You might think that all digital ads are more or less the same, and for a step-up, you only need to apply creativity to display ad examples. Well, at a higher level, that sounds true. You have a bunch of proven formats like Banners, Popunders, Native ads, Push ads, etc., and you elaborate an ad message and design within your business marketing strategy.
However, those who are in the business in-deep can approach display advertising examples these effective ways:
- You use traditional ad formats effectively and profit big time.
- Or you can go for the brand-new display ad examples with statistically tested higher CTRs (click-through rate) and proven ability to tackle ad fatigue among users. And hit the profit goal much faster.
Niche global display networks have long ago started the struggle for users’ genuine attention. With new technologies, it becomes possible to bring forward higher results without having to push clickbait.
But no rush. Let’s dissect it all step by step in our present guide and avoid common mistakes with digital ad examples.
High-performing display ad examples and core elements
Before we dive into higher-level technicalities, let’s name the core elements of the best display ad examples that will contribute to the overall efficiency of your ad campaign.
Table 1, 2, 3. Key Elements of Effective Display Ad Examples
1. Basics
| Element | Best Practices |
|---|---|
| Attention | Draw the user’s attention from the beginning, use punchy, readable messages, and attention-grabbing visual elements. |
| Trends | Apply recognizable styles, appeals, or emojis to make ads feel fresh. Align with your brand. |
| Colors | Call forth different experiences and produce the mood and atmosphere. For example, scarlet and ruby convey top priority and dominance, green and blue — growth and trust, high-contrast colors stand for attention, cooler tones and shades — for serenity. |
| Value proposition | Promote the experience, not just your service or product. Prioritize value proposition in your message over features. |
| Brand logo | Be visible and encouraging with your logo on the ad space, but not intrusive. Align the color tones with your brand stylistics. Typically displayed at the header or footer to support trustworthiness, brand consistency, and awareness. |
Expert tip
Ensure to localize the examples of your creative display ad carefully. And it’s not the mere translations we are talking about, but precisely localized preferences, cultural cues, and regional references to resonate with your potential customers.
2. Text level
| Element | Best Practices |
|---|---|
| Headlines | Write strong, value-packed titles. Prefer verbs over nouns. Ensure your headline alone communicates a value proposition. Form headlines with a question, problem, call to action, or benefit. |
| Body copy | Find the sweet spot between urgency, problem-solving, and understanding of audience common pain points. Keep the message well-structured, simple, and to the point. |
| Call to action (CTA) | Make it short and direct, apply forceful verbs matching your goal, which can be a sign-in, purchase, download, generating leads, etc. |
Expert tip
Take the time to craft your heading first and foremost. With the current speed of information consumption, users might see only the title. That’s why it’s a great idea to test your display ad creative examples at least on a small focus group and switch it if needed. On top, continue to study your target audience and their common pain points, which is always helpful in order to stay on the same page with your potential customers.
3. Designs, layout, ad size
| Element | Best Practices |
|---|---|
| Images and graphics | Utilize quality, clear creatives. When using stock photos, make sure they are of high quality and from a reliable source. |
| Animation and motion | HTML5 or GIF animations are honed to reveal in-depth storytelling through multiple frames. |
| Speed optimization | Keep sizes under 150KB for faster load time. |
| Cross-device performance | Always ensure animations load quickly and run smoothly across browsers and devices. |
| Creatives’ layout | Each different size of a creative often requires a special layout. Avoid fit-size-all approach, you risk “spasming” the ad example for display. |
Expert tip
Knowing your audience deeply is a big step to successful ad campaigns. Once you feel your audience enough, you can bring up what motivates them, tailor your imagery, language, and tone to their preferences. You can A/B test your unique ideas and traditional approaches to make informed decisions.
Adsterra offers a variety of display ad examples, tailored for you by a professional team of developers and marketers. So you can just fill in your appealing copy and test over a dozen templates of ad formats with high-quality traffic from all 1-3 Tiers and 248 geos and 20+ targeting settings (device, OS, browser, geo-country-region-city, etc.).
Why display ads still dominate digital marketing?
If you wonder, why display ad samples are still big and are recognized by marketers, affiliates, and advertisers, here is why. It all comes to the unique features that make display ads work effectively and bring results:
- Data-driven. Ad performance is easy to quantify by applying metrics like cost per 1000 impressions (CPM), cost per click (CPC) or cost per action (CPA).
- Adaptable. You can quickly edit ad text and swap creatives effortlessly.
- Testable. Run tests to see which examples out of your display ads perform best and which ones underperform. Look for the best combinations for text, ads headlines, and visual elements.
- Budget-orientated. While running display ads on advanced niche advertising networks, you can also apply robust budget-saving tools.
- Highly-targeted. Allows for precise targeting so your ads reach the most attractive audience for your product, even for niche offers.
Expert tip
The overall success of the marketing efficiency of your display ad samples depends on the advertising platform you partner with. An effectively facilitated partnership can give you a head start. The flexibility of collaboration, a range of pre-set templates, ad campaign optimization tools, wide targeting options, and traffic quality are among the important things to look for. To make a choice of an advertising platform less of a challenge, you can read our latest guide on the Best Advertising Platforms.
Best global examples of display ads
For the most practical approach, let’s make a short overview of display ads features and samples by the famous ad networks, like Google display network and Google ads examples, digital ad examples by Amazon, and Adsterra ads, and compare their strongest points.
Table 4. Comparison Overview for Global Examples of Display Ads
| Feature | Google display ads examples | Digital ad examples by Amazon | Adsterra display ads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main strength | Google ads have huge global reach across websites and apps. | Commerce-driven targeting based on Amazon online shopping behavior. | Global ad network with innovative ads, broad traffic sources, flexible collaboration. |
| Best for | Brand awareness and general retargeting. | Driving ecommerce sales, product remarketing. | Precise targeting, all-tier global reach, scalable traffic acquisition. |
| Targeting | Interests, demographics, custom audiences, remarketing. | Purchase history, product views, cart behavior. | Geo, device, type of traffic, and +20 more, performance-based targeting. |
| Ad formats | Google ads are responsive banners, search ads, static ads, HTML5, video ads. | Sponsored display, DSP banners, product ads, video ads. | Popunders, Social Bars, Native ads, Banner ads, In-Page Push, and other ads. |
| Optimization | Google ads smart bidding, ML optimization. | Retail-linked optimization bound to shopper intent. | CPA/CPC/CPM, anti-fraud, real-time optimization. |
What makes some display ad examples better than others?

