TikTok Coins Guide 2026 | Pricing, Recharge & Web Savings

TikTok Coins Guide 2026

The complete resource for TikTok's virtual currency system. Learn how to buy coins at the best prices, save up to 43% buying on web vs app, understand conversion rates, and support your favorite creators while avoiding scams.

TikTok Coins are the platform's virtual currency system that enables viewers to support creators through virtual gifts during LIVE streams and on regular videos. In 2026, TikTok's gifting economy has grown into a multi-billion dollar ecosystem where fans spend real money on coins, convert those coins into gifts, and creators convert received gifts into diamonds that cash out as real money. However, many users overpay for coins because they don't understand the significant price differences between purchasing on iOS, Android, and web platforms. By purchasing coins through the web browser instead of the mobile app, you can save between 25% and 43% on every transaction—savings that add up quickly for regular supporters. This comprehensive guide covers everything from coin package pricing across platforms, to recharge methods, conversion rates, refund policies, and critical safety information to protect yourself from scams. Whether you're a viewer wanting to maximize your support budget or a creator helping your community understand the gifting system, this hub provides all the information you need.

Table of Contents

Introduction: TikTok's Virtual Currency System

TikTok Coins are the platform's virtual currency that powers its creator economy. Users purchase coins with real money, then use those coins to purchase virtual gifts that they send to creators during LIVE streams or on videos. Creators receive these gifts as Diamonds, which convert to real cash. This system has become a major monetization channel, with top creators earning thousands of dollars per LIVE stream purely from gifts. In 2026, TikTok's gifting economy continues to expand globally, with more gift options, regional pricing variations, and improved creator payout systems.

The flow works like this: Real Money → Coins → Gifts → Diamonds → Cash. TikTok takes approximately 50% through the conversion chain (the exact rate varies by region and gift type). This means when you spend $100 on coins and send all those coins as gifts, the creator receives roughly $50 in diamond value. Understanding this conversion chain is essential for both viewers who want to maximize their support impact and creators who need to set realistic LIVE earnings expectations.

For Viewers/Fans

• • Support favorite creators during LIVE streams
• • Send gifts on regular videos to show appreciation
• • Save 25-43% by buying coins on web vs iOS app
• • Coins never expire once purchased

For Creators

• • Understand coin economics to maximize LIVE earnings
• • Educate your audience about coin purchasing
• • Approximately 50% of coin value becomes your diamonds
• • Optimize LIVE strategy around gifting peaks

Key Insight: Web Saves You Money

Buying coins on web (tiktok.com) saves 25-43% vs the iOS app due to Apple's 30% commission. A $100 coin purchase on iPhone costs you $100 but delivers fewer coins. The same package on web costs $56-$75 and delivers the same number of coins. Android is slightly cheaper than iOS but still more expensive than web. Always buy coins on web for maximum value.

Section 1: What Are TikTok Coins & How They Work

TikTok Coins are a virtual currency purchased with real money that can only be used within the TikTok platform. They serve a single purpose: purchasing virtual gifts to send to creators. Here's everything you need to know about how coins function.

Coin Characteristics

Virtual Currency

Coins are purchased with real money through TikTok's payment system. They have no value outside of TikTok and cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred to other platforms.

Gift Purchases Only

Coins can only be used to buy virtual gifts for creators. You cannot use coins for ads, promotions, or any other TikTok features.

Never Expire

Once purchased, coins remain in your account indefinitely with no expiration date. You can use them whenever you want.

Non-Transferable

Coins cannot be transferred between accounts, sold, or traded. They are locked to the account that purchased them.

The Coin-to-Cash Flow

1

Purchase Coins

Viewer buys coins with real money (credit card, PayPal, etc.)

2

Send Gifts

Viewer uses coins to buy and send virtual gifts to creators

3

Creator Receives Diamonds

Gifts convert to Diamonds in creator's account (~50% of coin value)

4

Cash Out

Creator converts Diamonds to real money (minimum threshold applies)

Section 2: Coin Packages & Pricing

TikTok offers multiple coin packages at different price points. Importantly, prices vary significantly depending on where you purchase: iOS app, Android app, or web browser. Larger packages offer better per-coin rates, and web purchases always deliver the best value.

