Introduction
If you’re planning to monetize your website with Google ads, you’ve likely come across two terms: Google AdSense and Google Ad Exchange (AdX). While both are Google-owned advertising platforms, their approval process, requirements, and earning potential are very different.
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the difference between AdX approval and AdSense approval, who should apply for which, and what publishers need to prepare to qualify successfully.
What Is Google AdSense?
Google AdSense is Google’s entry-level monetization program designed for bloggers, small publishers, and content creators.
Key Features of AdSense:
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Easy to apply and manage
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No minimum traffic requirement (but quality matters)
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Automatic ads available
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Suitable for beginners
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Direct approval by Google
AdSense is usually the first step for website monetization.
AdSense Approval Requirements
To get approved for AdSense, your website must meet these conditions:
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Original, high-quality content
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Clear website navigation
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Essential pages:
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Privacy Policy
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About Us
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Contact Us
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No policy-violating content
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Mobile-friendly design
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Domain ownership (custom domain preferred)
⏱️ Approval time: Few days to 2 weeks
What Is Google Ad Exchange (AdX)?
Google Ad Exchange (AdX) is a premium ad marketplace where large advertisers bid in real-time for high-quality publisher inventory.
⚠️ Important: You cannot apply for AdX directly.
AdX access is provided only through Google-certified publishing partners.
Key Features of AdX:
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Higher CPMs than AdSense
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Real-time bidding (RTB)
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Advanced targeting
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Enterprise-level monetization
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Used by large publishers and media houses
AdX Approval Requirements
AdX has much stricter eligibility criteria compared to AdSense.
Common AdX Requirements:
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High monthly traffic (usually 5M+ pageviews)
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Brand-safe, authoritative content
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Clean site layout with professional design
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Strong traffic from Tier-1 countries (US, UK, CA, AU)
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Google Ad Manager setup
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No history of policy violations
⏱️ Approval time: 2–4 weeks (via partner)
AdX Approval vs AdSense Approval (Comparison Table)
| Feature | AdSense | AdX |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Direct via Google | Via certified partner |
| Traffic requirement | Low | Very high |
| Approval difficulty | Easy–Medium | Very Hard |
| CPM rates | Low–Medium | High |
| Best for | Bloggers & small sites | Large publishers |
| Platform | AdSense Dashboard | Google Ad Manager |
| Control | Limited | Advanced |
Can You Use AdSense and AdX Together?
Yes ✅
In fact, this is the best monetization strategy.
Most AdX publishers:
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Use AdX as the primary demand
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Keep AdSense as a fallback
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Serve ads via Google Ad Manager
This setup increases fill rate and competition, leading to higher revenue.
Which One Should You Apply For?
Choose AdSense If:
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Your site is new
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Traffic is under 500K pageviews/month
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You are a blogger, freelancer, or niche publisher
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You want fast approval and stability
Consider AdX If:
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You have millions of monthly pageviews
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Your site has international traffic
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You want premium advertisers
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You work with a trusted AdX partner
Common Myths About AdX Approval
❌ “AdX is better for all websites”
❌ “AdX guarantees high earnings”
❌ “You don’t need quality content for AdX”
✔️ Reality: Without strong traffic and clean content, AdX won’t perform better than AdSense.
Final Verdict
AdSense is the foundation. AdX is the upgrade.
For most publishers, the smartest path is:
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Get AdSense approved
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Grow traffic and authority
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Implement Google Ad Manager
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Move to AdX when eligible
This approach is safe, scalable, and fully compliant with Google policies.
