What Makes Pinterest Different from Other Social Media Platforms?

When it comes to social media marketing, most people immediately think of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn(for B2B and service providers). But they often miss out on a goldmine for driving traffic, and generating leads—Pinterest.

What makes Pinterest different from other social platforms is that it isn’t just a place to post selfies and get entertain or “edutain”. It’s a powerful visual search engine where users have high intent of buying. They actively seek inspiration, products, and ideas.

So, what else makes Pinterest unique from the rest? Let’s break it down.

1. Pinterest Is a Search Engine, Not Just a Social Platform

Most social media platforms focus on real-time engagement, community-building, conversations, and interactions. Pinterest, on the other hand, operates more like Google than TikTok and Instagram.

• Users don’t just scroll aimlessly—they are actively searching for solutions, ideas, and products.

• Pinterest is focused on highly searched keywords and SEO to rank content.

• Pins is an evergreen platform, which is why pins have a longer shelf life compared to Instagram posts.

This search-driven nature means businesses can leverage Pinterest to drive evergreen traffic to their websites, blogs, and product pages.

2. Pinterest Content Has a Long Lifespan

On platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Facebook, content loses visibility within hours or days due to fast-moving feeds. But on Pinterest, your Pins can resurface and drive traffic months or even years after posting.

Why? Because Pinterest operates on an algorithm that prioritizes relevance over recency. A well-optimized Pin can continue showing up in search results long after it’s been published, making it an excellent long-term marketing tool.

3. Pinterest Users Are in Buying Mode

Pinterest isn’t just about inspiration; it’s a shopping powerhouse.

• 83% of weekly Pinners have made a purchase based on content they saw on Pinterest.

• 97% of searches on Pinterest are unbranded, meaning users are open to discovering new businesses.

• Pinterest has integrated shopping features like Product Pins and Buyable Pins to make the purchase journey seamless.

This makes Pinterest an ideal platform for eCommerce brands looking to drive sales.

4. Pinterest Prioritizes Visual Discovery

Unlike Twitter or Facebook, where text-based content dominates, Pinterest is entirely visual. It works like a digital mood board, where high-quality images, infographics, and videos attract attention.

• Vertical images (2:3 ratio) perform best on Pinterest.

• Infographics and step-by-step tutorials get high engagement.

• Pins with text overlays can improve click-through rates by making content more readable at a glance.

Because of its visual nature, brands that invest in high-quality graphics and design tend to see better results on Pinterest than on text-heavy platforms.

5. Pinterest SEO Is More Important Than Hashtags

Hashtags are essential for discoverability on Instagram and Twitter, but Pinterest relies on keyword optimization instead.

• Pinterest SEO involves using strategic keywords in Pin titles, descriptions, and board names.

• Rich Pins pull metadata from your website to enhance content relevance.

• Pinterest’s guided search helps users find related content based on keywords.

By understanding and leveraging Pinterest SEO, brands can rank higher in searches and get more visibility without relying on fleeting trends.

6. Pinterest Drives Organic Traffic Better Than Other Social Platforms

Want more website traffic? Pinterest is one of the best platforms for driving clicks.

• Every Pin includes a clickable link, unlike Instagram posts (which limit links to the bio or Stories for verified accounts).

• Pinterest is responsible for 33% more referral traffic to shopping sites than Facebook.

• Many bloggers and businesses use Pinterest to funnel traffic to their websites, increasing conversions and ad revenue.

This makes Pinterest an excellent platform for content marketers, bloggers, and eCommerce brands looking for consistent organic traffic.

7. Pinterest Audiences Are Highly Engaged

Pinterest users aren’t just passively consuming content—they’re actively planning purchases, projects, and experiences.

• 85% of Pinners say they use Pinterest to start a new project.

• 55% of Pinners use the platform specifically to shop.

• Pinterest audiences are 2.2x more likely to say they’re always shopping compared to non-Pinners.

If you want to engage with an audience that’s genuinely interested in discovering and buying new products, Pinterest is the place to be.

8. Pinterest Works as a Business Tool, Not Just Social Media

While Instagram and TikTok focus on brand awareness and engagement, Pinterest is designed for discovery and conversions. This makes it a great tool for:

• eCommerce brands: Drive product discovery and sales through shoppable Pins.

• Bloggers and content creators: Boost website traffic through strategic Pinning.

• Coaches and educators: Share resources, lead magnets, and online courses.

• Service-based businesses: Showcase portfolios, testimonials, and industry insights.

Unlike other platforms where organic reach is limited, Pinterest gives businesses a fair chance to be discovered through search.

9. Pinterest Analytics Offer Unique Insights

Pinterest’s built-in analytics provide deep insights into audience behavior, trends, and engagement. You can track:

• Pin performance (saves, clicks, impressions)

• Audience demographics and interests

• Traffic referrals from Pinterest to your website

These data points help businesses refine their Pinterest strategy for better results.

FAQs About Pinterest vs. Other Social Media Platforms

1. How Is Pinterest Different From Instagram?

Pinterest is a search engine, while Instagram is a social networking app. Pinterest content lasts longer and is optimized for discovery, whereas Instagram content disappears quickly and relies on engagement for visibility.

2. Is Pinterest Good for Business Marketing?

Yes! Pinterest is one of the best platforms for driving traffic, increasing brand awareness, and boosting sales, especially for eCommerce, bloggers, and content creators.

3. How Does Pinterest SEO Work?

Pinterest SEO involves using relevant keywords in Pin titles, descriptions, board names, and image alt text to improve search rankings and visibility.

4. Is Pinterest Better Than Facebook for Marketing?

It depends on your goals. Facebook is better for community engagement and ads, while Pinterest excels at long-term content discovery and organic traffic.

5. How Do I Get More Traffic from Pinterest?

• Optimize your profile and Pins with relevant keywords.

• Create high-quality, vertical images with text overlays.

• Pin consistently and use a mix of fresh and evergreen content.

• Utilize Rich Pins for more metadata.

Want to Leverage Pinterest for Your Business?

If you’re ready to skyrocket your traffic, increase sales, and build an engaged audience on Pinterest, avail our Pinterest Management service now.

Let’s take your Pinterest marketing to the next level!

Not sure yet if this is for you? No worries, you can book a consultation with us and we’ll guide you of the best approach.