AdSense is the most popular ad monetization tool. Although many publishers could make more money by switching to AdSense Alternatives and headers bidding option, some publishers would be more successful with AdSense or implementing a mixture of AdSense and header bidding.
This post will help you decide if you need to consider an AdSense alternative. First, we will discuss how AdSense is distinct from the other options, including ad exchanges and header bidding partners.
Publishers who make a minimum of USD 100 per day will see an increase in earnings of 57% by switching from AdSense.
What Is AdSense?
Adsense is an ad network that collects advertising inventory from multiple publishers, combines it, and then sells the inventory to advertisers on the behalf of publisher’s . It is different from other programmatic advertising platforms, including ad exchanges and header bidding affiliates.
Ad exchanges (such as Google AdX) are platforms that allow advertisers and publishers to purchase and sell advertising space between themselves via live auctions for ads (i.e. the ad unit is sold to the advertiser with the most bid). Ad exchanges are commonly referred to as SSPs since the two platforms typically integrated.
Header bidding companies provide publishers access to various ad exchanges. It boosts competition and lets publishers benefit from the advantages of having multiple SSPs. As an example, certain SSPs specialize in particular sectors. They can be expected to provide higher rates of cost-per-mille (CPM) for those specific sectors, while some are focused on open marketplaces with a wider range of advertisers.
The Reasons to Consider AdSense Alternatives
A few publishers are in a position to boost their revenue by using AdSense Alternatives. Publishers often experiment with a combination of various formats and AdSense.
Consider these six key factors to determine if searching for an alternative is worth the effort.
1. Impressions And Click-Through Rates (CTR)
When you use AdSense, it is possible to make money per impression and click. However, AdSense is typically more effective when you have ad units that have CTRs of at least 2+ %. If your ad units are having an CTR lower than 2% , you’ll probably have higher profits through a header bidding service. If you need more clarification, Performoo can run A/B tests on each ad unit to find out which one works best for your business.
2. Analyze Your Traffic’s Geographic Origins
AdSense is a great choice for Tier 3 GEOs (meaning higher fill rates and more income). If your site have visitors coming from one or two of the Tier 1 and 2 GEOs, you are able earn more by using AdSense Alternative specialized in Tier 1 and 2 GEOs.
3. Control on Ad Setup
AdSense is an ad network, AdSense manages your ads for your benefit. You’ll have to control certain aspects, such as the number of ad that appear on your website, however, ultimately, you’ll be end up with a cookie-cutter ad format. A majority of the header bidding providers offer an additional level of control over ad format, settings for ad tech, and other settings. But, you’ll require advanced technical expertise to make the most of these services to maximize revenue. We take care of the complete advertising process for you, however, the technology used to create ads can also be customized according to your demands. (More about this in the future.)
4. Advertisement Quality
Through an exchange, instead of being a part of an ad network such as AdSense , you’ll have access to top-quality advertisers. These premium companies typically charge more and have better ad content, but you’ll have the ability to fill your advertising space with precisely focused advertisements. The result is a boost in advertising revenue and an improvement in the customer experience.
5. The Amount of Revenues You Receive
A significant portion of revenue, around 32% to 49%, is taken by AdSense based on your ad setup. Header bidding takes approximately 15% to 30% of the earned revenue.
6. Ad Tech And Ad Formats Availability
AdSense offers traditional or basic ad formats that may not attract users as effectively as the latest formats. Certain providers can create more complex and efficient ads. As an example, Performoo offers interactive ad formats that improve visibility as well as time per page.
It is important to note that the majority of AdSense alternatives require top-quality, authentic website content and legitimate traffic. If you’ve been refused an AdSense account due to infractions to traffic or content, it is your responsibility to rectify your situation.
If you need help determining which option, AdSense or another option (or one of both) is the most effective option for your website, contact us to get a no-cost evaluation. The experts at Performoo will analyze your website and guide you in the correct direction.
12 top-paying platforms that can maximize your ad revenue in 2025
- Media.net – A contextual ad network that offers high-paying ads and is backed by Yahoo and Bing.
- Ezoic – An AI-driven platform that optimizes ad placements to boost your earnings.
- PropellerAds – Known for its variety of ad formats, including push notifications and native ads.
- AdThrive – Tailored for high-traffic sites, offering premium ad placements and excellent RPMs.
- Mediavine – Ideal for content creators looking for optimized ad experiences and high payouts.
- Amazon Associates – A top affiliate program that integrates seamlessly with display ads for extra income.
- Revcontent – Specializes in native ads with high engagement and competitive CPMs.
- Adsterra – Offers diverse ad formats and reliable payouts, with global coverage.
- Infolinks – Provides in-text ads that are non-intrusive and highly customizable.
- Sovrn //Commerce – Monetizes content through affiliate links and premium display ads.
- Skimlinks – Focuses on affiliate marketing, automatically converting product mentions into links.
- Taboola – A native advertising platform known for its content recommendation engine and high revenue potential.