Snapchat Spotlight vs. TikTok Creator Fund

When deciding between Snapchat Spotlight and TikTok's Creator Rewards Program, it boils down to your goals as a content creator. TikTok offers higher payouts per view and better scalability for viral growth, while Snapchat provides steadier daily income for consistent creators. Here's a quick breakdown:

• TikTok Rewards Program: Pays $0.40–$1.00 per 1,000 views for videos over 60 seconds. Easier to go viral but earnings depend on algorithm performance. Requires 10,000 followers and 100,000 views in 30 days to qualify.
• Snapchat Spotlight: Pays $0.10–$0.30 per 1,000 views, with steady income from daily Stories. Requires 50,000 followers and meeting strict engagement benchmarks for monetization.

Quick Comparison

Feature	TikTok Rewards Program	Snapchat Spotlight
Payout per 1,000 Views	$0.40–$1.00	$0.10–$0.30
Earnings for 1M Views	$400–$1,000	$1,000–$3,000
Follower Requirement	10,000+	50,000+
View Requirement	100,000 in 30 days	1M Spotlight views in 28 days
Minimum Video Length	60 seconds	1 minute for Spotlight revenue
Payment Model	Ad revenue sharing	Performance-based pool

Key Takeaway: TikTok is ideal for viral growth and higher payouts, while Snapchat suits creators seeking consistent earnings through frequent uploads. Use both platforms strategically to maximize your income.

The Best and Worst Social Media to Make Money

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What is Snapchat Spotlight?

Snapchat Spotlight is a dedicated feed of short, vertical videos, designed to function similarly to TikTok's "For You" page. Unlike other Snapchat features that focus on friend-based interactions, Spotlight uses an algorithm to recommend content based on factors like engagement and watch time. This means your videos can gain exposure even if you don't have a large follower base.

When Spotlight launched in 2020, Snapchat introduced a $1 million-per-day reward pool. By the end of its first year, over $250 million had been paid out to more than 12,000 creators. In February 2025, Snapchat revamped its approach by merging Spotlight and Stories under a Unified Monetization Program. This new system allowed creators to earn ad revenue from both formats at the same time, moving away from the unpredictable, lottery-style payouts of the past.

How Snapchat Spotlight Pays Creators

Spotlight compensates creators based on views and engagement. Typically, it pays between $0.10 and $0.30 per 1,000 views, so a video with 1 million views could earn anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. Earnings are influenced by factors like daily reward pools, watch time, replays, and shares. High engagement can boost payouts by around 10%.

While viral Spotlight videos can generate significant income, daily Story posts tend to provide more consistent earnings. For example, in early 2026, creator Josh Horton reported making at least $200 every day on Snapchat, with some days exceeding $1,000. Similarly, reality TV star Cheyenne Davis earned $35,000 in a single month during 2025 by sharing daily vlog-style content about her cooking and family life.

"I never have a day where I'm making less than $200... nowhere else on social media are you guaranteed every single day that you're going to have something coming in."

• Josh Horton, Creator

Payments are handled through Hyperwallet, with a minimum cash-out threshold of $100. With Snapchat users watching over 10 billion videos daily, creators who post consistently have plenty of opportunities to earn.

Who Can Earn on Snapchat Spotlight

To qualify for the Unified Monetization Program, creators must meet specific criteria:

• 50,000 followers and a public profile
• 25 posts per month to Saved Stories or Spotlight
• Active 10 out of the last 28 days
• Performance benchmarks, such as 10 million Snap views, 1 million Spotlight views, or 12,000 hours of watch time in the past 28 days
• 100 hours of Spotlight view time in the past 28 days (as of May 2026)
• Be at least 18 years old (or the legal age of majority) for the Ads Program, though users as young as 16 can submit to Spotlight
• Invitation from Snapchat to join

For example, nursing student Kaylee Rosie grew her following from 2,000 to 100,000 in just six months by sharing her academic journey. By mid-2026, she was earning enough from ad revenue to leave her service industry job. Notably, over 65% of Spotlight submissions that earned money used Snapchat's built-in creative tools or AR Lenses, which help boost visibility through the algorithm.

Other Ways to Earn on Snapchat

Snapchat offers additional earning opportunities beyond Spotlight. One of the most reliable options is mid-roll ads in public Stories, which provide a revenue-sharing model. Lifestyle creator Abby Berner, who has 3.2 million Snapchat followers, earned over $500,000 on the platform in 2025 while reaching 5.3 billion people. She even noted that Snapchat pays her more than TikTok, where she has 7 million followers.

