In this article, we’ll discuss why you might want to opt for an alternative network. We’ll also explore various options and explain why they’re a good selection for monetizing your blog or website.
Why Use Alternatives for AdSense?
AdSense is a well-known advertising network, but it’s not always the best option. There are several reasons why publishers may need to look for alternative platforms, such as:
Qualification requirements. Networks have metric requirements that publishers need to meet before they are approved for partnership. Google AdSense has some of the strictest and highest requirements, making it difficult for many websites to qualify.
Revenue share. AdSense offers publishers a 68% revenue share. While it’s competitive, some networks have better rates. However, they’ll also have stringent requirements to match.
Minimum payout threshold. Most networks require you to meet a threshold limit before you can withdraw your earnings. Smaller, less established websites may struggle to meet AdSense’s $100 minimum limit. It may be a better option to partner with networks that offer a lower payout threshold.
Disabled account. You may have had your AdSense account disabled due to violating one of the system’s fraud control policies. Some platforms have more forgiving terms.
Diversification. You may already qualify for and use AdSense but want to partner with more networks to increase your revenue. While it’s possible, some third-party ads can violate the terms, and your account will be disabled as a result.
Choosing an Alternative
When you’re looking for an alternative network, consider your options carefully. Aside from their qualification requirements, revenue share, and payout threshold, you may also want to consider:
- Their reputation
- Quality of service
- Customer support
- Available ads
- Customization options
It’s critical to partner with a reputable network with quality advertisements, or you may tarnish your website’s reputation.
Top AdSense Alternatives for 2021
Amazon Native Shopping Ads
Native Shopping Ads is Amazon’s contextual display ads program. Publishers can use the network to place shopping ads directly on their pages, and it’ll deliver listings that match the surrounding content.
The minimum payout is $10, which is low compared to most other networks. However, payments are only sent 60 days after the end of each month, so you’ll need to wait a while to receive your revenue. The platform also has strict rules, so ensure that you read the terms thoroughly.
Media.net
Media.net offers contextual, visitor-relevant advertisements from the Yahoo! Bing network. It features varying ad types, including display, search, text, and mobile ads, and the high fill rate makes it an attractive alternative to AdSense.
Like AdSense, Media.net has a $100 minimum payout. It requires publishers to offer high-quality content on a clean and professional website. Additionally, most visitors need to be from the U.S., U.K., and Canada for a site to qualify.
Although it’s an excellent ad network, it’s not the best fit for all publishers.
Revcontent
Revcontent is known for quality over quantity, and it’s a relatively exclusive network. A successful applicant will need to generate consistent high-value content and receive at least 50,000 monthly visitors.
However, due to the network’s highly targeted native ads, you’ll likely enjoy higher engagement rates and revenue generation. Additionally, the platform gives publishers the option to control which ads do and don’t display on their websites.
The minimum payout is $50, which is relatively low compared to most other networks of this quality.
Rubicon

Rubicon is a full SSP offering header bidding and customizable ads, and it records trillions of monthly transactions. If you have a large website with high traffic numbers, it’s an excellent AdSense alternative.
You’ll need 5 million monthly page views to qualify, but its high fill rate makes it an attractive option. Keep in mind that managing your ads on the platform will take a lot of time and resources and that the optimization process can be challenging.
Xandr Monetize (AppNexus)
AppNexus was acquired by AT&T in 2018 and listed the platform as a subsidiary under Xandr. Xandr Monetize was built on top of AppNexus, replacing it within the brand.
The network has both a demand-side platform (DSP) and a supply-side platform (SSP). It allows publishers to manage their own ad servers and inventory, offers forecasting and analytical data, and includes header bidding technology.
Index Exchange
Index is a global ad network that works with several digital media companies. Unsurprisingly, it has one of the most stringent approval processes, vetting both publishers and advertisers.
The platform offers various types of ads and real-time analytics and bidding. It also allows publishers to set up their own private marketplaces. However, you’ll need to invest a significant amount of time into bringing your website and content up to Index’s high standards. You’ll also need to learn how to manage your ads.
Using a Monetization Partner
Bigger networks, such as Rubicon and Index, typically refuse to work with smaller publishers. They may require millions of page views before considering your application. Additionally, many platforms won’t bid on more than 30% of your inventory, so you’ll need several to supplement your revenue income.
Finding a monetization partner is another alternative that many publishers are considering. These platforms know how to optimize the advertisements and increase revenue yield. By adding publishers within their accounts, monetization partners give small blogs access to networks that typically have higher qualification requirements.
For example, rev•amp plugs into networks such as Ad Exchange, Rubicon, Index, and others. Many publishers may not meet their stringent application requirements. However, a monetization platform can give you access to ads from these and other networks.
The added benefit is that these platforms will manage the bidding process and ensure ad quality on your behalf. Some even offer ad block recovery services to protect your revenue stream.
Conclusion
Google AdSense might be an excellent option for publishers, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best one for you. A high-quality alternative can help supplement your income or even become your primary source of revenue. Take the time to explore your options before choosing an ad provider or monetization partner that meets your requirements.