A catchy design, irresistible CTA button, compelling copy,… they play a super role. You’re right. On the other hand, the technology behind it is what makes your creative display ads designs and examples extra powerful and converting.
So, what to expect from ad network advancements? Let’s look at types of display ads with examples as they are at Adsterra display network:
- Measures for ad fatigue or banner blindness. When users are so accustomed to digital advertisements, they tend to ignore them. By choosing the right display ad examples, like Social Bar, Custom Widgets, Icon Notifications, and Interstitials with 30% higher CTRs than industry alternatives, you can still encourage users to convert, with your display banner being more intuitive and attractive for users.
- Live chat support: When applying Adsterra ads, you always have your backup with the Partner Care support team for expert advice and statistical data performance.
- Budget optimization. Adsterra’s second-price auctions tool Smart CPM (as a competition radar) provides access to the best-converting placements without overpaying.
- Custom bidding. Being flexible with bidding allows for budget and time saving, as you push forward the successful display ad campaigns and downgrade the underperforming ones.
- S2S tracking. Adsterra equips marketers and affiliates with trackers for advanced monitoring of specific parameters and performance of display advertising examples.
- Advanced targeting. Adsterra has developed 20+ targeting settings, so it’s much easier to display your ad examples to the math-precise targeted audience.
- Smart algorithms with more targeting. When a publisher uses Smartlink ad formats to show your ads, you, as an advertiser, have even sharper audience targeting. The algorithms select only those with the highest relevance to your display ad and offer.
- Ad safety. Ad network technology protects your budgets by offering high-quality traffic sources, with in-house anti-fraud solutions and manual checking.
- Technology advancements. Advertising networks with deep niche expertise and R&D departments, like Adsterra, develop proprietary display ad format examples. For instance, Adsterra has lately introduced Social Bar skins with 30X higher CTRs than industry popular samples.
Adsterra’s proprietary Social Bar Ads

