YouTube ads are video ads that appear before, during, or alongside YouTube content, reaching over 2 billion monthly users.

Ad Formats

Skippable In-Stream

Plays before or during videos. Viewers can skip after 5 seconds. You pay when viewers watch 30 seconds (or full ad if shorter) or interact.

Non-Skippable In-Stream

15-second ads viewers must watch. Higher CPMs but guaranteed views. Best for awareness.

Bumper Ads

6-second non-skippable ads. Great for reinforcing messages at low cost.

In-Feed Video Ads

Appear in YouTube search results and related videos. Users click to watch.

Targeting Options

  • Demographics and interests
  • Custom intent (based on search behaviour)
  • Remarketing lists
  • Specific channels or videos
  • Topics and keywords

Best Practices

  • Hook viewers in the first 5 seconds
  • Include clear call-to-action
  • Design for sound-off viewing (captions)
  • Test multiple creative lengths