine your schedule until you hit your sweet spot for reach and retention.
Start planning your next month of Instagram content now — your audience is waiting!
