Did you know that there are over 4.9 billion social media users worldwide?

That is more than half the planet scrolling, liking, sharing, and creating content daily.

But there's a catch.

Not all social media sites are the same; some are awesome for businesses, some for content creators, some are for social media marketing, and some are just meant for having fun.

And if you’re still thinking that social media is just about Facebook or Instagram, you’re way behind. Social media in 2025 is so much more—video-first platforms, AR spaces, and even audio-only chats are taking over.

So, what’s the deal? Let’s break it down. Here are 14 types of social media platforms that everyone needs to know about in 2025.

1. Social Media Platforms

Facebook, LinkedIn, and X, formerly known as Twitter

The OGs of social media are those you already know.

So, what's so special about them? They connect people professionally, for example, in the case of LinkedIn; in X for news updates; and for Facebook, for groups by shared interests.

Do you know? As of 2025, even though these sites remain to change with the winds, LinkedIn supports creators, while X is now discovering more interactive ways.

2. Photo-Sharing Apps

You have Instagram and Pinterest as the leaders of this pack.

What makes them so addictive? It’s all about visual storytelling.

Instagram is your go-to for posting photos, Reels, and Stories. Pinterest is ideal for creating mood boards, finding ideas, or even shopping directly.

Pro tip: Use Pinterest to find recipes, DIY projects, or plan a dream vacation.

3. Video-Sharing Sites

This is where YouTube and TikTok shine.

Everyone loves video, don't they? And these platforms know it.

YouTube is best for long tutorials or reviews, whereas TikTok focuses on short, fun, and creative content.

Did you know? The average person spends 95 minutes a day watching short videos.

4. Microblogging Platforms

Platforms like Threads and Mastodon are where people share bite-sized updates.

Here’s the fun part: These are all about real-time thoughts.

Want an example? If there’s a major event happening, you’ll find discussions popping off here first.

5. Messaging Apps

WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger are not just for chit-chat with friends.

Nowadays, businesses employ them to reply to customer inquiries, send updates on orders, and offer promotions.

Imagine buying something online. The store would send you the tracking updates straight on WhatsApp. Yeah, convenient.

6. Live Streaming Platforms

Twitch and YouTube Live provide interaction with an audience in real time.

What can you stream? Well, everything: gaming, Q&A, product launch—you name it!

Pro tip: If you are a creator, live streaming can help you build a loyal fanbase.

7. Discussion Forums

Reddit and Quora are the kings of niche communities.

Here’s how it works: Reddit lets you join subreddits about anything from memes to gardening. Quora is the place to ask questions and get expert answers.

It’s like chatting with the internet’s smartest people.

8. Interest-Based Communities

Platforms like Goodreads (for book lovers) or Strava (for fitness enthusiasts) are where hobbies come alive.

What’s cool? You don’t just share; you also learn from others.

Like reading? Goodreads lets you track books, rate them, and see what your friends are reading.

9. E-Commerce Social Platforms

Instagram Shopping and Pinterest allow you to shop right from them.

Think of this: You see a cute dress on Instagram, tap on it, and in seconds you buy it.

It's social shopping.

10. Social Audio Platforms

Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces talk rather than type

What’s the vibe? Casual conversations, live interviews, or even debates—all happening in real time.

11. AR and VR Platforms

Snapchat filters? They were just the beginning.

In 2025, platforms like Horizon Worlds are creating full virtual spaces where you can hang out, work, or even attend events.

12. Ephemeral Content Platforms

Snapchat and Instagram Stories focus on content that disappears after 24 hours.

Why does it work? People love the “here today, gone tomorrow” feel.

Want to stay casual? Use Stories to share quick updates or behind-the-scenes moments.

13. Collaboration platforms

Slack and Notion are for teams who want to work smarter, not harder.

Slack is best for real-time chats with your team, whether marketing agency or software agency, whereas Notion organizes all of your projects, ideas, and tasks in one place.

14. New Age Platforms in 2025

The future of social media is based on AI-driven platforms and Web3 technology.

AI platforms will predict what content you love, while Web3 platforms focus on decentralization and user privacy.

Wrapping It All Up: Your Social Media Toolbox

So there you have it—14 types of social media, each with something unique to offer.

But which of them will you use in 2025?

Want to grow your business? Try LinkedIn or Instagram Shopping. Need some entertainment? Nothing beats TikTok and YouTube.

Whatever your goal, there's a platform ready to help.

Social media isn’t just about scrolling—it's about connecting, creating, and growing. Explore the 14 must-know platforms of 2025!