Neptune vs. TikTok: A Side-by-Side Analysis of Community and Features

What Is Neptune?

Sneak peek at the user interface per Neptune.

A new platform is making waves in the creator economy but has yet to hit major app stores. Neptune, a new social media platform set to launch this spring, boasts a “bold reimagining” of creative expression and community engagement. Neptune’s rise to virality and high demand came as TikTok “refugees” or creators rampantly searched for new alternative platforms to monetize their content, connect with fans, and express their freedom of speech and creativity. Although TikTok went dark for only 14 hours, its 170 million U.S. users are still looking to diversify their content channels and revenue streams in case it is officially banned. Neptune’s TikTok account amassed hundreds of thousands of followers in the weeks leading up to the temporary blackout, sharing inside looks into the platform’s structure and user features. Now, Neptune has more than 150,000 active users in its Discord server collaborating on creative work, discussing the future of the creator economy, and closely anticipating the platform’s official release.

Neptune’s Mission

Per the platform’s official website, Neptune will be a creator-first space where content is promoted for its quality and impact rather than a biased algorithm. “We’re laying the foundation for a future where social media isn’t just about scrolling and liking—it’s about meaningful interaction, genuine community, and a seamless blend of creativity and commerce,” Neptune shared. Moreover, Neptune is dedicated to uplifting creators of all backgrounds, followings, and creative interests. Neptune dove into this commitment to inclusion in a TikTok post, noting that, “BIPOC, queer, and disabled creators will have a fair shot at discovery” on the upcoming platform. Neptune also shared that its Beta testers will assist with user accessibility developments by providing feedback and collaborating with its team.

How Does Neptune Compare to TikTok?

So how does Neptune compare to TikTok? One of the key differences between Neptune and TikTok is its algorithms for content recommendations. Simply put, Neptune users may customize their algorithm to recommend preferred topics and creators, for instance, more content from creators they follow. TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes content performance and authentic engagement, meaning that posts with more comments and shares have increased chances of appearing on the For You feed for creators. “On Neptune, we allow you to categorize yourself so you have a better chance of discoverability and connecting with your people,” Darling shared in an exclusive interview with HerCampus. “A lot of people have had that experience of being censored and shadow banned on TikTok simply for being who they are, and those are the people that are coming over to Neptune and really jazzed up about what we have to offer,” she added.

Some other differences between Neptune and TikTok pertain to e-commerce and overall platform structure. Darling shared with HerCampus that Neptune has “no desire to dip our toes into this massive e-commerce space at this time” but that they may consider integrating a creator marketplace in the future. Neptune creators will eventually have the ability to connect their Etsy shops, Shopify stores, and other monetization channels to their profiles via API plug-ins, but such social commerce features will focus on creators rather than brands. Darling shared some quick facts about Neptune in a TikTok video as well where she reflected on TikTok comparisons and explained that the platform’s feed will primarily focus on video content, similar to YouTube rather than TikTok. Those interested in learning how Neptune compares to other platforms can also check out a past LinkedIn article from the platform distinguishing some differences between itself and Quibi.

Why Creators Should Consider Joining Neptune

Inside look at platform feed and user customization per Neptune.

No Algorithmic Gatekeeping (Unlike YouTube)

YouTube’s algorithm generally promotes viral content from big-name creators. Unlike YouTube, Neptune’s algorithm is more customizable and caters to individual users’ preferences. Neptune users may customize their algorithm to distribute content from their Following list, Friends, Trending content, and up to four selected Categories. Users on Neptune may also filter out AI content from their feeds to ensure that they’re consuming authentic, original content from creators.

Real Connections Over Quick Hits (Unlike TikTok)

TikTok offers creators the opportunity to create viral content, but not all popular content translates to long-term success or community building. On Neptune, various features and other elements of the platform’s structure are catered to genuine community building for users. Whether you’re a casual user looking to make new friends or an avid content creator passionate about engaging with fans, Neptune is determined to be a hub for real online connections.

Interactive Creativity Meets Community (Unlike Netflix)

On its official website, Neptune notes that although Netflix hosts a library of amazing content, it is a “one-way street” in the sense that users only view content and cannot create or interact with content. Interactivity and creativity meet community on Neptune’s dynamic social platform, with community at the heart of every post and interaction.

Transparent, Creator-First Monetization

Neptune’s website explains that its platform “offers transparent, equitable ways for creators to earn from their work.” Unlike other social platforms with rigid monetization programs that favor the top percent of creators, Neptune plans to introduce creator-first monetization initiatives that are more accessible.

