Native advertising is a form of paid content that seamlessly matches the style and tone of the platform it appears on, making it feel like part of the editorial experience. It offers higher engagement, improved brand trust, and a less disruptive user experience compared to traditional ads. 

Keep reading to discover the best native ads and the secrets behind their success!

What Is Native Advertising?

Unlike traditional banner or pop-up ads, native ads are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding content, making them feel more like editorial content than intrusive promotions. This integration allows native ads to inform, entertain, or inspire audiences while subtly promoting a brand.

Here are the benefits of native advertising campaigns:

• Higher engagement rates: Native ads often achieve significantly higher interaction and click-through rates compared to traditional display ads. Because they match the content style of the host platform, users are more likely to view and engage with them.
• Improved brand trust and perception: When done well, native advertising builds credibility by providing value through storytelling or educational content. This soft-sell approach enhances brand image and can foster long-term trust with consumers.
• Enhanced user experience: Native ads maintain the flow of content, offering a non-disruptive advertising alternative. This ensures users remain immersed in their experience without being pulled away by jarring ad formats.
• Content flexibility across platforms: From in-feed social media posts to interactive videos, native advertising supports various formats and can be tailored for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Spotify, or digital newspapers, increasing reach and adaptability.
• Better targeting capabilities: Many native ad platforms allow for granular targeting based on behavior, demographics, or context. This precision increases the likelihood of reaching audiences at the right time with relevant content.
• Increased brand recall: Because native ads align with user interests and appear in editorial-style formats, they are more memorable. Studies have shown higher brand recall for native content than for traditional advertising.

10 Examples Of Native Advertising

American City Business Journals and Platinum Bank

This collaboration between the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal and Platinum Bank showcases how podcasting can be an effective native advertising tool. Their co-branded series, Off the Record, features intimate, in-depth conversations with local business leaders, hosted by Kathy Robideau, the Journal’s publisher, and Dave Faust, CEO of Platinum Bank. 

The podcast doesn’t overtly promote Platinum Bank’s services but instead positions the bank as a credible partner embedded within the regional business ecosystem. This soft-sell approach fosters authenticity while still achieving core business goals: brand awareness, client acquisition, and relationship building. 

The format also generated evergreen content that Platinum Bank could repurpose across channels. By leveraging the Business Journal’s editorial tone and audience trust, the podcast felt more like premium content than an ad, embodying native advertising’s value of seamless integration.

“Hennessy Fuels Our Chase for the Wild Rabbit … But What Does It All Mean?” by Vanity Fair

This campaign is a masterclass in lifestyle-driven native advertising. Partnering with Vanity Fair, Hennessy crafted an elegant narrative piece that aligned perfectly with the magazine’s chic and aspirational tone. Centered on a campaign about “the Wild Rabbit,” Hennessy’s metaphor for ambition and drive, the article draws parallels between the brand and English race car legend Sir Malcolm Campbell. 

Featuring both video and written content, it offers behind-the-scenes insights into Campbell’s 1930s land-speed record and subtly links that bold legacy with Hennessy’s messaging. The piece is visually sophisticated and editorially rich, positioning Hennessy as more than a beverage. 

It’s a symbol of the relentless human pursuit of greatness. The ad blends beautifully into Vanity Fair’s regular features, enhancing rather than disrupting the reader’s experience, and elevating brand storytelling to a cinematic level.

Altran Engineering in the Financial Times

Altran’s native ad in the Financial Times revolves around the company’s support for a student team competing in Elon Musk’s Hyperloop Pod Competition. The piece features high-production video storytelling that follows the students’ journey, humanizing the brand and showing its commitment to engineering excellence. 

By showcasing innovation and the next generation of talent, the content aligns naturally with FT’s industrial tech section and appeals to the publication’s forward-thinking, business-savvy readers. 

Altran subtly communicates its engineering prowess not by talking about its services directly but by spotlighting a meaningful partnership, making it a win for both narrative and branding. The campaign’s success lies in its balance between informative content and emotional resonance, demonstrating that native advertising can inspire while still achieving strategic marketing objectives.

ELLE and DOVE’s “Life under the Arm” Collab

ELLE and Dove’s Swedish campaign “Livet under armen” (Life under the Arm) is a standout example of native advertising that blends cultural commentary with brand messaging. The campaign aims to normalize female body features, specifically the armpit, and spark conversations about self-image and beauty standards. 

Featuring actress Bianca Kronlöf, the campaign includes a digital native article on ELLE.se and a social video where Kronlöf addresses taboos around body hair and societal pressures. By embedding Dove’s new deodorant product into a broader dialogue on body positivity, the campaign transcends traditional product placement. 

It fits organically within ELLE’s editorial voice and adds genuine value to readers interested in feminist and beauty topics. The result is not only heightened brand awareness but also a meaningful contribution to social discourse, showing that purpose-driven messaging and advertising goals can coexist.

“Woman Going to Take Quick Break After Filling Out Name, Address on Tax Forms” by The Onion

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This satirical native ad, created by The Onion in collaboration with H&R Block, cleverly uses humor to engage readers on the otherwise dull topic of tax preparation. Though the article doesn’t mention H&R Block directly in the body, its association is made clear through surrounding banner ads and a sponsorship disclosure. 

What sets this example apart is its flawless integration into The Onion’s signature comedic style. The fictional news story follows a woman exhausted after merely filling out the first few lines of a tax form, a humorous exaggeration that resonates with anyone who’s dealt with tax season.

