If you own a website or YouTube channel and want to earn money from your videos, ad networks connect you with advertisers who pay to show their ads on your content. For example, when you see an ad before a YouTube video, that’s a video ad network at work.
Think of an ad network like a billboard rental service for websites, where advertisers pay to place their ads, and publishers earn money for displaying them. For instance, a cooking blog might show short video ads between recipe clips, earning money whenever viewers watch or click the ads.
Imagine a small travel blogger who posts video guides on their website. By partnering with a video ad network, short ads play before or during their videos. Each time a visitor watches or clicks on the ad, the blogger earns revenue, helping them monetize their content.
Key Terms Defined:
- CPM (Cost Per Mille): The amount earned per 1,000 ad impressions. For example, if a blogger’s CPM is $5 and they have 10,000 views, they earn $50.
- CPC (Cost Per Click): The amount earned each time a viewer clicks on an ad. If the CPC is $0.50 and 200 people click, the publisher earns $100.
- Fill Rate: The percentage of ad requests filled with ads. A 90% fill rate means 9 out of 10 ad slots show an ad, helping maximize earnings.
I have been asked about ad networks by both my neighbour in the past and my nephew more recently, with my neighbour inquiring about small publishers’ ad networks and my nephew asking about video ad networks and YouTube.
Several advertising technologies and platforms are available for small publishers and video content creators to reach their target audience and gain additional revenue. These include comprehensive video marketing, rich media, display, and mobile advertising. Keeping up with the constantly evolving advertising landscape can be challenging.
Video ads can run on many players, including stationary and sticky ones, without requiring an additional video player. Different technologies are used to find the best demand sources for each impression, resulting in the highest possible yield for each pageview. This gives customers the best value for their money. Some even use artificial intelligence to optimise ad revenue for mobile publishers.
Table of Contents
Best Ad Networks For Small Publishers
This article is a helpful resource for discovering top video ad networks suitable for small publishers, particularly those with new websites with limited traffic.
Advertising is a popular and long-standing way to monetise blogs and make money online. Many bloggers and website publishers are familiar with Google Ads, but other ad networks are also options.
Publishers can earn income by using ad networks to monetise their website traffic. Display ads and native ad networks are the most popular forms of online advertising for small publishers. If you’re a publisher looking to earn money, you may already know that native ad networks tend to perform better than other ad formats online.
What Is an Ad Network vs a Video Ad Network?
Think of an ad network as a marketplace where advertisers rent space on websites. Video ad networks specialize in video placements, like commercials before or during online videos.
According to MartecToday, ad networks allow advertisers to buy digital ads across many publisher sites and apps. Ad networks are unlike Google’s Ads, where advertisers and agencies handle bidding, targeting and optimisation. Many ad networks run campaigns on behalf of agencies and advertisers. Publishers typically earn a cut of ad revenues.
Video ad networks are companies and platforms that concentrate on or include video as an advertisement that they distribute on websites and apps in their system. They display text-based and image-based ads in banners or around the text in articles or blog posts. Video ads have more demand and placement options.
High-quality video ads are a relatively recent concept for many publishers conversant with monetising their properties through tried-and-tested traditional banner ads.
You’ve spent a lot of time and resources creating your content. After you create your content, what do you do with it? Do you leave it to lie fallow and collect dust? Nope! It would be best if you promoted it actively via video ads.
Video is the most favoured format worldwide for delivering content. It is prevalent among youths.
When advertising your content in video format, consider several factors. Consider the devices your customers will likely use and the targeting options available to you.
For companies just starting with online video advertising, we recommend beginning with YouTube, the Google Display Network, and Facebook. Share on XOther essential facts to consider when placing your ad online include cost, format options, targeting, and metrics.
According to Single Grain’s article, advertisers can target customers by device, geography, and observed behavioural patterns. The network’s big data solutions allow you to identify the ideal time to serve ads to customers to maximise conversion rates.
