Top 10 Global Social Media Platforms in 2025: Key Facts & Features

An Essential Breakdown of 2025’s Leading Social Media Platforms for Your Business or Brand.

Let’s keep it simple.. If you’re wondering where to show up online, here’s a warm, no-nonsense roundup of the 10 biggest social platforms – who they are, what they do and how to use them without burning out.

Short on time? Skip to the bottom of the page for a quick summary table!

1. TikTok

What it is: A short-form video app filled with trends, music, hacks, and real-life snippets.

Main features: Reels, effects, duets, trending sounds, and an endlessly scrollable “For You” feed.

User Age: 16-24 mainly

Cost: Free to post. Ads start from £5/day.

Suitable for: B2C

Top 3 Tips:

• Keep videos short and snappy.
• Use trending sounds or hashtags.
• Post regularly—consistency beats polish.

2. Facebook

What it is: A social hub for connecting, sharing updates, joining groups, and running events.

Main features: Posts, groups, events, Marketplace, Facebook Ads, and Messenger.

User Age: Strongest among 25-45

Cost: Organic is free; ads can start from £1–2/day.

Suitable for: B2C, some B2B

Top 3 Tips:

• Use groups to build community.
• Try short videos and reels.
• Test local targeting for ads.

3. Instagram

What it is: A visual-first platform for photos, reels, stories and creative content.

Main features: Stories, reels, IGTV, grid posts, shopping tags, and highlights.

User Age: 18-34

Cost: Free to post; ads start from a few £/day.

Suitable for: B2C (and creative B2B)

Top 3 Tips:

• Post Stories daily to stay visible.
• Reels get more reach—use them.
• Match your grid to your brand vibe.

4. LinkedIn

What it is: A professional networking platform for business updates, thought leadership, and B2B content.

Main features: Company pages, professional profiles, articles, polls, and direct messaging.

User Age: 30-55

Cost: Free posts; paid promotions start around £10/day.

Suitable for: B2B (primary), some B2C (especially in education, recruiting, and high-value services)

Top 3 Tips:

• Share industry insights or wins.
• Comment thoughtfully on others’ posts.
• Use photos and videos to stand out.

5. YouTube

What it is: The world’s go-to for video content — how-tos, reviews, entertainment and education.

Main features: Long-form videos, Shorts (TikTok-style), playlists, community posts.

User Age: 18-49

Cost: Free for your channel; ads from £5/day.

Suitable for: B2C and B2B

Top 3 Tips:

• Start strong — first 10 seconds matter.
• Use great thumbnails.
• Post consistently — even monthly is good.

6. Pinterest

What it is: A discovery tool for ideas, projects, style, and planning.

Main features: Pins, boards, idea pins, product tagging, and links to your site.

User Age: Mostly women 25-45

Cost: Free to pin; ads from £1/day.

Suitable for: B2C

Top 3 Tips:

• Make vertical, eye-catching pins.
• Use keywords in your pin descriptions.
• Pin seasonally. Early planning wins.

7. X / formerly Twitter

What it is: A fast-moving platform for news, opinions, and conversations.

Main features: Tweets (now longer), replies, retweets, Spaces (live audio), and trending topics.

User Age: 18-35

Cost: Free to use; ads from ~£5/day.

Suitable for: B2B and B2C (especially news, tech, media)

Top 3 Tips:

• Join trending conversations.
• Use threads to tell short stories.
• Stay active—daily tweets go far.

8. Snapchat

What it is: A messaging app with disappearing content, stories, and playful filters.

Main features: Snaps, stories, AR filters (lenses), Discover content, and chat.

User Age: 13-24

Cost: Free to use; ad campaigns usually start higher (£100s).

Suitable for: B2C (especially youth-oriented brands)

Top 3 Tips:

• Use fun, behind-the-scenes content.
• Create a branded geofilter.
• Keep it casual – it’s a chill space.

9. WhatsApp Business

What it is: Messaging app for direct, one-on-one conversations with customers.

Main features: Automated replies, labels, broadcast lists, and catalogues for products.

User Age: Popular across all ages, 25-55 especially

Cost: Free for most small businesses; paid API for big brands.

Suitable for: B2C (direct customer service) and some B2B (especially in emerging markets)

Top 3 Tips:

• Use quick replies for FAQs.
• Add your WhatsApp link to your site.
• Keep replies timely and personal.

10. Reddit

What it is: A community-driven platform built on forums called “subreddits.”

Main features: Text posts, upvotes/downvotes, anonymous discussions, AMA (ask me anything).

User Age: 18-34

Cost: Free for organic posts; ads from £5/day.

Suitable for: Niche B2C and B2B

Top 3 Tips:

• Be useful, not salesy.
• Find subreddits your audience already loves.
• Use comments to build trust.

Table contents

And That’s a Wrap…

Each platform has its own vibe and strengths – no need to be everywhere at once. Start with one or two that match your audience and goals, then grow from there.

Looking for more guidance?

Check out our other blogs or drop us a message – we’d love to help you shape a strategy that’s simple, smart and feels right for you. Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. We’re here if you need a hand.