Head to head · Best Native Ad Networks for Publishers
Taboola vs Takeads
Taboola scores higher overall (4.0 vs 3.4), but the right pick depends on which dimension matters most to you.
| Criterion | TaboolaStrong Choice | TakeadsFair Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 4.0— higher score for Taboola | 3.4 |
| Capability45% of composite | 4.2— higher score for Taboola | 3.0 |
| Publisher fit40% of composite | 4.0— higher score for Taboola | 3.5 |
| Total cost of ownership15% of composite | 3.6 | 4.3— higher score for Takeads |
| Best for | Mid-Market, Enterprise | Small, Mid-Market |
| Pricing | Auction-based CPC/CPM model; self-serve recommended from $50/day, managed tiers from $5,000/mo, and enterprise plans from $50,000/mo. | Free for publishers; operates on a performance-based revenue-share model (CPA and CPC commissions). |
Taboola
- Campaign set up is straightforward
- Easy-to-use interface
- Several targeting options
- Lacks performance whitelisting
- Creative approval process lacks clarity
Takeads
- Cryptocurrency payment option for publishers in restricted banking markets
- High fill rates in tier-2 and tier-3 markets
- Multiple ad formats: native, push, display
- Ad quality and brand safety monitoring less rigorous than premium networks
- Limited transparency on advertiser quality
- Not suitable for premium publishers valuing brand safety
Common questions
Is Taboola or Takeads better?
Taboola scores higher overall (4.0 vs 3.4), but the right pick depends on which dimension matters most to you. Taboola scores 4.0/5 and Takeads 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, Taboola or Takeads?
On total cost of ownership — which covers pricing transparency, entry cost, implementation, hidden-fee risk and ongoing cost — Taboola scores 3.6/5 and Takeads scores 4.3/5. 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?
Answer four questions about your publication and we'll recommend a full stack — with the reasoning for each pick and what it will cost.
Both tools are scored in Best Native Ad Networks for Publishers. See alternatives to Taboola or alternatives to Takeads.
