Google Ads vs Facebook Ads: Which is Better for Your Business?
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Thinking about running ads for your business, but not sure whether to choose Google Ads or Facebook Ads? You’re not alone. Both platforms are popular and powerful, but they work in different ways. Picking the right one can help you get better results. In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between Google Ads vs Facebook Ads and help you decide which one is better for your business.
Google Ads vs Facebook Ads: Which Is Better for Your Business?
Choosing between Google Ads and Facebook Ads depends on what your business needs. If it’s reaching people actively searching or inspiring new interest.
1. What’s the Difference?
Google Ads vs Facebook Ads work in different ways.
Google Ads are based on paid search. These ads show up when people search for something using keywords like “best plumber” or “pizza near me”.
Facebook ads vs Google ads are based on paid social. Facebook shows ads to people based on their interests, age, and behavior, even if they aren’t looking for your product.
So, when we compare Google Ads vs Facebook, Google focuses on intent while Facebook focuses on interest.
2. Targeting Options
Google and Facebook ads offer different ways to target the right people.
- Google Ads lets you target users by keywords, location, device type, language, and search intent.
- You can use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find the right keywords and Google Ads Audience Manager to create custom audience lists.
- Facebook Ads allows targeting by interests, age, gender, relationship status, location, and online behavior.
- Facebook also offers Lookalike Audiences to find new users similar to your best customers.
- You can use Meta Ads Manager to set up detailed audience targeting and track performance.
In the Facebook vs Google Ads debate, Google is better for people who are actively searching. Facebook is better for reaching new people based on their lifestyle.
3. Ad Formats and Reach
Here’s how Google Ads and Facebook Ads compare in formats and reach.
- Google Ads offer formats like search ads, display ads, shopping ads, and YouTube ads
- Facebook Ads include feed ads, carousels, stories, and reels across Facebook and Instagram
- Google handles over 3.5 billion searches daily
- Facebook has around 3 billion monthly active users
So, Facebook ads vs Google AdWords offer strong visual formats, while Google is better for high-intent audiences.
4. Costs, Conversion Rates, and ROI
Let’s look at the cost and performance of Google Ads and Facebook Ads.
- Google Ads usually cost $1–$3 per click, but can go over $50 in competitive industries
- Facebook Ads cost around $0.50 to $1.50 per click
- Facebook has a lower budget entry point, starting from $5 to $10 per day
- Google Ads have a conversion rate of about 4.40% for search and 0.57% for display
- Facebook Ads have an average conversion rate of 9.21%
- Facebook’s cost per conversion is around $18 to $19
- Google Ads cost per conversion is higher, usually between $48 to $56
So, when comparing Facebook ads and Google ads conversion rate, Facebook often gives better results for less money.
Which Is Better for Your Business?
- Immediate intent vs brand discovery
- If people are searching for your service, Google is better
- If you want to build awareness or target impulse buyers, Facebook works better
- That’s why many ask Facebook ads vs Google ads, which is better—it depends on your goal
- Budget size
- Small businesses often choose Facebook because Facebook ad revenue vs Google is cheaper and easier to start
- Bigger budgets or businesses needing direct leads may prefer Google even if Google ads vs Facebook ads cost is higher.
- Combined strategy
- Many businesses use both platforms together.
- Google Ads capture search-intent leads.
- Facebook Ads retarget those users and grow brand awareness.
- Using both can improve your results across the board in the Google ads vs Facebook space.
Summary Table: Google Ads vs Facebook Ads
Platform | Strengths | Best For |
Google Ads | High-intent targeting using keywords | Direct leads from search-based users |
Facebook Ads | Targeting by interests and demographics | Building awareness, retargeting, visual ads |
Both Combined | Uses both intent and interest strategies | Reaching more people and increasing results |
Final Verdict: Google Ads vs Facebook Ads — Which Should You Use?
- If your audience actively searches for your product (e.g., services, retail with specific keywords), Google ads vs Facebook ads conversion rate will likely favor Google.
- If you’re launching brand awareness or selling visually compelling products to new audiences, Facebook vs Google ads can be more affordable and engaging.
- The strongest approach often blends both: use Google to capture search intent and Facebook to create demand and retarget—giving your business the best of both worlds.
Pros and Cons of Google Ads and Facebook Ads
Both Google Ads and Facebook Ads have their strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick look:
Pros of Google Ads:
- Reaches people actively searching
- Great for high-intent keywords
- Fast results for search campaigns
Cons of Google Ads:
- It can be expensive in competitive industries
- Needs strong keyword research
Pros of Facebook Ads:
- Targets by interests and behavior
- Lower cost per click
- Great for brand awareness and visuals
Cons of Facebook Ads:
- Users may not be ready to buy
- Needs eye-catching visuals and creative content
Knowing the pros and cons can help you decide which platform fits your business needs better.
Wrap Up!
Choosing between Google Ads vs Facebook Ads depends on your business goals. If you want to reach people who are already searching for your product, Google Ads is a smart choice. If you want to build awareness and reach new people based on their interests, Facebook Ads works well. Many businesses use both to get the best results. So instead of picking one, try using both platforms together to grow your business faster.
Need help running successful ad campaigns? Contact Cubitrek today!
Common Queries
1: Which is better, Facebook Ads or Google Ads for your business?
Google Ads work best if you want quick sales from people already searching. Facebook Ads are better for reaching new people and growing brand awareness. The right choice depends on your goals and audience.
2: Which is more profitable, Facebook Ads or Google Ads?
Google Ads are more profitable if you want high-intent leads. Facebook Ads are cheaper per click but may take longer to convert. It depends on your budget and what you’re selling.
3: Are Google Ads better than Facebook Ads for real estate?
Facebook Ads cost less per click and are good for reaching more people. But Google Ads may give you better leads because people are actively searching for properties. Both can work well if used right.