US Pricing: App vs Web Comparison

Note: App prices shown are iOS prices, which include Apple's 30% commission. Android prices are slightly lower than iOS but still higher than web. Prices may vary slightly by region and are subject to change.

UK Pricing Comparison

Package App Price Web Price

65 coins £0.99 N/A

330 coins £4.49 £3.42

1,321 coins £17.49 £11.75

Regional pricing varies based on local currencies and payment processing fees. The web vs app savings principle applies globally, though the exact percentages may differ slightly by region.

Section 3: Web vs App: Save 25-43%

The platform you use to purchase coins dramatically affects the price. iOS app purchases are most expensive due to Apple's 30% commission, Android is slightly cheaper, and web browser purchases offer the best value. Understanding this can save you hundreds of dollars per year.

Why Price Differences Exist

iOS App

Apple charges 30% commission on all in-app purchases, which TikTok passes to consumers through higher coin prices.

Most Expensive

Android App

Google Play also takes a cut (typically 15-30%), making Android cheaper than iOS but still more than web.

Mid-Range

Web Browser

Direct purchases on tiktok.com avoid app store commissions, passing savings directly to users. Save 25-43%.

Best Value

How to Buy Coins on Web

• 1

  Go to tiktok.com: Open your web browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.) and navigate to tiktok.com

• 2

  Log into your account: Use the same account credentials you use on mobile

• 3

  Click profile → Get Coins: Access the coin purchase page from your profile menu

• 4

  Select package and pay: Choose your coin package and complete payment

• 5

  Coins appear immediately: Your purchased coins are instantly available in both web and mobile app

Warning: Avoid Third-Party Sites

Never buy coins from third-party websites claiming to offer discounts or "cheap coins." These are scams that can result in account bans, stolen payment information, or coins that never arrive. Only purchase coins directly from TikTok through official channels (app or tiktok.com).

Section 4: How to Recharge Coins

TikTok offers multiple methods to recharge (purchase) coins, with different payment options depending on your platform and region. Here's everything you need to know about buying coins.

Recharge Methods

In-App Method (iOS/Android)

• 1. Open TikTok app
• 2. Go to Profile → Settings and privacy
• 3. Tap Balance → Recharge
• 4. Select coin package
• 5. Complete payment through app store

Note: Remember this method costs 25-43% more than web. Only use for small emergency purchases.

Web Method (Recommended)

• 1. Go to tiktok.com in browser
• 2. Log into your account
• 3. Click Profile → Get Coins
• 4. Select coin package
• 5. Complete payment directly

Best value: Save 25-43% compared to iOS app purchases.

Payment Methods

Credit/Debit Cards

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover accepted. Most common payment method across all platforms.

PayPal

Available on web and some mobile platforms. Provides additional buyer protection and payment flexibility.

Apple Pay (iOS)

Quick checkout on iPhone/iPad using saved payment methods. Subject to Apple's 30% commission.

Google Pay (Android)

Fast payment on Android devices. Subject to Google Play commission structure.

Auto-Recharge & Parental Controls

Auto-Recharge Option

Set up automatic coin recharge when your balance falls below a threshold. Available on some platforms.

Caution: Monitor auto-recharge closely to avoid unexpected charges, especially if minors use your account.

Parental Controls: Family Pairing

Parents can use TikTok's Family Pairing feature to restrict or disable coin purchases on minor accounts.

Recommended: Enable spending limits or purchase approval requirements for underage users.

Section 5: Discounts, Promos & Gift Cards

While TikTok doesn't frequently offer coin promotions, there are occasional opportunities to get bonus coins or save money. Here's what's legitimate and what to avoid.

Legitimate Coin Promotions

TikTok Coin Bonuses (10-20% Extra)

TikTok occasionally offers bonus coins on larger packages. Typically promoted directly in-app or on tiktok.com. Watch for notifications during promotional periods.

