Searching for content on TikTok is easy and straightforward. You can search for videos, sounds, hashtags, users, effects and more. Here are the main ways to do a search on TikTok:
Search Bar
The most obvious way to search on TikTok is by using the search bar at the top of the app. Just tap on the magnifying glass icon and type in your search query. You can search for usernames, hashtags, songs, sounds and more. The results will show the most relevant and popular videos, accounts, sounds etc. related to your search.
Discover Tab
The Discover tab on TikTok also lets you search and explore content. Tap on the Discover tab at the bottom and you’ll see options to search for popular creators, songs, hashtags and more. Tap any of the categories to view trending content. This is a great way to find viral videos and discover new things on TikTok.
Sounds Tab
The Sounds tab lets you search for trending songs and audio clips used in TikTok videos. Tap on the Sounds tab and browse popular tracks or use the search bar to find a specific song. You can then view videos that have used that sound. This is useful for finding the origin of a viral soundbite or song.
Hashtag Search
Searching hashtags on TikTok surfaces videos that have used that hashtag. Simply tap the Discover tab and select Hashtags. You can browse trending hashtags or search for a specific one. Tap any hashtag to view associated videos. Hashtags are a great way to find videos related to specific topics, memes or events.
Filters and Effects
You can also search for fun AR effects and filters on TikTok. Go to the Discover tab and select Effects. Browse popular effects or use the search tool. Tap any effect to try it out in your camera. You can also see videos that have used a particular effect. Searching effects helps you find the coolest new lenses and filters on TikTok.
Users and Friends
Searching for usernames allows you to find specific people on TikTok. Go to the Discover tab and select People. You can browse popular creators or search for someone’s exact username. Tap a profile to view that user’s videos and bio info. You can also find friends from your contacts list this way.
LIkes
See videos that you have liked before by going to your profile and selecting the LIKES tab. All the videos you have liked will be listed here. Scroll through and rewatch your favorite TikToks that you’ve liked over time.
Top Search Bar
There is also a convenient top search bar on the Friends tab. Tap the Friends tab and pull down on the screen to reveal the search bar at the top. Type in any search term and results will pop up as you type. This is handy for quick searches without having to go to the Discover tab.
Search Suggestions
As you type into any search bar on TikTok, you will see search suggestions pop up below. These are based on trending searches and content. Tap any of the suggestions to quickly perform that search. The suggestions make it easy to find popular and timely content.
Voice Search
You can also search hands-free using your voice. Tap and hold the search icon and say your search term out loud. For example say “Search for cats.” This will pull up relevant results. Voice search is helpful when you want to search without typing.
Search History
To see your recent search history, tap inside the search bar and select the clock icon. This will show your latest searches so you can quickly perform them again. Clear your search history anytime by selecting the trash can icon.
Saved Searches and Hashtags
If you want quick access to searches you do often, you can save them. Perform a search then tap the bookmark icon to save it. Go to your profile and Saved to see all your bookmarked searches and hashtags. This makes it easy to access favorite topics.
Web Browser
You can also search for TikTok content in a web browser on your phone, tablet or computer. Go to TikTok.com and use the search bar to find videos, sounds, effects and more. You can use TikTok’s website similarly to the mobile app.
Optimizing Your Search
Here are some tips for getting the best search results on TikTok:
- Use relevant keywords and be specific – this returns more tailored results
- Try different keyword variations and spellings
- Use hashtags for focused topic searching
- Check the search suggestions for ideas
- Filter search results by newest, most liked, most commented etc
- Browse Discover and Sounds tabs for trending search inspiration
Troubleshooting Searches
If you are having issues with searching on TikTok, here is some troubleshooting advice:
- Make sure you have the latest version of the TikTok app
- Check your internet connection and try again
- Restart the TikTok app and retry the search
- Clear your search history and cookies
- Try different keywords and search formats
- Use TikTok’s feedback option to report search issues
Searching on TikTok opens up a world of entertaining, informative and trending videos. Follow these tips to become an expert searcher and discover the best content TikTok has to offer.
