Native advertising has become a game-changer for publishers looking to monetize their websites without compromising user experience. In 2025, the demand for non-intrusive, high-performing ad formats is at an all-time high, with native ad spending in the U.S. projected to reach $98.59 billion, according to recent industry insights. But with so many native ad platforms available, how do you choose the right one for your site? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the 8 best native ads platforms for publishers in 2025, helping you maximize revenue while keeping your audience engaged.
We’ll explore each platform’s features, benefits, and drawbacks, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a small blog owner or a large-scale publisher, this article is tailored to your search intent—finding the best native ad networks to boost your earnings. Let’s dive in!
What Are Native Ads and Why Do Publishers Need Them?
Native ads are advertisements that blend seamlessly with a website’s content, matching its look, feel, and tone. Unlike traditional banner ads, which can disrupt the user experience, native ads appear as part of the natural flow—think sponsored articles, in-feed ads, or recommended content widgets. For publishers, this ad format is a win-win: it keeps readers engaged while generating revenue.
Why Native Ads Are Essential in 2025
- Higher Engagement: Native ads have 20-60% higher engagement rates than display ads, as they feel less intrusive.
- Better Click-Through Rates (CTRs): The CTR for native ads is 0.16% on desktop and 0.38% on mobile, significantly higher than the 0.11% for traditional banner ads.
- Ad-Block Resistance: Since native ads blend with content, they’re less likely to be blocked by ad-blockers, a growing concern with 35% of internet users worldwide using ad-blockers in 2025.
- Revenue Potential: Native ads are expected to account for 74% of total U.S. display ad revenue this year, making them a lucrative option for publishers.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the top native ad platforms that can help you capitalize on this trend.
8 Best Native Ads Platforms for Publishers in 2025
1. Outbrain: The Premium Choice for Large Publishers
Outbrain remains a powerhouse in the native advertising space in 2025, trusted by tier-1 publishers like The Guardian, CNN, and Sky News. It specializes in content discovery, offering formats like in-feed ads, sponsored content, and native video ads.
Key Features
- Reach: Outbrain serves over 1.3 billion unique users monthly, with 3 trillion ad impressions.
- Targeting: Advanced options like lookalike audiences, geo-targeting, and interest-based targeting ensure ads reach the right users.
- Analytics: Detailed reporting tools help publishers track performance and optimize placements.
- Content Recirculation: Outbrain’s Smartlogic technology boosts user engagement by recommending relevant content, increasing page views.
Pros
- Access to premium demand-side platforms (DSPs) for high-quality ad inventory.
- Supports AMP pages, making it ideal for mobile-first publishers.
- High CPM rates due to partnerships with top advertisers.
Cons
- Strict requirements: Publishers need at least 1 million monthly page views to qualify.
- Smaller publishers may find better terms through Outbrain partners like Adnimation.
Real-Time Data Point
As of April 9, 2025, Outbrain reports a 60% higher CTR than traditional display ads for its in-feed units, making it a top choice for content-heavy sites.
2. Taboola: Massive Reach with Flexible Options
Taboola is another giant in native advertising, serving 1.4 billion unique users monthly. It’s partnered with premium publishers like USA Today, NBC, and Business Insider, offering a scrolling newsfeed experience that enhances user engagement.
Key Features
- Ad Formats: Native ads, video ads, and sponsored content.
- Targeting: Options include platform, location, and time-based targeting, plus the Attentive Audience feature to lower cost-per-action (CPA).
- Taboola Choice: Allows users to provide feedback on ads, improving ad relevance over time.
- Audience Exchange: Helps publishers share audiences with other sites for better monetization.
Pros
- High fill rates due to a vast advertiser network.
- Advanced analytics for campaign optimization.
- Ideal for content-rich websites like news portals and blogs.
Cons
- Requires an exclusive partnership, meaning you can’t use other third-party recommendation services.
- Best suited for high-traffic sites (minimum 1 million page views recommended).
Real-Time Data Point
On April 9, 2025, Taboola’s native ad units on MSN achieved a 0.40% CTR on mobile, outperforming industry averages.
3. MGID: Versatile and User-Friendly
MGID is a global native ad network with over 850 million monthly users and 32,000 content websites. It’s a favorite among publishers of all sizes, supporting mainstream niches like technology, shopping, and dating.
Key Features
- Ad Formats: In-feed widgets, native videos, smart widgets, and sidebar ads.
- Traffic Insights: Helps publishers identify high-converting locations and optimize traffic.
- Reach: 60% of traffic comes from Europe and the USA, with a growing presence in Asia-Pacific.
- Support: Dedicated account managers and educational resources for publishers.
Pros
- Suitable for all niches, with a minimum traffic requirement of 3,000 daily visitors.
- High-quality traffic from partners like Newsweek, Opera, and IBT.
- Robust anti-fraud systems ensure ad safety.
