Most Used Social Networks 2025: Top Platforms to Market Your Business

18 March 2025

Be honest, apart from social media, would you still be so hooked on the internet? Probably not, right? Well, you’re not alone – according to Semrush, 5 of the top 10 most used websites in the world are social networks. This won’t come as a surprise to you hardworking social media managers who are already managing multiple platforms, but what if you’re not so clued up?

For personal use, many of us often stick to the platforms we first fell in love with or the ones with the best content for our interests, but this won’t do for professionals. If you’re a business owner hoping to market your brand online, or an aspiring social media manager the field can seem big and scary with so many different platforms to choose from. “Which social network is best for my business?”, “Which platform has the most users?”. If you’re asking these questions then read on for the most used social networks in 2025 and the best ones for your business or niche.

The Giants: Most Used Social Media Platforms

The social media realm is dominated by a few huge platforms, each boasting massive user bases and diverse functionalities.

  • TikTok: The short-form video platform TikTok has exploded in popularity, particularly among Gen Z. Its algorithm-driven content delivery and creative tools have made it a hub for trends, entertainment, and viral marketing. Businesses can use TikTok for brand awareness, creative campaigns, and reaching younger demographics.
  • Facebook: With billions of active users, Facebook remains the titan of social media. It’s a versatile platform suitable for connecting with friends and family, joining groups, and discovering content. For businesses, Facebook offers robust advertising tools, business pages, and community-building features. Its broad demographic reach makes it effective for targeting a wide range of audiences.
  • YouTube: As the world’s largest video-sharing platform, YouTube attracts billions of monthly active users. From entertainment and education to tutorials and product reviews, YouTube’s content diversity is unparalleled. Businesses can leverage YouTube for brand storytelling, product demonstrations, and customer engagement.
  • Instagram: Visually driven, Instagram is a powerhouse for brands and influencers. Its emphasis on images and videos makes it ideal for showcasing products, building brand aesthetics, and engaging with younger audiences. Instagram’s Stories and Reels features have further amplified its appeal.
  • X (formerly Twitter): Known for its real-time updates and concise messaging, X is a platform for news, discussions, and public discourse. Businesses use X for customer service, brand announcements, and staying informed about industry trends.
  • LinkedIn: The professional networking platform, LinkedIn, is essential for career development, business connections, and industry insights. It’s a valuable tool for B2B marketing, recruitment, and establishing thought leadership.

While these are the major players in the social media game, other big platforms worthy of honorable mentions include Snapchat, WhatsApp, and Pinterest.

New Kids on the Block

The world of social media landscape is constantly evolving, with new platforms emerging to challenge the established order.

Recently, platforms like Threads and Bluesky have grown significantly, representing a shift towards decentralized and conversation-focused social networking. Threads, part of Meta (which includes Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp) has begun to take advantage of its parent platform’s popularity with a text-based, real-time conversation space.

Bluesky, on the other hand, is favored for its decentralized approach, giving users greater control over their data and algorithms. Built on the AT Protocol, Bluesky aims to provide a more open and user-driven social experience.

Both platforms are attracting users seeking alternatives to the existing social media giants, driven by desires for fresh interfaces, new community dynamics, and getting away from algorithmic control. As these platforms continue to develop and refine their offerings, they hold the potential to reshape the future of social interaction online.

Top Social Media Platforms for Businesses: Strategic Choices

Selecting the right social media platforms for your business depends on your target audience, industry, and marketing goals.

  • Facebook for Broad Reach: If your business is targeting a wide demographic, Facebook’s extensive user base and advertising capabilities are invaluable.
  • Instagram for Visual Branding: E-commerce businesses, fashion brands, and lifestyle companies can use Instagram’s visual focus to showcase products and build brand aesthetics.
  • LinkedIn for B2B Marketing: Businesses targeting other businesses can find success on LinkedIn, connecting with professionals and sharing industry insights.
  • YouTube for Content Marketing: YouTube’s vast audience loves video content, such as tutorials, product demonstrations, and brand stories.
  • TikTok for Gen Z Engagement: If you want to target younger demographics, you can use TikTok’s creative tools and trending content to connect with your audience.

