Top 10 Ad Networks for Publishers in 2025 And Why Smart Mediation Matters
In 2025, monetization isn’t about picking one ad network, it’s about building the right stack. Whether you’re running a mobile app, a content site, or a CTV channel, the platforms you choose and how you combine them directly impact your earnings.
The challenge? Each network has different strengths, eligibility rules, and technical requirements.
We’ve covered the top 10 ad networks publishers should know in 2025 who they’re best for, what to expect, and how to build a flexible, future-proof ad stack that grows with your traffic.
1. Google AdSense
AdSense remains the go to for beginners. It’s simple: paste in the ad code, and Google handles the rest. If your traffic is still growing or you’re in early stages, AdSense is a low-barrier way to monetize.
But RPMs are often low (sometimes under $2), and account bans can happen without warning. Once you start getting consistent traffic, most publishers eventually graduate to more advanced options like AdX or header bidding setups.
2. Google AdX (via GAM / MCM Partner)
AdX unlocks premium demand with RPMs often in the $5–$10+ range, especially for U.S. traffic. But access isn’t direct. You’ll need to set up through Google Ad Manager (GAM) and an MCM (Multiple Customer Management) partner.
Technical setup is not beginner-friendly: passback rules, floor pricing, and real-time bid tuning all require attention. That’s why many publishers work with MCM providers who manage these moving parts efficiently.
3. Amazon Publisher Services (APS)
APS offers strong competition to AdX, especially in North America and Western Europe. With CPMs in the $4–$8 range for display and video, it brings stable demand from Amazon’s ecosystem.
However, the integration process is complex: server-side tagging, event catalog syncing, and header bidding setup. APS also requires approval. Many mid-tier publishers benefit from having this layered in by a platform that already supports server-to-server integrations.
4. MagicBid (Full-Stack Monetization & Mediation Platform)
Before you pick ad networks, you need the right infrastructure. MagicBid is a full-stack monetization platform built to unify Prebid + Postbid, optimize real-time auctions, and plug into 40+ top demand sources including Google AdX, Amazon, PubMatic, and more.
It’s designed for web, app, and CTV publishers who want premium demand without the complexity. With SDKs, oRTB, header bidding, and server-side integrations, MagicBid gives you full control over your stack and makes your existing networks perform better. Think of it as your foundation: instead of choosing one ad partner, use MagicBid to make the best ones compete harder for your inventory.
5. Magnite (CTV & Video Monetization)
If you’re in the CTV or OTT space, Magnite is one of the most important players. It connects publishers with high-value demand from major DSPs targeting connected TV.
To get approved, your video content must meet strict specs including server-side ad insertion (SSAI) and accurate ad markers. Magnite works best for publishers already delivering high-quality long-form or FAST content.
6. PubMatic (Header Bidding DSP Access)
PubMatic is ideal for advanced programmatic setups. It brings in competitive bids from a wide range of DSPs, and excels in real-time auctions especially when latency is managed properly.
Header bidding configuration, timeout tuning, and floor price strategy are key. Without optimizing these, you may miss out on its full revenue potential.
7. Index Exchange (Premium, Brand-Safe Demand)
Index Exchange focuses on quality over quantity. Its demand is brand-safe, viewable, and high-performing ideal for publishers working with advertisers that prioritize clean placements.
It’s best used alongside higher-fill networks to balance volume and quality. This dual-stack approach helps publishers protect UX while improving revenue consistency.
8. Performance Ad Networks (Adsterra, Monetag, PopAds)
These platforms focus on global reach with formats like push, pop-under, and smart links. Their flexibility helps monetize Tier 2–3 traffic that mainstream SSPs don’t always fill.
However, UX risks are real especially with aggressive ad formats. These networks are best deployed strategically: either as a fallback or only on specific pages where user engagement is less critical.
9. Unity Ads / ironSource (App-First Monetization)
If you’re monetizing mobile games or apps, Unity Ads and ironSource are essential. Rewarded videos, interstitials, and native placements consistently outperform display for in-app revenue.
They require SDK integration, placement setup, and mediation layers to perform optimally so technical guidance or mediation support is often needed for smaller teams.
10. Niche & Closed Networks (Ezoic, Mediavine, Raptive)
These networks offer strong RPMs in specific niches lifestyle, food, parenting, etc. But most require exclusivity, strict layout control, and minimum traffic thresholds.
They’re ideal for mature publishers who want an all-in-one service but they can limit flexibility, especially if you want to experiment with new formats or SSPs.
Choosing the Right Ad Stack
No single network wins across all formats, niches, and geographies. What actually drives performance is how well your demand sources are combined and optimized. In today’s ecosystem, success comes from building a stack not betting on one provider.
Whether you’re stuck with low CPMs or juggling too many partners, MagicBid helps unify your monetization across web, app, and CTV.
- Certified MCM partner for Google AdX
- Server-to-server integration with APS, PubMatic, and more
- Real-time auction tuning, SDK support, and fraud protection
Want to see how your setup compares? Get a free audit
FAQ
AdX isn’t available directly, you need Google Ad Manager and an MCM partner like MagicBid. We manage the full setup, including passbacks, floors, and bid tuning, so you can access premium demand without the complexity.
Google AdX, APS, and PubMatic top the list for Tier 1 geos. Publishers report $5–$10+ RPMs but only if latency, ad formats, and bidding rules are well configured. Setup quality matters as much as the partner.
AdSense is easier but offers lower RPMs. AdX, available via GAM and MCM partners, gives access to premium buyers and better rates. It’s more complex to set up but pays off for growing publishers.
Start by identifying your platform (web, app, or CTV), audience location, and traffic quality.
Then shortlist networks that specialize in your format and geo.
The real performance comes from how well these networks work together through mediation, header bidding, or direct deals and how easily you can track, test, and optimize each one.
If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.
MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.
- Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
- In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
- CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.
With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.
Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.
