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Understanding AdTag vs. Embed Code

Learn the difference between AdTag and Embed Code. Compare benefits, traffic capacity, analytics, and best use cases for your designs.

Updated over a week ago

Bannersnack offers two primary ways to deliver and display your designs—AdTag and Embed Code—both hosted on our servers for easy distribution and automatic updates. While they may seem similar at first glance, each serves distinct purposes with unique benefits, depending on your traffic needs and publishing platform.

What is AdTag?

AdTag (also known as the Ad Serving Add-on) is an advanced HTML5 script tailored for specific advertising platforms such as Google Ads, AdRoll, AppNexus, Sizmek, and more.

Key features and benefits:

  • Platform-specific compatibility: An AdTag created for one platform will not work on another due to unique script requirements.

  • No size restrictions: Removes the file size limits typically imposed by ad networks (e.g., 150KB on Google Ads).

  • Scalable performance: Designed to handle high traffic volumes without slowing down.

  • Real-time updates: Any design changes in the Bannersnack editor instantly reflect in your live ad—no need to re-upload.

  • Advanced analytics: Access traffic statistics, CTR, heatmaps, and device/location data for better ad optimization.

Best for: Large-scale ad campaigns, high-traffic environments, and situations requiring instant updates without republishing assets.

Bannersnack AdTag HTML5 script export interface showing custom ad tag code for Google Ads, with responsive scale and iFrame options.

What is the Embed Code?

The Embed Code is a general-purpose hosting method ideal for displaying designs on websites or blogs with light to moderate traffic.

Key features and benefits:

  • Easy setup: Just copy and paste the code into your CMS widget, page HTML, or use it in Google Tag Manager.

  • Plan-based traffic capacity: View limits apply depending on your subscription level.

  • Automatic updates: Like AdTag, design edits instantly sync without replacing the existing embed code.

Best for: Websites, blogs, and smaller campaigns where heavy traffic and ad platform-specific requirements are not a concern.

Bannersnack embed code settings panel demonstrating how to copy embed code, enable public comments, and update drafts for hosted designs.

Important Note:

  • AdTag is an add-on and is billed separately from your main subscription, based on usage.


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