Despite the absurdity, the piece subtly reinforces H&R Block’s brand by associating it with relief and simplicity in handling taxes. It’s a prime example of native advertising that entertains first, while still advancing brand objectives through contextual alignment and emotional resonance.

Land Rover – Dragon Challenge Video

Land Rover’s Dragon Challenge campaign is an adrenaline-fueled native ad disguised as a mini action film. Released on platforms like YouTube and distributed through social media, the video captures a Range Rover Sport conquering 999 stairs leading to China’s Heaven’s Gate at a 45-degree angle. 

It’s visually gripping and suspenseful, delivering entertainment first while subliminally showcasing the vehicle’s durability and power. Instead of touting product specs, Land Rover tells a story of innovation, challenge, and triumph, aligning perfectly with its adventurous brand image. 

The campaign also emphasizes record-breaking feats and global adventure, resonating with aspirational audiences. By combining cinematic quality with real-life performance, Land Rover effectively captivates viewers emotionally while reinforcing brand trust and enhancing the perception of its performance.

Storybook and Stimorol Collab

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Stimorol, a Danish chewing gum brand, teamed up with Storybook to create a vibrant native campaign that associated the brand with music festivals and youthful energy. The campaign promoted a competition offering festival tickets in exchange for scanning QR codes on gum packages. 

Using influencers aligned with Gen Z aesthetics, the content was distributed through platforms and native ad formats familiar to the target audience, like Instagram Reels. Storybook encouraged influencers to craft their creative spin, maintaining authenticity and increasing engagement. 

The timing, leading up to major Danish festivals, helped maximize cultural relevance. This campaign is a prime example of how native advertising can drive engagement through cultural touchpoints, personalization, and influencer trust, all while embedding a clear brand call-to-action within a lifestyle narrative.

“10 Quotes Every Grad Needs to Read” by BuzzFeed

Sponsored by HarperCollins, this BuzzFeed native ad takes the form of a classic listicle titled “10 Quotes Every Grad Needs to Read.” Published during graduation season, the post aligns seamlessly with BuzzFeed’s typical content format, utilizing GIFs, pop culture references, and an emotionally resonant tone. 

The quotes were drawn from motivational books, many of which were published by HarperCollins, subtly introducing the brand while focusing on inspiration and celebration. The campaign is a masterstroke in terms of seasonal timing and audience targeting, designed to resonate with young adults undergoing a significant life transition.

It succeeds in promoting books without using direct sales language, demonstrating how brands can leverage emotional relevance and editorial consistency to reach their audiences effectively.

Eni Energy on CNN

Eni, an oil and gas conglomerate, used native advertising on CNN to highlight its Green River Project, a sustainability initiative in Nigeria. This multimedia experience included video, animations, photography, and personal stories, divided into “Past, Present, and Future” to narrate Eni’s impact on local farming communities. 

By framing the campaign around environmental stewardship and community upliftment, Eni distanced itself from negative industry stereotypes. The content appeared on CNN.com’s native advertising hub, offering a visually rich, immersive storytelling experience that mirrored editorial features in both tone and structure. 

This campaign stands out for using native advertising not just as a promotional tool, but as a narrative strategy to reshape corporate perception and humanize a traditionally scrutinized industry.

Axel Springer and Coca-Cola Collab

Coca-Cola’s partnership with German media giant Axel Springer created a wide-reaching native campaign focused on supporting amateur sports clubs. The project involved interviews, stories, and video content published across Springer-owned platforms like BILD.de. 

It culminated in a dedicated brand hub showcasing local athletes and sports narratives that built an emotional connection with readers. The messaging emphasized Coca-Cola’s role in grassroots community development rather than product promotion. With contributions from real athletes and club supporters, the campaign achieved authenticity and local relevance. 

This initiative demonstrates how native advertising can be scaled across multiple media formats and touchpoints while maintaining cohesion and narrative integrity. It’s a strong example of brand storytelling rooted in values and civic engagement.

Final Thoughts

As more companies embrace native advertising, the line between storytelling and advertising continues to blur for the better. By aligning content with user interests and platform aesthetics, brands can build deeper relationships while delivering real value. Don’t be left behind!

In the ever-evolving world of digital advertising, one thing remains constant: the importance of choosing the right banner ad size. Banner dimensions play a pivotal role in campaign success, maximizing visibility and engagement and ensuring compatibility across devices and platforms. Continue reading to explore everything about common banner ad sizes!

Why Are Ad Sizes Important?

Ad sizes are crucial in determining the visibility, effectiveness, and profitability of banner ads. Larger formats like leaderboards (728×90) or billboards (970×250), especially when placed above the fold, draw more attention and engagement simply because they’re more noticeable without scrolling.

Standardized sizes, as defined by the IAB, ensure compatibility across platforms and make ad deployment more efficient. They also align with ad networks’ requirements, making campaigns easier to manage and scale.

Certain sizes consistently perform better, like the medium rectangle (300×250) and mobile leaderboard (320×50), because they strike a balance between visibility and non-intrusiveness. Choosing the right size enhances ad viewability, click-through rates, and, ultimately, revenue potential.

Desktop/Web Banner Ad Dimensions

Here is a quick reference table of the most widely used web ad dimensions:

Full Banner (468 x 60)

The banner size is one of the oldest ad formats, traditionally placed within content or near footers. Though it sees less use today, it remains relevant for legacy platforms and smaller publisher sites. Its narrow height makes it less visually dominant.

