Outbrain is a well-known name to affiliate marketers. However, with the introduction of Outbrain DSP, many marketers are left wondering which option is best suited for their needs. In this Outbrain vs. Outbrain DSP blogpost, we highlight the key differences between these two options to help you choose the right one for your campaigns.
What is Outbrain?
Outbrain is a leading native platform with a vast network of publishers including MSN. It operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model. The primary goal of Outbrain is to drive traffic to your website through engaging recommendations that blend seamlessly with the user experience.
What is Outbrain DSP?
Outbrain DSP is an advanced advertising platform that allows marketers to programmatically buy ad space across various channels. DSP stands for Demand-Side Platform — it’s the main component of programmatic advertising. With Outbrain DSP, advertisers get data-driven insights, target specific audiences more precisely and optimize their campaigns more effectively.
Outbrain vs. Outbrain DSP: Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s the list of main factors to consider when deciding between Outbrain and Outbrain DSP:
Ad Types
- Outbrain is focused on native advertising. Its ads are designed to look like part of the content, making them less intrusive and more engaging for users.
- Outbrain DSP supports various ad formats for a more comprehensive marketing strategy. With Outbrain DSP you can launch native, display and video ads or cross-channel campaigns.
Budget
- Outbrain typically requires a lower initial investment since it operates on a PPC model. It makes Outbrain campaigns accessible for smaller affiliates or those just starting out.
- Outbrain DSP may require a larger budget due to its advanced features and capabilities, but it can result in higher returns if you have the resources to invest in programmatic advertising.
Complexity
- Outbrain is user-friendly and intuitive. It is suitable for beginners or those who prefer a hands-on approach without the complexities of programmatic advertising.
- Outbrain DSP may require some expertise in programmatic advertising strategies. If you have experience in digital marketing and are comfortable navigating advanced platforms, this option could be highly beneficial.
Optimization
- Outbrain users can monitor the performance and optimize their campaigns in real-time.
- Outbrain DSP provides tools for top-quality automated optimization based on performance metrics. Its optimization options include CTR, CPA and more.
Analytics
Both platforms offer great analytics tools; however, Outbrain DSP provides more in-depth insights into campaign performance across multiple channels. If data-driven decision-making is crucial for your strategy, Outbrain DSP may be the better choice.
Campaign Goals
- Use Outbrain if your primary goal is to drive traffic to blogposts or articles. If you want to enhance brand visibility through native advertising without complex programmatic strategies, Outbrain is your best choice.
- Use Outbrain DSP if you’re looking for an advanced approach to advertising that includes programmatic buying across multiple channels. If your focus is on precise targeting (including frequent MSN users ) and real-time optimization for various ad formats, then Outbrain DSP is the right option.
To Wrap Up
Both options — Outbrain and Outbrain DSP — provide great opportunities for affiliate marketers looking to drive conversions. The choice between Outbrain and Outbrain DSP depends on your marketing goals, budget and expertise level. For those focused on driving traffic through native ads, Outbrain remains a powerful option. If you’re ready to dive into the world of programmatic advertising with advanced targeting capabilities and cross-channel strategies, then Outbrain DSP can offer significant advantages. Select one that fits your needs or experiment with both options to boost your performance — we’ll provide you with reliable accounts on your way to great results!
