Find out whether Google Ad Manager and Google Ads are free, what ad managers charge, and how much it really costs to run ads on Google.

🖋 By Meenakshi – AZAD Architects, Barnala 

Is Google Ad Manager Free?

Yes, Google Ad Manager is free to use — but with some conditions. For small to medium-sized publishers, Google offers access to the free version of Ad Manager (formerly known as DFP or DoubleClick for Publishers). It includes basic features for ad serving, reporting, and inventory management. However, for large publishers with higher traffic volumes or more complex ad operations, Google offers a premium version called Google Ad Manager 360, which is a paid enterprise-level solution with advanced features.

So, while the platform itself is free for most smaller users, some advanced capabilities require a subscription or enterprise deal with Google.

How Much Do Google Ad Managers Charge?

If you are hiring a Google Ad Manager specialist (often a freelancer or agency) to manage your account or ad operations, their charges will vary based on experience, scope of work, and ad spend. Typically, their pricing may be:

• A fixed monthly retainer (e.g., Rs.10,000/- to Rs.1,00,000/- + depending on project size)

• A percentage of ad spend (commonly 10%–20%)

• Or an hourly rate (ranging from Rs.500/- to Rs.5,000/- or more)

These professionals help manage campaigns, optimize ad placements, ensure policy compliance, and maximize revenue. The cost is an investment in getting better returns from your ads.

Is Ads Manager Free?

Yes, Ads Manager is free to access and use. Whether you are using Facebook Ads Manager or Google’s version (Google Ad Manager), the platform itself does not charge a fee to set up and manage campaigns. What you pay for is the actual ad spend — the cost of running your ads on Google, YouTube, or partner sites.

There are no signup fees or subscription costs for using the core tools, but keep in mind that ad placement and bidding are based on your chosen budget and goals. 

Is Google Ads Free or Paid?

Google Ads is a paid advertising platform. While setting up a Google Ads account is free, you will need to allocate a budget to run ads. You pay whenever someone clicks your ad (cost-per-click or CPC) or based on impressions (CPM) — depending on your campaign type.

However, Google occasionally offers free ad credits (like Rs.2,000/- for new users in India or $500 in other regions) as promotional offers. But in general, all ad activity on Google Ads is part of a pay-to-play model.

Can I Run Ads on Google for Free?

Technically, you cannot run ads for free on Google, unless you receive promotional credits from Google (usually for new accounts). These credits allow you to experiment with ad campaigns without using your own money — but only for a limited time or amount.

If you are looking for free exposure, focus on organic SEO, Google Business Profiles, or platforms like YouTube where uploading content is free. However, if you want prominent visibility via Google Ads — such as showing up on top of search results — it requires a paid ad campaign.

 📌 Thank you!

Follow Finance (AZAD Architects, Barnala) for practical tips from an architect, blogger, technical expert, and financer's lens.

Finance (Azad Architects, Barnala)