If you’re looking for particular videos, creators, sounds or hashtags on TikTok, there are a few different ways you can search for specific content. TikTok has a built-in search function that allows you to find videos, people and hashtags that match your query. You can also browse by category or use filters to narrow down content that fits your interests.
Using the Search Bar
The most straightforward way to search TikTok is to use the search bar at the top of the app. Here are some tips for searching effectively:
- Tap the magnifying glass icon to open the search bar.
- Type in relevant keywords related to what you’re looking for. For example, if you want funny dog videos try searching “funny dogs.”
- The app will display top results related to your search terms. Scroll through videos, sounds, hashtags and accounts that match.
- If you want to search for a specific user, type their full username into the search bar.
- You can also search for particular sounds by typing in lyrics or describing the audio.
- Try using hashtags like #food or #dance to find videos featuring those topics.
- The more specific your keywords, the better your results will be. Search “stand up comedy” rather than just “comedy.”
As you use the search feature, TikTok will remember your interests and improve search recommendations over time. You’ll see a personalized results page with content and creators you may like based on previous interactions.
Using Suggested Searches
Another easy way to dive into topics you’re interested in is by using TikTok’s suggested searches. Here’s how it works:
- Tap the magnifying glass to open the search bar.
- Below the bar, you’ll see a list of recommended searches based on trending topics and your previous activity.
- Tap any of the suggested searches to instantly see results.
- Use this feature to explore viral content, discover new ideas, and stay on top of current trends.
Suggested searches change frequently to reflect evolving trends. It’s a quick way to check out what’s popular without having to think of search terms yourself.
Browsing Categories
For a more broad discovery experience, browse through TikTok’s content categories. To access:
- Tap the magnifying glass icon to open the search page.
- At the top, tap “Categories” next to the search bar.
- Scroll through the list of categories like “Food,” “Animals” and “Beauty” and tap any to view an endless feed of related videos.
- This is a great way to casually discover new content around hobbies, interests and passions.
- You can “Follow” any category to keep it on your main feed for browsing whenever you open TikTok.
Categories offer a focused feed of content different from the eclectic “For You” page. It’s an alternative way to fall into a rabbit hole of videos around specific topics you enjoy.
Using Hashtags
In addition to keywords, hashtags are extremely helpful for searching niche content on TikTok. Here’s how to use them:
- Try searching hashtags directly in the search bar like #cookingtips or #livemusic.
- When viewing a video, take note of any relevant hashtags used and tap them to see more videos featuring those tags.
- Use niche hashtags like #bookreviews or #smallbusinessowner to find very targeted content.
- You can combine multiple hashtags to narrow your search even further. Searching #cats and #kittens together yields different results than either tag alone.
- The more specific the hashtag, the fewer (but more relevant) results you’ll see. #cats yields billions of videos while #ragdollcat yields just over 250 million.
Over 2 billion videos are uploaded to TikTok daily. Following hashtags is key for cutting through the noise and drilling down to find really specific content.
Using Effects
TikTok has tons of fun augmented reality effects you can search for and browse easily:
- Tap the discover icon on the bottom toolbar.
- Select the “Effects” tab at the bottom.
- Scroll through trending effects or use the search bar to find something specific.
- Tap any effect to open the camera and try it out.
- Effects are a great way to find viral TikTok moments like meme faces, digital makeup and more.
Effects are constantly being added, so explore this area often to try newly trending filters and AR. It’s an easy way to find what’s hot!
Using Sounds
Popular sounds also commonly spawn their own meme trends on TikTok. Search for sounds to find the latest crazes:
- Tap the discover icon and select the “Sounds” tab.
- Scroll through trending sounds or search for a specific song, tune or audio clip.
- Tap any sound to view related videos showcasing that sound.
- Sounds are a fantastic route for discovering trending memes and viral phenomena.
Searching by sound is perfect for finding the origin of viral sensations like the “Oh No” song or comedy audio snippets. See how creators implement sound trends in videos.
Using Filters
Narrow any search with filters to hone in on exactly the type of content you want:
- Execute a search as usual in the search bar or via hashtags.
- On the results page, tap “Filters” underneath the search bar.
- Select filters like video type, upload date, region, device and more.
- For example, filter for “Live” videos to only view livestreams related to your search.
- Tap “Apply” to update your results based on the filters chosen.
Filters provide deep refinement for searches. Zero in on short-form videos, results from your home country, hands-free footage and more. Get super specific with your query!
Saving Searches
If you search for something often, save it for easy access later:
- Perform a search as usual.
- On the results page, tap the “Save” icon next to the search terms.
- This saves the search to the “Saved” tab on your profile.
- View all your saved searches in your profile to quickly access niche content.
Saved searches are helpful for regularly checking back in on topics you care about. Follow the latest on your hobbies, interests and favorite creators in one convenient place.
Searching Outside the App
You can also hunt for videos outside of the TikTok app using Google search. Here’s how:
- Open Google and search for keywords + “TikTok” like “kittens TikTok.”
- Scroll through the video results pulled in from TikTok.
- Tap any video to watch it on TikTok’s website.”
- This search method provides wider search capabilities than the app alone.
Google is indexed differently than TikTok’s built-in search, yielding some different discoveries, so it’s worth trying. You may surface some hidden gems not visible in the app.
The Bottom Line
With billions of videos and endless content, searching is crucial for finding your niche on TikTok. Use the built-in search bar along with suggested searches, categories and hashtags to drill down. Refine even further with filters and saved searches. And don’t forget to search outside the app through Google. Follow trending sounds, effects and memes or dive deep into your unique interests. With the right search techniques, you can find your perfect corner of TikTok in no time!
