SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and Google Ads (formerly known as Google AdWords) serve different purposes, and whether one is “better” than the other

depends on your specific needs, objectives, and circumstances. They can also be used together as complementary strategies.

Here are some aspects to consider when evaluating SEO and Google Ads…

• Cost – SEO involves optimizing your website to rank higher in free organic search results. However, SEO requires a significant investment of time and possibly money if you hire an SEO specialist or agency. Google Ads, on the other hand, is a paid advertising platform where you bid on keywords to have your ads appear in the Google search results. While you must pay for each click (Pay-Per-Click, or PPC), you may see results faster than SEO.
• Time Frame – Google Ads can start driving traffic to your site almost immediately after your campaign goes live, while SEO can take months to show results. If you need immediate visibility and have the budget for it, Google Ads can be a good choice. On the other hand, the effects of SEO are typically longer-lasting. Once you’ve achieved a high ranking, it can sustain itself for a long time with proper maintenance.
• Targeting – Both SEO and Google Ads offer ways to target specific demographics, locations, and other audience segments. However, Google Ads can provide more precision and flexibility regarding targeting options, ad scheduling, and adjusting campaigns based on performance.
• Trust and Credibility – Some users trust organic search results (which are influenced by SEO) more than ads. From this perspective, ranking highly in organic results can enhance your brand’s credibility.
• Competition – For highly competitive keywords, ranking organically using SEO can be challenging and time-consuming. Google Ads might give you a quicker way to appear on the first page of search results.
• Visibility – With Google Ads, your website can appear at the top of the search results, even above the top organic results. However, since these are labeled as ads, some users may skip over them.

SEO and Google Ads have their advantages and disadvantages. Your business goals, budget, timeline, and overall digital marketing strategy should dictate the choice between them. Many businesses invest in both to maximize their visibility and take advantage of each approach’s different benefits.