When it comes to running video ads on YouTube, there are several formats to consider. Choosing the right YouTube ad format for your campaign depends on your marketing goals. In this article, we’ll break down the most popular YouTube ad formats explained and list up-to-date ad specs to help you make an informed decision.

TrueView (Video Ads)

Skippable and Non-Skippable In-Stream video ads play before, during, or after videos on YouTube and can be up to 3 minutes long. These ad types are charged on a viewable cost-per-thousand impressions (vCPM) basis and are available across desktops, mobile devices, and connected TVs (CTV).

Discovery Ads (Video Ads)

Discovery ads appear on the YouTube home page and can be up to 15 seconds long in the US and Europe, and up to 6 seconds long globally. This ad type is ideal for brands that want to increase awareness on a budget and aren’t looking to drive direct conversions.

Outstream Video Ads (Outside YouTube)

Outstream ads are video ads that appear on partner websites and apps on the Google Display Network (GDN). These ad types are charged on based on a CPM basis and can be up to 20 seconds in length, though shorter durations are preferred.