No Follower Counts—Just Quality

One of Neptune’s most noteworthy features is its ghost metrics, meaning that follower counts and other vanity metrics will be hidden on the platform. This method of profile displays and content engagement places a greater focus on content quality rather than popularity, as per Neptune.

Neptune Features

Screenshots courtesy of Ashley Darling, shared by HerCampus.

The following features are confirmed to be added to the platform via Neptune’s Discord server. Neptune shared via Discord that some features may not be available during Beta testing or at launch, but they are confirmed to be added eventually.

User Profile Features

• Customizable Profile: Users will have access to a variety of features to make their profiles appear more unique.
• Dark Mode: Users will have the option to toggle between Dark and Light Mode in-app for the best viewing experience.
• Status Message: Each Neptune profile will have the option to add a status message, as pictured in the profile display above.

Content Structure

• Long and Short-Form Content: Neptune creators have a ton of flexibility regarding content length. Creators may share short-form videos or post videos of up to 90 minutes long.
• Playlists: Creators will be able to organize their content into playlists for the convenient enjoyment of their followers and other users.
• Reposting Content: Neptune users will have the ability to repost another creator’s content, similar to TikTok.
• Video Descriptions: Video descriptions on Neptune will have a robust character limit of 10,000 characters, unlike other platforms.
• Video Dimensions: Since Neptune is a vertical video platform, videos will generally be 9:16 ratio or 1080 x 1920, similar to TikTok standards.
• Hashtags: Neptune users are limited to a maximum of three hashtags per post, so these must be mindfully chosen when categorizing their content. This hashtag limit resembles that of Lemon8 where creators are limited to five hashtags.

Livestreaming on Neptune

Neptune creators are welcome to livestream on the platform, including with OBS plug-ins, if they meet the following criteria:

• Age Verification: Neptune users interested in livestreaming must first verify that they are at least 18 years old.
• Account Criteria: In order to go live, creators must have an account for at least 10 days.
• Posting Criteria: In addition to the account criteria, creators must have at least 5 pieces of content posted to their accounts to be eligible for live streaming.

Content Engagement

• Customizable Algorithm: Users may customize their content preferences by selecting how much content they would like to see from their Following list, Friends, Trending Content, and up to four selected niche interests. Users will also be able to filter out AI or e-commerce-related content.
• Comments: Users can post comments on Neptune content of up to 10,000 characters. The original commenter may edit these comments.
• Pinned Comments: Creators may pin comments to their videos.

Content Restrictions & Reporting

• Human Moderation: All content reporting on Neptune will be conducted by humans, not AI.
• 18+ Content: Although Neptune allows 18+ content such as drinking, smoking, and “adult topics,” NSFW content is not permitted on the platform. Creators looking to promote such prohibited content are welcome to link alternative platforms such as OnlyFans or Patreon in their link-in-bio tool such as Linktree.

How to Monetize on Neptune

Neptune Monetization Overview

Neptune prides itself on its commitment to transparent, creator-first monetization, but has yet to announce any specific earnings programs for creators. Rather, Neptune shared in its Creators FAQ that it is actively working on building out creator monetization tools with a competitive profit split rate compared to TikTok and YouTube. All Neptune users 17 years or older will be eligible to monetize on the platform, but users must be at least 18 years old to go live and thus monetize via live features. The following are some monetization structures to be introduced to Neptune per the Creators FAQ Discord channel.

Subscriptions

Users will be able to subscribe to their favorite Neptune creators for access to exclusive paid perks. Neptune notes, “The perks available and what this model looks like for subscriptions is still being developed, but you can expect something competitive to other platforms that work in favor of creators offering tools to connect with their loyal fanbase.”

Playlists

Neptune creators will have the opportunity to build Playlists consisting of content from themselves and other creators. Creators will have the option to monetize Playlists solely including their content via a subscription-based model or a more customized method where they directly distinguish pricing.

Tipping

Another noteworthy element of Neptune’s proposed monetization structure is Tipping. As per Neptune’s Discord, Neptune will have its own form of in-app currency for users to utilize when tipping creators. Neptune creators will then be able to convert this in-app currency into real-life currency to be withdrawn from the platform.

Watch Ads

Although Neptune has shared in social media posts that its platform will limit advertisements from its user experience, creators will be able to monetize their content via Watch Ads. With Watch Ads, users may opt-in to view an advertisement to directly support an individual creator. Neptune notes that the Watch Ads feature will be available to users via the Tip option on creators’ content and that “revenue generated from watching an ad will be split between the creator and Neptune.”

Pay Per View Content

Another extension of exclusive paid content on Neptune is its Pay Per View Content. According to Neptune, creators will be able to post content behind individual paywalls they determine. In order to view to view PPV content, users must pay the price determined by creators. Neptune notes that “creators can set a variable amount per video upload, or choose to make some content free for anyone.”