Another option is Spotlight Challenges, which are themed contests with specific prize pools. These challenges often encourage creators to use particular lenses or sounds, making them accessible even to those without large audiences. However, to maximize earning potential, creators should avoid uploading videos with watermarks from other platforms like TikTok or Instagram, as these are disqualified by Snapchat's algorithm. Using Snapchat's native tools like lenses, filters, and licensed audio can further enhance a video's chances of being promoted.

These varied monetization methods provide a solid foundation for comparing Snapchat's approach to TikTok's strategies in the creator economy.

What is TikTok Creator Fund?

In 2026, TikTok transitioned from its Creator Fund to the Creator Rewards Program. This revamped system uses a Revenue Per Mille (RPM) model, where payouts scale based on views and engagement, rather than splitting a fixed pool of funds among all eligible creators.

To qualify for payouts, videos must now be at least 1 minute long. Shorter videos don't earn anything under this program, highlighting TikTok's push toward longer-form content as it seeks to rival platforms like YouTube and broaden its ad opportunities. Creators serious about maximizing earnings here should consider a solid long-form video strategy. Creators can also use tools to create animated videos to meet these length requirements. Payments are determined by "qualified views", which are views from the For You Page featuring original content from eligible countries.

How TikTok Creator Fund Pays Creators

The Creator Rewards Program pays creators between $0.40 and $1.00 per 1,000 qualified views, which is 15–25 times higher than the rates under the old Creator Fund. For example, a video with 1 million qualified views could earn creators anywhere from $400 to $1,000.

"The Creativity Program pays 15-25x more per view [than the old Creator Fund]." - FluxNote

Earnings vary by content niche. For instance:

• Finance and investing content: $0.80 to $1.20 per 1,000 views.
• Tech and software content: $0.70 to $1.00 per 1,000 views.
• Entertainment and lifestyle vlogs: $0.30 to $0.50 and $0.20 to $0.40 per 1,000 views, respectively.

TikTok's algorithm also plays a role. Videos with high completion rates and multiple rewatches are more likely to appear on the For You Page, increasing the chances of accumulating qualified views. Understanding viewer retention data is key to optimizing for these signals.

Requirements to Join TikTok Creator Fund

To participate in the Creator Rewards Program, creators need to meet specific criteria:

• Followers and Views: At least 10,000 followers and 100,000 views in the past 30 days.
• Age and Location: Creators must be 18 or older and reside in eligible countries like the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, or Mexico.
• Account Standards: Accounts must be in good standing and set as Personal, not Business.

Earnings are calculated daily, and creators can withdraw funds once they reach a $20 minimum balance. Payments are processed monthly between the 15th and 20th. These requirements establish a baseline for creators before they explore other ways to monetize their TikTok presence.

Other Ways to Earn on TikTok

TikTok provides creators with additional revenue opportunities beyond the Creator Rewards Program:

• TikTok Shop: Creators earn commissions of 5–20% per sale by promoting products in their videos. After platform and processing fees, they typically retain 92% to 96% of the revenue.
• LIVE Gifts: Creators with at least 1,000 followers can receive virtual gifts during live streams. Gifts range from $0.99 for a "Rose" to $500 for a "Unicorn", though TikTok takes a 50% cut.
• Brand Partnerships: Sponsored content is often the most profitable option. Mid-size creators frequently earn 2 to 5 times more from brand deals than from TikTok's direct payments. For example:
  • Creators with around 100,000 followers might earn $500 to $5,000 per sponsored post.
  • Those with 500,000+ followers can command $5,000 to $25,000 or more per post.

Snapchat Spotlight vs. TikTok Creator Fund: Side-by-Side Comparison

Payment and Eligibility Comparison Table

Snapchat and TikTok take very different routes when it comes to paying creators. TikTok has moved away from its original Creator Fund, introducing the Creator Rewards Program, which uses an ad revenue-sharing model similar to YouTube. On the other hand, Snapchat Spotlight sets aside a fixed pool of money daily or monthly to reward top-performing viral content. Here's a quick breakdown of how the two platforms compare:

