What Type of Digital Ads Perform Best in 2025? Trends and Insights 📊

Jeric Turga
Sep 10
2 min read

Not sure where to focus your ad budget this year

Digital ads are changing quickly. What worked in the past might not cut through in 2025.

If you want more clicks, more leads or better results, you need to know what is working right now.

Here are the ad formats that are getting the most traction this year based on real performance and platform shifts.

1. Short Video Ads

Short-form video continues to dominate

Why it works

Gets attention quickly

Works across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube

Performs well in Stories and Reels

Can be created with a phone and simple editing

Tip Keep videos under 30 seconds Use captions and a clear call to action

2. Vertical Ads for Mobile

Most people browse on their phone. That means your ads need to fit the screen.

Why it works

Full-screen vertical formats get better engagement

Ideal for Instagram Stories, Reels, and TikTok

Helps your ad feel more native and less like a promotion

Tip Design your content for vertical first. Avoid cropping a horizontal video to fit.

3. Carousel Ads

These ads let you show multiple images or messages in a single swipeable format

Why it works

Great for product highlights

Perfect for step-by-step service breakdowns

Keeps people engaged longer

Tip Use the first slide to grab attention Each card should stand alone and lead to the next

4. Lead Form Ads

These ads allow users to submit their name or contact info without leaving the platform

Why it works

Fewer steps mean higher conversions

Works well for bookings, downloads and quotes

Great for service businesses and local offers

Tip Use simple forms and a clear reason to sign up Example Get a free quote in 30 seconds

5. Retargeting Ads

These ads show up for people who already visited your site or interacted with you

Why it works

Warmer audiences are more likely to convert

Reminds people about your offer or product

Keeps your business top of mind

Tip Use a time-based offer or benefit to create urgency Example Still thinking about it Here is 10 percent off

6. AI-Generated Ad Variations

AI tools now help you write headlines, choose images and build campaigns faster

Why it works

Helps you test multiple messages quickly

Saves time without needing a team

Lets you adapt your ads to different audiences

Tip Use AI to create a few versions, but still review for tone and fit Tools like Leedr combine AI and expert support for better results

2025 Ad Trends Summary

Format	Why It Works	Best For
Short videos	Quick attention, high engagement	Social ads, product demos, brand awareness
Vertical formats	Optimised for mobile	Reels, Stories, TikTok
Carousels	Swipeable story or product showcase	Multi-step offers, e-commerce
Lead form ads	Low friction, high conversions	Bookings, downloads, quotes
Retargeting ads	Targets warm traffic	Abandoned carts, service follow-ups
AI-generated content	Speed and variety	Testing creative ideas