For years, Instagram likes were the loudest voice in the room. The bigger the number under that little red heart, the more attention the post received. But Instagram isn’t what it used to be. The platform now prioritizes fewer quick taps and more nuanced signals. Still, many creators wonder which metric really matters most. This article examines which engagement metrics are most important today.
What do the Metrics Say?
Each engagement signal is unique for a certain audience interest. Understanding how each engagement metric functions and maintaining consistency can significantly improve content performance.
The Evolution of Instagram Likes
Likes were everything when Instagram first blew up. A double-tap served as a simple approval signal that strongly influenced a post’s reach. But today, Meta wants people to actually connect with content. That’s why saves, shares, and thoughtful comments now carry more weight.
For example, a reel with hundreds of meaningful comments may outperform another with thousands of likes but little additional engagement.
Saves: The New Value Metric
Saves are now one of the strongest signals on Instagram. A save indicates that the content is valuable enough for users to revisit later. What someone might need again is definitely something valuable that they don’t want to forget.
For the algorithm, that’s gold. Later.com’s 2024 study showed that saves have the highest correlation with Explore Page ranking because they indicate content is evergreen and worth returning to.
Shares: The Virality Factor
If saves are personal, shares are public. They function as a form of digital word-of-mouth. It’s one way your content reaches the people who aren’t even following you. Meme accounts illustrate this well, as their growth often relies heavily on shares. A single viral meme is often reposted across hundreds of stories, snowballing into massive organic growth.
Comments: The Community Builder
Comments show algorithms that your content is something people don’t just see, but talk about. Influencers who actively encourage discussion often see improved reach and engagement.
Anyone posting a recipe can get likes, but people will talk and interact if the creator asks for the additional ingredients the audience would like to add.
What Should You Focus More On in 2025?
So, the honest answer is that all of them are important. Likes will never be irrelevant as they are still the entry point. They give quick validation and attract casual scrollers. But it’s other metrics that ensure fast growth. A food blogger might get only 500 likes on a recipe, but if it earns 2,000 saves and hundreds of shares, it can still go viral and land a brand partnership.
Conclusion
Instagram likes remain valuable but are no longer the sole determinant of success. The overarching objective is to create content that provides genuine value and encourages sustained audience interaction. The results manifest in the form of discussions, shares, and long-term engagement.
