TikTok is more than just short, fun videos—it’s a powerful platform that’s changing the way people connect and earn online. One of its lesser-known but increasingly popular features is the TikTok coins system. Whether you’re a casual viewer or an aspiring content creator, understanding how TikTok coins work can help you get the most out of your experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down what TikTok coins are, how they work, how to use them, and whether they’re really worth your money.
What Are TikTok Coins?
TikTok coins are a form of virtual currency used within the TikTok app. You can purchase them using real money and then use the coins to buy virtual gifts for creators during their live streams. These gifts are a way to show support and appreciation.
A Quick History of TikTok Coins
TikTok introduced the coin system in 2019 as part of its broader monetization features. Alongside coins, TikTok also launched the “Live Gifts” feature, allowing users to tip creators in real-time.
Since then, coins have become a key part of TikTok’s in-app economy—right next to other monetization options like the Creator Fund, TikTok Shop, and brand partnerships.
Where Do Coins Fit In?
Coins sit at the heart of the TikTok Live experience. Viewers buy coins, use them to send gifts, and creators earn diamonds—another virtual currency that can be converted into real cash. It’s a win-win cycle for both creators and supporters.
How Do TikTok Coins Work?
TikTok coins function as a two-step conversion system.
Buying Coins with Real Money
You can buy coins directly within the TikTok app. Here’s a quick look at some of the common TikTok coin packages:
| Coin Package | Cost (USD) | Approx. Price per Coin |
|---|---|---|
| 70 coins | $0.99 | $0.014 |
| 350 coins | $4.99 | $0.014 |
| 700 coins | $9.99 | $0.014 |
| 1400 coins | $19.99 | $0.014 |
| 3500 coins | $49.99 | $0.014 |
| 7000 coins | $99.99 | $0.014 |
Note: Prices may vary slightly by region or due to taxes.
Gifting Coins to Creators
Once you have coins, you can send virtual gifts—like roses, pandas, or even a drama queen—during a creator’s live stream. These gifts convert into diamonds for the creator.
From Coins to Cash (Creator Side)
- 1 coin = 1 gift (depends on the item)
- Gifts → Diamonds (received by creators)
- Diamonds → Real money (paid out via PayPal or other methods)
- TikTok takes a cut (up to 50%) during this process
When Can People Send TikTok Coins?
People can send TikTok coins during specific times and situations on the app primarily when a creator is live streaming. You must have a TikTok balance with coins available to send gifts. Coins cannot be earned by viewers they must be purchased through TikTok.
How to Buy TikTok Coins
Buying coins is simple and only takes a minute.
On Mobile:
- Open TikTok and go to your profile
- Tap the three-line menu in the top-right
- Select “Balance”
- Tap “Recharge”
- Choose a coin package
- Complete the payment with your app store account (Google Play or Apple Pay)
On Desktop:
- Visit TikTok.com
- Log in to your account
- Click your profile icon > Settings
- Navigate to “Balance”
- Choose and purchase a coin package
You can pay with credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, or Google Pay depending on your region.
What Can You Use TikTok Coins For?
You can’t use TikTok coins to buy real-world products, but they do have meaningful in-app uses:
- Send Gifts During Live Streams: Show appreciation or get shoutouts from your favorite creators.
- Boost Engagement: Support content you love and help creators gain visibility.
- Support Creators: Your coins help creators earn money, especially those who go live regularly.
Are TikTok Coins Worth It?
It depends on what you want from your TikTok experience. If you see value in supporting creators and engaging live, TikTok coins can enhance your experience. Just be sure to set a budget and only buy what you’re comfortable spending.
✅ Pros
- Support your favorite creators directly
- Engage during live streams with custom emojis, pinned comments, or gifts
- Join a creator’s community and possibly gain attention or recognition
❌ Cons
- Non-refundable: Once you buy coins or send gifts, there’s no going back
- Conversion losses: TikTok takes a cut, so creators don’t get the full value
- Temptation to overspend, especially for younger users
So, are TikTok coins worth it? If you enjoy watching live streams and want to support creators, yes. But if you’re only here to watch passively, they might not be necessary.
How Creators Benefit from TikTok Coins
For creators, coins are more than just digital tokens—they’re income.
Earning Diamonds
When fans send gifts, creators receive diamonds. TikTok lets creators cash out their diamonds once they hit a $100 minimum payout threshold.
Payout Rates
- TikTok generally pays $0.005 per diamond
- That means 100 diamonds = $0.50 (before TikTok’s commission)
Creator Tips
- Host consistent live streams
- Encourage viewers to send small gifts regularly
- Use call-to-actions like “Tap that rose if you’re enjoying this!”
TikTok Coins vs. Other Platforms
Let’s compare TikTok coins with similar systems:
| Platform | Currency Name | Exchange Rate (Approx.) | Creator Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| TikTok | Coins → Diamonds | 1 Diamond ≈ $0.005 | ~50% of gift |
| Twitch | Bits | 100 Bits = $1.40 (viewer) | $1 (creator) |
| YouTube | Super Chats | $1 = $1 (viewer) | ~70% (creator) |
| Gifts | Variable | Up to 55% |
👉 Learn more: How to Make Money on TikTok
Are There Any Risks or Concerns?
Yes—while coins can be fun and helpful, there are a few things to watch out for:
- In-app Purchases: Kids may make unauthorized purchases
- Scams: Beware of third-party sites offering “free TikTok coins”
- Over-spending: Easy to lose track of how much you’re spending
- No Refunds: TikTok’s coin purchases are final
Always use the official TikTok app and avoid sharing your login details with others.
Tips for Using TikTok Coins Responsibly
- Set a Budget: Treat coins like entertainment spending
- Support Creators You Enjoy: Don’t feel pressure to tip everyone
- Avoid Third-party Sites: Only buy coins through TikTok
- Monitor Teen Accounts: Use parental controls or guide them on safe usage
TikTok Coins Make Videos More Entertaining
One of the most exciting aspects of TikTok coins is how they turn passive video watching into an interactive experience. Viewers aren’t just scrolling anymore—they’re sending gifts, earning shoutouts, and influencing the content in real time.
Final Verdict: Should You Use TikTok Coins?
TikTok coins are a fun, easy way to support creators and engage with live content. If you regularly watch live streams and enjoy being part of the community, coins can make the experience more interactive.
But if you’re on a budget or only watch TikTok passively, you might not find much value in them.
🔔 Final Tip: Start with a small coin package and test the experience before spending more.
FAQs About TikTok Coins
Are TikTok coins refundable?
No. All coin purchases are final and non-refundable.
How much are 100 TikTok coins worth?
100 coins cost about $1.39 USD depending on your region and taxes.
Can I earn coins without paying?
Not directly. Only viewers buy coins. Creators can earn diamonds through gifts.
Do coins expire?
Coins do not expire, but it’s best to use them regularly as TikTok policies can change.
What’s the difference between diamonds and coins?
- Coins: Bought by viewers to send gifts
- Diamonds: Earned by creators from gifts and can be cashed out
Conclusion
TikTok coins add another layer of fun and interaction to the platform. Whether you’re tipping creators or looking to earn as one, understanding how the system works helps you make smarter decisions.
🎯 Use coins wisely, support creators you believe in, and always keep your spending in check.
Want more TikTok tips? Check out our guide on TikTok Creator Monetization Options!
Disclaimer
TikTok is a registered trademark of ByteDance. This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by TikTok or ByteDance.
