How Many Hashtags Should You Use on TikTok?

If you’re looking to grow on TikTok, hashtags are more than just trendy phrases — they’re powerful tools that help your content reach the right audience. But how many hashtags should you actually use on a TikTok video? Is there a magic number?

Let’s break it down and help you make the most of your hashtag strategy.

📱 Why Do Hashtags Matter on TikTok?

Hashtags on TikTok serve a few key purposes:

• Increase discoverability: Hashtags help TikTok’s algorithm understand what your content is about and show it to users who might be interested.

• Join trends and challenges: Using trending hashtags (like #FYP or #TikTokChallenge) can connect your content with what’s hot.

• Reach niche communities: Niche or targeted hashtags (like #BookTok or #FitnessTips) can help you reach users who are into very specific content.

• Boost engagement: Hashtag use can lead to more likes, comments, and shares by bringing more eyeballs to your videos.

📊 So, How Many Hashtags Should You Use?

The short answer: 3 to 5 well-chosen hashtags is usually the sweet spot.

TikTok allows up to 100 characters in your video caption (including hashtags and spaces), so you don’t have a lot of room to work with. Quality beats quantity every time.

Here’s a good hashtag mix:

• 1–2 trending or broad hashtags (e.g., #FYP, #TikTok, #Viral)

• 1–2 niche-specific hashtags (e.g., #SkincareRoutine, #StudyWithMe)

• 1 branded or custom hashtag (if you’re promoting your own brand or campaign)

🚫 Can You Use Too Many Hashtags?

Yes. Overloading your caption with hashtags can:

• Make your content look spammy

• Confuse the algorithm

• Limit space for context or a compelling caption

A bunch of random or irrelevant hashtags can also hurt your chances of reaching your target audience.

✅ Tips for Picking the Right Hashtags

1. Be relevant – Only use hashtags that truly reflect what your video is about.

2. Check what's trending – Use TikTok’s Discover page to see what hashtags are hot.

3. Mix big and small – Large hashtags help with exposure; niche ones help with targeting.

4. Create your own – Starting your own hashtag can help build community around your content or brand.

🧠 Bonus: Do You Need Hashtags to Go Viral?

Not necessarily — some creators go viral with no hashtags at all. TikTok’s algorithm focuses on watch time, engagement, and content relevance, not just tags.

But smart hashtag use can still give you an edge, especially if you’re trying to grow your account or reach new viewers.

Final Thoughts

So, how many hashtags should you use on TikTok? Stick to 3–5 relevant and intentional tags for the best results. Focus on clarity, community, and creativity — not just copying the most popular tags.

Remember: hashtags are tools, not magic. Great content, engaging delivery, and authenticity always come first.