Google Ads offers several types of advertising campaigns to suit different marketing objectives and ad formats. Here are the main types of Google Ads:
Search Ads: Search ads are text-based ads that appear at the top or bottom of Google search engine results pages (SERPs) when users search for specific keywords or phrases. They are labeled as “Ad” or “Sponsored.” Advertisers bid on keywords relevant to their business, and their ads are displayed when those keywords are searched. Search ads are highly effective for driving targeted traffic and capturing users who are actively searching for products or services.
Display Ads: Display ads are image-based ads that appear on websites within Google’s Display Network, which consists of millions of partner websites and applications. These ads can include images, videos, or interactive elements. Display ads are designed to build brand awareness, reach a wide audience, and capture users’ attention while they browse websites or use mobile applications.
Video Ads: Video ads are advertisements that appear before, during, or after videos on YouTube or other Google partner sites. They can be skippable or non-skippable and can range from a few seconds to several minutes in length. Video ads are an effective way to engage users with visually compelling content, tell a brand story, showcase products, or provide tutorials. Advertisers can target specific demographics, interests, or placements to reach their desired audience.
Shopping Ads: Shopping ads, also known as Product Listing Ads (PLAs), display product images, prices, and relevant information at the top of Google search results. These ads are ideal for e-commerce businesses and allow users to compare products and make purchasing decisions directly from the search results. Shopping ads are highly visual and feature rich, providing a great opportunity for retailers to showcase their products.
App Promotion Ads: App promotion ads are specifically designed to promote mobile applications. They appear on various Google properties, including Google search results, Google Play Store, YouTube, and Google Display Network. App promotion ads can drive app installs, encourage engagement, or re-engage users who have already installed the app. They offer deep linking capabilities to direct users to specific sections or features within the app.
Discovery Ads: Discovery ads appear in various Google feed environments, such as the Discover feed on the Google mobile app, YouTube home feed, and Gmail promotions tab. These ads are visually appealing and blend in with the organic content, providing a native ad experience. Discovery ads are effective for increasing brand reach, generating product interest, and capturing users during their browsing or content discovery sessions.
Each type of Google ad has its unique advantages and is suitable for different marketing goals and strategies. Advertisers can utilize a combination of these ad formats to create comprehensive campaigns that align with their specific objectives and target their desired audience effectively.