If you’re trying to grow your business online, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I run Facebook Ads or Google Ads?
It’s a fair question. And no, the answer isn’t about picking a favorite.
It depends on your goals, your audience, and how your customers discover you.
Let’s break this down so you can stop guessing and start investing in the right platform.
Difference Between Facebook Ads and Google Ads
Google Ads help you show up when someone is actively searching for a product or service. These are people who already know what they want. They just need to find who can give it to them. If you’re a lawyer, a dentist, or a plumber, Google Ads can put you in front of them at the exact moment they’re ready to act.
Facebook Ads work differently. You’re not targeting people based on what they’re searching. You’re reaching them based on who they are—age, interests, behavior, and lifestyle. Facebook is where you create demand, not just capture it.
Think about it like this:
Do you want people to find you when they need something right now?
Or do you want to stay visible so they think of you when the time comes?
When to Choose Google Ads
Google Ads work best when people are already looking for what you offer. It’s not about convincing someone—they’re already searching. Your job is to show up.
This makes Google Ads ideal for high-intent industries like legal services, emergency plumbing, real estate, or healthcare. In these niches, people usually need help fast and are ready to make a decision.
Here are some real-world search examples:
- “Divorce lawyer near me”
- “24/7 emergency plumber”
- “Apartments for rent in Sydney”
- “Bulk billing GP near me”
These aren’t casual searches. These are people actively looking to book, call, or buy. If your business depends on capturing these moments, Google Ads can deliver fast, qualified leads.
Tip: Focus on keywords that signal urgency or clear intent. Think “near me,” “affordable,” “top-rated,” or “same-day service.” These often lead to better results and higher ROI.I
When to Choose Facebook Ads
Facebook Ads are perfect for building awareness and creating demand—especially when your audience isn’t actively searching for you.
Let’s say you’re launching a new product like eco-friendly water bottles or all-natural dog treats. People don’t know you exist yet. But with the right ad, you can make them stop scrolling and pay attention.
Facebook is great for:
- Building an email list
- Running product launches
- Retargeting people who visited your website
- Promoting seasonal offers
- Telling your brand story
Just don’t expect instant results. Facebook is a long game. You need to earn attention before you earn trust.
What About the Cost?
Here’s what most people get wrong. They only look at cost per click. But what matters more is cost per result.
Google Ads usually cost more per click, but those clicks are more likely to turn into leads. Facebook Ads have cheaper clicks, but you might need more time (and retargeting) to see sales.
If you have a tight budget and need to generate leads now, start with Google.
If you’re testing a new idea or building an audience, Facebook is a great sandbox.
Which One Converts Better?
It’s not about which one converts better. It’s about which one fits your strategy better.
We once ran ads for a law firm. Google Ads brought in qualified leads right away—people searching for “family lawyer near me” or “property dispute legal advice.”
These users were ready to talk. They just needed to find someone they could trust.
But Facebook Ads helped build long-term trust and visibility. We shared the firm’s success stories, client testimonials, and legal tips. Engagement grew. Website visits increased. And over time, referrals followed.
So here’s the simple breakdown:
- Use Google for fast wins.
- Use Facebook for long-term brand growth.
- Use both—if you can afford it—and track them separately.
So, Which One Should You Use?
Instead of asking “Which one is better?”,
ask yourself:
- Do I need sales right now?
- Is my product or service something people are actively searching for?
- Do I want to build brand awareness over time?
If you answered “yes” to the first two, start with Google Ads. If you’re focused on storytelling, building a following, or introducing a new product—go with Facebook Ads.
Better yet, test both with a small budget. $300 on each platform. Run the ads for 2 weeks. Then look at the numbers—cost per lead, cost per sale, and overall ROI.
Let the data decide.
Final Take
No two businesses are the same. What works for one might flop for another. But when you understand how each platform works, you stop guessing—and start making smarter marketing decisions.
If you’re serious about making your ad spend count, don’t go in blind. Test, learn, and adjust. That’s the game.
Need help deciding what’s right for you?
Before you spend another dollar— let us help you stop wasting money and start getting results. Get a free ad strategy audit from our team.
We’ll look at your goals, audience, and product—and show you exactly where to start.
No hard pitch. No spam. Just clarity.
