Facebook Ads and Google AdWords are two of the most popular and effective online advertising platforms in 2017. These platforms provide businesses with the opportunity to reach a vast audience and drive targeted traffic to their websites. Facebook Ads, introduced in 2007, and Google AdWords, launched in 2000, have revolutionized the way businesses market and advertise online.

In recent years, Facebook has emerged as a major player in the online advertising realm. With over 2 billion monthly active users, Facebook offers advertisers a massive audience to target. The platform allows businesses to create highly targeted and customized ads that are shown to users based on their interests, demographics, and online behavior. This level of granularity helps advertisers reach the right people at the right time, leading to higher conversion rates and return on investment (ROI).

On the other hand, Google AdWords continues to be the leading search engine advertising platform, connecting businesses with users who are actively searching for products or services. With approximately 3.5 billion searches per day, Google AdWords presents businesses with immense opportunities to capture potential customers at the moment they express a need or intent. The ability to bid on keywords and appear prominently in search engine results pages allows advertisers to increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, and boost sales.

While both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords are effective advertising platforms, they have distinct differences in terms of targeting capabilities and ad formats. Facebook Ads excel in audience targeting, as advertisers can reach users based on their interests, behaviors, location, and demographic information. This makes Facebook Ads particularly effective for businesses looking to target niche or specific market segments.

In contrast, Google AdWords focuses on keyword targeting and intent-based advertising. Advertisers bid on keywords relevant to their products or services, and their ads appear when users search for those specific terms or phrases. This targeting method ensures that businesses are reaching users who have a higher likelihood of converting, as they are actively searching for products or services related to the keywords.

According to a study conducted by WordStream, the average click-through rate (CTR) for Facebook Ads across all industries is 0.90%, while the average CTR for Google AdWords search ads is 1.91%. This statistic highlights the fact that Google AdWords search ads generally have higher CTRs compared to Facebook Ads. However, it is important to note that CTR is not the only metric that determines the success of an advertising campaign. Factors such as conversions, ROI, and cost per acquisition should also be considered.

In conclusion, Facebook Ads and Google AdWords are both powerful advertising platforms that offer unique targeting capabilities. Facebook Ads allow businesses to reach a large and diverse audience based on specific interests and demographics, while Google AdWords enables advertisers to capture users who are actively searching for relevant products or services. Understanding the strengths and differences of these platforms is essential for businesses looking to maximize their online advertising efforts and drive their desired results.

Which is the Better Advertising Platform in 2017: Facebook Ads or Google AdWords?

In the world of online advertising, two giants have emerged as leaders in the field: Facebook Ads and Google AdWords. Both platforms offer powerful tools and strategies to help businesses reach their target audience and promote their products or services. But which one is more effective in 2017? Let’s dive deep into the features and advantages of both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords to determine which platform is the better choice for your advertising needs.

The Answer to Facebook Ads Vs Google Adwords 2017

When it comes to online advertising, two major players dominate the field: Facebook Ads and Google AdWords. Both platforms offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial for businesses to understand which one is more suitable for their advertising needs.

Target Audience

One of the key factors to consider when comparing Facebook Ads and Google AdWords is the target audience. Facebook Ads allows businesses to narrow down their target audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. With over 2.7 billion monthly active users, Facebook provides businesses with a massive potential reach.

On the other hand, Google AdWords primarily targets users based on their search queries. This means businesses can reach potential customers who are actively searching for relevant products or services. With Google’s dominance as a search engine, businesses can tap into a vast pool of potential customers.

Ad Formats

Another critical aspect to consider is the ad formats available on each platform. Facebook Ads offers a wide variety of ad formats, including image ads, video ads, slideshow ads, carousel ads, and more. This allows businesses to choose the format that best suits their campaign objectives and target audience.

Google AdWords, on the other hand, primarily focuses on text-based ads displayed within search results. However, Google has expanded its ad formats to include video ads, image ads, app promotion ads, and more. While Google provides a range of options, Facebook still offers a more diverse selection of ad formats.

Cost and ROI

When it comes to cost and return on investment (ROI), Facebook Ads and Google AdWords differ in their approaches. Facebook Ads typically have a lower cost per click (CPC) compared to Google AdWords, making it an attractive option for businesses with smaller budgets.

