What's the difference between my username and nickname?
Understanding Username vs. Nickname: What's the Difference? 🤔
Many users don't realize that ToyChats distinguishes between your username and your nickname—and understanding this difference can really help you make the most of your profile!
The Technical Difference
The key distinction comes down to where each one appears:
Your username is the permanent identifier that's baked into your profile URL (like toychats.com/@your-username). It's the technical backbone of your account—think of it as your account's "address" on the site. Usernames typically follow stricter formatting rules: they're usually lowercase, can't contain spaces, and once set, they're meant to stick around.
Your nickname, on the other hand, is your display name—it's what everyone actually sees when you post, comment, review, or interact anywhere on the site. Nicknames are way more flexible! They can include spaces, capital letters, special characters, and even emojis in some cases. This is the name that represents your personality and presence in the community. ✨
Why Have Both?
Having separate usernames and nicknames gives you the best of both worlds! Your username keeps your account stable and your links consistent (important for sharing your profile or building your reputation), while your nickname lets you express yourself creatively and evolve your identity over time without breaking anything behind the scenes.