Large Leaderboard (728 x 90)

The 728×90 Large Leaderboard is a standard desktop format typically positioned at the top of web pages. Its size allows for strong branding and messaging, making it highly effective in driving impressions and engagement.

Large Rectangle (336 x 280)

This ad size offers more space than the medium rectangle, giving designers the flexibility to include visuals and text. It performs well when embedded in content or at the end of articles, delivering both visibility and click-through potential.

Medium Rectangle (300 x 250)

The 300×250 Medium Rectangle is one of the highest-performing and most versatile banner sizes. It fits neatly into sidebars, content blocks, or mobile layouts, offering strong engagement rates across platforms.

Large Skyscraper (300 x 600)

Known as a “half-page” ad, this format provides significant visual impact. At 300×600, it’s ideal for storytelling creatives or promotions with multiple elements, usually placed in sidebars for maximum vertical engagement.

Wide Skyscraper (160 x 600)

The 160×600 Wide Skyscraper offers a sleeker version of vertical ads, balancing space efficiency and visibility. It works well in side columns and maintains high viewability as users scroll through content.

Skyscraper (120 x 600)

Though now less common, the 120×600 Skyscraper is a legacy vertical format. It offers a compact presence on pages with limited sidebar space and is still used in some older or minimalist site layouts.

Mobile Digital Ad Sizes

Mobile digital ads come in a variety of sizes, including Large Leaderboard, Medium Rectangle, and Wide skyscraper. Besides, there are other mobile-optimized ad dimensions below:

Mobile Static Banner (300 x 50)

The 300×50 static banner is a compact, lightweight ad format ideal for simple, text-based, or static image campaigns. It’s typically used at the top or bottom of mobile screens and is easy to integrate without significantly interrupting user experience. While smaller in size, it’s still effective for brand visibility in low-disruption contexts.

Mobile Leaderboard (320 x 50)

Known as the “mobile leaderboard,” the 320×50 ad is a mobile-optimized banner that spans the width of most smartphone screens. It’s one of the most common ad sizes in mobile advertising due to its universal compatibility and minimal intrusiveness. This format performs well when placed at the top or bottom of the app or mobile webpage.

Mobile Interstitial Ads (320×480, 768×1024, 480×320, 1024×768)

Interstitial ads are full-screen units that appear at natural transition points in apps or between content pages. Common dimensions include:

• 320×480 (portrait orientation, smartphones)
• 480×320 (landscape orientation)
• 768×1024 (portrait for tablets)
• 1024×768 (landscape for tablets)

These formats offer high visibility and engagement, making them ideal for impactful messaging, though they must be used carefully to avoid disrupting the user experience.

300 x 100

This mobile-friendly banner is slightly larger than standard mobile ads, offering more space for visuals or calls to action. It provides a balance between presence and subtlety, suitable for in-app placements or mobile web footers where a larger message can be delivered without overwhelming the layout.

320 x 100

Also known as the “large mobile banner,” the 320×100 ad doubles the height of the mobile leaderboard. It offers enhanced visibility while maintaining compatibility with most screen sizes. Google recommends this format for its strong performance and frequently uses it in mobile web and in-app environments for branding and awareness campaigns.

Print Banner Advert Sizes

Print banners are physical displays commonly used for events, storefronts, exhibitions, and promotions. They come in standardized dimensions that serve specific visibility and spatial needs.

2’ x 5’

The 2 by 5-foot banner is a compact vertical format, often used for indoor settings like trade show booths, entrances, or promotional stands. It’s effective for concise messages and eye-catching visuals in tight spaces.

3’ x 6’

This size is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor use. The 3’ x 6’ banner offers a balanced layout for logos, messages, and images. It’s commonly seen hanging on fences, walls, or event backdrops due to its readability and portability.

4’ x 8’

A larger horizontal layout, the 4’ x 8’ banner is ideal for more comprehensive messaging or prominent outdoor advertising. It works well in locations with heavy foot or vehicle traffic, such as building exteriors or roadside fences.

6’ x 4’

This format offers a wider canvas for impactful messaging, commonly used for stage backdrops, sponsor displays, and large event signage. Its landscape orientation makes it easy to read from a distance while maintaining visual balance.

8’ x 2’

The 8’ x 2’ banner is long and narrow, making it suitable for placement above doorways, along railings, or across booths. It’s particularly effective for linear messaging like brand names, slogans, or directional signage in corridors or entry points.

Other Sizes Of Advertising Supported By Google

In addition to the commonly used mobile ad sizes, Google Ad Manager supports a broad range of other display ad dimensions.

7 Things To Consider When Choosing Web Ad Dimensions

Here are key factors to consider when determining the ideal banner sizes for your campaign:

• Banner placement (above or below the fold): Ads placed above the fold, visible without scrolling, tend to receive more impressions and higher engagement. These positions are ideal for grabbing attention early in the user’s browsing experience.
• Device compatibility: Make sure your chosen dimensions are responsive and perform well across both desktop and mobile. Sizes like 300×250 and 320×50 are versatile and commonly supported on most platforms.
• Page layout and design: The available space within your website’s layout influences which sizes will look natural and non-disruptive. For instance, vertical ads like 160×600 work well in sidebars, while rectangles are better embedded in content.
• User behavior: Consider how users interact with your site, whether they scroll a lot, linger on content, or navigate quickly. Matching ad visibility to user flow can enhance performance and reduce banner blindness.
• Campaign goals: If your goal is branding, large banners like billboards (970×250) offer more creative room. For direct response, medium rectangles (300×250) or mobile banners (320×100) often yield better click-through rates.
• Load time and user experience: Larger ad files can slow down page loading, potentially harming the user experience and SEO. Choose dimensions that balance impact and performance, especially on mobile connections.
• Advertiser demand and network standards: Using standard IAB sizes ensures better fill rates and access to a broader pool of advertiser demand. These dimensions are more likely to be supported by programmatic platforms and perform better in auctions.