However, Google AdWords often provides a higher conversion rate, meaning that businesses are more likely to convert clicks into actual sales or leads. This higher ROI potential makes Google AdWords a preferred choice for businesses that are focused on direct conversions.

Ad Placement

The placement of ads is another crucial factor to consider. Facebook Ads primarily appear within the Facebook platform, including the news feed and right sidebar. This allows businesses to target users while they are actively engaged with social media content.

Google AdWords, on the other hand, offers ads that appear within Google search results, as well as on websites that are part of the Google Display Network. This wider network of placements provides businesses with a broader reach, allowing them to target users across various online platforms.

Tracking and Analytics

The ability to track and analyze ad performance is essential for optimizing advertising campaigns. Facebook Ads provides businesses with detailed insights, including audience demographics, ad engagement metrics, and conversion tracking. This data allows businesses to refine their targeting and messaging based on real-time feedback.

Similarly, Google AdWords offers robust tracking and analytics capabilities. From keyword performance to the effectiveness of ad placements, businesses can gather valuable data to improve their campaign strategies. Google Analytics integration also provides businesses with a comprehensive view of website performance and user behavior.

Industry Statistics

A recent survey conducted by eMarketer found that Facebook’s ad revenue reached $84.2 billion in 2020, and it is projected to increase to $98.9 billion by 2023. This demonstrates the increasing importance and effectiveness of Facebook Ads in the advertising landscape.

While Google AdWords remains a dominant force in online advertising, with a revenue of $147 billion in 2020, it’s important to recognize the growing influence of Facebook Ads. Businesses should carefully consider their target audience, ad formats, cost, and tracking capabilities to determine which platform aligns best with their goals.

Ultimately, the choice between Facebook Ads and Google AdWords depends on the unique requirements and objectives of each business. By considering these factors and staying informed about updates and trends in the industry, businesses can make well-informed decisions to maximize their online advertising efforts.

Key Takeaways: Facebook Ads Vs Google Adwords 2017

When it comes to online advertising, Facebook Ads and Google AdWords are two of the most popular platforms available. Both offer unique advantages and cater to different audiences, making it crucial for marketers to understand their differences and choose the right platform for their campaigns. In this article, we will explore the key takeaways for Facebook Ads and Google AdWords in 2017.

1. Reach and Audience:

Facebook has a larger user base than Google, with over 2.7 billion monthly active users. This offers advertisers a wide reach and the potential to target specific demographics and interests. On the other hand, Google AdWords reaches users who are actively searching for specific keywords, making it ideal for capturing high-intent audiences.

2. Ad Formats:

Facebook Ads provide a variety of ad formats, including image, video, carousel, and canvas ads. These visually appealing formats allow for more creativity and engagement. Google AdWords primarily focuses on text-based ads, which are effective for search-based marketing but may lack the visual impact of Facebook ads.

3. Cost and Budgeting:

Facebook Ads generally offer lower CPC (Cost Per Click) and CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions) compared to Google AdWords. This makes it a more budget-friendly option, especially for small businesses. However, Google AdWords provides a more extensive range of bidding options, enabling advertisers to optimize their campaigns based on their budget constraints.

4. Targeting Options:

Facebook Ads excel in granular targeting options, allowing advertisers to reach users based on their demographics, interests, behavior, and even custom audience segments. Google AdWords focuses on keyword targeting, making it ideal for businesses looking to capture users who are actively searching for specific products or services.

5. User Intent:

Facebook Ads target users based on their interests and behaviors, hoping to generate interest and capture potential customers. Google AdWords, on the other hand, targets users actively searching for specific keywords, indicating higher intent to purchase. Understanding the difference in user intent helps advertisers determine the most suitable platform for their goals.

6. Ad Placement:

Facebook Ads appear within the Facebook platform, including the news feed and sidebar, as well as on Instagram. Google AdWords ads are primarily displayed on search engine results pages (SERPs) and Google partner websites. Advertisers need to consider their target audience’s preferred platforms when deciding on ad placement.

7. Measurement and Analytics:

Both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords provide robust measurement and analytics tools to track campaign performance. Facebook’s Ads Manager and Google Analytics offer insights into key metrics such as impressions, clicks, conversions, and ROI. Marketers should utilize these tools to optimize their campaigns and identify areas for improvement.

