The fastest way to start using TikTok

TikTok is a video app you can use on your phone, tablet, or computer. The quickest way to start is to download the TikTok app from your device's app store, create an account with an email address or phone number, and begin watching videos within minutes. If you do not want to download an app, you can also watch TikTok in a web browser by going to tiktok.com, though some features work better in the app.

You do not need to create an account to watch videos — you can browse as a guest on the website or app. However, creating an account lets you follow creators, save videos, and post your own content.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the TikTok app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Microsoft Store, or visit tiktok.com in any web browser.
  • You can watch videos without an account, but you need one to follow creators, like videos, or upload your own content.
  • Creating an account takes less than five minutes using an email address, phone number, or existing social media account.
  • The TikTok app offers more features than the website, including better video recommendations and the ability to go live.

Downloading the TikTok app on iPhone or iPad

Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Tap the search icon at the bottom of the screen, then type "TikTok" in the search box. The official TikTok app will appear at the top of the results — it has a black icon with a white musical note. Tap "Get" next to the app name, then use Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password to confirm the download.

Once the app finishes downloading, the "Get" button changes to "Open." Tap it to launch TikTok. If you already have the app installed, you will see "Open" instead of "Get," and tapping it will start the app directly.

Downloading the TikTok app on Android phones and tablets

Open Google Play Store on your Android device. Tap the search icon at the bottom, then type "TikTok." The official TikTok app appears at the top of the results — look for the black icon with the white musical note. Tap "Install" to download the app.

Google Play will ask for permission to access certain features on your device, such as your camera and microphone. Tap "Install" again to confirm. Once the installation finishes, the button changes to "Open." Tap it to start TikTok for the first time.

Accessing TikTok on a computer or laptop

Open any web browser — Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox all work. Go to tiktok.com in the address bar. The TikTok homepage loads immediately, and you can start watching videos right away without downloading anything.

If you use Windows, you can also download the TikTok app from the Microsoft Store. Open the Microsoft Store, search for "TikTok," and click "Install." This gives you a desktop version of the app that works similarly to the phone version, though some features may differ slightly.

Creating a TikTok account

Tap or click the profile icon in the bottom right corner of the app or website. Select "Sign up" or "Create account." TikTok will ask you to choose how you want to register: with your phone number, email address, date of birth, or by connecting an existing account from Google, Facebook, Apple, or Twitter.

If you use your phone number or email, you will receive a verification code to confirm it is yours. Enter that code, then create a username and password. Your username is what other users see when they visit your profile — you can change it later in your account settings. Once you finish, your account is ready to use.

What you can do without creating an account

You can watch TikTok videos, search for creators, and explore different categories without signing in. On the app, you will see the "For You" page with recommended videos, and you can swipe through them indefinitely. On the website, the same videos appear when you visit tiktok.com.

However, without an account you cannot follow creators, like or comment on videos, save videos to a list, or upload your own content. You also will not see a personalized feed — TikTok shows the same general recommendations to all guests. Creating an account unlocks these features and gives you a feed tailored to your interests.

Troubleshooting common access problems

If the TikTok app will not download, check that you have enough storage space on your device and a stable internet connection. If the download keeps failing, try restarting your phone or tablet, then attempt the download again. You can also try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.

If you can access the app but cannot log in, make sure you are using the correct email address or phone number and password. If you forgot your password, tap "Forgot password?" on the login screen, enter your email or phone number, and TikTok will send you a reset link. If you still cannot log in after resetting your password, try clearing the app's cache: go to your device's Settings, find TikTok in the app list, and select "Clear Cache" or "Storage."

If tiktok.com loads slowly or does not work in your web browser, try a different browser or clear your browser's cache and cookies. You can also try accessing TikTok on a different device to determine whether the problem is with your device or your internet connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay to use TikTok?

No. Watching videos and creating an account are both free. TikTok offers optional paid features like sending virtual gifts to creators, but these are not required to use the app.

Can I use TikTok on my computer without downloading an app?

Yes. Visit tiktok.com in any web browser and you can watch videos immediately. The website version works on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. Some features like going live or uploading videos work better in the app, but basic browsing and watching work fine on the website.

What is the minimum age to use TikTok?

TikTok requires users to be at least 13 years old. When you create an account, you must enter your date of birth. If you enter a date that makes you younger than 13, TikTok will not let you proceed.

Can I use TikTok without giving it my phone number or email?

You can create an account using Google, Facebook, Apple, or Twitter instead of providing a phone number or email directly. This links your TikTok account to one of those existing accounts, and TikTok uses that connection to verify your identity.

Why does TikTok ask for permission to access my camera and microphone?

TikTok needs these permissions so you can record and upload videos. If you do not plan to create videos, you can deny these permissions and still watch other people's content. You can change these permissions later in your device's Settings.