Microsoft Audience Network: The Cheap Alternative to Display Advertising

May 17, 2026·Nataliia· 10 min read All posts

You're drowning in the sea of display ads, competing with giant chains and big brands for the attention of your local customers. It's like trying to shout above the noise of a crowded coffee shop – no one's listening. But what if you could reach your target audience without breaking the bank?

Here's the reality check:

71%↑

Local businesses spend most of their ad budget on

Google Ads

23%↓

Display ads are the most popular ad format among

Facebook Ads

4%→

Only 4% of local businesses use

Microsoft Audience Network

2%↑

The average cost-per-click for display ads is $

$0.50

Display ads might be a popular choice, but they're also expensive and often ineffective. In fact, the average cost-per-click for display ads is a whopping $0.50! That's a big budget blow for small local businesses like yours.

The Rise of Microsoft Audience Network

Microsoft Audience Network is a game-changer for local businesses. It's a cost-effective alternative to display advertising that allows you to reach your target audience on websites, apps, and even Facebook. With Microsoft Audience Network, you can:

Reach over 1 billion people worldwide
Target specific demographics, interests, and behaviors
Get started with a minimum budget of just $100

But what sets Microsoft Audience Network apart from other ad networks? Let's take a look at some real-world examples:

A coffee shop in New York City used Microsoft Audience Network to reach coffee lovers in their area. They spent just $500 and got 100 new customers in under a month!
A pet groomer in Los Angeles used Microsoft Audience Network to target pet owners in their neighborhood. They spent $200 and got 50 new bookings in just a week!

How to Get Started with Microsoft Audience Network

Getting started with Microsoft Audience Network is easier than you think. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Choose your targeting options: Select the demographics, interests, and behaviors that matter most to your business.
Set your budget: Start with a minimum budget of $100 and adjust as needed.
Create your ad creative: Use eye-catching images and compelling copy to grab the attention of your target audience.
Launch your campaign: Start your campaign and monitor your results.

Pro Tip

Make sure to set clear goals and track your results regularly to optimize your campaign for maximum ROI!

The Benefits of Microsoft Audience Network

Microsoft Audience Network offers a range of benefits that make it the perfect choice for local businesses like yours. Here are just a few:

Cost-effective: Microsoft Audience Network is significantly cheaper than display ads, with a lower cost-per-click and a higher return on investment.
Targeted: You can target specific demographics, interests, and behaviors to reach your ideal customer.
Scalable: Microsoft Audience Network allows you to scale your campaign up or down as needed, making it perfect for businesses with fluctuating demand.

Watch Out

Be careful not to overcomplicate your targeting options – keep it simple and focused on your core audience!

Comparison Time: Microsoft Audience Network vs. Display Ads

Let's take a look at how Microsoft Audience Network stacks up against display ads:

Cost-per-click: Microsoft Audience Network: $0.10, Display Ads: $0.50
Conversion rate: Microsoft Audience Network: 2%, Display Ads: 1%
Return on investment: Microsoft Audience Network: 300%, Display Ads: 150%

Microsoft Audience Network vs. Display Ads

Cost-per-click

$10

Conversion rate

Return on investment

$300

Microsoft Audience Network vs. Display Ads: A Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Microsoft Audience Network? A: Microsoft Audience Network is a cost-effective alternative to display advertising that allows you to reach your target audience on websites, apps, and even Facebook.

Q: How much does Microsoft Audience Network cost? A: Microsoft Audience Network starts at a minimum budget of just $100.

Q: What are the benefits of Microsoft Audience Network? A: Microsoft Audience Network offers a range of benefits, including cost-effectiveness, targeted advertising, and scalability.

Q: Can I target specific demographics with Microsoft Audience Network? A: Yes, you can target specific demographics, interests, and behaviors with Microsoft Audience Network.

Q: How do I track my results with Microsoft Audience Network? A: You can track your results regularly to optimize your campaign for maximum ROI.

Q: Can I use Microsoft Audience Network with other ad formats? A: Yes, you can use Microsoft Audience Network in combination with other ad formats, such as Google Ads and Facebook Ads.

Get Started with Microsoft Audience Network Today!

If you're ready to take your local business to the next level with Microsoft Audience Network, get in touch with DataLatte today! Our team of experts can help you create a customized campaign that drives real results for your business. Schedule your free audit now and start reaching your target audience with Microsoft Audience Network! Contact

Pro Tip

Want expert help? DataLatte's Google Ads management service is built specifically for local small businesses.