Adsterra vs Monetag: Which is Better?

Adsterra vs. Monetag: A Comprehensive Comparison for Publishers and Advertisers

Online advertising has become one of the most effective ways to monetize websites, mobile apps, and online traffic. Two popular ad networks, Adsterra and Monetag (formerly PropellerAds), have been widely used by publishers and advertisers looking for optimal revenue generation and ad performance. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of these two platforms, covering ad formats, payment methods, CPM rates, approval processes, and overall advantages to help you make an informed decision.

1. Overview of Adsterra and Monetag

Adsterra

Adsterra is a well-established ad network that offers a wide range of monetization options for publishers and effective advertising solutions for marketers. It is known for its high CPM rates, diverse ad formats, and anti-adblock solutions that help maximize revenue. Adsterra caters to both desktop and mobile traffic and provides a self-serve platform for advertisers.

Monetag (formerly PropellerAds)

Monetag is another leading ad network focused on pop-unders, push notifications, and interstitial ads. It has gained popularity among publishers due to its fast approval process, automated monetization solutions, and high fill rates. Monetag is particularly effective for monetizing international traffic, including Tier 2 and Tier 3 countries.

2. Ad Formats Comparison

Ad formats play a crucial role in maximizing revenue and ensuring a seamless user experience. Both Adsterra and Monetag provide multiple ad types, but their strengths differ.

Adsterra Ad Formats:

Pop-under Ads – High CPM, shown behind the main browser window.
Push Notifications – Engages users even when they are not on the website.
Social Bar Ads – Unique ad format resembling social media notifications.
Native Ads – Blends with website content for a non-intrusive experience.
Interstitial Ads – Full-screen ads appearing between page transitions.
Direct Link Ads – Can be used anywhere without requiring website integration.

Monetag Ad Formats:

Pop-under Ads – The primary focus, delivering competitive CPM rates.
Push Notifications – Works well for long-term user engagement.
Interstitial Ads – High-visibility ads displayed between user actions.
Direct Link Ads – Can be promoted through social media or apps.
Onclick Ads – A special ad format triggering additional pages.

Verdict:

Adsterra offers a more diverse range of ad formats, making it ideal for publishers who want multiple monetization options. Monetag, however, excels in pop-under ads and push notifications, making it suitable for publishers who prioritize these ad types.

3. Payment Methods & Minimum Payout

Receiving timely payments is a crucial factor for publishers. Both networks offer multiple payment methods and low payout thresholds.

Adsterra Payments:

Minimum Payout: $5 for PayPal & crypto, $100 for wire transfer.
Payment Methods: PayPal, Bitcoin, WebMoney, Tether (USDT), Wire Transfer.
Payment Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Monetag Payments:

Minimum Payout: $5.
Payment Methods: PayPal, Skrill, WebMoney, Bitcoin, Payoneer.
Payment Frequency: Weekly and bi-weekly.

Verdict:

Both networks provide multiple payment options with low payout thresholds. However, Adsterra offers more flexible frequency options, making it ideal for publishers who want faster access to earnings.

4. CPM & Revenue Potential

CPM (Cost Per Mille) rates determine how much publishers earn per 1000 impressions. The actual CPM varies based on the type of traffic (Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3) and the ad format used.

Adsterra CPM Rates:

Higher CPM for Tier 1 traffic (US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.).
Competitive rates for pop-under, native, and interstitial ads.
Social Bar Ads can significantly boost earnings.

Monetag CPM Rates:

Strong in pop-under and push notification ads.
Good for Tier 2 and Tier 3 traffic.
CPM rates may fluctuate based on ad demand.

Verdict:

If you have high-quality Tier 1 traffic, Adsterra generally offers better CPM rates. If your traffic is international, particularly Tier 2 and Tier 3, Monetag might be more profitable, especially with pop-under ads.

5. Approval Process & Ease of Use

Adsterra Approval Process:

Manual approval (usually within 24 hours).
Requires a quality website with real traffic.
Stricter content policies.

Monetag Approval Process:

Instant approval for most websites.
Allows a wider range of content.
Easy-to-use dashboard with automated monetization.

Verdict:

Monetag is easier to get started with due to instant approval. Adsterra’s manual review process ensures quality control but may take longer.

6. Best Use Cases for Publishers & Advertisers

Who Should Use Adsterra?

Publishers with Tier 1 traffic looking for high CPM rates.
Websites with strong user engagement for native and interstitial ads.
Advertisers who want diverse ad formats and premium traffic.

Who Should Use Monetag?

Publishers with Tier 2 & Tier 3 traffic.
Websites that focus on pop-under and push notifications.
Advertisers who prefer automated ad campaigns and fast approval.

7. Ad Quality & User Experience

Ad quality affects user retention and website reputation. Both networks have anti-malware solutions, but experiences may vary.

Adsterra Ad Quality:

Advanced anti-adblock technology for better revenue.
Stricter quality control over ad content.
Less risk of malware or intrusive ads.

Monetag Ad Quality:

Higher volume of pop-under ads, which may annoy users.
Good anti-fraud technology, but pop-unders can sometimes be aggressive.
Flexible ad management settings for better user experience.

Verdict:

If you prioritize ad quality and user experience, Adsterra is the better choice. If you’re okay with aggressive monetization, Monetag works well.

8. Overall Pros and Cons

Adsterra Pros:

✅ Higher CPM for Tier 1 traffic.
✅ More ad format variety.
✅ Strong anti-adblock solutions.
✅ Better ad quality and security.

Adsterra Cons:

❌ Manual approval takes time.
❌ Can be more restrictive for new publishers.

Monetag Pros:

✅ Instant approval, easy to start.
✅ Strong pop-under and push notification earnings.
✅ Great for Tier 2 & Tier 3 traffic.

Monetag Cons:

❌ Pop-unders may impact user experience.
❌ CPM for Tier 1 traffic is lower than Adsterra.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

If you want higher CPM rates, better ad quality, and a variety of ad formats, go with Adsterra.
If you need fast approval, easier monetization, and strong pop-under performance, choose Monetag.

Ultimately, the best network depends on your website traffic, audience, and monetization goals. You can also test both networks simultaneously to see which one generates the highest revenue for you!

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