How to Change Twitter Username

Elon Musk acquired Twitter in late 2022 and rebranded it to X. How that deal went down is a story for another day. This article will focus on how to change your Twitter username. Besides a new logo and a few policy tweaks, many things remain the same on Twitter. This includes the process of securing the perfect Twitter username. 

If you are not new to Twitter, you’d know users have two “names.” The first is the Twitter display name below your avatar/profile picture, followed by the username, usually preceded by the “@” symbol. 

Unlike Facebook, there is unlimited freedom to change your Twitter username. However, you’d want to be sure it aligns with Twitter rules, your brand, and your social identity. 

Let’s discuss the importance of a good Twitter username, how to change it, and what to consider when doing so. Let’s get creative!

The Importance of Your Twitter Username

X (formerly Twitter) has over 368 million monthly active users, making it one of the most used social media sites (Statista). Having a unique identity in such a crowded environment becomes non-negotiable. This is especially important for businesses, brands, public figures, and notable institutions. 

Consequently, a well-chosen Twitter handle makes your profile memorable and acts as a beacon amidst the sea of social media usernames. Your followers can easily pick you out among “copycats,” which are not new in the digital world. 

Furthermore, your Twitter username offers a snippet into your Twitter bio, hinting about your brand or persona even before someone visits your Twitter profile. 

Moreover, searchability is one of the key features of social media platforms. Therefore, having an intuitive username can make your visibility a world of good.

For instance, when users input related keywords in search bars or seek specific industry experts, influencers, or brands, a well-thought-out handle can make your profile pop up in their results. It’s a smart way to increase your chances of organically growing your follower base.

Consider the number of times you’ve searched for a particular person or brand on X or other platforms. You most likely clicked on the profile with a handle or profile picture that seemed the most legitimate or recognizable. This underlines the importance of a consistent digital presence across all platforms.

Suppose your Twitter handle aligns with your Instagram, LinkedIn, or other social media usernames. In that case, it reinforces your brand image and makes it easier for users to find and connect with you. 

How to Change a Twitter Username?

Now, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of this article: how to change your Twitter username. Luckily, changing the username on X is pretty straightforward on the website, iOS, and Android apps. Follow the simple steps below to get it done. 

On the Website:

Login to X: Head over to the X website and sign in with your current Twitter credentials.

Once logged in, click on the More button located in the menu on the left side of the screen.

Once clicked, another menu pops up. Select ‘Settings and Support’ the Settings and Privacy with a gear icon.

Under the ‘Your account’ tab, you’ll see an option labeled ‘Account information.’ Click on it.

Here, you’ll see the “Username” option. You can enter your desired username. As you type, X will tell you if the username is available. If it isn’t, you might need to get a bit more creative or add some special characters.

Once you’ve chosen a new username, click ‘Save.’ You might be prompted to enter your current Twitter password to confirm the change.

On iOS and Android Apps:

Open the X App: Tap on the X app icon on your device to open it.

Once inside, tap on your profile icon or picture at the top left corner.

This will bring up a menu. Here, select ‘Account information’.

From here, tap on ‘Username.’

Much like the website, you can now enter your desired username. The app will indicate if your choice is available.

After finalizing your username, tap ‘Done.’

As an added security measure, you may be asked to input your current Twitter password to confirm this change.

Things to Keep in Mind When Changing a Twitter Username

So far, you’ve learned how to change Twitter usernames. While the process is easy, keeping a few points in mind is essential. These include:

• Username Length: Twitter usernames can be up to 15 characters long and not shorter than four characters. This includes letters, numbers, and underscores.

• Availability: Remember, your desired username must be unique. If someone else has already claimed it, you’ll need to come up with something else.
• Propagation Time: After you’ve changed your username, it might take some time for the new handle to reflect across the platform, especially in search results.
• Links and Mentions: Any mentions of your old username won’t redirect to the new one. Make sure to update any external links that direct to your old Twitter handle.
• Consistency: If you’re rebranding or changing usernames, consider checking their availability on other social media platforms. It’s a good practice to have a consistent handle across all platforms.

Some Twitter Username Ideas

Choosing a new username for your Twitter profile can be exciting and daunting. Your Twitter handle is a significant part of your online identity, offering others a glimpse into your world at a glance. Here are some creative tips to craft a memorable Twitter handle:

1. Incorporate Your Interests: Combine your hobbies or interests with your name to create a handle that reflects your personality and is easy for friends and followers to remember.

2. Use Special Characters: Incorporate underscores or numbers to make your desired username unique if your original choice is already taken.

3. Keep It Short and Sweet: A concise and catchy handle is more likely to stick in people’s minds, making your username memorable and easy to type.

4. Reflect Your Brand: If you’re a business, ensure your handle reflects your brand name or services, offering immediate recognition and clarity.

5. Update Your Twitter Bio: After changing your handle, update your Twitter bio to match your new Twitter identity, ensuring a cohesive and professional online presence.  

Conclusion

There you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to change your Twitter username. Remember, your Twitter username is an extension of your personality online- whether professional or personal. Hence, you’d want to ensure it resonates well with your followers while enhancing your Twitter identity. 

While you’re at it, not only can you modify your handle, but you can also change your display name on Twitter for a more comprehensive update.

With a bit of creativity and strategic thinking, your new identity can serve as a robust tool for branding on X. Check our robust blog for more Twitter-related articles on smart ways to grow your presence on the platform. Are you looking for real Twitter followers? Contact us to get started!