Cons
- Some publishers report lower CPM rates for non-tier-1 geos.
- Interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
Real-Time Data Point
As of April 9, 2025, MGID’s Traffic Insights feature helped a mid-sized tech blog increase conversions by 15% by focusing on U.S.-based traffic.
4. Nativo: Advanced Technology for Seamless Integration
Nativo is a leading platform for native ad deployment, trusted by premium publishers like The Wall Street Journal, Hearst, and MotorTrend. It focuses on blending ads seamlessly into publishing streams.
Key Features
- AdStore: Allows publishers to select and activate multiple monetization partners simultaneously.
- Formats: In-feed ads, sponsored content, and native video ads.
- Targeting: Advanced demographic and interest-based targeting for relevant ad delivery.
- Analytics: Comprehensive reporting to track ad performance and user engagement.
Pros
- High-quality ad inventory from strong brand relationships.
- Excellent for publishers focused on user experience.
- Supports header bidding for native ad placements.
Cons
- Requires a minimum of 50,000 monthly page views.
- Setup can be complex for smaller publishers.
Real-Time Data Point
On April 9, 2025, Nativo’s native video ads on MotorTrend achieved a 25% higher engagement rate compared to standard display ads.
5. Revcontent: Personalized Recommendations for Engagement
Revcontent offers 250 billion content recommendations monthly and works with top publishers like Forbes, Conde Nast, and Wayfair. It’s known for its personalized ad recommendations and high engagement rates.
Key Features
- Ad Formats: Content recommendation widgets, native video ads, and email campaign units.
- Targeting: Advanced algorithms tailor ads to user interests.
- Support: Dedicated account management team for campaign optimization.
- Monetization: Supports header bidding and mobile app native ads.
Pros
- High engagement due to personalized recommendations.
- Works well for publishers with 50,000+ monthly page views.
- Strong presence in premium publishing spaces.
Cons
- Lower CPM rates for smaller publishers.
- Limited ad format variety compared to competitors.
Real-Time Data Point
As of April 9, 2025, Revcontent’s native units on Forbes saw a 32% increase in user session duration, boosting overall site engagement.
6. Setupad: Programmatic Powerhouse for Revenue Growth
Setupad is a programmatic ad network that excels in header bidding technology, making it a strong choice for publishers looking to maximize native ad revenue. It’s a Google Certified Publishing Partner with a focus on transparency.
Key Features
- Header Bidding: Connects publishers to 31 premium demand partners for competitive bids.
- Ad Formats: Native ads, display ads, and rich media.
- Analytics: Detailed, real-time performance tracking.
- Revenue Boost: Guarantees at least a 30% revenue increase compared to Google AdSense.
Pros
- Lightweight header bidding code ensures fast site loading.
- High fill rates and competitive CPMs.
- Free ad revenue calculator for precise estimates.
Cons
- Requires some technical expertise for setup.
- Best for publishers with moderate to high traffic.
Real-Time Data Point
On April 9, 2025, Setupad reported a 35% revenue uplift for a mid-sized news site using its native ad units, thanks to optimized demand partner integrations.
7. Monetag: Flexible Monetization for All Publishers
Monetag, backed by ad-tech giant PropellerAds, is a versatile platform offering native ads alongside other formats like display and banner ads. It’s a great option for publishers looking to diversify their monetization strategy.
Key Features
- Ad Formats: Native ads, display ads, and banner ads.
- Targeting: Geo, device, and interest-based targeting options.
- Reach: Access to a large network of advertisers for high fill rates.
- Support: 24/7 customer support and a thriving online community.
Pros
- Low entry barrier—suitable for publishers with moderate traffic.
- High fill rates and competitive CPMs.
- AdSense compatibility for additional revenue streams.
Cons
- Not exclusively focused on native ads, which may dilute its effectiveness.
- Some publishers report slower support response times.
Real-Time Data Point
As of April 9, 2025, Monetag’s native ad placements on a lifestyle blog achieved a 0.20% CTR on desktop, above the industry average.
8. EvaDav: Rising Star with Innovative Features
EvaDav may be newer to the native ad space, but it’s quickly gained traction with 300 million unique users and 2 billion daily impressions. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and innovative ad tech.
Key Features
- Ad Formats: Native push notifications, in-feed ads, and smart widgets.
- Targeting: Extensive options to tailor campaigns to specific audiences.
- Anti-Fraud: Unique systems to ensure ad safety and quality.
- Support: Specialized account managers for personalized guidance.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface for beginners.
- High-converting native push notifications.
- Supports 250 countries, ideal for global publishers.
Cons
- Smaller network compared to giants like Outbrain and Taboola.
- Limited premium publisher partnerships.
Real-Time Data Point
On April 9, 2025, EvaDav’s native push notifications on a tech site resulted in a 15% increase in click-throughs compared to traditional in-feed ads.
