In the digital era, our online presence is just as important as our physical one. The unique identity we choose to present on social media platforms like Instagram plays a crucial role in shaping how others perceive us.
Whether you’re a brand looking to establish an online presence or an influencer trying to gain more followers, your Instagram username can make a significant difference.
This blog post will guide you through various methods to check Instagram username availability, ensuring that you can secure a unique and fitting handle for your Instagram account.
How to Check Instagram Username Availability
Your Instagram username functions as your digital identity – it’s how people find you, remember you and interact with you on the platform. A well-chosen username can bolster your online branding, making it easier for other users to discover and remember your account. On the contrary, a complicated or random username might be easily forgotten or overlooked.
Furthermore, your Instagram username should align with your brand’s personality or your style. It needs to be appropriate, memorable, and unique to stand out among millions of Instagram users.
Remember, first impressions matter, even online. Your Instagram username often offers the first glimpse of your brand or persona. So, let’s learn how to check Instagram username availability to ensure that your first impression is a lasting one.
Method 1: Through the Instagram App
The simple way to check Instagram username availability is through the Instagram app itself. This method is especially useful if you’re creating an Instagram account for the first time or looking to alter your existing username. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
- First, open the Instagram app on your smartphone. If you’re not already signed in, enter your login details and navigate to your profile page.
- Once you’ve accessed your profile, locate the three horizontal lines, typically found in the top right corner of your screen. Tapping on these lines will open a side menu with various options.
- In the side menu, scroll down to find the ‘Settings and Privacy’ option. Tap on it to access more detailed account settings.
- Under ‘Settings and Privacy,’ look for the ‘Account Centre.’ If you’re logged into multiple Instagram accounts, make sure to choose the correct profile before proceeding.
- Once in the ‘Account Centre,’ you’ll see an option labeled ‘Username.’ Tapping on this allows you to edit your current Instagram username.
- Now, you can type in your desired username.
As you do this, Instagram will automatically check its database to confirm whether the username is available. If the username is already taken, Instagram will prompt you to try a different one.
Method 2: Instagram Name Search Via Username Checker Apps
If you’d prefer to check Instagram username availability without altering your existing username or if you want to explore multiple username options before making a decision, third-party checker apps can be incredibly helpful. These apps allow you to enter many usernames and check their availability all at once. Here’s how to use these tools.
- There are many reliable third-party apps available for both iOS and Android devices that can help you check Instagram username availability.
- Once downloaded, open the Checker app. You’ll typically see a simple interface with a search bar where you can input the username you want to check.
- Type your desired Instagram username into the search bar.
- After entering the username(s), the app will process your request and quickly show you whether the username is available on Instagram. If the username is taken, consider tweaking it slightly or trying a new one.
Method 3: Through Online Tools
If you don’t feel comfortable downloading third-party apps, several online tools can perform the same function. They are web-based and don’t require any downloads. Here’s how you can use these online platforms to check Instagram username availability.
- First, open your preferred web browser and search for ‘Instagram username checker.’
- On the website’s interface, locate the search bar where you can input your desired Instagram username.
- After entering the username, click on the ‘Check’ or ‘Search’ button. This command prompts the tool to scan Instagram for any matching usernames.
- Shortly after clicking ‘Check,’ the website will display the results.
- If your desired username is available, you can proceed to claim it on Instagram.
If it’s taken, the tool may suggest slight modifications to make your username unique.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Instagram username is a step toward establishing a memorable online presence. With the three methods we’ve outlined in this blog post, checking Instagram username availability becomes a breeze. Whether you choose to use the Instagram app itself, opt for a third-party checker app, or prefer an online tool, the aim is to secure a unique and fitting Instagram username that resonates with your brand or personal style.
Remember, while checking the availability of your desired Instagram username is crucial, it’s not the only factor to consider. Your username should be easy to remember, suitable for your brand or personality, and unique enough to stand out among millions of other users. As Pete Mitchell, a Senior staff writer at TechCult, aptly puts it, “Your name on Instagram is your digital identity.”
