TikTok has become one of the most powerful platforms for creators, small businesses and entrepreneurs in South Africa. With over a billion global users and millions locally, it’s a goldmine for building a personal brand, selling products and making money.
But success on TikTok isn’t just about posting videos. To really grow, you need to create engaging content, edit like a pro, track your analytics and optimize your strategy. Luckily, there are free tools that can help.
Here are the 10 best free tools for running a TikTok business.
1. CapCut (Free)
What it is: A video editing app made by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance.
Best for: Editing TikTok videos with effects, transitions and captions.
Pros: 100% free, made for TikTok, templates available.
Cons: Advanced features require learning curve.
🔗 capcut.com
2. Canva (Free Plan)
What it is: A design tool with TikTok video and thumbnail templates.
Best for: Creating eye-catching video covers, ads and story graphics.
Pros: Easy drag-and-drop design, TikTok-friendly formats.
Cons: Some elements require Pro version.
🔗 canva.com
3. TikTok Business Suite (Free)
What it is: TikTok’s built-in business and analytics tool.
Best for: Managing ads, tracking engagement and audience insights.
Pros: Free, official TikTok tool, gives real-time analytics.
Cons: Advanced ad targeting may require budget.
🔗 business.tiktokglobalshop.com
4. InShot (Free Plan)
What it is: A mobile video editing app.
Best for: Trimming, adding music and editing short clips.
Pros: Beginner-friendly, mobile-first, quick edits.
Cons: Free version has watermarks (removable with upgrade).
🔗 inshot.com
5. Google Trends (Free)
What it is: A free research tool for trending topics.
Best for: Finding trending video ideas in your niche.
Pros: Free, great for spotting viral opportunities.
Cons: Not TikTok-specific; requires interpretation.
🔗 trends.google.com
6. Hashtagify (Free Version)
What it is: A hashtag research tool.
Best for: Discovering popular hashtags to boost reach.
Pros: Helps improve discoverability on TikTok.
Cons: Limited hashtag suggestions in free version.
🔗 hashtagify.me
7. Pexels & Pixabay (Free Stock Videos & Music)
What it is: Free libraries of stock clips and royalty-free music.
Best for: Adding b-roll and background tracks to TikTok videos.
Pros: 100% free, commercial use allowed.
Cons: Some content may look generic.
🔗 pexels.com | pixabay.com
8. Notion (Free Plan)
What it is: A productivity and project management tool.
Best for: Planning TikTok content calendars, script ideas and collabs.
Pros: Free, flexible, great for solo creators and teams.
Cons: Setup needed before use.
🔗 notion.so
9. Linktree (Free Plan)
What it is: A tool to add multiple links in your TikTok bio.
Best for: Driving traffic to stores, affiliate links, or other socials.
Pros: Easy setup, widely used, customizable.
Cons: Free version includes Linktree branding.
🔗 linktr.ee
10. TikTok Creator Marketplace (Free)
What it is: TikTok’s official platform for connecting creators with brands.
Best for: Finding brand deals and influencer partnerships.
Pros: Free access, trusted by brands, good for monetization.
Cons: Only available to creators who meet follower and engagement requirements.
🔗 creatormarketplace.tiktokglobalshop.com
Final Thoughts
TikTok is one of the most exciting platforms for making money online in South Africa — and you don’t need a massive budget to get started. By using free tools like CapCut, Canva, TikTok Business Suite, Hashtagify and Linktree, you can edit videos, find trending ideas, track growth and even land brand deals.
👉 The key is consistency: post often, test different styles and use these tools to work smarter, not harder.