So, What Is The Best Banner Size For Google AdSense?

The five top-performing banner ad sizes for Google AdSense are 728×90 (Leaderboard), 336×280 (Large Rectangle), 300×250 (Medium Rectangle), 300×600 (Half Page), and 320×100 (Large Mobile Banner). These sizes are favored by Google due to their higher fill rates, broader advertiser demand, and better performance across devices. So, consider incorporating them into your ad strategy to maximize both visibility and revenue potential.

See more common Ad banner sizes:

• 728×90 Ad Size
• 300×250 Ad Size
• 160×600 Ad Size
• Mobile Website Banner Size

Common Mobile Banner Sizes

Below is a table summarizing the most commonly used mobile banner ad types and their dimensions:

Mobile Leaderboard Ads (320×50)

The 320×50 is the most standard and widely used mobile ad size on mobile devices, often referred to as the “mobile leaderboard.” It’s typically placed at the top or bottom of the screen, offering non-intrusive visibility. Its compact nature makes it cost-effective for advertisers and easy to integrate for publishers.

Large Mobile Leaderboard (320×100)

Twice the height of the standard leaderboard, this ad format provides more space for visuals and copy while maintaining a similar screen footprint. It improves viewability and click-through rates, making it a common choice for higher-impact mobile placements.

Medium Rectangle (300×250)

One of the most popular ad formats across all platforms, the 300×250 (also known as MREC), is ideal for placement within content, especially between text blocks. It’s favored for its versatility, broad advertiser support, and solid performance in both engagement and monetization.

Large Rectangle (336×280)

Slightly larger than the 300×250, the 336×280 provides increased real estate for creatives, enabling more detailed messaging. While some ad platforms have delisted it, many top SSPs and DSPs still support it due to its effectiveness in capturing attention within content.

Half Page (300×600)

Known as a “half-page” or “double rectangle,” this large format occupies significant screen space, delivering strong visual impact and brand engagement. It’s used by premium advertisers and is often featured in high-visibility placements for maximum performance.

Square (250×250)

Though less common, this compact square ad format is useful in flexible layouts where space is limited. It’s suitable for both static and dynamic creatives and can work well in modular designs, especially on mobile web pages.

Display Ads (320×480)

This full-screen mobile ad format is often used for interstitials and rich media ads. It’s highly engaging due to its immersive size and supports expandable and interactive ad types. Ideal for games and apps, it works well during natural breaks or transitions.

Video Ads (320×180)

Designed with a 16:9 aspect ratio, this ad size is optimal for mobile video placements. It’s commonly used in instream video formats (pre-roll, mid-roll, post-roll) and benefits from compatibility with transcoded video files from higher resolutions. It’s a good balance of visibility and Ux.

5 Types Of Mobile Ads For The Best Performance

Mobile Banner Ads

Mobile banner ads are the most common and widely used format in mobile advertising. They are rectangular ads that appear at the top or bottom of an app or webpage. Banner ads are simple to design and easy to implement, making them ideal for both large and small publishers.

While their performance varies, they are highly effective in building brand awareness due to their constant visibility. Typical sizes include 320×50, 300×250, and 320×100. These ads are non-intrusive and maintain a good user experience, especially when placed thoughtfully. 

Despite concerns about “banner blindness” (users ignoring banners), well-designed banner ads with strong visuals and clear messaging can still achieve solid results, particularly when A/B testing is used to optimize performance.

Rich Media Ads

Rich media ads are interactive and visually engaging formats that go beyond basic images or text. They can include videos, animations, sliders, and other interactive elements. This makes them more appealing and memorable than static ads. 

These ads often adapt to different screen sizes and respond to user actions like tapping or swiping. Rich media formats help boost engagement, increase brand recall, and drive higher click-through rates (CTR). 

However, they can be heavier and take longer to load, so it’s important to balance visual impact with performance. When used properly, rich media ads can significantly enhance the effectiveness of a mobile campaign by making the ad experience more dynamic and immersive.

Mobile Interstitial Ads

Interstitial ads are full-screen ads that appear at natural pauses in an app, such as between game levels or page transitions. They offer high visibility and typically include rich media, static images, or videos. These ads deliver excellent engagement and conversion rates because users must interact with them (either by clicking or closing) before continuing. 

While they can be effective, overusing interstitials or placing them at bad times can annoy users and hurt retention. Best practice suggests showing them during natural breaks to avoid disrupting the user experience. Their high impression rate and large screen coverage make them a powerful tool when used responsibly.

Mobile Video Ads

Mobile video ads are among the most engaging ad formats available. These ads use short videos (often 15–30 seconds) to tell a story, demonstrate a product, or deliver a message. They can be placed within video content (in-stream) or appear on their own (out-stream). Publift and SmartyAds highlight video ads’ emotional impact, which helps brands connect better with audiences. 

