Point of this article..
- Instream Video Ads are video ads that appear before, during, or after the main video content on platforms like YouTube and Facebook Watch.
- Outstream Video Ads are video ads that appear outside video platforms, such as within news articles or between content paragraphs.
- Which is more effective? Each type of ad has its advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on your marketing goals.
Don’t Waste Money on Ineffective Ads! Understand the Difference Between Instream and Outstream Video Ads to Boost Your ROI!
In the fast-paced digital era, video ads have become a crucial tool in marketing strategies. However, not all video ads have the same impact. Many businesses waste large budgets without achieving maximum results because they do not understand the difference between Instream Video Ads and Outstream Video Ads. So, which one is best for your business needs? Check out the complete explanation below!
What Are Video Ads?
Video ads are advertisements in video format used to promote products or services visually. In the world of digital marketing, video ads are increasingly popular because they are more engaging and effective in boosting brand awareness and conversions. Video ads can appear on various platforms such as social media, websites, mobile apps, and streaming services.
The two main types of video ads commonly used are Instream Video Ads and Outstream Video Ads. Each format has its own advantages and strategies tailored to specific marketing goals.
Definition of Instream Video Ads
Instream Video Ads are ads that appear within the main video content, typically on platforms like YouTube and Facebook Watch. These ads can be shown before the video starts (pre-roll), in the middle of the video (mid-roll), or after the video ends (post-roll).
There are two main types of Instream Ads: skippable (can be skipped after a few seconds) and non-skippable (cannot be skipped).
Definition of Outstream Video Ads
Outstream Video Ads, on the other hand, appear outside of main video platforms. These ads are usually placed within news articles, between paragraphs in blogs, or as pop-ups in apps. Outstream Ads are more flexible as they do not require main video content to be displayed, allowing them to reach a broader audience across different websites.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Instream & Outstream Video Ads
Advantages of Instream Video Ads
Instream ads offer high engagement as they appear directly within the content being watched. This format is effective for increasing brand awareness and driving conversions, especially because audiences tend to pay more attention to them.
Advantages:
- High Engagement Rate: Ads appear within the video being watched, making them more noticeable.
- Better Conversion Rates: Increases the chances of actions like clicks and purchases.
- Flexible Format Options: Can choose between skippable or non-skippable formats depending on marketing strategy.
Disadvantages of Instream Video Ads
Although effective, instream ads have their own challenges. Some audiences may find them intrusive and choose to skip them if the option is available, leading to varying ad view durations.
Disadvantages:
- Potential to Be Skipped: If using the skippable format, audiences can skip the ad after a few seconds.
- Higher Cost: Instream ads are often more expensive than other formats.
- Platform Dependency: Can only be displayed on video platforms like YouTube or other streaming sites.
Advantages of Outstream Video Ads
Outstream video ads do not require a video platform to be displayed, allowing them to reach a wider audience. This format also does not force users to watch, reducing the feeling of intrusion.
Advantages:
- Wider Reach: Can appear on various websites without needing a video platform.
- More Flexible: Can be placed within articles, feeds, or mobile apps.
- Better User Experience: Less disruptive compared to instream ads.
Disadvantages of Outstream Video Ads
Although they have a broad reach, the effectiveness of outstream ads often depends on placement context. If not strategically positioned, users might ignore them.
Disadvantages:
- Lower Engagement Rate: Not always as attention-grabbing as instream ads.
- Inconsistent Viewing Duration: Users may scroll past the ad before it finishes playing.
- Placement Dependent: Results are heavily influenced by the ad’s location on the webpage.
How to Use Video Ads
Using video ads requires a well-planned strategy for optimal results. Instream Video Ads are better for boosting engagement within video content, while Outstream Video Ads can reach a broader audience across multiple platforms.
Instream Video Ads
- Use skippable formats to increase brand awareness without forcing the audience to watch too long.
- Make the first 5 seconds engaging so viewers don’t skip the ad.
- Target relevant audiences to enhance ad effectiveness.
Outstream Video Ads
- Use a compelling headline to increase the likelihood of the audience watching the ad.
- Optimize ads for mobile viewing as most users access them via smartphones.
- Add a clear Call to Action (CTA) to encourage user interaction.
The choice depends on your marketing objectives. Instream Video Ads are more effective for engagement and conversion as they appear within the content being watched.
A combination of both can be the most optimal strategy. Use Instream Ads to build brand awareness and drive conversions, while Outstream Ads can expand audience reach cost-effectively.
If you want to ensure your video ads run optimally without having to manage everything yourself, ProPS can help you manage Instream & Outstream Video Ads with an effective strategy.
Advertising Platforms for Video Ads
Choosing the right platform is crucial for the success of your video ad campaign. Here are some of the best platforms you can use:
- Google Ads: Offers various video ad formats, including YouTube Instream and Outstream Ads.
- YouTube Ads: The primary platform for Instream Ads with multiple targeting options.
- Meta Ads: Ideal for video ads with precise audience targeting.
- TikTok Ads: Effective for reaching younger audiences with creative video formats.
- LinkedIn Ads: Suitable for B2B video marketing campaigns.
Conclusion
Instream and Outstream Video Ads each serve different marketing goals. Instream Ads boost engagement and conversions, while Outstream Ads offer broader reach at a lower cost.
For optimal results, strategically combining both video ad types can enhance your advertising impact. Need assistance? ProPS is ready to help maximize your video ad ROI.
FAQ
1. What are Video Ads?
Video Ads are video advertisements displayed on various digital platforms to promote products or services.
2. What is the difference between Instream and Outstream Video Ads?
The main difference between Instream and Outstream Video Ads lies in the location of the display and how the audience enjoys it.
3. How to measure the success of Video Ads?
Some of the main metrics are view rate, click-through rate (CTR), conversion rate, and watch time.
4. Are Video Ads suitable for all types of businesses?
Yes, but the strategy and format used must be adjusted to the target audience and marketing goals of the business.
5. What advertising platforms are suitable for Video Ads?
There are several advertising platforms that are suitable for using Video Ads such as Google Ads, Youtube Ads, Meta Ads, TikTok Ads, LinkedIn Ads, and Twitter Ads.