A TikTok username is one of the most important parts of a TikTok account. Changing your TikTok username allows you to make your account more memorable and potentially reach a wider audience.
A strong and engaging username means your target audience will remember your account and easily access your profile on the platform. On the other hand, a weak or forgettable username can make your profile difficult to find in the massive 1.04 billion user base of TikTok.
So, if you want to make a switch and change your TikTok username and display name (also called nickname), you are in the right place!
In this detailed guide, we will discuss how you can change your name on TikTok and what are some limitations of such change on the platform.
Can you change your TikTok username and display name?
Before we dive into the process of changing the TikTok username, it is important to understand a few important points:
- You can only change your TikTok username once every 30 days. So, you must be careful while choosing it.
- Your TikTok username is different from your TikTok display name.
- A TikTok username is your unique identifier that starts with “@” and appears in the profile URL.
- A TikTok nickname or display name is the name shown at the top of your profile. Unlike the username, it can include spaces and special characters. You can change your TikTok nickname once every 7 days.
Step-by-step guide to change your TikTok username via app
Changing your TikTok username is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the TikTok App
Launch the TikTok app on your smartphone. Ensure you’re logged into the account where you want to change the username.
Tap the Profile icon located in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
Step 2: Access your profile settings
On your profile page, tap the Edit Profile button located below your profile picture and bio.
Step 3: Edit the username and display name
Under the “Edit Profile” section, you’ll see multiple options to edit your TikTok profile, including:
- Name: This is the display name or nickname of your TikTok profile visible to other users.
- Username: This is the TikTok name that contains the tag and is displayed on your profile, along with being a part of the profile link.
- Bio: You can add or edit the short bio of your profile.
- Links: Include relevant links to display on your TikTok profile, typically for marketing purposes.
If you want to change your username, tap on our current username and choose a new suitable username.
Keep in mind that your TikTok username can contain only letters, numbers, periods, and underscores with a limit of 24 characters. Moreover, you can only change your username once every 30 days, so you must be very careful during this process.
Once you have changed your username, tap the Save option to make the changes.
The process of changing your TikTok name is also quite similar. You have to tap on your current name and then write a new one. Unlike with the TikTok username, you can get creative in choosing a nickname by adding special characters. Moreover, your TikTok name can be up to 30 characters.
Hence by following these quick and simple steps, you can easily change your TikTok username and nickname as per your liking.
How to change your TikTok username via website on desktop?
The process of changing your TikTok username or name through the website on a desktop is similar to the TikTok smartphone apps. You need to follow these 4 simple steps:
Step 1: Open TikTok and login to your account
First of all, open the TikTok website in your web browser. Make sure you are logged in to the right account where you want to change the username or nickname.
Step 2: Open your profile
Click on the profile button in the left bar to access your TikTok profile posts and edit settings.
Step 3: Edit your TikTok profile
Under the TikTok profile, you will find the option to Edit profile located below your current TikTok name. Click on it to access the editing options.
Step 4: Edit your TikTok username or display name
TikTok provides multiple editing options through which you can modify your username, display name (nickname), and bio description. Enter your new username and/or name in the relevant fields and click on the Save button to successfully save the changes.
Key things to consider while changing TikTok username
Some of the most important things you need to remember about changing your TikTok username are:
1. 30-day limitations: TikTok only allows you to change your username once every 30 days. Make sure you’re happy with your choice before hitting that save button.
2. Consistency across platforms: If you have an active profile on other social media platforms, you should consider using a username that is consistent with other profiles. It will make it easier for your target audience to find your profile.
3. Impact on your TikTok URL: Your username is part of your TikTok profile link (e.g., www.tiktok.com/@username). Changing your username will update this link, so you need to inform your followers if you’ve shared your profile via the old URL.
4. Consider your brand: Choose a username that reflects your brand or content style. It should be memorable, relevant, and easy to spell.
Related: Unlocking the power of brand identity
5. Avoid copyright issues: When you are choosing a new username for your TikTok profile, you need to make sure it does not infringe on trademarks or copyrights to avoid legal complications.
Bonus tips: How to choose the right TikTok username?
