Do hashtags actually work on Threads in 2025? We analyzed hundreds of accounts to find out.
Last updated: November 2025 • 6 min read
When Threads launched, one of the biggest surprises was what it didn't have: hashtags. No #MondayMotivation, no #TravelGoals — just pure conversation. And even now, as the platform evolves, creators and brands still ask: "Do hashtags even matter anymore?"
Let's unpack that — Sidecar-style.
Once upon a time, hashtags were the magic glue of social media. They made your post discoverable, grouped topics together, and helped people jump into trends. On Instagram and Twitter (now X), using the right tags could mean the difference between 20 views and 20,000.
But Threads flipped the script. The platform is built around discovery through conversations, not tags. Meta's goal? Keep discussions more authentic, less spammy.
Threads relies heavily on semantic relevance. That's a fancy way of saying it understands your content's meaning — not just the words you use.
Example: Instead of needing #travel, the algorithm recognizes that your post about "just booked a flight to Kyoto" belongs in the travel space.
Posts are grouped by topics and context, not hashtags. That's why at Sidecar, we analyze content performance not just by what you tag, but by what you say. Our AI detects themes, tone, and engagement patterns — revealing how your posts perform even without old-school tagging hacks.
After analyzing hundreds of Threads accounts through Sidecar's dashboard, here's what we've observed:
📊 Hashtags have minimal impact on reach
Posts with or without hashtags perform nearly identically. The algorithm prioritizes content quality and engagement over tags.
💬 Engagement thrives on tone, not tags
Witty, opinionated, or relatable posts outperform tagged promotional ones by 40%+. Authenticity wins.
🎯 Top accounts focus on conversation hooks
Successful creators use questions, hot takes, and storytelling — not keyword stuffing.
Bottom Line:
People scroll for personality, not #keywords.
You don't need them, but using a few sparingly won't hurt. Think of hashtags on Threads as seasoning — not the main course.
• You're joining a trending topic (#WWDC, #MetaConnect)
• You're cross-posting content from Instagram or X and want brand consistency
• You're forcing them into casual posts
• You're hoping they'll boost visibility — they won't (yet)
Threads is testing "topics" — which could evolve into hashtag-like categories. When that happens, Sidecar will automatically track topic-based engagement, helping you see which themes drive your best performance.
The takeaway?
At the end of the day, it's not about the #. It's about the conversation.
Stop guessing what works on Threads. Sidecar's AI analyzes your content performance, detects engagement patterns, and helps you create posts that actually resonate — no hashtag hacks required.
Let Sidecar analyze what works for your audience while you focus on the conversation.