Best Social Media Platforms for Specific Niches

One of the beauties of social media is that there’s something for everybody. No matter what you’re into, it’s easy to find like-minded people to discuss your passions (and hates) with, you just have to find the right platform and community. For businesses and marketers, this means there are lots of niche audiences that you can target with your content.

Targeting Your Audience with Content for Different Platforms

Social Media Management is about managing your content for different platforms and making sure you’re hitting your target audience with the right formats. The best way to achieve this is with Metricool, which will allow you to automatize your social media content process. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy with a Metricool account:

  • Manage all of your social media accounts in one place
  • Easy content repurposing between platforms
  • Strategic insights like the best times to post on each platform
  • Plan content ahead of time with our planner
  • Competitor analysis for your niche
  • AI content creation assistance
  • Custom analytics reports

… and more! So if you don’t already have an account, sign up now and take the stress out of social media management.

Read on for the best platforms for different niches:

Best platform for Jobhunting: LinkedIn

LinkedIn’s professional focus makes it the premier platform for job seekers and recruiters. Users can build online resumes, network with industry professionals, and apply for jobs. This platform is perfect for career-focused content and services.

Best Social Network for Gamers: Twitch/Discord

Twitch is a live-streaming platform that allows gamers to broadcast their gameplay. In recent years it has expanded with musicians and artists streaming their creative processes with viewers now able to comment and gift streamers.

Discord, a communication platform, is a hub for gamers. It is a space where communities are built through voice chat.

Best Social Network for Aspiring Influencers: Instagram/TikTok

Instagram and TikTok offer visual platforms where influencers can showcase their talents, build a following, and collaborate with brands. Their algorithm-driven content delivery helps new influencers get discovered.

Best Social Network for Foodies: Instagram/Pinterest

Instagram’s photo/video focus and Pinterest’s pin-sharing features make them ideal for foodies. Users can share food photography, recipes, and restaurant recommendations, making them great places to market cooking and kitchen accessories.

Best Social Network for Sports Fans: X (formerly Twitter)/Reddit

X’s real-time updates are ideal for live sports events, and sharing opinions. Many people now can’t watch their favorite team without letting the timeline know how they feel about the game.

Reddit’s sports subreddits allow for deeper discussion and community engagement both during events and before or after.

Best Social Network for Travel Enthusiasts: Instagram/Pinterest/TikTok

Instagram is made for visually stunning photos and videos, so naturally, we all love sharing our holiday content on the app.

While Instagram mostly just makes us jealous looking at other people’s beautiful holidays, Pinterest is great for inspo, with cute aesthetic ideas for your getaways.

TikTok is great for informative travel videos featuring reviews and tips to help you choose your next destination wisely. Travel influencers typically post restaurant and activity recommendations for holidaymakers on TikTok.

Best Social Network for Learning New Skills: YouTube/LinkedIn Learning

YouTube is great for free tutorials, while LinkedIn Learning is perfect for more structured courses. Some creators use these platforms to introduce their teachings, before encouraging users to continue the lesson by paying.

Choosing the Right Platform for Your Content

Your niche isn’t the only thing to consider when choosing the right platform for your content. Things like how much each platform pays creators are important to think about if you want to monetize your content as well as sell outside of social media. Check out our guide below on how each platform pays creators.

Managing Multiple Social Media Accounts

Now you know what platforms will be best for your content, I must remind you that you don’t need to manage each account separately. Watch the video below to find out how you can manage all of your accounts with one platform:

The No. 1 Rule in Social Media Management: Keep Moving Forward

In the ever-changing world of social media, there’s no time to stand still. You have to keep adapting and moving forward, with new platforms and features emerging regularly. If you’re marketing your business online, you must stay informed about these changes and adapt your strategies accordingly. –

  • Embrace Emerging Platforms: Be open to exploring new platforms that align with your target audience.
  • Focus on Authentic Engagement: Prioritize building genuine connections with your audience over simply accumulating followers.
  • Repurpose Content for Different Platforms: Use Metricool’s planner to copy posts from your other platforms.
  • Analyze Data and Optimize: Regularly track your social media metrics and use the insights to refine your approach.
  • Stay Informed about Trends: Keep up with the latest social media trends and algorithm changes.
Sara Martín Sara Martín , 18 March 2025

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