Introduction

Google Ads is one of the most powerful digital advertising platforms in the world. Whether you are a multinational corporation or a small business in India, Google Ads offers the resources you need to build your brand, create leads, and increase sales. The platform provides a variety of ad formats, each with a distinct purpose in marketing.

In this blog, we’ll explore the 8 types of Google Ads, how they work, and when to use them to get the most out of your marketing budget.

1. Search Ads

The most popular type of Google Ads is called Search Ads. When a user searches for a keyword, these text advertisements show up on Google Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs). For instance, relevant search ads might show up at the top of the results if a user in India searches for “buy mobile phone.”

Best for: Lead generation, website visits, and service-based businesses.

2. Display Ads

Google’s extensive network of partner websites features display ads. These consist of interactive visual advertisements and image-based banners that users see while perusing blogs, news websites, or other content.

Best for: Brand awareness and reaching users passively across the web.

3. Video Ads

These advertisements appear on Google’s video partner websites as well as YouTube. They can show up before, during, or after a video and can be either bumper ads or skippable or non-skippable.

Best for: Storytelling, product promotion, and engaging visual content.

4. Shopping Ads

Shopping ads are perfect for Indian e-commerce companies. When users search for a particular product, these advertisements appear directly on Google Search results, along with product images, prices, and store names.

Best for: Retailers looking to boost product sales directly from search.

5. App Promotion Ads

Google Ads enables you to run campaigns specifically designed to increase installs and engagement for your iOS or Android app. These advertisements can be found on YouTube, Google Search, and the Play Store.

Best for: App developers or companies with mobile applications.

6. Smart Ads

Smart Ads are machine learning-powered automated campaigns. They only need a few details, your goals, and your budget to get started. Google’s system maximizes performance by optimizing everything else.

Best for: Small businesses in India with limited advertising experience.

7. Local Ads

Local ads encourage customers to visit physical stores. These advertisements promote in-store visits to local users by showcasing your company on Google Maps, Search, and YouTube.

Best for: Physical businesses, restaurants, salons, gyms, and local service providers.

8. Discovery Ads

These are visually appealing advertisements that appear in Google’s feeds, such as Google Discover, YouTube Home, and the Gmail Promotions tab. Businesses can reach consumers even when they are not actively searching with the aid of discovery ads.

Best for: Reaching new customers and promoting new product launches.

How to Choose the Right Google Ads Type?

The best ad type depends on your objective:

Want sales? Use Shopping or Search Ads.
Want traffic? Use Search or Display Ads.
Promoting an app? Use App Promotion Ads.
Want local footfall? Try Local Ads.
For branding? Go for Video or Discovery Ads.

In India’s diverse market, combining multiple ad types often works best for long-term success.

FAQs

1. How much does Google Ads cost in India?
Depending on your industry and level of competition, Google Ads may be reasonably priced. You can begin with as little as ₹100 a day.

Q2. What kind of Google Ads is most effective for small businesses?
Search Ads and Smart Ads are ideal for small businesses due to their simplicity and cost-efficiency.

Q3. Do I need a website to run Google Ads?
Yes, for most ad types. However, Local Ads and App Promotion Ads can work without a traditional website.

Q4. Can I run Google Ads in Hindi or regional languages?
Yes, Google Ads supports multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, and more.

Q5. How long does it take for Google Ads to show results?
Some campaigns may start showing results in a few hours, but optimal performance often takes 1–2 weeks of optimization.

Q6. Are Google Ads better than social media ads?
Google Ads capture intent-based searches, making them effective for direct conversions. Social ads are better for discovery and engagement.

Q7. Can I target only users from India with Google Ads?
Yes, you can geo-target users based on cities, states, or the entire country.

Q8. Do I need an agency to manage Google Ads?
Not necessarily. Many small businesses manage it themselves using Google’s smart features, though agencies help with advanced strategies.

Conclusion

Google Ads offers flexibility and control, whether you want to boost sales, increase visibility, or promote a mobile app. Understanding each type ensures you make smart choices and achieve the best return on investment.

What are the 8 Types of Google Ads?