Are you still running ads in your local newspaper? You’re behind the times. You need to make the switch to online advertising instead.
There are many benefits of using online advertising, but there’s more than one platform that you should consider using. Google Ads and Facebook Ads are two of the most popular advertising platforms, but it can be difficult to know which one is right for your business.
In this guide, we’ll tell you about the differences between Google Ads vs Facebook Ads and help you decide which one to use.
User Intent
When comparing Facebook Ads vs Google Ads, it’s important to consider user intent.
Google does well in this category because many Google searchers are actively looking for something to buy. They use buyer-focused keywords such as “best washing machine” or “where to buy a washing machine”.
On the other hand, Facebook is more passive. Users are simply checking in with their friends and usually aren’t actively looking for a product to buy while on the platform.
Ad Targeting
While Facebook may lag behind Google when it comes to user intent, the platform offers better targeting options.
The Facebook Ads Manager allows you to narrow down target audiences based on age, gender, and location as well as interests, buying behaviors, life events, and more. Especially if you hire a great freelance Facebook ads specialist, you can perfect the targeting and easily reach your ideal audience.
Google’s targeting is more limited. Google is reliant on search keywords and doesn’t have extensive targeting features.
Ad Types
Another major way that Facebook Ads and Google Ads are different is that there are different ad types that you can use.
Facebook tends to have a lot more ad-type options available. With Facebook, you can run ads that feature images, videos, slideshows, and more.
Google Ads are more limited and ads are mostly just text-based. You can also make use of shopping ads as well.
Advertising Locations
Another thing that’s different about these two ad platforms is how where your ads will be distributed.
One of the advantages of Google Ads is that it has a much further reach. Not only will ads be shown on Google itself but they’ll also be shown on Google search partners across the web.
When you advertise on Facebook, on the other hand, your ads will only get shown on Facebook itself as well as on Instagram if you choose to use Instagram placements.
Which Ad Platform Is Better?
Both Facebook Ads and Google Ads are pretty powerful and can be very helpful when advertising online.
Generally speaking, because Google does such a great job of connecting people with a specific intent with what they’re looking for, it may be the better choice if you know that you have a great keyword to target that will match up perfectly with potential buyers.
Facebook, however, can be better for building brand awareness or for generating interest in a product that a customer may not know that they need yet.
Google Ads vs Facebook Ads: Make Your Choice
If you’re trying to choose between Google Ads vs Facebook Ads, be sure that you understand the pros and cons of each. While both platforms can be useful for advertisers, you’ll want to choose the one that’s best suited for your goals and your target audience.
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