Feature	TikTok Creator Rewards Program	Snapchat Spotlight
Payout per 1,000 Views	$0.40 – $1.00	$0.01 – $0.03
Earnings for 1M Views	$400 – $1,000	$10 – $30 (plus viral bonuses)
Minimum Video Length	60 seconds	No minimum – short form
Follower Requirement	10,000+ followers	No specific requirement
View Requirement	100,000 views in last 30 days	None specified
Age Requirement	18+ years old	16+ (18+ for direct payment)
Payment Model	Ad revenue sharing	Performance-based pool

What the Numbers Mean for Creators

These stats highlight some big differences in how creators can earn and what they can expect. TikTok's Creator Rewards Program offers much higher payouts per view - between $400 and $1,000 for a video with 1 million views. Snapchat Spotlight, by comparison, pays significantly less, with creators earning $10 to $30 for the same number of views, though viral bonuses could boost those numbers.

However, TikTok's payouts come with conditions. Only views from the For You page are eligible for revenue, so not every view counts toward earnings. Snapchat Spotlight, on the other hand, is less predictable. As MultiAccounts notes:

"Snapchat Spotlight is competitive, not reliable... One viral Spotlight video might earn you $1,000; a similarly-performing video the following week might earn $10."

TikTok's ad revenue-sharing system provides more consistency, especially for creators who make longer videos. Snapchat's model, meanwhile, feels more like a gamble, rewarding short, viral clips but offering little in the way of steady income. Additionally, TikTok's 10,000-follower requirement is more accessible compared to the 50,000+ followers needed for some of Snapchat's other monetization options. Knowing these details can help creators decide which platform aligns best with their content goals.

Why Choose Each Platform

When Snapchat Spotlight Works Best

Snapchat is a great fit for creators aiming for consistent daily income without needing a huge following right from the start. The platform thrives on authenticity, rewarding creators who upload daily content like vlogs or behind-the-scenes glimpses. Interestingly, 60% of Snapchat users enjoy seeing creators share their mistakes and lessons learned, while 57% are drawn to realistic portrayals of daily life.

Another advantage? Snapchat isn't as crowded with brands and creators, making it easier to carve out your niche. It's especially suited for creators who can commit to frequent uploads and prefer a more personal, private connection with their audience. Plus, Snapchat's unique AR filters provide a creative boost, allowing creators to experiment with engaging visuals.

On the flip side, if you're looking for instant virality or a broader audience, TikTok might be more your speed.

When TikTok Creator Fund Works Best

TikTok's Creator Fund is perfect for those who want instant exposure on a global scale. With 1.9 billion monthly active users as of February 2025, TikTok offers unmatched visibility, even for newcomers. Its For You Page (FYP) algorithm focuses on how well your content performs rather than how many followers you have, meaning a single viral video can catapult you into the spotlight overnight. The platform thrives on content that resonates with audiences worldwide.

TikTok's ecosystem is built around trends - whether it's dances, sounds, or viral moments. As Casey Newton put it, TikTok is "as likely to make a star out of a dance or a snippet of audio as it is to make one out of a human being". Beyond the Creator Fund, TikTok provides diverse income opportunities, including brand deals, TikTok Shop, and virtual gifts - many of which can out-earn direct payouts from the platform.

TikTok is ideal for creators who excel at riding the wave of trends, can produce longer videos (60 seconds or more for higher earnings), and aim to build a public persona that attracts global partnerships. The platform's massive reach makes it the go-to choice for those prioritizing growth and visibility over close-knit audience connections.

How to Maximize Earnings on Each Platform

Earning More on Snapchat Spotlight

When it comes to Snapchat, consistency beats chasing viral moments. Take creator Josh Horton as an example. With 624,000 followers, he committed to uploading daily stories for 30 days. By the 31st day, his stories hit 1 million views, earning him at least $200 daily. This shows how sticking to a regular posting schedule can create a steady income stream.

Instead of aiming for unpredictable virality, focus on mid-roll ads in Stories. Many creators find this approach far more dependable. For instance, Cheyenne Davis, a reality TV star, earned $35,000 in one month by sharing authentic, everyday moments like cooking and spending time with her kids. She explained:

"That's what divides Snapchat from all other platforms… I made $35K on Snap last month, and I was just cooking in my kitchen and hanging out with my kids" - Cheyenne Davis

To maintain a consistent posting schedule without burning out, use tools like Snapchat's AR lenses, filters, and the Quick Cut AI editor. Snapchat also has less competition compared to platforms like TikTok, making it easier to carve out your niche [14,15].

