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Facebook vs. TikTok vs. YouTube: Where Should You Run Your Video Ads?

For small business owners, video marketing is no longer optional—it’s essential. But with so many platforms available, one question keeps coming up: where should you run your video ads—Facebook, TikTok, or YouTube? Each platform offers unique benefits, audiences, and ad formats. Understanding the differences will help you maximize results while keeping your ad spend affordable.

Facebook Video Ads: Best for Local Targeting

Facebook remains a powerful tool for small businesses, especially when targeting local customers.

Why Facebook works for video ads:

• Strong location-based targeting (great for local businesses).
• Older and family-oriented demographics.
• Easy to boost ready-made promo videos with a small budget.

Best for: Restaurants, service businesses, home improvement, and local shops. Learn exactly how to run Facebook video ads for small businesses.

TikTok Video Ads: Best for Viral Reach

TikTok is the fastest-growing platform and perfect for engaging, short-form promo videos.

Why TikTok works for video ads:

• Viral potential with organic reach.
• Younger, trend-driven audience.
• Affordable video production fits TikTok’s fast-paced content style.

Best for: Lifestyle brands, beauty, fitness, entertainment, and any business targeting Gen Z or Millennials.

YouTube Video Ads: Best for Long-Term Authority

YouTube is the world’s second-largest search engine, making it perfect for building credibility and attracting clients actively searching for solutions.

Why YouTube works for video ads:

• Search-driven traffic (great for intent-based marketing).
• Long-form video content builds authority and trust.
• Works well for industries that require explanation (services, tutorials, reviews).

Best for: Professional services, education, tech, and businesses that want evergreen visibility.

Which Platform Should You Choose?

• Facebook → Great for local targeting and family-focused demographics.
• TikTok → Perfect if you want viral reach and younger customers.
• YouTube → Ideal for building authority and reaching search-driven clients.

The truth? You don’t have to choose just one. Start with a professional promo video that can be adapted to all three platforms. With today’s affordable video production, you can run your commercial video as a Facebook ad, TikTok short, and YouTube pre-roll—maximizing your reach without overspending. No matter the platform, every business starts with a promo video that’s affordable and effective .