They also offer high CTRs and strong ROI, especially when targeted properly. However, video banners require more production time and budget. It’s also important to ensure videos are optimized for quick loading and fit the screen properly. When executed well, mobile video ads are a compelling way to boost user engagement and drive results.

Mobile Native Ads

Mobile native ads are designed to blend in with the content around them, making them appear less like ads and more like organic parts of the app or website. They’re often labeled with terms like “sponsored” or “promoted,” but their format mimics the look and feel of the platform. This seamless integration leads to higher engagement and more trust from users. 

According to Sharethrough, native ads generate up to 53% more views than traditional banners and are more likely to be shared. They’re best used on content-rich sites or apps where mobile Internet users are highly engaged. While they require more customization, the payoff is a more effective and user-friendly advertising experience.

Tips For Effective Mobile Banner Ads

To maximize performance and maintain a good user experience, follow these essential tips:

• Use high-quality visuals and simple copy: Your banner should feature clear, eye-catching images and concise, persuasive text. Avoid clutter and overcrowded text; users should understand your message in seconds. Subtle movement can attract attention, but excessive animation is distracting and may slow performance, especially on slower devices.
• Aim for a responsive design: Ensure your ad looks good on various screen sizes and orientations. Test across different devices to confirm readability and proper alignment.
• Use a clear call-to-action (CTA): Be direct about what you viewers to do, such as “Install Now” or “Learn More.” A strong CTA increases clicks and drives conversions.
• Optimize loading time: Use lightweight file formats and avoid overly complex creatives. Slow-loading ads frustrate users and reduce engagement.
• Test and iterate (A/B testing): Continuously test different ad designs, copy, and placements to find what performs best. Use the data to refine future campaigns.
  Place ads strategically: Position banners at the top or bottom of the screen or between content blocks. This ad placement ensures visibility without disrupting the user experience.
• Don’t trigger accidental clicks: Placing ads too close to interactive elements like buttons or links can lead to unintentional clicks, frustrating users and lowering conversion quality.
• Skip clickbait or misleading copy: Misleading ads damage brand trust and increase bounce rates. Be honest and relevant in your messaging.

Final Thoughts

Not all mobile ads are created equal. Picking the right mobile web banner sizes and formats can make your ad stand out, get more clicks, and earn better results. Keep testing what works for your audience and stay updated with trends to stay ahead in mobile banner advertising.

See more common Ad banner sizes:

• 728×90 Ad Size
• 300×250 Ad Size
• 160×600 Ad Size
• Mobile Website Banner Size

About The 160×600 Skyscraper Ads

The 160×600 ad, often referred to as the Skyscraper, is a standard ad unit defined by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB). Measuring 160 pixels wide by 600 pixels tall, this vertical format stands out due to its tall and narrow shape, hence the name “skyscraper.”

Originally introduced to replace the narrower 120×600 unit, the 160×600 ad offers enhanced visual space and performance, making it a preferred choice for sidebars on desktop websites.

Benefits Of The 160px x 600px Ad

One of the most compelling strengths of the 160×600 skyscraper ad is its persistent visibility. When placed in a sidebar, it often stays in view as users scroll, offering extended exposure time. This makes it an excellent fit for branding campaigns, where consistent visibility is key.

Advertisers and publishers also value this format for its excellent viewability rates and strong click-through performance, particularly when the design is visually engaging. It’s also IAB-approved, making it compatible with most ad servers and platforms.

Furthermore, it’s flexible: it can be used as a standard or expandable unit and is often paired with other ad formats like 300×250 or 728×90 for broader campaign strategies.

Drawbacks Of The 160×600 Ad

Despite its strengths, the 160×600 ad comes with certain limitations. Demand has decreased in favor of more universally favored formats like 728×90 or 300×250, leading to lower CPMs and more frequent unfilled inventory. Its narrow shape also limits creative possibilities, making it harder to convey complex messages or brand storytelling.

Additionally, not all screen sizes or mobile experiences support skyscraper placements well, reducing its versatility in responsive design contexts.

Pros:

• Persistent visibility as users scroll, best to use along the sidebars of websites
• Strong for brand awareness and upper-funnel campaigns
• IAB standard, widely supported by ad networks
• High viewability and decent CTRs
• Can be integrated into homepage takeovers and side navigation areas

Cons:

• Lower CPM compared to more popular display banners
• Limited design space for messaging
• Less popular with buyers, leading to fill-rate issues
• Not a mobile-specific ad banner or ideal for responsive layouts

120×600 vs 160×600 Banner Ads

Marketers have increasingly phased out 120×600 banner ads because the marginal cost of using more narrow creative no longer justifies the loss in performance. The improved visibility and engagement of 160x600s provide a stronger ROI, especially in branding campaigns where screen presence matters. 

Moreover, as digital standards evolve, sticking to legacy sizes like 120×600 can result in reduced inventory availability and compatibility issues. By switching to 160×600, marketers not only adapt to current IAB standards but also position their campaigns for higher performance and reach, making it the smarter choice in today’s web banner advertising landscape.

Here are some advantages of the 160×600 banner ads over the 120×600 ones:

• Larger ad space for messaging and visuals
• Better engagement and visibility
  Modern platform compatibility
• Greater design flexibility
• Stronger support from ad networks and publishers

Examples Of Using Skyscraper Ad Size

Below are some examples of brand use cases that highlight how the dimensions and format of the 160×600 influence layout, brand messaging, and performance:

Adobe – Make it with creative cloud

Adobe’s skyscraper ad makes strategic use of the tall 600-pixel height by showcasing a clean vertical progression: brand logo in red, the main message “Make it with creative cloud” right in the center, attention-grabbing feature image, and a “Join now” CTA button in blue. The logo and the CTA button create a strong contrast that catches viewers’ eyes.