Your TikTok username is typically the very first thing that other users notice about your profile. Hence, the username is your digital identity that can significantly impact the success and engagement you get on TikTok.
So, let’s explore detailed strategies for selecting a username that will help you stand out and grow your presence.
Choose a simple and memorable username
Simplicity is key when choosing your TikTok username. A clean, straightforward username makes finding, remembering, and sharing your profile easier for others.
You should avoid complicated combinations of numbers and symbols unless absolutely necessary. For instance, “dancingrose” is more effective than “dancing_rose_123.”
Embrace your brand identity
Your username should reflect your content style and niche. For creators focusing on technical content, consider usernames that convey this aesthetic naturally.
One effective way to choose the right username as per your niche is to explore successful TikTok accounts in your niche for inspiration. While you might be inspired by the engaging usernames of your competitors, you need to ensure your choice remains unique.
For example, if you create technical tutorials, usernames like “TechGuide” or “DigitalHacks” immediately signal your content focus.
Include keywords
While keeping your username clean, consider incorporating relevant keywords that could help in discovery. A cooking channel might benefit from including terms like “chef” or “kitchen” in their username, but do so naturally – “homechefanna” works better than “cookingfood123chef.”
Related: TikTok SEO: How to rank high on TikTok?
Cross-platform availability
Before finalizing your TikTok username, check its availability across other social platforms. Having consistent usernames across Instagram, Twitter, and other networks creates a cohesive personal brand and makes it easier for followers to find you everywhere.
Use ContentStudio’s TikTok username generator
Finding the perfect username can be challenging, which is why many creators turn to specialized tools for inspiration.
ContentStudio’s free TikTok Username Generator stands out as a particularly useful resource. This tool combines AI-powered suggestions with customization options to generate unique username ideas based on your niche and target audience.
Most importantly, you can use the TikTok username generator for free to spark creativity when you’re feeling stuck or provide variations of usernames you’re considering.
Remember that TikTok limits username changes to once every 30 days, so take your time with this decision.
Ultimately, the right username acts as a foundation for your TikTok success, combining discoverability with brand identity.
Conclusion
Changing your TikTok username or nickname is a simple process that can make a big difference in how you’re perceived on the platform. By following the easy steps discussed in this article, you can update your username to better reflect your identity, brand, or content niche.
If you’re unsure about what username to choose, don’t worry—getting creative has never been easier! Use ContentStudio’s free TikTok username generator to discover unique, catchy, and relevant username ideas tailored to your style.
Remember, your TikTok username and display name are much more than just a name— they are your digital signature.
So take the plunge, update your profile, and let your creativity shine on TikTok!
FAQs
Can I change my TikTok username?
Yes, you can change your TikTok username! TikTok allows users to update their usernames directly from the app or website. However, you can only change it once every 30 days, so make sure you’re satisfied with your choice before saving it.
What are the rules for TikTok usernames?
TikTok usernames must follow these guidelines:
- Usernames can only contain letters, numbers, underscores (_), and periods (.).
- Usernames cannot end with a period or contain consecutive periods.
- Your username must be unique and not already taken by another TikTok user.
- The username must adhere to TikTok’s Community Guidelines, avoiding offensive or inappropriate language.
- Your TikTok username can be of a maximum of 24 characters.
How can I change my TikTok name without waiting 30 days?
TikTok doesn’t officially allow users to bypass the 30-day restriction for changing usernames. If you urgently need a new username, you can:
- Contact TikTok Support through the app and explain your situation. While there’s no guarantee, they may assist in exceptional cases.
- If you’ve just created the account and made an error, consider starting a new account with the desired username.
What is a good TikTok username?
A good TikTok username is:
- Short and Simple: Easy to remember and spell.
- Relevant: Reflects your content niche or personal brand.
- Unique: Stands out and avoids confusion with other creators.
- Consistent: Matches your usernames on other social platforms if possible.
- Creative: Uses clever wordplay, alliteration, or niche-specific terms.
If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, use ContentStudio’s free TikTok username generator to find unique and catchy options that fulfill your interests and style!