The success of a social media post always depends on multiple factors. Of course, content plays a crucial role: does the content align with the interests, needs, and questions of your target audience? That is the ultimate key to optimal social media performance. In addition, we always remain dependent on the Instagram algorithm, which changes periodically and influences your content's performance.

But there's another important factor: the timing of Instagram posts. If you want to achieve results, choose the optimal times to reach your followers. These ideal times depend on when your target audience is online because that's when you'll achieve more results on social media. A detail that can truly make a difference.

To delve deeper into the behavior of Instagram users, we researched the best times for both increased reach and engagement. Additionally, we further examine the best times for Reels and carousel posts.

 

Best times to post on Instagram for reach

Best day to post for increased reach on Instagram:
Monday and Wednesday

Peak times for reach on Instagram:
Monday at 1 PM
Wednesday at 9 AM
Friday at 1 PM

With a slight edge over the other days, Monday and Wednesday stand out the most. Additionally, there are some general peak moments throughout the days: on Monday and Friday, in the early afternoon, and on Wednesday morning.

Despite the close figures, it pays off on Instagram to post on weekdays during office hours. However, don't hesitate to post at other times, as you can still achieve great results for your reach on Instagram.

Best times to post on Instagram for engagement
 

Best day to post for increased engagement on Instagram:
Thursday

Peak times for engagement on Instagram:
Sunday at 1 PM
Wednesday at 8 PM
Thursday at 4 PM

Thursday is the ideal day if you want to achieve as many likes, comments, and shares as possible with your Instagram posts. Additionally, Sunday and Wednesday are also good days for more engagement.

Regarding the time, 5 PM stands out significantly when looking at the general times. If you want to capture the real peak moments for more interaction with your followers, Sunday afternoon, Wednesday evening, and Thursday afternoon are the best moments.
 

Best times to post on Instagram for Reels
 

Best day for more reach with Instagram Reels       
Tuesday and Wednesday

Peak hours for more reach with Instagram Reels    
6 and 8 pm

Best day for more engagement with Instagram Reels       
Monday and Tuesday

Peak hours for more reach with Instagram Reels    
3, 6 and 8 pm
 

Best times to post on Instagram for carousel posts 
 

Best day for more reach with Instagram carousels 
Wednesday

Peak times for more reach with Instagram carousels 
9 AM and 5 PM

Best day for more engagement with Instagram carousels 
Thursday

Peak times for more engagement with Instagram carousels 
5 PM
 

The best times for your Instagram account

The above-mentioned times are based on the overall performance of Instagram posts and thus provide a good guideline for your social media planning. To achieve even better results on Instagram through proper timing, it is valuable to zoom in further, for example, into your industry, or even better: the performance of your business account.

This can be done with Coosto's Prime Time. This handy feature delves deeper into these times and analyzes real-time all social media performances for the best suggestions. With just one click, you can then select the best time to post on your Instagram account.

Curious about the best times to post on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and Pinterest? Check them out here!