8. Remarketing Capabilities:

Facebook Ads and Google AdWords both offer remarketing capabilities, allowing advertisers to target users who have already shown interest in their products or website. Facebook’s remarketing options are more versatile, with features like dynamic product ads and custom audiences, providing a higher level of personalization.

9. Mobile Advertising:

Both platforms emphasize mobile advertising, considering the increasing prevalence of smartphone usage. Facebook has a strong mobile presence due to its mobile app and acquisitions like Instagram and WhatsApp. Google AdWords optimizes ads for mobile devices and offers additional mobile-specific features, such as click-to-call and app promotion.

10. Ad Design and Creative Control:

Facebook Ads allow advertisers to create visually appealing and interactive ads that can catch users’ attention. Advertisers have more control over the creative aspects, including the option to use images, videos, and carousels. Google AdWords, being text-based, focuses more on the ad copy and relevance to the user’s search query.

11. Ad Approval Process:

Facebook Ads often require manual approval, which can result in longer wait times for ad campaigns to go live. Google AdWords’ approval process is relatively quicker, typically automated, allowing campaigns to start running sooner. Advertisers should consider these approval timelines when planning their advertising campaigns.

12. Competitive Landscape:

Facebook Ads primarily compete with other social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. Google AdWords faces competition from other search engines and advertising networks. Understanding the competitive landscape can help advertisers identify where their target audience spends their time and allocate their ad budgets accordingly.

13. Ad Fraud and Ad Blockers:

Both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords face the challenge of ad fraud and ad blockers, which can affect ad visibility and campaign performance. Advertisers should stay updated with industry best practices and implement measures to combat fraud and ensure their ads are reaching the intended audience.

14. Ad Network Expansion:

Facebook Ads have expanded their ad network to include partner websites and apps, offering advertisers a broader reach beyond the Facebook platform. Google AdWords has a well-established network of partner websites through the Google Display Network. Advertisers should consider these expansions when planning their ad campaigns.

15. Testing and Iteration:

Both platforms encourage advertisers to test different ad creatives, targeting options, and ad placements to optimize campaign performance. A/B testing and continuous iteration are crucial for success on both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords. Advertisers should monitor and analyze their campaigns regularly, making data-driven decisions to improve results.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between Facebook Ads and Google AdWords?

Facebook Ads is a platform that allows advertisers to reach their target audience on Facebook and its partner sites, while Google AdWords is an advertising service that displays ads on Google search results pages and its partner sites.

2. Which platform is better for reaching a specific target audience?

Both platforms offer powerful targeting options, but Facebook Ads is often considered better for reaching a specific target audience. With Facebook, you can target users based on their demographics, interests, behaviors, and connections, allowing for more precise targeting.

3. Can I track conversions with both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords?

Yes, both platforms offer tracking capabilities for conversions. Facebook Ads uses the Facebook pixel to track conversions on your website, while Google AdWords uses conversion tracking codes or Google Analytics integration.

4. Which platform offers better ad formats?

Both platforms offer a variety of ad formats, but it ultimately depends on your advertising goals. Facebook Ads offers ad formats such as image ads, carousel ads, video ads, and lead ads, while Google AdWords offers text ads, display ads, shopping ads, and video ads.

5. Can I advertise on Instagram with Facebook Ads or Google AdWords?

Yes, you can advertise on Instagram using both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords. Facebook Ads allows you to extend your campaigns to Instagram and target users on that platform. Similarly, Google AdWords offers the option to run ads on the Instagram platform.

6. Which platform has a higher reach?

Both Facebook and Google have a massive reach, but Facebook usually has a higher reach due to its large user base. As of 2021, Facebook has over 2.8 billion monthly active users, while Google processes over 5.6 billion searches per day.

7. Can I set a daily budget for my campaigns on both platforms?

Yes, you can set a daily budget for your campaigns on both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords. This allows you to control your advertising spend and ensure that you don’t exceed your allocated budget.

8. Which platform offers better ad targeting options?

While both platforms offer robust ad targeting options, Facebook Ads is renowned for its advanced targeting capabilities. With Facebook Ads, you can target users based on their interests, behaviors, demographics, and even their past interactions with your business.

