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title: Difference Between Smart Campaign and Performance Max
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> **Original source:** https://dolocal.co.uk/google-ads/difference-between-smart-campaign-and-performance-max-in-google-ads/

## Understanding Performance Max and Smart Campaigns in Google Ads

**1\. What are Smart Campaigns in Google Ads?**  
Smart Campaigns are a fully automated advertising solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses. They simplify online advertising by automatically creating ads and optimising performance across Google Search and Display networks based on your business goals.

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**2\. When were Smart Campaigns introduced?**  
Smart Campaigns were introduced in **June 2018** and became available globally by **June 2020**.

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**3\. What is Performance Max in Google Ads?**  
Performance Max is a goal-based campaign type that enables advertisers to maximise performance across all Google channels, including YouTube, Search, Display, Discover, Gmail, and Maps. It uses machine learning to optimise ads, bidding, and targeting for better results.

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**4\. When was Performance Max introduced in the UK?**  
Performance Max campaigns were introduced globally, including in the UK, on **2 November 2021**.

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**5\. How do Smart Campaigns differ from Performance Max?**

**Aspect**

**Smart Campaigns**

**Performance Max**

**Automation Level**

Fully automated

Highly automated, but with more options for advertiser input

**Ad Channels**

Google Search and Display

All Google platforms (Search, YouTube, Display, etc.)

**Ad Creation**

Google creates ads based on business details

Advertisers provide assets (text, images, videos) for Google to use

**Targeting**

Simplified targeting via keyword themes

Advanced targeting with audience signals and real-time insights

**Ideal For**

Local businesses or those seeking simple setups

Businesses aiming for broader reach and better audience targeting

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**6\. Which campaign type is better for local businesses?**  
Smart Campaigns are more suitable for local businesses. They focus on simplicity and prioritise showing ads to users near your business location.

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**7\. Can I control the type of ads shown in Performance Max campaigns?**  
Yes, you have more control in Performance Max campaigns. You can provide various assets (such as text, images, and videos), and Google’s AI will use these to create optimised ads for different platforms.

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**8\. Are both campaign types suitable for e-commerce businesses?**  
Yes, but Performance Max is generally more effective for e-commerce. It allows for cross-channel advertising and advanced targeting, which can drive online sales more efficiently.

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**9\. How do I choose between Smart Campaigns and Performance Max?**  
Choose **Smart Campaigns** if:

-   You’re new to online advertising.
-   You want a simple, low-maintenance setup.
-   You’re focused on local or small-scale advertising.

Choose **Performance Max** if:

-   You want to reach a broad audience across multiple channels.
-   You have diverse ad assets and want to maximise conversions.
-   You’re looking to optimise for specific goals like online sales or lead generation.

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**10\. Can I run both Smart Campaigns and Performance Max campaigns simultaneously?**  
Yes, you can run both campaign types simultaneously. However, it’s essential to monitor their performance to ensure they complement rather than compete with each other.

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**11\. What kind of reporting insights can I expect?**

-   **Smart Campaigns** provide basic performance metrics, including clicks, calls, and conversions.
-   **Performance Max** offers more detailed insights, such as top-performing assets, audience segments, and conversion data.

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**12\. Are these campaigns cost-effective?**  
Both Smart Campaigns and Performance Max are designed to maximise ROI within your budget. Smart Campaigns are ideal for small budgets and straightforward goals, while Performance Max is better suited for advertisers willing to invest in a broader, more aggressive strategy.

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For further guidance, visit the Google Ads Help Centre.