Applebee’s – Get $10 off your next $30+ online order

Applebee’s 160×600 ad uses the tallest portion to feature a $10 discount in way bigger text, smaller fine print underneath, the image of juicy beefsteak in the background, and a strong “Get code” CTA at the bottom. The tall layout allows for a strong visual hierarchy, making the main benefit the most visible at the top, with supporting details below, which is ideal for time-sensitive promotions.

Amazon Fresh – Just Bare Chicken; Certified Organic; Certified Goodness

Amazon Fresh’s ad uses the 160×600 format to showcase vertically the brand’s selling points: Just bare chicken, certified organic, and certified goodness in green, standing out in the white background. The skyscraper size allows for more white space, creating a sense of cleanliness and hygiene.

See more common Ad banner sizes:

• 728×90 Ad Size
• 300×250 Ad Size
• 160×600 Ad Size
• Mobile Website Banner Size

The 300×250 ad unit, better known as the Medium Rectangle or MPU, might not be flashy, but it gets results. It’s one of the most popular ad sizes in digital media for a reason: it works well on desktop and mobile, loads fast, and fits almost anywhere. If you’re just starting with banner ads or want to improve your current ad placements, this article has you covered!

About The 300×250 Banner – A MPU

The 300×250 ad unit, widely known as the Medium Rectangle or MPU (Mid Page Unit), is one of the most prolific and effective formats in digital advertising. Measuring 300 pixels wide by 250 pixels tall, this IAB-standard unit occupies a modest 75,000 pixels of screen real estate yet consistently outperforms larger formats in both click-through rates (CTR) and cost-per-thousand impressions (CPM).

Additionally, the 300×250 is often used in multi-sized ad slots alongside other formats like the 300×600, allowing for flexible ad inventory management. Its utility extends beyond standard display banners; it’s also deployed as a video pre-roll container, a sticky anchor ad, or a launcher for overlays and interactive ad experiences.

Benefits Of 300×250 Ads

High Click-Through Rates (CTR)

The 300×250 ad unit consistently delivers some of the highest CTRs among standard display formats, thanks to its frequent placement above the fold and its ability to capture user attention without being intrusive. Its shape and size create a visual break in content, making it more likely to be seen and interacted with.

Strong Revenue Performance (High CPM)

As one of the top-performing units in terms of cost-per-thousand impressions (CPM), the Medium Rectangle is a favorite among advertisers, driving up competition and thereby increasing revenue for publishers. It often yields better returns than larger formats like the 728×90 leaderboard or 160×600 skyscraper, especially when strategically positioned.

Versatile Placement Options

The 300×250 MPU’s dimensions allow for flexible deployment in various webpage locations—such as sidebars, within content, headers, and footers. It integrates seamlessly across different layout designs and can be used standalone or in combination with other ad units in multi-size slots.

Cross-Device Compatibility

This ad unit is highly adaptable across screen types. It renders cleanly on both desktop and mobile devices, making it an ideal choice for responsive design. On mobile, it often appears within the content stream, while on desktop, it’s commonly seen in side columns or as inline breaks.

Multi-Format Capabilities

Despite its compact size, the 300×250 supports a range of ad types, including static images, animated GIFs, rich media, expandable creatives, and even video ads. This makes it a highly flexible canvas for different creative strategies, from branding to direct response.

Enhanced User Engagement

Because it’s often embedded in content or appears at key interaction points (like game pauses or article mid-points), the 300×250 MPU is naturally integrated into the user’s journey, leading to better engagement rates and user retention compared to interruptive formats.

Integration with Sponsorship and High-Impact Campaigns

Its strong performance and visibility make it a popular choice for sponsored placements, homepage takeovers, and roadblocks. It also serves as a launching point for interactive overlays and pre-roll video ads, making it valuable in high-budget campaign strategies.

Design-Friendly Dimensions

The aspect ratio of the 300×250 allows for concise messaging and strong visual hierarchy. While limited in space, it encourages clarity and focus in ad design, often leading to better user comprehension and stronger calls to action.

Best 300×250 Web Banner Placements

The effectiveness of the 300×250 Medium Rectangle ad unit depends heavily on its placement within a webpage or app environment. Below are the most effective placement zones you can try:

• Above the fold (top of page): Placing the ad where users immediately see it without scrolling ensures maximum visibility. Since many users don’t scroll far down a page, this spot often garners the highest CTRs and CPMs, making it the most valuable real estate.
• Top of the right-hand column (desktop): A classic placement for publishers, the right sidebar near the top is one of the first places the eye travels, especially on news and blog layouts. It balances visibility with non-intrusiveness, ideal for monetizing without disrupting the content flow.
• Within content (in-article): Embedding the 300×250 within long-form content creates natural interaction breaks, boosting engagement. These placements are especially effective on mobile, where vertical scrolling dominates, and ads can seamlessly blend into the reading experience.
• Top of left-hand column: While less common than right-hand placements, positioning the ad on the left can align with reading direction in left-to-right languages, increasing early visibility before the user even starts engaging with the interactive content.
• After paragraphs or content sections: Inserting the ad after meaningful content blocks helps maintain a balanced user experience while placing the ad at a point when the user is more likely to pause. These breaks serve as effective attention points without being disruptive.
• Pause screens or level completion (in apps & games): In gaming and mobile app environments, showing a 300×250 ad during a pause or between levels avoids interfering with gameplay while offering a highly focused interaction moment. It’s effective as long as the ad is clearly separated from navigational elements.
• Sticky anchor on desktop: When used as a sticky ad that remains visible as users scroll, the MPU can deliver consistent visibility without being too aggressive. Careful execution is essential here to avoid accidental clicks or policy violations.
• Interstitial or expandable formats: Though technically more advanced, placing 300x250s in expandable or interstitial ad experiences enables high-impact messaging while maintaining IAB compliance. These are often used in premium placements or sponsorship deals.

