Threads ads are becoming the next big topic in social media advertising. With over 400 million monthly active users, the platform is a goldmine for brands that move fast.
As Meta slowly opens monetization on the Threads app, brands as well as creators want clear answers: what Threads ads are, how they work, and whether they are worth using right now. In this guide, we will explain all you need to know about Threads ads.
Types of Ads in Threads
Since Threads is the conversation app, the ads here feel more like part of the chat. Here are the 4 main types you’ll see in your feed:
- In-Feed Ads
These ads appear directly inside the Threads feed, mixed with normal posts. They look like regular Threads content, but are marked as sponsored. You can post the ad in any format you want: image, video, or even carousel (up to 10 slides).
- Sponsored Brand Posts
Brands can promote specific Threads posts to reach more users. These ads focus more on opinions, stories, or updates rather than hard selling.
- Creator Collaboration Ads
Brands may partner with creators and promote their posts as ads. Since Threads feels more personal than Instagram, creator-led ads can build trust faster and feel more natural to users.
How to Set Up Your First Threads Ad Campaign
Setting up a Threads ad campaign is simple because it runs through Meta Ads Manager. If you have already run Instagram or Facebook ads, this will feel familiar.
1. Open Meta Ads Manager
Go to Meta Ads Manager using the same account linked to your Instagram and Threads profile. Since Threads ads are tied to your Instagram identity, they need to be under the same business portfolio. Everything is managed from one dashboard.
2. Start Your Campaign
Head over to Ads Manager and click the green + Create button. You’ll be asked for your objective. For Threads, I recommend starting with:
- Awareness: If you want to get your brand name out there.
- Traffic: If you want clicks to your website.
- Engagement: If you want people to reply and start a conversation.
3. Select The Placement
Click on Next and scroll down to the Placements section. You have two choices:
- Advantage+ Placements (Recommended): Meta’s AI will automatically show your ad on Threads if it thinks it will perform well there.
- Manual Placements: If you want to target only Threads, uncheck everything else and make sure Threads Feed is selected.
4. Set Budget And Audience
Choose who should see your ad:
- Location
- Age and gender
- Interests and behaviors
You can also use custom audiences (Instagram followers, website visitors) if you already have data.
After setting it, set your daily budget. In 2026, even $5–$10 a day is enough to start seeing data because the competition is still lower than on Instagram. And it’s better to set a broad audience for the ad (if you’re a beginner). Let Meta’s AI find the people who are already talking about your niche on the platform.
5. Create Your Ad Content
Now comes the most important part: content. Threads ads work best when they:
- Looks like normal posts
- Use simple text
- Start conversations or share opinions
You can use our ad copy generator to get fully-optimized ad copies for your campaign. Once done, double-check everything and hit the publish button. That’s it!
X VS Threads VS Instagram: Which is The Best Platform For Ads?
Check out a detailed comparison of X, Threads, and Instagram ads:
| Feature | Threads | X | |
| Primary Vibe | Real-time community | Breaking news and debates | Polished visuals and Reels |
| Avg. CPM | $3 – $8 (Lowest) | $6 – $12 | $8 – $18 (Highest) |
| Engagement Rates | Very high | High | Low |
| Competition Level | Very low | Medium | Extremely high |
| Algorithm Stability | Early-stage testing | Unpredictable | Highly stable |
Also Read: Facebook Ads Vs. TikTok Ads: What’s Better?
Is Threads Ad Worth It?
Yes. With CPM rates 40–60% lower than Instagram and engagement rates 70% higher than X, Threads is the most cost-effective early-mover opportunity in 2026. If your brand thrives on conversation rather than just static visuals, the ROI on Threads is currently unbeatable.
Here’s why you should move your budget to Threads:
- Lower CPMs of between $3 and $8
- High engagement as the platform is filled with active and conversational users
- Minimal learning curve as you’re using the same Meta Ads Manager
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How much do Threads ads cost in 2026?
Currently, Threads ads are highly cost-effective, with average CPMs ranging between $2 and $8. Since the platform is still in a growth phase compared to Instagram, you can often reach a larger audience with a smaller budget.
- Can I run Threads ads without an Instagram account?
No, you must have a linked Instagram account to run ads on Threads. Your Threads ad identity is pulled directly from your Instagram profile
- What is the best ad format for Threads?
The 4:5 vertical single-image ad is the top performer in 2026. It occupies the most screen in the feed and feels most native to the scroll-heavy nature of the app. Want to create good eye-catching images for your ads? Try out our AI ad image generator.
- Are Threads ads better than X (Twitter) ads?
Threads generally offers higher engagement rates (often over 6%) and a more brand-safe environment. Even though X is great for real-time news, Threads is better for brands looking to build community and long-term loyalty through conversation.
Conclusion
Threads ads are still in their early days, and that is exactly what makes them powerful. When a platform is new, attention is cheaper, competition is low, and users are more open to new voices. This phase does not last long.
So, here is your move: Open your Meta Ads Manager, toggle that Threads placement on for just $5 today, and see what happens. In the worst case, you spent the price of a coffee. But what if it works?
Then you win attention before it becomes crowded and expensive!
Also Read: TikTok Ads: A Guide To Get Started