What is it?
Social Bar is Adsterra’s own ad format and ultra beneficial combination of display and push ads. It delivers top-quality traffic from 248 geos and 1, 2, 3 Tiers and exceptional returns on investment. Social Bar skins boost user engagement and conversion rates thanks to its intuitive nature and customization capabilities.

Why to implement?
- Custom designs.
- 15+ templates.
- No user opt-ins (unlike web push).
- Higher viewability.
- CPM, CPC, CPA traffic.
- 9.9B+ ad views weekly.
- Great for multiple devices, including iOS and MacOS X.
- Up to 30X higher CTRs compared to web push.
- A/B tests with 15 creatives to upload.
More details: https://adsterra.com/blog/social-bar-ads/
Popunder

What is it?
Popunder is a prominent ad example displaying an offer when the user has finished his engagement in the browser. It pops up right behind the current user’s page, so that the user can examine what Popunder has to offer with their full attention.
Why to implement?
- Really hard to miss, but non-intrusive.
- Used for all platforms and devices (for computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices).
- High conversion rates.
- Over 11.8B impressions monthly.

More details: https://adsterra.com/blog/what-is-popunder-ads/
Interstitial ads

What is it?
Interstitial is a form of digital advertising that is very hard to miss. They jump right in the face from a website or a landing page, which makes them highly visible.

Why to implement?
- From 45% to 80% of the user’s screen space and attention.
- Wide layout variability for placing images and text.
- Competitive CPM rates without overpaying.
- No pre-lander needed.
- Up to 15 A/B tests for one ad campaign.
More details: Learn a real life example of displaying Interstitial ads for iGaming offers and profiting $2800 net on the spot.
In-Page Push

What is it?
In-Page Push is a highly visible and interactive display ads example. Simply put, it’s an innovative step-up from web push ads and therefore more effective.

Why to implement?
- 10+ converting social media style ad samples.
- Supporting all locations, devices, browsers, and OS.
- High CTRs.
- CPM/CPC/CPA traffic.
- A/B tests of up to 15 creatives.
- No opt-in required.
- 100% genuine traffic that matches your target.
More details: Here is another real life story of hitting 190% ROI with a Utility offer and In-Page Push Ads.
Display ads per industry examples
Display ad examples vary widely by industry. However, the most effective campaigns share one trait in common. They are programmed to communicate what motivates their audience.
Ecommerce and sales (storytelling)
In ecommerce, brands rely heavily on visual storytelling, as it’s not that easy to move shoppers from curiosity to purchase. Headlines packed with highly-related and benefit-driven product imagery assist customers imagine the item in their own lives. Such a strategy encourages users to obtain the desired product intuitively.
Entertainment (joy and aspiration)
Here, brands take a different approach, prioritizing emotions. Their display ads typically exemplify joy and inspiration through bold colors and expressive imagery. Dynamic scenes capture attention instantly. Let’s look at great display ads and their examples from Adsterra.
Example 1. The Intuitive Interstitial ad for a Sports offer capturing the intense sports moment in motion.

Example 2. The pre-lander Interstitial ad to check age illegibility of the user for a Sports niche offer.

Example 3. The Sweepstakes niche display ad in blue to communicate and build trust and reliability.

Example 4. The iGaming niche banner designed specifically for the targeted audience.

Example 5. The high-ticket iGaming offer in the black and gold color palette.

Example 6. The Sports-calendar-based offer for the upcoming Sports event with a registration form.