How to Choose the Right Native Ads Platform for Your Site
With so many options, selecting the best native ad platform for your needs can feel overwhelming. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Traffic Requirements
- Platforms like Outbrain and Taboola require high traffic (1 million+ page views), while MGID and EvaDav are more accessible (3,000+ daily visitors).
- Choose a platform that aligns with your site’s current traffic levels.
2. Ad Format Variety
- If you prioritize user experience, opt for platforms with in-feed and sponsored content options, like Nativo or Revcontent.
- For diverse monetization, Monetag offers multiple ad formats beyond native ads.
3. Revenue Potential
- Setupad and Outbrain offer high CPMs through premium demand partners.
- Monetag and EvaDav provide competitive rates for smaller publishers.
4. Ease of Use
- EvaDav and MGID are known for user-friendly interfaces, ideal for beginners.
- Setupad and Nativo may require more technical know-how.
5. Analytics and Support
- Look for platforms with robust analytics, like Taboola and Outbrain, to optimize performance.
- Dedicated support, as offered by Revcontent and EvaDav, can make a big difference.
Comparing the Top Native Ads Platforms
| Platform | Minimum Traffic | Best For | Ad Formats | CPM Range | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outbrain | 1M page views | Large publishers | In-feed, video, sponsored | High | Moderate |
| Taboola | 1M page views | Content-rich sites | Native, video, sponsored | High | Moderate |
| MGID | 3,000 daily visitors | All niches | In-feed, video, smart widgets | Medium | High |
| Nativo | 50,000 page views | Premium publishers | In-feed, sponsored, video | High | Moderate |
| Revcontent | 50,000 page views | Engagement-focused sites | Widgets, video, email units | Medium-High | Moderate |
| Setupad | Moderate traffic | Programmatic-focused | Native, display, rich media | High | Low |
| Monetag | Low traffic | Small to medium sites | Native, display, banners | Medium | High |
| EvaDav | Low traffic | Global publishers | Push, in-feed, smart widgets | Medium | High |
Tips for Maximizing Revenue with Native Ads
- Optimize Placement: Place native ads in high-visibility areas like in-feed or at the end of articles, as recommended by Revcontent’s best practices.
- Test Ad Formats: Experiment with different formats (e.g., video vs. in-feed) to see what resonates with your audience.
- Leverage Analytics: Use platform analytics to identify top-performing ads and adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Focus on User Experience: Ensure ads blend seamlessly with your content to avoid disrupting readers.
- Diversify Revenue Streams: Combine native ads with other formats, like display ads, using platforms like Monetag.
The Future of Native Advertising in 2025 and Beyond
Native advertising is evolving rapidly, with several trends shaping its future:
- AI-Driven Personalization: Platforms like Outbrain and Taboola are using AI to deliver hyper-personalized ad experiences, increasing engagement.
- Video Dominance: Native video ads, as offered by Nativo and Revcontent, are gaining traction, with 40% higher engagement rates than static ads.
- Global Expansion: Emerging markets in regions like Africa and Asia-Pacific are becoming hotspots for native ad growth, as noted in recent industry reports.
- Regulatory Compliance: With GDPR and other privacy laws tightening, platforms like Setupad are prioritizing transparency and user consent.
FAQ: Common Questions About Native Ads Platforms
What is the best native ads platform for small publishers in 2025?
Monetag and EvaDav are ideal for small publishers due to their low traffic requirements and user-friendly interfaces. They offer competitive CPMs and high fill rates, making them accessible for sites with lower traffic.
How much can I earn with native ads in 2025?
Earnings vary based on traffic, niche, and platform. High-traffic sites using Outbrain or Taboola can earn $5–$10 CPM, while smaller sites on MGID or Monetag might see $1–$3 CPM. A site with 100,000 monthly page views could earn $100–$1,000 monthly, depending on the platform.
Are native ads better than display ads for publishers?
Yes, native ads generally outperform display ads in engagement and CTRs. They’re less intrusive, leading to 20-60% higher engagement rates and a 0.38% mobile CTR compared to 0.11% for display ads.
Do I need a lot of traffic to use native ad platforms?
Not necessarily. While Outbrain and Taboola require 1 million+ page views, platforms like MGID (3,000 daily visitors) and Monetag (low traffic) are more accessible for smaller publishers.
How do I ensure native ads don’t harm my user experience?
Choose platforms that prioritize ad quality, like Nativo or Revcontent, and place ads in non-disruptive areas (e.g., in-feed or at the end of articles). Monitor user feedback and adjust placements as needed.
Conclusion
Native advertising is a powerful tool for publishers in 2025, offering a balance of high engagement and revenue potential. The 8 platforms highlighted—Outbrain, Taboola, MGID, Nativo, Revcontent, Setupad, Monetag, and EvaDav—cater to a range of needs, from premium publishers to small blogs. By choosing the right platform and optimizing your strategy, you can boost your ad revenue while keeping your audience happy.
