Usually appearing as rectangular graphics at the top, side, or bottom of a page, banner ads are image-based digital ads that are integrated into web pages. They are among the oldest types of internet advertising and are intended to draw clicks and traffic to a specific product or landing page.
Why Banner Ads Matter
- High Visibility: Their appearance on popular websites guarantees a wide audience.
- Brand Awareness: Excellent for reminding or introducing consumers to a brand.
- Visual Appeal: Use design, colors, animation, and CTAs to engage users.
- Targeted Advertising: can be displayed according to demographics, location, or user behavior.
- Cost-Effective at Scale: particularly in networks of display ads, such as the Google Display Network.
Types of Banner Ads
- Static Banner Ads – Basic graphics or pictures with text and a link that can be clicked.
- Animated Banner Ads – Use motion graphics or GIFs to grab attention.
- Interactive Banner Ads – Allow for user interaction, such as hover animations and form inputs.
- Expandable Ads – To display more information, expand when you click or hover over it.
- Rich Media Ads – Combine video, audio, and other interactive elements.
Popular Banner Ad Sizes (in pixels)
- 728×90 – Leaderboard (top of page)
- 300×250 – Medium Rectangle (sidebars or content)
- 160×600 – Wide Skyscraper (sidebars)
- 970×250 – Billboard (premium header placement)
- 320×100 – Large Mobile Banner
These sizes are standardized by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB).
How SEO Agency Boston Designs High-Converting Banner Ads
We ensure that every banner ad:
- Fits the preferences of your audience and the tone of your brand.
- Has a powerful call to action and an eye-catching visual hierarchy.
- A/B testing is used to identify the best design.
- Uses custom audience settings and retargeting to target the appropriate audience.
- Loads quickly and looks good on all devices.
- We prioritize performance over flashy gimmicks — design that converts, not just attracts.
Banner Ads Best Practices
- Keep designs clean and minimal — avoid clutter
- Use actionable and benefit-driven copy
- Make sure CTAs stand out (e.g., “Shop Now,” “Try Free”)
- Design mobile-first, ensuring readability on smaller screens
- Test different creatives and placements regularly
Related Terms
- Display Advertising
- Google Display Network (GDN)
- Retargeting
- Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO)
- Programmatic Advertising
Common FAQs About Banner Ads
Well-crafted and targeted banner ads continue to work well, particularly in retargeting, even though click-through rates (CTR) have decreased from their early days.
Particularly when using CPM (cost per thousand impressions) pricing, they can be incredibly inexpensive. Premium audiences or placements come at a higher cost.
Targeting, design, clarity, and a strong offer. Landing page alignment is also critical to success.
Turn Impressions Into Clicks
We at SEO Agency Boston create experiences that encourage interaction rather than merely banner ads. Our banner ads strategies, which range from precise targeting to creative design, guarantee that your brand is noticed in the crowded digital space.
