If you are running an online business or working in digital marketing, you may have probably faced the ultimate showdown: Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads. Both platforms are powerhouses when it comes to advertising, but which one truly delivers the best results in this 2025? Well, after four years of experience and countless ad campaigns, I’m here to break it all down for you.
And hey, did you know that the first-ever banner ad on the internet had a 44% click-through rate? (Yep, that was 1994, and things have changed a lot since then!)
Understanding Google Ads & Facebook Ads
Before we dive into which one works better, let’s quickly understand the key difference:
- Google Ads = Intent-based advertising. You target users who are actively searching for something.
- Facebook Ads = Interest-based advertising. You target users based on their behaviors, interests, and demographics.
Both platforms have their strengths, but let’s compare them based on different factors.
1. Cost & Budget: Where Do You Get More Bang for Your Buck?
Google Ads:
- The average cost-per-click (CPC) on Google Ads in 2025 is around $2.50 (varies by industry).
- Competition is super high for keywords in profitable niches (try bidding on “buy iPhone” and see what happens!).
Facebook Ads:
- The average cost-per-click (CPC) on Facebook Ads is $1.00.
- CPM (cost per 1,000 impressions) is cheaper, making it great for brand awareness.
Winner: If you have a smaller budget and want lower costs, Facebook Ads is the better option.
2. Targeting & Audience Reach: Who Lets You Laser-Focus on the Right People?
Google Ads:
- Targets users based on search intent (they’re looking for a solution NOW).
- Offers detailed targeting like location, device, and keyword bidding.
Facebook Ads:
- Lets you target users based on interests, behaviors, demographics, and even life events (yep, you can target someone who just got engaged!).
- Has powerful retargeting options through Facebook Pixel.
3. Ad Formats & Creativity: Who Gives You More Room to Be Creative?
Google Ads:
- Text-based search ads.
- Display ads (banners, images, YouTube video ads).
- Shopping ads (great for eCommerce).
Facebook Ads:
- Video ads, carousel ads, story ads, reels ads, and more.
- Visually appealing, interactive, and great for storytelling.
- Best for viral marketing.
4. Conversion Rate: Which One Actually Drives More Sales?
Google Ads:
- Conversion rate is higher because users are searching for what they need.
- Works best for bottom-of-the-funnel marketing (people ready to buy).
Facebook Ads:
- Works better for brand awareness, lead generation, and impulse purchases.
- Best for eCommerce brands, especially with retargeting.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose in 2025?
It depends on your goals!
- Use Google Ads if: You want high-intent traffic, immediate conversions, and are in a competitive industry like real estate, finance, or B2B.
Use Facebook Ads if: You want lower costs, visually engaging ads, and great retargeting options, especially for eCommerce and brand awareness
Pro Tip: The best strategy? Use both Google and Facebook together! Run search ads on Google to capture high-intent traffic and use Facebook for retargeting and brand engagement.