Best Google AdSense Alternatives for Bloggers
Monetization Guide
Best Google AdSense Alternatives for Bloggers (2025 Edition)
If you are earning less than expected from AdSense—or your application is still pending—consider these performant ad networks. Each option supports different traffic tiers, content niches, and payout models.
Quick Comparison
| Network | Ideal For | Payment Model | Minimum Traffic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media.net | Contextual ads for US/UK audiences | CPC + CPM | 3K+ pageviews/month |
| Ezoic | AI layout testing for growth-stage blogs | Revenue share | 10K+ sessions/month |
| Mediavine | Lifestyle, food, parenting, travel | Revenue share | 50K sessions/month |
| PropellerAds | Push notifications, pop-under, interstitials | CPM + CPA | No minimum |
| AdThrive (Raptive) | Premium advertisers targeting US households | Revenue share (75% to publisher) | 100K pageviews/month + 50% US traffic |
| SheMedia | Female-focused sites and lifestyle communities | Revenue share | 20K+ sessions/month |
| Sovrn //Commerce | Commerce-focused or affiliate heavy blogs | CPM + CPA | Flexible |
Top Networks to Consider
Media.net
A Yahoo/Bing network with contextual ads that blend well with editorial blogs. Works best if most of your traffic comes from US, UK, or Canada.
- ✅ Dedicated account manager once approved
- ✅ Compatible with AdSense as a backup
- ⚠️ Approval can take 3–5 business days
- ⚠️ Requires quality content and consistent traffic
Ezoic
Automates ad testing with machine learning, improving RPM over time. Offers additional tools such as site speed accelerator and analytics.
- ✅ Onboarding specialists help with DNS and setup
- ✅ Pays via PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer
- ⚠️ Needs DNS integration or Cloudflare
- ⚠️ Short learning curve to tune placeholders
Mediavine
A premium network known for industry-leading RPMs. Perfect for lifestyle and food bloggers with strong US-based traffic.
- ✅ 30-day payment terms via ACH, PayPal, Payoneer
- ✅ Excellent dashboard and reporting tools
- ⚠️ Strict content and traffic requirements
- ⚠️ Exclusivity clause—cannot run other display networks
PropellerAds
A global ad network with aggressive formats such as push notifications, pop-under, and interstitial ads. Works well for entertainment, downloads, gaming, and streaming niches.
- ✅ Fast approval and no minimum traffic
- ✅ Weekly payouts starting at $5 via PayPal, Payoneer, bank
- ⚠️ Intrusive formats can hurt UX if overused
- ⚠️ Requires compliance with browser policy changes
AdThrive (Raptive)
A premium network with deep advertiser relationships across lifestyle, tech, and finance. Best suited for authoritative publishers with mostly US traffic.
- ✅ High RPMs and strong direct-sold campaigns
- ✅ Includes video player, header bidding, and reader surveys
- ⚠️ Requires 100K monthly pageviews with 50%+ US readers
- ⚠️ Strict brand safety and content guidelines
SheMedia
Targets female-led audiences with campaigns from top lifestyle advertisers. Provides sponsored content opportunities alongside display revenue.
- ✅ Inclusive community events and brand collaborations
- ✅ Support for audio, video, and newsletter sponsorships
- ⚠️ Needs 20K monthly sessions and majority female audience
- ⚠️ Focused on English-language content
Choosing the Right Mix
Instead of relying on a single network, combine monetization levers to stabilize revenue:
- Display ads: Pair AdSense with Media.net or Ezoic to fill inventory.
- Affiliate links: Promote niche-specific products alongside ads.
- Sponsored posts: Pitch brands once your traffic meets advertiser thresholds.
- Digital products: Offer e-books, templates, or premium newsletters.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Eligibility Checklist
- Publish at least 30–40 high-quality, original articles.
- Maintain clear navigation, About, Contact, and Privacy Policy pages.
- Ensure 50–60% of traffic matches the network’s target geography.
- Keep site speed scores above 70 on mobile and desktop.
Application Tips
- Collect screenshots of Google Analytics (last 30 days, traffic sources).
- Highlight popular posts and engagement metrics in your pitch.
- Disclose existing monetization partners upfront.
- Follow up after seven days with a polite status email if needed.
Payment Timelines and Thresholds
| Network | Threshold | Frequency | Payout Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media.net | $100 | Net-30 | Wire, PayPal |
| Ezoic | $20 | Net-30 | PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer |
| Mediavine | $25 | Net-65 | ACH, PayPal, Payoneer |
| PropellerAds | $5 | Weekly | PayPal, Payoneer, wire, Skrill |
| AdThrive (Raptive) | $25 | Net-45 | ACH, wire, PayPal |
RPM Optimization Checklist
During Setup
- Place ads above the fold, in-content, and at the end of articles.
- Enable lazy loading and defer non-critical scripts.
- Use responsive ad units for mobile and tablet devices.
- Test header bidding or mediation to increase demand.
Monthly Maintenance
- Monitor Core Web Vitals—particularly CLS and LCP.
- Review RPM by device, geography, and page type.
- Optimize top-earning posts with updated keywords and CTAs.
- Split-test ad density to balance UX and revenue.
FAQ
Can I use multiple ad networks at the same time?
Yes. Many publishers run Media.net alongside AdSense or use Ezoic’s mediation feature to test different partners. Check each network’s policy to avoid exclusivity conflicts.
Which network pays the fastest?
PropellerAds releases payments weekly once you hit $5. Media.net and Ezoic pay net-30, while Mediavine and AdThrive pay net-65.
Will switching networks hurt SEO?
No. Ad networks do not affect Google rankings directly. Focus on ad layout, page speed, and Core Web Vitals to maintain user experience.