TikTok Creators Are Jumping Ship to RedNote — But Can You Make Money There?
As the U.S. government considers a potential TikTok ban, social media creators are actively exploring alternatives. While platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels have been popular options, a surprising contender has entered the scene: Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote.
This Chinese app is drawing a significant number of TikTok creators—dubbed “TikTok refugees”—eager to establish themselves in a new space. But what exactly is RedNote, and can content creators make a living there? Let’s dive into what makes RedNote unique, its monetization potential, and whether it’s the next big thing in social media.
What Is RedNote?
Often described as a hybrid of Pinterest and Instagram, RedNote combines visual inspiration with community interaction. With around 300 million monthly active users, RedNote is a dominant platform in China, particularly for influencer-driven content and social commerce.
While it does have a video-scrolling feature akin to TikTok, its overall structure is geared more towards curated content and shopping. This makes it a unique platform for creators and brands to collaborate, especially in the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle sectors.
Can You Make Money on RedNote?
Currently, RedNote does not offer direct monetization options like TikTok’s Creator Fund or YouTube’s AdSense. Content creators are not paid based on views, followers, or engagement on the platform itself. TikTok creator Ryan (@rysenseii) recently addressed this, explaining that his partner clarified RedNote’s policies: “No matter how many views or followers you have, you don’t get paid.”
However, this doesn’t mean creators can’t earn money. Opportunities exist through brand partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations. With RedNote’s strong focus on influencer marketing, brands frequently reach out to creators whose content aligns with their values and audience.
A 2023 report by PJDaren highlighted that 59% of brands in China cited RedNote as the most effective platform for influencer-driven campaigns. Additionally, the app ranked as the top platform for social commerce success, further solidifying its position as a key space for brand-building.
How Does RedNote Compare to TikTok?
Although many creators are bringing their TikTok followers to RedNote, the app isn’t a direct replacement. According to Ryan, RedNote is more like a blend of Pinterest and Instagram, offering an experience that prioritizes aesthetics, discoverability, and curated shopping over short-form entertainment.
“I don’t think [RedNote] is the next TikTok,” Ryan told his followers. “[RedNote’s] template is very ‘Pinterest plus IG’ combined… there’s a section where you can scroll videos like TikTok, but the overall format is Pinterest plus Instagram (but better).”
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What Makes RedNote Attractive to Creators and Brands?
RedNote’s appeal lies in its community-focused environment and shopping integration, making it a hub for brands targeting a highly engaged audience. With over 140,000 brands active on the platform, creators have numerous opportunities to collaborate on influencer campaigns.
In addition, RedNote’s strength in social commerce—the seamless integration of shopping within social media content—gives creators another avenue to monetize their influence. By sharing product recommendations or creating shoppable content, creators can potentially earn commissions or fees through partnerships.
Challenges for Creators on RedNote
While RedNote has strong brand engagement, creators face challenges transitioning to a platform without built-in monetization. Many TikTok creators rely on ad revenue or creator funds to sustain their income, which is not currently possible on RedNote. Additionally, the app’s primary audience is based in China, making it essential for international creators to adapt to cultural nuances and language barriers.
The Future of RedNote for Creators
As more creators explore RedNote, it remains to be seen if the platform will introduce direct monetization features. For now, it serves as a valuable tool for building a brand presence, fostering engagement, and collaborating with companies. Its hybrid format, blending discovery and commerce, positions it as a unique player in the social media ecosystem.
For creators willing to navigate its challenges, RedNote offers a growing audience, potential brand deals, and the chance to tap into one of the world’s largest social commerce platforms. Whether it becomes the next TikTok or carves out its own distinct identity will depend on how creators and brands continue to engage with it.
Final Thoughts
RedNote may not be the TikTok replacement everyone is looking for, but it’s proving to be a major player for creators interested in social commerce and influencer marketing. With its growing user base, emphasis on visual content, and strong brand partnerships, it offers unique opportunities for those willing to experiment with a new kind of platform.
For creators, the message is clear: RedNote won’t pay you directly—but it can open the door to other revenue streams. As the landscape evolves, staying ahead of trends like this could be the key to maintaining relevance and financial success in a shifting social media world.