Facebook vs Google Ads: Which Works Better for Your Business Type? (Breakdown by Industry)
When it comes to paid marketing, one of the most common dilemmas for brands is choosing between Facebook Ads and Google Ads. Each platform offers powerful tools, but understanding which one fits your industry and goals can make or break your campaign’s success.
Here’s a breakdown based on real industry insights to help you make a smarter choice:
1. E-Commerce
Winner: Facebook Ads
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Facebook and Instagram thrive on visual content, making them ideal for showcasing products.
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Carousel and video ads have proven to yield higher click-through rates and ROI. Tip: Use dynamic retargeting to recover abandoned carts and re-engage potential buyers.
2. Healthcare / Local Services
Winner: Google Ads
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When people need immediate help—doctors, dentists, plumbers—they Google it.
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Google Search and Maps are incredibly effective for hyperlocal targeting. Tip: Use localized keywords and set up a Google My Business profile to improve visibility.
3. Education & Online Courses
Winner: Combination of Facebook Ads (for awareness) and Google Ads (for intent-based search)
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Facebook can build brand recognition and community.
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Google captures high-intent users actively searching for courses. Tip: Use Facebook lead forms and bid on Google branded keywords.
4. B2B Services
Winner: Google Ads + LinkedIn
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B2B decision-makers often begin with Google searches before exploring brands further.
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LinkedIn helps with precise retargeting and audience segmentation. Tip: Target on Google for discovery, then retarget using LinkedIn and Facebook for reinforcement.
5. Travel, Hospitality & Events
Winner: Facebook/Instagram Ads
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These sectors thrive on inspiration and emotion, which are visually driven.
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People don’t always search for events or destinations—you have to show them first. Tip: Use Reels, Stories, and video testimonials to drive curiosity and engagement.
6. SaaS / Tech Products
Winner: Depends on Funnel Stage
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Google is great for top-of-the-funnel (TOFU) awareness and mid-funnel (MOFU) comparison.
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Facebook excels at bottom-of-the-funnel (BOFU) retargeting and onboarding. Tip: Invest in performance-optimized landing pages and implement robust pixel tracking.
Final Takeaway:
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Use Facebook Ads to create desire, tell your story, and build brand awareness.
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Use Google Ads to capture high-intent searches and convert ready-to-buy users.
Why the Right Mix Matters
It’s not about choosing one platform over the other, but about blending them based on your customer journey. A strategic funnel includes both awareness-building and conversion-focused efforts.
At That Freelancer, we craft custom paid strategies tailored to your industry, growth stage, and specific goals. No cookie-cutter templates. Just performance-driven solutions.
Want to know what platform mix fits your business? DM us for a free mini-audit of your digital strategy