9. How do I pay for Facebook Ads and Google AdWords?

With Facebook Ads, you can pay using a credit or debit card, PayPal, or Facebook ad coupons. For Google AdWords, you can pay using a credit or debit card, or set up automatic payments through your bank account.

10. Can I track the performance of my ads on both platforms?

Yes, both platforms provide performance tracking tools. Facebook Ads provides insights and reporting on metrics such as reach, impressions, clicks, and conversions. Google AdWords offers a variety of performance metrics, including impressions, clicks, click-through rates (CTR), and conversion tracking.

11. Are there any limitations on the number of characters in ad copy for both platforms?

Yes, there are character limitations for ad copy on both platforms. Facebook Ads allows a maximum of 125 characters for the headline and 90 characters for the description. Google AdWords has a limit of 30 characters for the headline and two 90-character descriptions.

12. Can I run remarketing campaigns on both platforms?

Yes, both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords offer remarketing capabilities. Remarketing allows you to target users who have previously interacted with your website or app, increasing the chances of converting them into customers.

13. Which platform offers better support for advertisers?

Both platforms provide support for advertisers, but Facebook Ads offers a more user-friendly and intuitive interface, along with comprehensive documentation and educational resources. Google AdWords also offers extensive support, including a help center, support forums, and direct assistance from Google Ads specialists.

14. Can I advertise on mobile devices with both platforms?

Yes, both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords allow you to advertise on mobile devices. With the increasing popularity of mobile usage, it is essential to incorporate mobile advertising strategies into your campaigns.

15. Can I target specific locations with both platforms?

Yes, both Facebook Ads and Google AdWords allow you to target specific locations. You can target users based on their country, region, state, city, or even specific addresses, maximizing the relevance of your ads to the target audience in those locations.

Conclusion: Facebook Ads Vs Google Adwords 2017

In conclusion, the ongoing battle between Facebook Ads and Google Adwords in 2017 has shown interesting trends and insights for advertisers. Both platforms offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial for advertisers to carefully consider their goals and target audience in order to make an informed decision.

One key point to consider is the targeting capabilities of both platforms. Facebook Ads excels in this area, as it allows advertisers to target users based on their demographics, interests, behaviors, and even their connections. This level of precision targeting enables advertisers to reach a highly specific audience, ensuring that their ads are displayed to the most relevant users. On the other hand, Google Adwords relies heavily on keywords, which may limit the precision of targeting. However, Google’s extensive reach across its search network and partner sites ensures that ads are displayed to a wide range of users based on their search intent.

Another important factor to consider is the engagement and user behavior on each platform. Facebook, being a social networking site, offers a highly engaging environment where users actively like, comment, and share content. This level of engagement can benefit advertisers by increasing brand awareness and user interaction with their ads. Google, on the other hand, captures users’ attention when they are actively searching for information, making it an ideal platform for advertisers looking to target users with a high intent to purchase. Advertisers can leverage this behavior by displaying highly relevant ads that directly address users’ needs and queries.

Furthermore, the cost and return on investment (ROI) should also be taken into account. In general, Facebook Ads tend to have a lower cost per click compared to Google Adwords. However, the effectiveness of each platform in terms of ROI can vary depending on the industry and target audience. While Facebook may offer a lower cost per click, it may not generate as many qualified leads or conversions as Google Adwords, which often boasts a higher conversion rate. Advertisers should carefully analyze their target audience and goals to determine which platform will provide the best ROI for their specific business.

Additionally, it is worth noting that both Facebook Ads and Google Adwords offer advanced tracking and analytics tools to measure the performance of campaigns. Facebook provides detailed insights on reach, engagement, and conversions through its Ads Manager, while Google offers robust tracking capabilities through Google Analytics. These tools enable advertisers to optimize their campaigns, make data-driven decisions, and refine their targeting and messaging for better results.

In conclusion, the battle between Facebook Ads and Google Adwords in 2017 highlights the importance of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each platform. Advertisers need to consider their target audience, goals, budget, and desired ROI before choosing between the two. Ultimately, a well-rounded advertising strategy may involve leveraging the unique advantages of both platforms to reach a wider audience and drive better results. By tailoring the approach to match the strengths of each platform, advertisers can maximize their online advertising efforts and achieve their advertising goals.