Holiday Promotions

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, and regional holidays sometimes feature coin bundle deals with extra coins or discounted prices.

First-Time Buyer Discounts

New accounts may receive special offers on their first coin purchase. These appear automatically when accessing the coin recharge page.

Gift Cards (Select Regions)

TikTok gift cards are available in some regions at retailers. Check local availability. Gift cards can sometimes be found at a discount through retailer promotions.

Scams to Avoid

• ×

  No legitimate third-party discount codes exist. Websites or social media posts claiming to offer discount codes for coins are scams.

• ×

  "Free coins" generators are fake. Any website or app claiming to generate free TikTok coins is attempting to steal your account credentials or payment information.

• ×

  Phishing "coin bonus" emails. TikTok will never email you asking you to log in to claim free coins. These are phishing attempts.

• ×

  Third-party coin sellers. Buying coins from unauthorized resellers violates TikTok's terms and can result in account ban.

Best savings strategy: The biggest "discount" is buying on web instead of iOS app (25-43% savings). This is always available and doesn't require waiting for promotions.

Section 6: Coins to Dollars Conversion

Understanding the coin-to-dollar conversion rate helps you budget your creator support and compare package value. The rate varies based on package size and purchase platform, with larger packages offering better per-coin rates.

Approximate Conversion Rates

General rate: 1 TikTok Coin ≈ $0.0105-$0.0150 depending on package size and platform. Larger packages provide better per-coin value.

Calculate Exact Coin Values

Remember: These conversions show what you pay for coins. When creators receive gifts purchased with coins, they receive approximately 50% of the coin value as Diamonds. Use our Gift Value Calculator to understand creator earnings from gifts.

Section 7: Coin Safety: Avoiding Scams

TikTok coin scams are prevalent, targeting users with promises of free or discounted coins. Protecting yourself requires understanding common scam tactics and following security best practices.

Security Best Practices

DO: Official Channels Only

• • Buy from TikTok app or tiktok.com only
• • Use official payment methods
• • Verify URL is exactly tiktok.com
• • Keep purchase receipts

DON'T: Risk Your Account

• • Never buy from third-party sites
• • Never share account credentials
• • Never click suspicious "free coins" links
• • Never use coin generator tools

Account Security Measures

Enable 2-Factor Authentication

Add an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access. Go to Settings → Security → 2-Step Verification.

Set Spending Limits

Especially important for accounts used by minors. Use parental controls or payment method limits to cap monthly coin spending.

Report Suspicious Offers

If you encounter suspicious coin offers in comments, DMs, or external websites, report them to TikTok immediately through the app's reporting feature.

Common Scam Tactics

• ×

  Fake generators: Websites claiming to generate free coins by entering your username. These collect account data for hacking.

• ×

  Phishing links: DMs or comments with links to "claim free coins." These steal login credentials or install malware.

• ×

  "Coin glitches": Social media posts about supposed bugs that give free coins. These are fake and designed to steal information.

• ×

  Third-party sellers: Websites offering coins at steep discounts. Even if coins arrive, your account can be banned for violating terms of service.

• ×

  Account sharing schemes: Offers to "log in and add coins" to your account. This gives scammers full account access.

Section 8: Refund Policy & Expiration Rules

Understanding TikTok's refund policy and coin expiration rules protects your investment. Here's what you need to know about getting refunds and how long coins remain valid.

Coin Expiration Policy

Coins Never Expire

Once purchased, TikTok Coins remain in your account indefinitely with no expiration date. You can use them at any time, whether that's immediately or months later. There is no time pressure to spend purchased coins.

Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Window

TikTok offers a 14-day refund window for unused coins in most regions. Policies may vary by country and local consumer protection laws.

• • Coins must be unused (not spent on gifts)
• • Request within 14 days of purchase
• • Regional variations may apply

No Refunds for Used Coins

Once coins are spent on gifts, they cannot be refunded. Gifts sent to creators are final transactions. Make sure you intend to send a gift before confirming the transaction.

