If you run a business and are looking for TikTok vs Facebook ads, you want to compare the return on marketing investment.
Both Facebook and TikTok are one of the most favorite channels of marketers for social media marketing. These channels provide a large number of audiences, marketing tools, and data-driven targeting features.
If you’re planning to use Facebook and TikTok ads, it’s important to understand how they differ. Knowing their strengths will help you use either or both platforms effectively.
In this quick read, you’ll learn the differences between Facebook and TikTok ads, and the tips on making the most of each.
Let’s begin with understanding what Facebook and TikTok ads are.
What are Facebook ads?
Facebook has over three billion active users each month. It is the most popular app in the world. This makes it a great platform for reaching a large audience.
Facebook ads come in different formats. The main ones are images, videos, carousels, and collection ads. These ads include pictures and captions. They appear in different places, like Facebook Stories, Messenger, and the home feed.
Each ad format has a different purpose. Single-image and video ads help build awareness. Collection and Advantage+ ads are better for getting clicks and conversions.
One big advantage of Facebook ads is targeting. Facebook collects a lot of data from users. This helps advertisers reach the right people easily.
Another benefit is that Facebook ads can also run on Instagram. This helps businesses reach even more people and find new customers.
Also read: Facebook ads vs Google ads: Which is better?
What are TikTok ads?
TikTok ads help businesses of all sizes reach more people. They allow brands to connect with new audiences in creative ways. TikTok says that one in three users has bought a product after seeing it on the app.
There are different types of TikTok ads. Most of them appear in a user’s feed, just like regular TikTok videos. TikTok ads also come in different formats, similar to Facebook ads.
However, Facebook ads can show up in many places. They appear in Reels, Stories, and Messenger. TikTok ads mostly appear in and around the main feed.
Some TikTok ads get a lot of attention. In-feed ads and Top View ads can reach big audiences. They also get high engagement. This makes them popular with both small and big businesses.
Brands can also use special ad formats to stand out. Branded Effects and Branded Hashtag Challenges encourage people to join in. Many brands have gone viral by using these creative ads.
TikTok ads work well, especially when they follow trends. Using features like Stitching and creating engaging content helps brands succeed.
Also read: Google ads vs TikTok ads
TikTok ads vs Facebook ads
Let’s compare TikTok ads and Facebook ads using different valuable metrics.
1. Costs
First, let’s check the average cost of TikTok ads:
- Cost per 1,000 views (CPM)- $10.00
- Cost per click (CPC)- $1.00
Now, here’s the cost of Facebook ads:
- CPM: $7.00
- CPC: $1.00
Both platforms have the same CPC. But Facebook’s CPM is lower, making it cheaper to reach more people.
However, ad costs change based on many factors. Your industry, audience, ad format, and bidding strategy all affect pricing. These numbers are just a rough guide for you.
2. Audience
Facebook and TikTok have different types of users.
Most TikTok users are younger:
- 41.7% are 18-24 years old
- 31% are 25-34 years old
- 24.1% are 35 and older
Facebook has a wider age range:
- 22.6% are 18-24 years old
- 31% are 25-34 years old
- 41% are 35 and older
If you want to reach young people, TikTok is the best option. Many Gen Z users even prefer TikTok over Google for searches.
If you want a mix of young and older users, Facebook is better. It also has a much larger audience, with 2.96 billion monthly users compared to 1.2 billion on TikTok.
3. Targeting
Both platforms allow you to target specific users. You can target by
- Age, gender, and location
- Interests and hobbies
- User behavior and activity
- Device type (phone, tablet, or computer)
Both also allow Custom Audiences and Lookalike Audiences for advanced targeting.
The biggest difference is experience. Facebook ads have been around since 2007. TikTok ads started in 2020. Facebook has collected more data, making its targeting more precise.
4. Ad Formats
Facebook and TikTok offer different types of ads.
Facebook ad types-
- Image ads
- Video ads
- Carousel ads
- Stories ads
- Collection ads
- Messenger ads
TikTok ad types-
- In-Feed ads
- Top View ads
- Brand Takeover ads
- Branded Hashtag ads
- Branded Effects ads
- Collection ads
Both platforms offer ads for different goals. Video ads work well for brand awareness. Collection ads help drive sales.
The main difference is ad placement. Facebook ads appear in many places, like Messenger, Stories, and the home feed. TikTok ads mostly show in the main feed.
If you want more options, Facebook is better. If you prefer a simple layout, TikTok is a good choice.
5. Analytics
Tracking ad performance is important. Both Facebook and TikTok have built-in analytics tools.
Facebook Ads Manager
TikTok Ads Manager
These tools help brands track performance, create reports, and measure success. Both also offer extra features, like tracking pixels and Brand Lift studies.
Both platforms are strong in analytics. This category is a tie.
TikTok ads vs Facebook ads: Which one should you pick?
Both platforms have benefits, so your choice depends on your goals and budget for social media advertising.
Facebook ads usually have a higher cost-per-click (CPC) and cost-per-mille (CPM) than TikTok ads. However, Facebook’s ad costs change, especially during holidays. With good audience targeting, you can lower expenses.
TikTok ads, however, need a minimum budget of $500 per campaign. This can be expensive for small businesses.
TikTok is a video-only platform. Unlike Facebook, you can’t use static images like carousel ads. To succeed, businesses must create high-quality videos. TikTok ads also need careful planning and creativity. This adds to the overall cost.
If you’re new to advertising, Facebook’s image ads are simpler and more affordable. But if your target audience is millennials or Gen Z, you could invest in TikTok video ads.
Conclusion
Deciding between TikTok and Facebook ads for retail can be challenging. Both platforms have unique features that help businesses grow. The best choice depends on three things:
Your target audience- Who are you trying to reach?
Your business goals- What do you want to achieve?
Platform strengths- How can each platform help you get better results?
The best approach? Use both!
Why choose just one? Running ads on both TikTok and Facebook can help you reach more people and improve your marketing success.
If you want to discuss how a multi-channel strategy can help you reach more people and achieve your marketing goals, we’re happy to connect.
Get a FREE social media marketing consultation today at (833) 772-4897.
TikTok ads vs Facebook ads FAQs
1. Are TikTok ads or Facebook ads better?
It depends on your audience and goals. TikTok works well for younger users who prefer short videos. Facebook reaches a wider audience and offers more ad types. Using both can help you get the best results.
2. Are TikTok ads worth it?
Yes, TikTok ads work well, especially for Gen Z and millennials. The platform’s video format helps businesses reach more people. But to succeed, you need creative and high-quality videos that grab attention.
3. Does TikTok pay more than Facebook?
TikTok pays creators through the Creator Fund and ad revenue. Facebook, however, has more ways to earn. It offers in-stream ads, fan subscriptions, and ad breaks. For long-term earnings, Facebook is usually better.
4. What are the similarities between TikTok and Facebook?
Both platforms allow users to share content, run ads, and target audiences. They use algorithms to show relevant posts. Businesses can promote videos, images, and interactive content to reach more people.