As you can see from the above stats, mobile advertising and mobile ad networks play an influential role in our digital age. The same article notes that over 62% of people purchased a mobile device, and only a third of consumers used a mobile device and a desktop for the same purpose. 80% of consumers used a mobile phone to research products and prices.
According to Statista, ad spending in the Video Advertising market is projected to reach US$191.3bn in 2024. They also predict that Ad spending in Nigeria’s Digital Advertising market will reach US$272.4m in 2024. CPM basis. However, according to the Single Grain article, 90% of advertisers want to use CPC to limit the risks of low click-through rates.
Whether serving a mobile or desktop audience, select the best ad network to deliver high-impact, high-quality video ads on every device.
For companies just starting with online video advertising, we recommend beginning with YouTube, the Google Display Network, and Facebook.
According to this article, Google is a familiar brand that offers a near 100% fill rate, high-quality ads, and decent overall revenue performance.
Google Adsense offers the best ad performance for international traffic at close to 100% fill for small publishers. Though Adsense is an excellent marketing platform, the challenge lies in getting Adsense approval.
This list will help you discover the different video ad networks available for you to choose from and the best ad network for your business. Share on XAccording to these stats, the Bing contextual ad network comprises an enormous pool of national and local advertisers, ensuring a 100% fill rate across all verticals and ad formats.
However, with time, small independent publishers must consider alternatives to advertising on YouTube, Google, and Facebook networks.
Unfortunately, these small publishers usually base all their strategies on these big companies’ digital ad networks.
However, most popular video ad networks prefer reputable publishers with millions of page views per month, which has reduced opportunities for small—to medium-sized publishers.
To succeed, 40% of your video content must have over 2 million monthly impressions.
List of The Best Video Ad Networks for Small Publishers
Therefore, we have compiled a list of video ad networks for small publishers across a network of online video platforms.
Are you a video publisher or website owner looking for ad networks for publishers? Check out this list of the best online video advertising networks. It’s not a real-time list or an exhaustive list. Choose from various vendors you think are secure and trustworthy and provide the best opportunity to monetise your blog or website.
We hope this list will help you discover the different video ad networks and the best ones for your user and business.
Let me know if other ad networks are not on this video ad networks list. Provided the platform you’re looking for that is not yet on this list has an excellent reputation for great ad campaigns, video ad formats and targeting options, we may consider adding it.
Small independent publishers need to look beyond advertising on YouTube, Google and Facebook networks. Share on XRemember to be a successful publisher. An excellent reputation would help. You must not use bots or software to manipulate clicks and impressions or hinder user experience.
List of Video Ad Networks
Here is a shortlist including the top paying ad network, Google AdSense alternatives for low traffic, and some of the largest ad networks.
Before you sign up for any of these ad networks, read their reviews, requirements, payment methods, and other details.
You want a video ad network to display your ads across multiple devices and choose targeting options. You also want a choice of various ad formats.
A good video ad network should provide you with the superb servers, reports, analytics, and measurement tools you need to test your ad campaigns, ensure that your ads perform to your expectations, and increase your revenue.
Here is a list of video ad networks:
- Media.net
- Google Ads
- RevenueHits
- Infolinks
- Viewdeos
- Chitika
- BidVertiser
- AdCash
- AdBlade
- Undertone
- Vibrant Media
- VerizonMedia
- Epom Market
- PropellerAds
- BlogAds
- Conversant
- Exponential
- Propel Media
- AdMaven
- PopAds
- Adsterra
- ClickAdu
- HillTopAds
- Adbuff
- TrafficForce
- EMX
- BuySellAds
- Absolutclick
- AdPushup
- Propeller Ads
- Clicksor
- Doubleclick Ad Exchange
- Tribal Fusion
- OpenX
- Sharethrough
- Komoona
- Sekindo / Primis
- Yellow Hammer
- PixFuture
- Trion
- Chocolate
- UnderTone Ad Network
- HaxHax
- RhythmOne
- BrightRoll
- Videology
- Selectmedia
- One by AOL
- YuMe
- Adobe Primetime
- VeohClick Ad Network
- SpotX
- Advertising.com
- CPXInteractive
- Sovrn
- Pulse Point
- Casale Media
- Vibrant Media
- ValueClick Media
- Burst Media
- BidVertiser
- Matomy Display
- PopCash
- Revenue hits
Disclaimer: The list above is in no particular order and is not intended to be exhaustive. The media companies above are some of the best available. Multiple ad networks are available, which is impossible to cover in this post. So, we intend to update this list regularly.