Earning More on TikTok Creator Fund

Maximizing earnings on TikTok starts with creating videos tailored to its Creativity Program. Videos need to be at least one minute long to qualify for the highest reward tier. Aim for content between 1–3 minutes, and make sure to grab viewers' attention within the first 1.5 seconds to boost completion rates.

Beyond the Creator Fund, brand deals can significantly increase revenue - often by two to five times for mid-size creators. Combine this with TikTok Shop, LIVE gifts (where top streamers can earn between $5,000 and $50,000 monthly), and sponsored content to diversify your income sources. Features like Duets and Stitches, along with engaging with comments in the first hour after posting, can further amplify your reach [4,15].

Using Content on Both Platforms

Once you've optimized your earnings on Snapchat and TikTok individually, repurposing content can take your revenue to the next level. Make sure videos are at least 61 seconds long to meet TikTok's program requirements while staying eligible for Snapchat [4,5]. However, avoid reposting watermarked videos, as TikTok excludes these from monetization.

Instead, adjust your content strategy for each platform. Use TikTok for trend-driven, attention-grabbing videos, and guide followers to Snapchat, where they can engage with more personal, daily vlog-style content that generates steady ad revenue [1,25]. Always upload original, high-quality files to each platform, and use Snapchat's AR tools to give repurposed videos a native feel [14,15]. If you're also publishing to Instagram, check the Instagram Reels and IGTV specs to make sure your files meet each format's requirements. This approach saves time while leveraging the unique strengths of both platforms - TikTok for building a broad audience and Snapchat for fostering closer, more personal connections.

Which Platform Should You Choose?

The choice between TikTok and Snapchat depends on whether you're aiming for explosive audience growth or a steady, reliable income stream.

TikTok's algorithm-driven "For You Page" is a game-changer for creators starting from scratch. It focuses on content quality over follower numbers, making it easier to go viral. Through its Creativity Program, TikTok offers payouts ranging from $0.50 to $1.00 per 1,000 views.

Snapchat, on the other hand, rewards creators who consistently post daily stories. This platform emphasizes building intimate connections, and its payout system reflects that focus. In 2025, Snapchat allocated $500 million to creators, with individual earnings typically falling between $500 and $10,000 per post.

Consider TikTok if you:

• Are okay with income that fluctuates based on algorithm performance.
• Enjoy creating polished, attention-grabbing videos that tap into trending sounds and viral moments.
• Want to reach a massive audience of 1.9 billion monthly active users.

Consider Snapchat if you:

• Prefer a vlog-style approach, featuring authentic, daily content.
• Want to build deeper, more personal connections with a loyal audience.
• Prioritize stable daily earnings over viral spikes.
• Target Snapchat's 946 million users, primarily aged 13–24, who appreciate raw, unfiltered content.

"That's what divides Snapchat from all other platforms… I made $35K on Snap last month, and I was just cooking in my kitchen." - Cheyenne Davis

For creators looking to maximize their potential, using both platforms strategically can be the best approach. TikTok is ideal for gaining rapid exposure and building brand awareness, while Snapchat helps transform that audience into a loyal, engaged community that generates consistent income.

FAQs

Why do Snapchat and TikTok report such different earnings for 1M views?

Snapchat and TikTok approach monetization differently, which impacts how much creators earn for 1 million views. TikTok typically pays $0.40 to $1.00 per 1,000 views, thanks to a mix of ad revenue, brand partnerships, and in-app gifting. On the other hand, Snapchat Spotlight offers a lower range of $0.10 to $0.30 per 1,000 views, but it shines when it comes to rewarding viral hits. Creators on Snapchat can earn anywhere from $500 to $10,000 per post, depending on the content's performance. Factors like audience demographics and engagement levels also play a key role in these earnings differences.

What counts as a "qualified view" on TikTok Creator Rewards?

A "qualified view" on TikTok refers to a legitimate video view originating from the For You feed. It excludes certain types of views, such as:

• Fraudulent or artificially generated views
• Paid views
• Views that were disliked
• Views lasting under 5 seconds
• Promoted views

In short, only organic views that meet these standards count as qualified.

Can I repost the same video on both platforms and still monetize it?

Yes, you can share the same video on Snapchat Spotlight and TikTok, but keep in mind that their monetization rules are different. Snapchat Spotlight provides payouts for posts, though these payments might decrease over time or have a limit per creator. On the other hand, TikTok's Creator Fund compensates based on factors like views and engagement. Be sure to check the terms for each platform to stay compliant and make the most of your earnings when reposting content.