TikTok vs Kuaishou Which One Dominates 2024

Alright, let’s cut through the noise — if you’re trying to figure out whether TikTok or Kuaishou is the better platform in 2024, you’re not alone. As someone who’s been tracking short-video trends across Asia and the West for over five years, I’ve seen both platforms evolve from quirky apps into full-blown digital ecosystems. So which one actually dominates this year? Let’s break it down with real data, user behavior, and a little behind-the-scenes insight.

First, global reach: TikTok still reigns supreme outside of China. With over 1.3 billion monthly active users (MAUs) worldwide, it’s the go-to app for Gen Z and millennials in the US, Europe, Southeast Asia, and even parts of Africa. Meanwhile, Kuaishou holds steady with around 650 million MAUs — but here’s the twist: nearly all of them are based in China.

But don’t let those numbers fool you. Kuaishou may be regionally focused, but it’s incredibly sticky. Users spend an average of 110 minutes per day on the app, compared to TikTok’s global average of 95 minutes. Why? Because Kuaishou leans heavily into authenticity and local community vibes — think live-stream shopping in rural China, DIY farming hacks, and small-town storytelling. It’s less about viral dance challenges and more about real life.

User Demographics at a Glance

Now, if you're a brand looking to sell products, here's where it gets juicy. Kuaishou’s e-commerce GMV (Gross Merchandise Value) hit $120 billion in 2023, growing at 35% YoY. TikTok Shop isn’t far behind, especially in markets like the UK and Indonesia, where it hit $80 billion GMV. But here’s the kicker: Kuaishou converts viewers into buyers more efficiently in its core market because trust runs deeper. Sellers aren’t just influencers — they’re neighbors, literally.

From a content creation standpoint, TikTok offers better algorithmic reach for new creators globally. Post once, and you could go viral overnight. Kuaishou? It rewards consistency and genuine engagement. You build your audience slowly, but they stick around.

So, who wins in 2024? If your goal is global visibility and trendsetting power, TikTok is still the king. But if you’re targeting China’s massive domestic market — especially beyond Beijing and Shanghai — Kuaishou gives you unmatched penetration and loyalty.

Bottom line: Don’t treat this as a zero-sum game. The smartest brands and creators are using both — TikTok to spark trends, Kuaishou to sustain communities. Pick your battlefield based on your audience, not the hype.