Flowchart of How Ad Networks Connect Publishers with Advertisers
Ad Networks with Low Minimum Spend or Flexible Payment Models
When considering ad networks, small publishers should look for platforms that offer flexible payment structures or low minimum spend thresholds. Networks like Adsterra and PopAds are known for their affordability and flexibility, making them ideal for small publishers with limited budgets. These networks allow you to get started with minimal financial commitment, offering low initial deposit requirements and flexible payout terms. RevenueHits is another option, with no minimum spend and an easy-to-manage payment model that suits small businesses looking for more control over their ad budgets. These networks ensure that publishers can experiment with video ads without significant upfront investments.
Networks Known for Strong Conversion Rates or Lead Generation Results
For those focusing on conversions or lead generation, certain ad networks stand out for their high-quality targeting options and performance. PropellerAds and Infolinks excel in driving conversions, particularly through native ads and video formats. Media.net is another network that offers high-quality ads with robust targeting capabilities, leading to impressive conversion rates, especially in niches that align well with its technology. Additionally, Tribal Fusion is known for delivering strong lead generation results thanks to its advanced targeting tools and solid reach across multiple devices. These networks are ideal for publishers looking to generate leads and maximize conversion rates from their traffic.
Platforms Offering Simple Setup and Automated Reporting
Simplicity in setup and reporting is crucial for small publishers. Networks like Google Ads and AdPushup offer an intuitive setup process, making it easy to launch campaigns without needing advanced technical knowledge. Epom Market also provides a straightforward onboarding process, alongside automated reporting tools that track performance in real-time. These platforms make it simple to monitor campaign results, adjust ad strategies, and scale as needed. Publishers can also take advantage of automated reporting features to save time and improve efficiency in managing their ad operations.
Using Analytics Tools to Monitor Ad Performance and Calculate ROI
To ensure a solid return on investment (ROI), publishers should use analytics tools to track ad performance. Google Analytics is a popular and powerful tool that integrates well with ad networks like Google Ads and AdSense. By tracking user behavior, session data, and conversion rates, publishers can determine which ads are performing well and which need adjustments. Platforms like Adsterra and Media.net also offer built-in reporting tools that track key metrics like click-through rates (CTR), impressions, and revenue. Regularly reviewing these analytics will help you optimize your campaigns, allocate your budget more effectively, and calculate ROI based on your goals.
Best Ad Networks for Small Business Budgets
Small businesses need ad networks that provide excellent value without breaking the bank. For budget-conscious publishers, AdCash and BidVertiser offer highly competitive CPM rates, making them great choices for small business budge. These networks often feature low minimum spend requirements and provide a wide range of ad formats, including video, display, and native ads. Chitika and Vibrant Media are also good options for small businesses, offering affordable pricing and access to high-quality ads. By choosing ad networks with flexible pricing and low entry costs, small businesses can maximize their ad revenue while staying within budget.
Best Ad Networks Categorised by Their Strengths
Here’s a comparison chart highlighting some of the best ad networks categorised by their strengths.