How to Request a Refund

• 1. Go to Settings → Report a Problem
• 2. Select Purchase Issues
• 3. Choose the coin purchase to refund
• 4. Submit refund request with reason
• 5. Wait for TikTok review (typically 5-10 business days)

Platform-Specific Refund Notes

iOS App Purchases

Refunds for in-app purchases may be processed directly through Apple. You can request refunds via Apple's website (reportaproblem.apple.com) or through TikTok support.

Android App Purchases

Google Play purchases can be refunded through Google Play support or TikTok directly. Google typically offers a 48-hour window for automated refunds.

Chargeback Warning

Filing a chargeback with your bank or credit card company instead of requesting a refund through official channels can result in negative coin balance or account ban. Always attempt to resolve purchase issues through TikTok support first before initiating a chargeback.

Calculate Your Coin Value

Use our calculators to convert coins to USD, understand gift value for creators, and plan your TikTok support budget.

Coins to USD Calculator Gift Value Calculator

Related Guides

TikTok Gifts Hub Complete guide to TikTok's virtual gift system TikTok Diamonds Hub Creator guide to diamonds and cash-out process Complete TikTok Diamond Guide Everything creators need to know about earning diamonds TikTok Coin Converter Complete Guide Master coin conversions and maximize value LIVE Gift Earnings Optimization Strategies to maximize LIVE gifting revenue TikTok LIVE Earnings Guide Complete monetization guide for LIVE streaming

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is 1 TikTok coin worth?

Approximately $0.0105-$0.0150 depending on the package size and platform you purchase from. Web purchases offer the best per-coin rate, while iOS app purchases have the highest cost per coin due to Apple's 30% commission. Larger packages provide better per-coin value than smaller packages.

What is the cheapest way to buy TikTok coins?

Buy coins on web (tiktok.com) instead of the mobile app to save 25-43% vs iOS app purchases. The web platform avoids Apple and Google's in-app purchase commissions, passing the savings directly to users. For example, 6,607 coins cost $99.99 on iOS app but only $56.90 on web—a 43% savings.

Do TikTok coins expire?

No, TikTok coins never expire once purchased. They remain in your account indefinitely until you use them to purchase gifts. You can buy coins and use them weeks, months, or even years later without any time pressure.

Can I get a refund on TikTok coins?

Yes, within 14 days for unused coins in most regions. Coins that have already been spent on gifts cannot be refunded. To request a refund, go to Settings → Report a Problem → Purchase Issues and submit your request. For iOS purchases, you may also request refunds directly through Apple. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days.

How much is 1,000 TikTok coins?

Approximately $9.88 when purchased on web, or around $15.15 when purchased through the iOS app. The exact price depends on which package you buy (larger packages offer better rates) and your platform. Android falls between web and iOS pricing.

Can I transfer coins to another account?

No, TikTok coins are non-transferable between accounts. Once purchased, coins are permanently tied to the account that bought them. You cannot sell, trade, or gift coins to other users. The only way to share value is by using your coins to send gifts to creators.

Why are coins more expensive on iPhone?

Apple charges a 30% commission on all in-app purchases made through the iOS App Store. TikTok passes this cost to consumers, making coins significantly more expensive on iPhone compared to web purchases. This is standard across all apps on iOS—not specific to TikTok. Android also has commissions but typically lower than Apple's rate.

Are third-party coin sellers legitimate?

No, third-party coin sellers are scams that violate TikTok's terms of service and can result in account bans. Only purchase coins directly from TikTok through the official app or tiktok.com website. Third-party sellers may steal your payment information, deliver no coins, or provide coins obtained through fraudulent means that trigger account penalties.

How do I check my coin balance?

Go to your Profile → Settings and privacy → Balance. This shows your current coin balance and provides access to recharge (purchase more coins). Your balance is displayed in the app and on web, and updates immediately after purchases or when you send gifts.

Can parents control coin purchases?

Yes, through TikTok's Family Pairing settings. Parents can link their account to their child's account and restrict or disable coin purchases, set spending limits, or require approval for transactions. Additionally, payment method controls (like credit card spending limits or parental controls on Apple/Google accounts) provide additional protection.