The best Instagram hashtags – how to choose and test

How to choose Instagram hashtags based on your topic, niche, and format, and measure their impact.

The best Instagram hashtags are those that precisely describe the topic of the post and help the viewer understand the context. There's no single list that works for every profile.

How to choose hashtags?

Combine broad, niche, and descriptive phrases, but choose only those that are relevant to your content. Check search engine suggestions and hashtags used by profiles in a similar niche. Avoid tags that promise rapid growth without relevance to the content.

Test sets

Publish a series of similar content and only change the hashtag set. In Insights, compare reach based on recommendations, profile visits, saves, and shares. Reach alone doesn't necessarily equate to a valuable audience.

Hashtags and Instagram SEO

Natural words in bio, caption, subtitles, and the content itself are equally important. Read Instagram SEO and the Instagram promotion pillar . Hashtags don't guarantee Explore or growth.

FAQ

How many hashtags should I use?

Choose as many as naturally describe the material. Relevance is more important than maximum number.

Is a popular hashtag the best?

Not always—it might be too broad. Tailor it to the audience and topic.