Tips For Using 300×250 pixels Ads

Below are expert-backed tips to help you deploy this ad format effectively:

• Avoid cluttering with multiple MPUs: Overusing the same ad unit on a single page can reduce its value and overwhelm users. Use only one or two MPUs per page, and clearly differentiate premium placements (e.g., above the fold) from secondary ones to segment pricing and performance.
• Maintain clear visual separation from content: Ads that mimic site content may lead to accidental clicks and violate ad network policies. Use borders, labels like “Sponsored,” and distinct visual design to clearly distinguish ads from editorial or app content.
• Optimize for mobile and desktop: Ensure that the ad scales properly on smaller screens and is not too close to navigational buttons or interactive elements.
• Use clean, focused design: The limited size of the MPU means cluttered visuals can confuse or repel users. Stick to bold CTAs, readable fonts, and minimal imagery. Let the message stand out with a clear value proposition and brand identity.
• Time your loads and limit frequency: Excessive ad repetition and premature loading can slow pages or lead to user fatigue. Set frequency caps and use lazy loading so ads only load when they’re nearly in view, preserving site speed and user experience.
• Combine with complementary ad units: The 300×250 performs well in tandem with larger units in multi-size ad slots. Pair with formats like the 300×600 or 728×90 leaderboard to diversify revenue without creating layout conflict.
• Follow ad network compliance guidelines: Improper implementation can lead to policy violations and loss of ad serving rights. Avoid overlapping ads, placing them on blank pages, or positioning them near essential UI elements like “Next” or “Close” buttons.

Case Studies – How Brands Use 300×250 Ads

Apple Graphic Studio – Get your first ad banner 30% off

The ad immediately grabs attention with a colorful, styled image of a person on the right, balancing the text-heavy left side. “Get your first ads banner 30% OFF” is prominently featured in large, white text against a dark background, making it easy to read.

The studio name and tagline (“FREE DESIGN TUTORIALS”) are concise and placed at the top. A large red “CONTACT” button provides a crystal-clear next step. All these elements fit nicely within a 300×250 frame.

Diesel – Get inspired by the new arrivals

The Diesel logo in red commands immediate attention in the upper left, while a high-quality, fashion-forward image of a model evokes the brand’s lifestyle identity on the right. The line “Get inspired by the new arrivals” followed by “Discover now the brand-new collection” is more narrative than urgent, aligning with brand storytelling. This layout maintains a high-end feel by avoiding visual overcrowding in a 300×250 ad.

See more common Ad banner sizes:

• 728×90 Ad Size
• 300×250 Ad Size
• 160×600 Ad Size
• Mobile Website Banner Size

If you’re looking for a high-performing display ad that gets seen and clicked, the leaderboard ad size is a smart choice. Its size and placement make it ideal for catching users’ attention at the top of a webpage. In this article, we’ll show you what it is, what its dimensions are, where it works best, and how to use it right.

What Is A 728×90 Ad? The Leaderboard Banner

The 728×90 leaderboard ad is a horizontal display advertising unit that measures 728 pixels wide by 90 pixels tall. Known for its high visibility and prime placement, usually at the top of a webpage, this format is one of the most widely adopted in online advertising. It is often the first ad users see when a page loads, making it ideal for capturing attention quickly and driving engagement.

Leaderboard banners are favored by advertisers for their ability to seamlessly fit within web layouts without disrupting the user experience. Their standard dimensions also make them easy to integrate across most websites and ad platforms. 

Versatile in design, these banners can accommodate static images, animations, HTML5 creatives, or even expandable formats. Despite their relatively modest size, leaderboard ads consistently deliver strong performance, especially when placed above the fold, where user visibility is highest.

Benefits Of Leaderboard Web Banners

Leaderboard web banners (728×90) benefit marketers in many ways:

High Visibility And Prime Placement

Placed at the top of web pages, leaderboard ads are among the first elements users see upon loading a site. This above-the-fold positioning ensures maximum exposure, increasing the likelihood of impressions and user engagement.

Strong Click-Through Rates

Due to their prominent placement and visual size, these ad formats often outperform other formats in terms of CTR. Their unobtrusive yet noticeable nature makes them more likely to be clicked, especially with a responsive design and compelling message.

Visual Impact Without Intrusion

Leaderboard ads strike a balance between visibility and user experience. Unlike pop-ups or interstitials, they do not disrupt navigation or content consumption, offering non-intrusive engagement that users are more tolerant of.

Ease Of Implementation

With standardized dimensions (728×90), leaderboard banners are easy to create and deploy. Most ad servers and platforms support them, enabling quick setup and seamless integration into websites and apps.

Mobile Adaptability

While originally designed for desktops, leaderboard ads can be adapted for mobile screens, typically replaced with 320×50 or 320×100 units. This ensures consistent user experience across devices.

