Head to head · Best Affiliate Networks for Publishers
Admitad vs Rakuten
Rakuten scores higher overall (3.4 vs 3.0), but the right pick depends on which dimension matters most to you.
| Criterion | AdmitadMarginal Fit | RakutenFair Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.0 | 3.4— higher score for Rakuten |
| Capability45% of composite | 3.4 | 3.4 |
| Publisher fit40% of composite | 2.5 | 4.0— higher score for Rakuten |
| Total cost of ownership15% of composite | 3.3— higher score for Admitad | 1.8 |
| Best for | Small, Mid-Market | Mid-Market, Enterprise |
| Pricing | Free for publishers to join; advertisers start from $159/mo (Rise plan) to $490/mo (Peak plan) plus tracking fees. | Custom pricing models typically based on performance commissions, plus negotiated monthly platform and setup fees; free for publishers to join. |
Admitad
- Strong regional coverage in CIS, Eastern Europe, India, SE Asia
- Access to advertisers specifically targeting these markets
- Good payment options including local currency and fast settlement
- Less relevant for primarily Western European or US audiences
- Interface and UX less polished than Impact or CJ
- Limited premium brand advertiser access vs Western networks
Rakuten
- Premium advertiser base including luxury retail and top travel brands
- Curated advertiser marketplace maintains quality
- Strong global reach across US, UK, JP, and AU
- Higher approval standards than open networks
- Interface and reporting less intuitive than Impact or CJ
- Commission tracking less transparent for some advertisers
Common questions
Is Admitad or Rakuten better?
Rakuten scores higher overall (3.4 vs 3.0), but the right pick depends on which dimension matters most to you. Admitad scores 3.0/5 and Rakuten scores 3.4/5 on Benchmark Grid's independent assessment. Scores are set editorially by SODP against published criteria and cannot be purchased.
Which is cheaper, Admitad or Rakuten?
On total cost of ownership — which covers pricing transparency, entry cost, implementation, hidden-fee risk and ongoing cost — Admitad scores 3.3/5 and Rakuten scores 1.8/5. A higher score means better value, not a lower sticker price.
How are these scores calculated?
Each tool is assessed across 12 criteria grouped into Capability (45% of the composite), Publisher Fit (40%) and Total Cost of Ownership (15%). Assessment is carried out by SODP's editorial team against a published methodology. Vendors cannot pay for inclusion, scores or rankings.
Still deciding?
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Both tools are scored in Best Affiliate Networks for Publishers. See alternatives to Admitad or alternatives to Rakuten.
