Threads vs. X (Twitter): Who’s Winning the Social Media Race in 2025?

Author: Najeeb ul Haq Ustad
Date: July 4, 2025.

Introduction

The future of digital discourse is at stake in the struggle for microblogging supremacy, which is no longer solely about Twitter (now rebranded as “X”). The platform has expanded quickly since Meta’s July 2023 launch of Threads, establishing itself as a formidable opponent to Elon Musk’s X. But who is actually in the lead in 2025?

In order to address the key question of whether Threads is the new king or if X is still in the lead, this blog delves deeply into platform features, user growth, engagement metrics, monetization tactics, and public perception.

Growth and User Base

Threads:

As of June 2025, there were more than 250 million monthly active users (MAUs).

prominent among Millennials and Gen Z.

Meta app adoption is at its highest level since Instagram.

X (Twitterew):

330 million MAUs, although growth in some important areas is sluggish or declining.

still well-liked by politicians, journalists, and the cryptocurrency community.

Due to concerns about free speech and privacy, some users are switching to other platforms.

Findings:

Even though X still has a larger user base, Threads is quickly catching up, particularly with younger users.

Experience with Content and the Community

Threads:

centered on community-first conversations and constructive engagement.

Instagram integration is smooth, making it simple to share content on both platforms.

No public metrics (likes, shares) or trending hashtags to ease comparison anxiety.

X (Twitter):

focuses on current events, public discussions, and viral moments.

Content can easily trend due to an open algorithm, but it can also turn toxic.

more contentious and political discourse.

Findings:

X is raw, real-time, and chaotic, whereas Threads is more controlled and serene. Personality and purpose determine the user’s choice.

3. Monetization & Creator Support

Threads: Through partnerships and branded content tools, Meta has begun to monetize Threads.

Direct creator monetization is still in the beta stage.

X (Twitter): Provides subscriptions, tips for verified users, and ad revenue sharing. The verification paywall restricts access, but creators can make money directly.

Findings:

By the end of 2025, Threads should overtake X in terms of earning tools.

4. Algorithm & Visibility

Threads: A less noisy, interest-based algorithm that is controlled.

puts content from friends and followers ahead of virality.

Minimal push notifications, a clean feed, and no trending tabs.

X (Twitter): The algorithm placed a strong emphasis on virality and engagement.

Hashtags and popular subjects are important for discovery.

The rapid virality of controversial tweets is both a benefit and a drawback.

Findings: While X provides the excitement of what’s trending, Threads offers a more tranquil scroll.

5. Privacy & Policies

Threads: Although Meta has encountered privacy issues, Threads enjoys the advantages of a more regulated content environment.

fewer bots and better moderation than X.

X (Twitter): Blasted for lowering trust, increasing bot activity, and rolling back content moderation.

Elon Musk has alienated a lot of users with his contentious policy choices.

Findings: Threads prevails in terms of content moderation and safety.

6. Public Sentiment & Brand Trust

Threads is regarded as a novel, drama-free environment that appeals particularly to brands and casual users.

Although X continues to be the center of global real-time discourse, its credibility has suffered.

While X continues to dominate live events, politics, and breaking news, Threads, the underdog with momentum, offers a more serene and brand-safe platform in 2025.

Final Thoughts

The true story is how both platforms are establishing unique identities within the social media ecosystem, not which platform is the winner. Threads has the potential to become the preferred app for online communities if it maintains its consistency and adds search and monetization features. X may be able to keep its crown if it can restore confidence and control chaos.

Users currently have the option to select both, based on their mission, message, and mood.