Searching for content on TikTok can be done in a few different ways. Here are the main methods for searching and finding videos, creators, sounds, hashtags, and more on TikTok this year.
Using the Search Bar
The most straightforward way to search TikTok is by using the search bar at the top of the app or website. Just tap on the magnifying glass icon to bring up the search bar and type in your query.
For example, you can search for:
- Specific users or creators by their username
- Hashtags like #dance or #food
- Sounds or music by song title or lyrics
- Challenges like #InMyFeelingsChallenge
- General keywords like “cats” or “comedy”
TikTok will display results related to your search term, prioritizing popular videos, hashtags, and accounts. You can scroll through the results or tap “See All” to view more. The search algorithm aims to show the most relevant results.
Using Discover
The Discover tab on TikTok surfaces trending content and tailored recommendations based on your interests and engagement. While not a direct search feature, Discover can help you find new videos and creators to follow based on hashtags, sounds, effects, and topics you like.
When you first open Discover, you’ll see trending hashtags, songs, and effects. Tap on any tag or sound to view associated videos. The “For You” feed also provides recommended videos based on your interactions. The more you like, share, and engage with certain types of content, the better TikTok gets at suggesting new videos to watch.
Searching Effects
TikTok has tons of fun AR effects that creators use in their videos. To find specific effects to try, go to the Discover tab and tap on the “Effects” channel. You can browse popular effects or use the search bar to find something specific.
Tap any effect to see videos created using that effect. You can also save effects you want to try later. Then when recording a new video, you can select from your saved effects.
Using Hashtags
Browsing hashtags is one of the best ways to dive deep into topics and communities on TikTok. Every tag is like a portal into a particular type of content – #food, #dance, #summerfun, whatever you want!
There are a few ways to access hashtags on TikTok:
- Tap on trending hashtags suggested on the Discover tab
- Search for specific hashtags in the search bar
- Look for hashtags in video captions and tap on ones you’re interested in
Once you access a hashtag, you can scroll through related videos and see top videos and creators within that niche. Remember to follow hashtags (tap the “+” icon) as well as individual creators to keep updated on your favorite topics.
Using Sounds
Discovering trending sounds is another great way to search TikTok. Popular songs, audio clips, and original sounds often go viral on TikTok and get used in countless videos.
To find videos using a specific sound:
- Tap on trending sounds on the Discover page
- Search for the sound directly in the search bar
- Tap the sound icon on any video to see other videos using that same sound
Following viral sounds and music lets you watch your favorite trends unfold and take part in challenges.
Using Captions
Sometimes you want to find a specific video but don’t remember the creator, sound, or hashtags. If you recall words from the video caption, you can search for those keywords to try finding the TikTok you’re looking for.
Captions are searched by default when you enter a term into the main search bar. So keywords from video titles, descriptions, captions, and comments could all appear in the results.
Searching Users and Friends
You can search for specific TikTok creators by their username in the app’s search bar. Just type @ followed by their exact handle. This will pull up their profile so you can view their videos and follow them.
You can also easily find and search friends on TikTok. Tap the “Friends” icon on the bottom bar to access your contacts list. Use the search function here to find friends who are also on TikTok.
Searching by username is the best way to directly access a certain creator’s profile and content.
Using Voice Search
If you’re feeling lazy, try using TikTok’s voice search feature to search hands-free. Tap and hold the search bar icon, then say your search term out loud. For example say, “Search for cats.”
Voice search works for finding hashtags, sounds, effects, usernames, or any keywords. It can be super convenient when scrolling through your For You feed.
Advanced Search Filters
TikTok has some advanced search filters that allow you to refine results based on specific parameters like video duration, upload date, number of likes, etc.
To use filters:
- Run an initial search via the search bar or by tapping a hashtag or sound
- On the results page, tap “Filters” underneath the search bar
- Select the filters you want, like “Under 30 seconds” or “Over 1000 likes”
- Tap “Apply” to filter the results
Filters provide an easy way to drill down into more targeted search results.
Using Recommendations
Even without actively searching, TikTok’s algorithm will learn your interests and preferences and recommend tailored content. The “For You” feed shows videos based on:
- Videos you like, share, and engage with
- Creators and hashtags you follow
- Videos similar to content you previously watched
- Trending videos and topics among people with similar tastes
So the more you use TikTok, the better it gets at suggesting videos and accounts you’ll love. Letting the app curate recommendations is an easy way to discover new things.
Searching on Desktop
TikTok’s search functions work similarly on both mobile apps and its desktop website. On a computer you can:
- Use the search bar to find videos, hashtags, sounds, effects, creators, etc.
- Scroll the Discover tab for trending hashtag and sound recommendations
- Look for hashtags and @ mentions in video captions
- Use filters to refine search results
Many people enjoy browsing TikTok videos on a bigger screen. So search works seamlessly whether on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Tips for Better Searching
A few tips for improving your TikTok search experience:
- Use natural phrases instead of single keywords
- Check out trending sounds, hashtags, and effects
- Follow topics, creators, hashtags, and sounds you like
- Tapshare icon to find similar videos to one you enjoy
- Utilize filters to narrow your results
- Let the algorithm suggest content in your feed
Searching TikTok is intuitive and addicting. With some practice, you’ll be an expert at finding new videos and creators to follow. Now get scrolling and go watch that fun, entertaining content!