Tech niche (features plus innovation)
In tech and software, display ad examples often focus on clarity alongside innovation. The key points to follow here are clean layouts and concise copy, which highlights performance and problem-solving. These displaying ad examples aim to remove complexity and help future clients understand why a tool or platform is worth exploring on the spot.
Finance (trust and urgency)
For finance and professional services, trust is uttermost. Ad examples in this category display authoritative visuals and credibility signals. Among them are ratings, guarantees, or certification. Creating a sense of safety and compelling call is what is key to drive potential customers toward a decision they feel confident about.
Emerging trends
The growing use of rich media and interactive formats is what is trending at the moment. Motion graphics, animated ads, dynamic ads, and tap-to-reveal features pull users directly into the experience. They stimulate interaction and acute perception, making ads more engaging and memorable. However, ensure to safely balance between the captivation and intrusiveness. It can be easily achieved by using advanced ad formats and their innovative features.
Create your own display ad examples with best practices
Here is a straightforward checklist that lets you tick off all the points, meaning you’re fully equipped to launch your ad campaigns today! Always lean on the best display ad examples and practices:
Planning ✅ ☐
- Define your campaign objective ☐
- awareness
- conversion type
- Identify audience specifics and segments ☐
- demographics
- behaviors
- interests
- Select ad formats supported by your ad platform. ☐
- Set your ad spend and bidding strategy. ☐
- Apply tools, like Smart CPM and Custom bid. ☐
- Measure campaign performance, tweak and repeat. ☐
Creative ✅ ☐
- Use a strong value proposition. ☐
- Make your CTA button large and high-contrast. ☐
- Harness emotional appeal or problem-solution framing. ☐
- Ensure the ad looks good on light and dark web backgrounds. ☐
Technical ✅ ☐
- Optimize image for fast loading. ☐
- Optimize landing pages for consistency and speed. ☐
- Use supported file types (JPG, PNG, GIF, HTML5). ☐
- Apply responsive display ads. ☐
- Check upon tracking for utm parameters. ☐
Targeting ✅ ☐
- Tune the settings (geo, OS, browser, device, etc.). ☐
- Go flexible with whitelisting and blacklisting. ☐
- Work with frequency caps. ☐
Performance and optimization ✅ ☐
- Test headlines, creative CTAs, and formats. ☐
- Monitor daily (CTR, impressions, conversion rate). ☐
- Interchange creatives every 2–4 weeks. ☐
- Adjust bids with device, time of day, type of traffic, etc. in mind. ☐
Compliance and brand safety ✅ ☐
- Follow the platform requirements and legal guidelines. ☐
- Keep away from clickbait, fake news, or mislead promises. ☐
- Ensure copyrights for images and fonts. ☐
Conclusion
So do you think it’s all about design and captivating copy when it comes to the best display advertising examples? Now, you know there is MORE and the application is pretty straightforward. When planning your creatives and ad campaigns, ensure in advance, you can rely on your advertising network in the way of best tools for optimization and cost-effective approach. On top of that, pay extra attention to strong performance and enhanced CTR-characteristics of your display ad samples.
Display ad examples: FAQ
What are display ads examples?
A display ad is an effective visual online advertisement that appears on landing pages or apps, using images, graphics, or animations to attract attention. For example: a 300×250 image showing “50% Off Winter Gear. Buy Now!” with a bright product photo and a clickable button leading to an outdoor online store.
How to write the best display ad example?
Write your best display ads by using a short, clear, but compelling headline. In the example, highlight one key benefit and add strong visuals. Keep the ad text easy to comprehend. Include a clear call-to-action like “Shop Now.” To help you streamline your work, you can employ ChatGPT for marketing to get fresh ideas for your ads, copy, posts, and target audience research.
Are display ads still effective?
Yes, display ads are still effective when targeted well and paired with the technological advancements of a digital advertising network. Latest technologies, like precise targeting, budget-saving tools, optimization tools, anti-adblock features, strict anti-fraud traffic control, etc., help reach the right customer across the web with the highest possible CTR. Advanced display ad examples achieve marketing goals much quicker.