| Category | Best Networks | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Beginners | Google Ads, Media.net, RevenueHits, Infolinks | Easy setup, broad reach, good for new publishers. Google Ads provides high-quality ads and Media.net offers great targeting and ad formats for beginner publishers. |
| Best for High-Paying Video Ads | Adsterra, Propeller Ads, AdMaven, Adsterra, PopAds | High payouts for video ads, advanced targeting, and access to premium advertisers. Propeller Ads is particularly strong for video ads, while Adsterra is known for high-paying rates. |
| Best for Mobile Traffic | AdCash, Infolinks, Propeller Ads, AdBlade, Epom Market | Optimized for mobile traffic with mobile-friendly ad formats. AdCash and Infolinks excel at driving mobile-specific revenue, while Propeller Ads also performs well on mobile platforms. |
Key Takeaways
Are you a small publisher looking to maximise your advertising revenue? Look no further, as we have compiled a list of the best video ad networks tailored just for you! We’ve got you covered. From popular ad networks to premium ad networks. With features like real-time bidding, supply-side platforms, and vertical ad networks, you can ensure that your inventory reaches top-notch advertisers and generates revenue effectively.
With solutions like direct sales and programmatic advertising, you can easily manage your unsold inventory and maximise your earnings. Platforms like Google Analytics and Amazon publisher services offer insights into user attention and traffic force, while native advertising formats and full-screen ads can help attract premium advertisers.
Whether you have a high monthly page view or original content, these ad networks provide various pricing models and payment terms tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join these networks and unlock the potential of your premium inventory!
Conclusion
Advertising on some of these networks is affordable, so you need not fear. As mentioned above, you must research to find the one you are comfortable working with.
Is there any other advertising platform or online ad network for small publishers that we left out? Are there any new ad networks you feel deserve a spot on the list? Let me know.
Have you used any of the above media companies for your video ad campaigns? Please share your experience with me on X (Twitter) @ademolaabimbola or @mauconline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What Is the Best Ad Network for Publishers?
There isn’t one “best” ad network for publishers – the ideal choice depends on your specific needs and website. Some factors to consider when looking for the best ad network for publishers include:
- Traffic volume and demographics: Ad networks vary in traffic and audience. Google AdSense is great for high-volume traffic, while niche networks target specific demographics.
- Ad formats: Choose formats that suit your website’s layout and user experience. Some networks specialise in specific formats.
- Revenue model: Consider the CPM or CPC model for ad revenue, depending on your goals.
- Minimum payout: Networks might have minimum payout thresholds, so you need to reach a certain amount before getting paid. This is important for growing traffic.
When choosing an ad network for your website, consider factors like the size of the advertiser network, ad quality, and technology used. It’s best to use a combination of networks to maximise your earnings. Research and compare different options to find the best fit for your website.
Q: Which Platform Is Best for Video Ads?
No single platform dominates video ads, but various ad networks and exchanges specialise in video ad inventory. The right platform depends on your goals, audience, and content type as a publisher or advertiser. Consider factors like user engagement, ad formats, and scalability when deciding. Considering these factors, you can narrow down the best platform for your video advertising needs.
Q: Where Can I Publish Video Ads?
Depending on your goals and target audience, you can explore several avenues to publish your video ads. Choose the right platforms to maximise your video ad campaign’s impact.
Q: Which Ad Network Has No Minimum Traffic?
While some networks mentioned in the article don’t require strict traffic thresholds, it’s crucial to carefully assess their suitability based on your specific needs and audience. Making a wise choice can help you maximise your monetisation efforts. It’s important to remember that even when there are no minimum traffic requirements, building a quality website with engaging content is still necessary to attract readers and advertisers.
Q: What Are the Best Video Ad Networks?
As mentioned, the answer to this question is subjective because several factors need to be considered.
Q: Which Video Ad Network Is Best for Publishers?
As mentioned, the answer to this question is subjective because several factors need to be considered.
Q: Why Are Publishers Using Video Ad Networks?
Publishers embrace video ad networks for revenue, audience expansion, and efficient ad management. Video ad networks provide publishers with a streamlined and efficient way to turn their content into revenue by connecting them with relevant advertisers and offering valuable tools to manage and optimise their video ad campaigns.
Q: What Is Admedia Ad Network?
AdMedia is a performance-based advertising network connecting advertisers to consumers through various channels since 1998. It provides a one-stop solution for all advertising needs, but it’s recommended that you research and compare different ad networks before making a decision.
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- Types of Video Marketing
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