Ideal For Multiple Campaign Objectives

Leaderboard banners support various goals:

• Brand awareness: Boost visibility at scale with consistent exposure.
• Lead generation: Drive traffic and conversions with targeted CTAs.
• Affiliate marketing: Achieve high click volumes for commission-driven strategies.
• Retargeting: Re-engage visitors with relevant offers based on past behavior.

Expandable And Multi-Format Friendly

These banners can be enhanced with expandable formats, video snippets, or HTML5 interactions, making them adaptable to advanced campaign strategies.

Proven Revenue Potential

Publishers often report high RPM (revenue per thousand impressions) from leaderboard placements, especially when used on high-traffic pages like homepages or category hubs.

Better Branding Opportunities

Their positioning near site logos or headers offers an implicit association with trusted publishers, enhancing brand recall and message credibility.

Top 728×90 Placeholders For The Best Performance

To maximize the effectiveness of 728×90 leaderboard ad formats, strategic placement is critical. The following ad placements consistently deliver the highest visibility, engagement, and return on investment:

Top Of The Page (Above The Header)

This is the most effective and visible placement. Positioned above the website’s header or logo, the ad is the first element users see, making it ideal for brand exposure and high click-through rates. This spot ensures the ad is always above the fold, a highly sought-after location in online advertising.

Below The Header

Still within the above-the-fold zone, this placement situates the ad just under the navigation menu. It benefits from strong visibility while integrating more naturally with the site’s interactive content. This is a common strategy on news, tech, and publishing platforms.

Within Or Between Content

Embedded between paragraphs or sections of an article, this placement can offer high in-context visibility, particularly if the content is engaging and long-form. While visibility depends on scroll depth, it provides a less expensive and still effective option for advertisers.

Above The Footer

This placement appears at the bottom of the webpage, just before the footer. It tends to have lower performance due to reduced visibility (many users don’t scroll this far), but it can still be valuable for remarketing or retargeting campaigns where cost efficiency is key.

As An Anchor Ad (Sticky Footer On Desktop)

Used as a persistent footer ad that follows the user while scrolling, this placement ensures constant visibility. While potentially effective in terms of impressions, it can be perceived as intrusive and may negatively affect user experience if not implemented carefully.

Best Practices To Use 728×90 Banner Ads

Here are the most effective practices and critical pitfalls to avoid when using leaderboard banners:

Do’s

• Prioritize above-the-fold placement: Place leaderboard display banners at the top of the page, ideally above or just below the header. This ensures they are seen immediately upon page load, maximizing visibility and click-through rates.
• Use clear, concise messaging: Communicate your core values in a single, strong line. Avoid long text blocks. A concise, benefit-driven ad message with a clear value proposition outperforms generic or overly wordy ads.
• Focus on clean and impactful ad design: Keep visuals clutter-free and use high-quality images and minimalist color schemes. Also, the ad should be tailored to your target audience, both visually and contextually.
• Design with mobile adaptability in mind: Even though 728×90 is a desktop format, it should degrade gracefully on smaller screens. Consider replacing it with 320×50 or 320×100 on mobile for consistency.
• A/B test creatives: Continuously test variations of headlines, CTAs, color schemes, and placements. Let data guide design choices for optimal CTR and conversion rates.
• Use strong call-to-action buttons (CTAs): Include action-driven CTAs like “Learn More,” “Sign Up,” or “Shop Now.” Make the CTA visually prominent and clearly distinguishable from the background.
• Align leaderboards with other ad units: Pairing 728×90 banner ads with complementary units like 300×250 MPUs can increase overall effectiveness and provide consistent user experience across the site.
• Track and label placements individually: Label each ad position (e.g., “Top728,” “Footer728”) in your ad platform. This enables performance segmentation and better reporting for sales and optimization.

Don’ts

• Placing below the fold without lazy loading: Leaderboard ads near the footer suffer from low visibility. If used, implement lazy loading to avoid slowing page speed and to trigger loading only when in view.
• Overusing multiple leaderboards on one page: Avoid placing too many leaderboard units. It dilutes value and may reduce performance. Focus on one high-impact placement, usually at the top.
• Embedding in iFrames: Expandable or interactive leaderboards should not be placed in iframes, as this limits functionality (like animation or tracking) and can hinder performance.
• Neglecting to test for load speed: Slow-loading display banners frustrate users and hurt SEO. Use CDNs, optimized image formats, and compress creatives to maintain site performance.

728×90 Ad Examples

Apple

Apple employs leaderboard banner formats on technology and lifestyle websites to spotlight product launches like the latest iPhones, iPads, or MacBooks. Their creatives typically feature sleek, minimalist visuals, bold product imagery, and direct links to the Apple Store, combining aesthetics with strong conversion intent.

Nike

Nike utilizes 728×90 leaderboard ads on sports and lifestyle websites to promote new product launches, special promotions, and events like the Nike Run Club. These ads often feature high-impact visuals of athletic gear and are combined with action-driven call-to-action buttons designed to resonate with active audiences.

Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola places leaderboard banners across major news and entertainment platforms to amplify seasonal campaigns or limited-time offers. Their ads frequently incorporate bright, eye-catching imagery and emotionally driven messages, helping to maintain brand presence and consumer engagement.

See more common Ad banner sizes:

• 728×90 Ad Size
• 300×250 Ad Size
• 160×600 Ad Size
• Mobile Website Banner Size