Beginner’s Guide to Paid Ads : Facebook vs Google vs TikTok
If you’re new to digital marketing, choosing the right advertising platform can feel overwhelming. Facebook, Google, and TikTok are the three most powerful paid ad platforms today—but each works differently, attracts different audiences, and delivers different results Beginner’s Guide to Paid Ads .
This beginner-friendly guide breaks down how each platform works, who it’s best for, and how to choose the right one for your business.1. Understanding the Three Major Ad Platforms
✔ Facebook Ads (Meta Ads)
🔍 1. Understanding the Three Major Ad Platforms
✔ Facebook Ads (Meta Ads)
Facebook (including Instagram) is designed for interest-based targeting, meaning your ads reach people based on their behaviors, demographics, and online activities.
Best for:
- Building brand awareness
- Targeting specific interests or communities
- Products with strong visuals (fashion, beauty, lifestyle)
- Retargeting warm audiences
Ad Formats:
- Image Ads
- Video Ads
- Carousel Ads
- Story Ads
- Reels Ads
Strength: Highly detailed targeting + powerful retargeting tools.
Weakness: Declining organic reach and rising competition.
✔ Google Ads
Google Ads focuses on intent-based targeting—your ads appear when people search for what you sell.
Best for:
- Businesses that solve a specific problem
- Local services (plumbers, dentists, repair shops)
- E-commerce with high-intent keywords
- Search-heavy industries (finance, travel, education)
Ad Formats:
- Search Ads
- Display Ads
- Shopping Ads
- YouTube Ads
Strength: Reaches people who are ready to buy right now.
Weakness: Competitive keywords can be expensive.
✔ TikTok Ads
TikTok is the best platform for short, engaging video ads. Its algorithm makes it easy for content to go viral—even for new advertisers.
Best for:
- Younger audiences (16–35)
- Trendy or visually engaging products
- Brands using UGC (user-generated content)
- Creative storytelling and short videos
Ad Formats:
- In-Feed Videos
- Spark Ads
- TopView
- Branded Hashtags
- Branded Effects
Strength: Low cost + high engagement + viral potential.
Weakness: Requires creativity and fast-paced content.
📊 2. Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheapest?
| Platform | Cost (approx.) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| $$ | Good for testing multiple audiences | |
| $$$ | Best for high-intent searchers ready to buy | |
| TikTok | $ | Low CPM, great for reach & engagement |
TikTok is usually the cheapest, but Google often delivers the best buyers because of intent.
🎯 3. Which Platform Should You Choose? (Quick Guide)
If you want sales quickly → Choose Google Ads
People searching are already interested.
If you want to build a brand → Choose Facebook Ads
Best for cold audiences and retargeting.
If you want huge reach on a low budget → Choose TikTok Ads
Great for viral, creative marketing.
🧩 4. Can You Use All Three? Yes!
Here’s a beginner-friendly strategy combo:
- TikTok → Create viral awareness
- Facebook → Retarget people who engaged
- Google → Capture high-intent searches & close sales
This is a powerful and affordable funnel that even beginners can run.
🚀 5. Final Tips for Beginner’s
- Start with a small budget ($5–$10/day)
- Use simple A/B testing (2 audiences, 2 creatives)
- Study analytics weekly
- Optimize based on results, not opinions
- Keep your ads mobile-friendly (90% of viewers use phones)