When comparing Google AdMob and Google AdSense, the first thing to understand is that they are built for very different purposes, even though both are advertising platforms from Google. AdMob is designed specifically for mobile apps. If you’re developing an Android or iOS app and want to earn money by showing ads inside that app, AdMob is the platform created for that exact use case. AdSense, on the other hand, is more creator-focused. It’s aimed at bloggers, website owners, and content creators who want to monetize web traffic through ads placed on websites or YouTube channels.

AdMob’s biggest strength is its revenue potential when used correctly. Apps with a large and active user base can generate significant income, especially if users spend a lot of time inside the app and see ads frequently. AdMob also offers detailed targeting options, which helps advertisers reach users who are more likely to interact with ads. Another advantage is how well AdMob integrates with other Google tools like Firebase, Google Analytics, and Google Ads. This makes it easier to track user behavior, optimize ad placements, and improve overall monetization. For developers who are already using Google’s ecosystem, setting up AdMob is usually straightforward.

However, AdMob does have clear limitations. It only works for mobile apps. If you’re running a website, blog, or any kind of web-based platform, AdMob simply isn’t an option. This makes the choice very clear for many people: if your product is an app, AdMob fits; if it’s a website, you need something else.

That’s where Google AdSense comes in. AdSense is built for websites and content platforms. It allows publishers to earn money by displaying ads on blogs, informational websites, and YouTube channels. The system works on a revenue-sharing model, meaning you earn a portion of the income generated when users view or click on ads. AdSense also offers a variety of ad formats, giving creators flexibility in how ads are displayed and how they fit into their content.

The trade-off with AdSense is that revenue potential is often lower compared to AdMob, especially for smaller sites or websites with low traffic. This isn’t unique to AdSense—any ad network depends heavily on audience size and engagement. Without consistent traffic, earnings will naturally be limited. Still, for content creators and bloggers, AdSense remains one of the simplest and most accessible ways to start monetizing a website.

Choosing between AdMob and AdSense ultimately depends on what you’re building. If you’re creating a mobile app and want to monetize user activity inside the app, AdMob is the clear choice. If you’re running a blog, a content-driven website, or a YouTube channel, AdSense is the platform designed for you. Understanding this distinction upfront saves time and helps you focus on the tool that actually matches your goals.