Going Live on Neptune

Creators 18 years or older with any follower count are welcome to go live and take part in related monetization opportunities. Neptune shares that creators may sell their own products–for instance, if they own a small business–on Neptune Live under the condition that they use the required “Selling” tag. By tagging their livestream, users can easily filter out Live content related to shopping or e-commerce to better tailor their algorithm.

Profit Split and Earnings Withdrawals

As per Neptune’s Discord, “The profit split for Neptune will be 70/30, with content creators taking home 70% of the earnings on Gifts, Tips, Subscriptions, and PPV.” Neptune adds that the profit split for Watch Ads is still to be determined but Beta testers will have an additional 3% profit split as a thank-you for being early supporters of the platform. Neptune is currently working on the fine details related to earnings withdrawals, which users may expect updates on closer to the platform’s release.

Getting Started on Neptune

Neptune’s Beta Testing

Unfortunately, Neptune’s Beta access has now closed. Interested users could originally apply for Beta access via a waitlist form shared on the official Neptune website. Now, users must wait for access to the public launch of Neptune on the iOS App Store this spring and the Android Play Store this summer. Users can check out Neptune’s Instagram account or Discord server for related updates.

How to Join Neptune’s Discord Server

Neptune’s Discord server hosts a variety of interactive and informational channels from Creator FAQs and Platform Suggestions to a Co-Working Space. ZDNET shared the following steps for new users to join Neptune’s Discord server.

1. Access invite from Neptune: Join Neptune’s Discord server via the invite link on the platform’s official website. You can join the official Neptune Discord server here.
2. Create a Discord account (if you don’t have one already): Input prompted user info including your name, birthday, and log-in credentials.
3. Explore Neptune’s Discord server: Toggle the left-hand menu on Neptune’s Discord server to access different channels.
4. Interact with other users: Join in on conversations with other creators eager to join Neptune, suggest potential platform features, participate in challenges, and more.

Neptune CEO Ashley Darling’s Interview with HerCampus

Neptune CEO Ashley Darling

Neptune CEO Ashley Darling joined HerCampus for an interview this January to share exclusive insights on the platform’s upcoming release and features. HerCampus asked a series of questions regarding the potential TikTok ban, platform comparisons, and user value proposition.

How Will Advertising Look Like on Neptune?

Advertisements present in content feeds are a common trend between social media apps, but Neptune plans to apply a different strategy when integrating ads on the platform. “We will have ads on the platform, but they’re not going to be overly intrusive,” Daring explained. “One thing that we are planning to do with ads makes them opt-in…it’s a way for our creators to be able to monetize themselves and for the users to be able to support their favorite creators with a very low barrier to entry because a lot of us just don’t have the money to be sending to all the creators we love so much.” By utilizing opt-in ads on the platform, Neptune grants users the flexibility to limit the amount of promotional content they view which typically clutters their feeds on alternative platforms.

How Will Neptune Handle Hate-Speech and Misinformation?

Neptune will include community guidelines to protect the safety and inclusivity of its diverse user base. According to Darling, hate speech related to racism, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny will not be tolerated on the platform. Darling also discussed Neptune’s approach to mitigating misinformation during her interview with HerCampus. “If someone’s coming onto the platform and spreading misinformation that’s an incitement to violence, obviously that will be dealt with,” Darling explained. “But if it’s misinformation about something that’s pretty easily verifiable, we kind of leave that up to our users to use their discretion there.”

The Future of Neptune

Darling shared with HerCampus that her team envisions the future of the creator economy and entertainment to be UGC, or user-generated content, focused. According to IMF’s Ultimate Creator Guide, “More than 26% of U.S. adults now identify as content creators, with 64% open to brand promotions.” Darling expressed her enthusiasm to develop Neptune into the go-to social platform for aspirational creators and their diverse content. “In looking to the future, we definitely want to have a TV app like YouTube does, where people can interact from their phone and watch the content on the TV,” Darling told HerCampus. “We want to have a very immersive experience for each creator to offer a fully branded experience for their audience.”

Neptune vs. TikTok: Expanding Your Content Strategy

Neptune FAQ’s

1. What is Neptune?

Launching this Spring, Neptune is a creator-first social media platform that prioritizes quality content and meaningful community engagement without biased algorithms and distracting vanity metrics. Neptune is earnestly committed to fostering inclusivity on its platform by ensuring fair discovery for BIPOC, queer, and disabled creators. All in all, Neptune is a highly-anticipated platform for creators of all backgrounds, interests, and experience levels.

