Threads Hashtag Strategy: Do Hashtags Work on Threads?

Hashtags are standard on most social platforms, but their role on Threads is different. Here's what you need to know about hashtag strategy for Threads.

Do Hashtags Work on Threads?

The short answer: somewhat, but differently than other platforms.

Unlike Instagram or Twitter where hashtags are central to discovery, Threads relies more heavily on algorithmic content distribution. Hashtags exist but play a smaller role.

How Threads Hashtags Function

Topic Tags

Threads uses hashtags as topic labels that:

• Allow users to explore content around subjects
• Help the algorithm understand content context
• Enable following of specific topics

Discovery Impact

Hashtags can help with discovery, but:

• The algorithm is the primary discovery driver
• Quality content without hashtags can still go viral
• Hashtag pages have less traffic than algorithmic feeds

When to Use Hashtags

Good Use Cases

Topic Association: If your post fits a clearly defined topic with active discussion, a relevant hashtag can connect you to that conversation.

Trending Topics: When a hashtag is actively trending and you have something genuine to contribute.

Niche Communities: Specific niches may have active hashtag communities worth tapping into.

Branded Content: For campaigns or content series, branded hashtags create cohesion.

When to Skip Hashtags

Generic Tags: #inspiration #motivation #growth - too broad to provide value.

Excessive Tags: Multiple hashtags can look spammy and distract from your content.

Forced Tags: If you're adding hashtags just to have them, skip them.

Best Practices for Threads Hashtags

1. Be Selective

One or two relevant hashtags maximum. Quality over quantity.

2. Make Them Relevant

The hashtag should genuinely describe your content's topic.

3. Check Activity

Before using a hashtag, see if it has active recent posts. Dead hashtags don't help.

4. Integrate Naturally

Work hashtags into your content rather than dumping them at the end:

Awkward: "Here's my take on content creation. #content #contentcreation #socialmedia #threads"

Natural: "The biggest mistake in #ContentCreation? Prioritizing virality over value."

5. Test and Track

Experiment with posts with and without hashtags. Compare performance to see if they're helping your reach.

What Works Better Than Hashtags

Quality Content

The algorithm rewards engaging content regardless of hashtags. Focus energy here first.

Engagement

Responding to comments, engaging with others, and being active has more impact than hashtag optimization.

Consistency

Regular posting builds audience more reliably than hashtag tactics.

Keywords

Natural use of relevant keywords in your post helps algorithmic understanding without hashtag formatting.

The Threads vs. Instagram Difference

If you're coming from Instagram, adjust your expectations:

On Instagram:

• Hashtags are major discovery driver
• Using 5-15 hashtags is common
• Hashtag research is important
• Hashtag placement affects reach

On Threads:

• Algorithm drives discovery
• 0-2 hashtags is typical
• Content quality matters more
• Hashtags are supplementary

Hashtag Experimentation

Try this test:

1. Create 10 similar-quality posts
2. Use relevant hashtags on 5
3. Skip hashtags on 5
4. Compare performance

This gives you platform-specific data on whether hashtags help your content.

The Evolving Platform

Threads is still young and evolving. Hashtag functionality may change:

• New features could make hashtags more valuable
• Discovery improvements might shift importance
• Algorithm updates could change the equation

Stay flexible and adjust your strategy as the platform matures.

Bottom Line

Don't stress about hashtags on Threads. They're a minor tool, not a major growth lever. Focus your energy on:

1. Creating valuable content
2. Engaging with your community
3. Posting consistently
4. Building genuine connections

If a relevant hashtag fits naturally, use it. Otherwise, your time is better spent elsewhere.