2. What are Neptune’s monetization features for creators?

Neptune plans to offer various monetization features and programs for its creators in the future. The following are some of Neptune’s confirmed creator monetization opportunities as per its official Discord Server:

• Subscriptions: Neptune will offer creator subscriptions with exclusive paid perks, promising a competitive model that prioritizes creator-fan engagement.
• Playlists: Creators will have the option to monetize Playlists solely including their content via a subscription-based model or a more customized method where they directly distinguish pricing.
• Tipping: Neptune will have its own form of in-app currency for users to utilize when tipping creators. Neptune creators will then be able to convert this in-app currency into real-life currency to be withdrawn from the platform.
• Watch Ads: With Watch Ads, users may opt-in to view an advertisement to directly support an individual creator.
• Pay Per View Content: Neptune’s Pay Per View feature allows creators to set individual paywalls for content, giving them flexibility to charge per video or offer select content for free.
• Going Live on Neptune: Neptune allows creators 18+ of any follower count to go live and monetize, including selling products through Neptune Live with the required “Selling” tag.

3. Can creators monetize their content on Neptune and TikTok?

Yes, both platforms offer monetization opportunities:

• Neptune: Monetization through Subscriptions, Playlists, Watch Ads, Tipping, PPV content, and other potential features.
• TikTok: Monetization is available through the TikTok Creativity Program, brand partnerships, and livestream gifts.

4. Is Neptune available in my country?

Neptune is currently Beta testing with a closed pool of 10,000 users. This spring, Neptune will launch on iOS and Android in the United States. Neptune has yet to announce plans for global expansion.

5. What are the main differences between Neptune and TikTok?

Neptune and TikTok are both short-form video platforms, but they differ in several ways:

• Content Recommendation Algorithm: Neptune lets users customize their algorithm for tailored recommendations and improved discoverability, addressing concerns like censorship and shadow banning seen on TikTok. TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes content engagement and performance without the flexibility of user customization.
• E-Commerce & Social Commerce: Neptune currently has no plans to enter e-commerce but may introduce a creator marketplace, allowing creators to connect Etsy, Shopify, and other monetization channels via API plug-ins. TikTok heavily emphasizes its TikTok Shop marketplace for brands and small businesses with UGC and influencer marketing initiatives.
• Content Structure: Neptune’s platform will focus primarily on a video feed, more similar to YouTube than TikTok. On the other hand, TikTok’s content stream consists of videos, photo carousels, shopping content, and other various formats.

6. Why should creators consider joining Neptune?

• No Algorithmic Gatekeeping (Unlike YouTube): Unlike YouTube’s virality-focused algorithm, Neptune offers customizable content distribution, allowing users to prioritize their Following list, Friends, Trending content, and selected Categories while also filtering out AI-generated content.
• Real Connections Over Quick Hits (Unlike TikTok): While TikTok fosters viral content, Neptune prioritizes genuine community building, offering features designed for meaningful connections between users and creators.
• Interactive Creativity Meets Community (Unlike Netflix): Unlike Netflix’s passive viewing experience, Neptune fosters interactivity and creativity, making community engagement central to every post and interaction.
• Transparent, Creator-First Monetization: Neptune prioritizes equitable monetization, offering accessible, creator-first earning opportunities unlike other platforms that favor top creators.
• No Follower Counts—Just Quality: Neptune’s ghost metrics hide follower counts and vanity metrics, shifting the focus from popularity to content quality and authentic engagement.

7. How can I join Neptune?

Users interested in joining Neptune will have to wait until the platform publicly launches on iOS and Android. Neptune is currently available for Beta testers who signed up via past forms shared on the official Neptune Discord Server. To get started on Neptune, follow the platform on Instagram and join its Discord for regular updates.

8. Is Neptune a suitable alternative to TikTok?

Neptune appears to be a promising platform for creators looking for an alternative to TikTok, but it is important to consider differences in content styles and features. Since users are able to individually customize their algorithms, creators may have some challenges reaching new audiences who don’t already follow or friend them. Creators will have to strategically organize their content via hashtags and playlists to connect with other users within their shared niche. Additionally, creators who typically share photo content on TikTok or other platforms may feel limited to just videos and live streaming on Neptune, but there is no telling if photos will eventually be added to the platform. There are countless benefits to joining Neptune including opt-in advertisements, authentic community engagement, and an emphasis on inclusivity. Neptune may be an ideal platform for U.S. creators looking to share their hobbies, niche interests, and creative content with other users, but Neptune has yet to discuss global expansion. Thus, Neptune is a platform creators should keep an eye out for and closely observe for developments. The Neptune team is very receptive to feedback and ideas, so we look forward to how creators will impact its launch this spring!