What are the different ad formats available for video ads through the TikTok Ads API?

So, you’re curious about TikTok video ads, huh? Good news! TikTok offers tons of fun and creative ways to show your ads. These formats are specially designed to grab attention and keep people watching.

Let’s dive into the world of TikTok ad formats using their Ads API. It’s not as complicated as it sounds. Promise!

1. In-Feed Ads

These are the bread and butter of TikTok ads.

• They show up in the “For You” feed, just like regular TikToks.
• People can like, comment, share, and even follow your brand right from the ad.
• You get up to 60 seconds of playtime, but keep it short and sweet!

It’s like sliding your brand into someone’s daily scroll session without being annoying.

2. TopView Ads

Imagine your ad being the first thing users see when they open TikTok. That’s TopView for you.

• It takes prime real estate—right at the top of the “For You” page.
• Can go up to 60 seconds long with auto-play and sound.
• Perfect for high-impact storytelling or product reveals.

TopView is bold and front-and-center. If you want attention, this is the format for you.

3. Brand Takeover

Bam! That’s the feeling users get with a Brand Takeover ad.

• Your ad covers the entire screen as soon as the app opens.
• It can be a 3-5 second video or even an image (but we love video).
• Leads straight to a landing page or Hashtag Challenge.

Use this when you want users to see only your message. No distractions.

4. Branded Hashtag Challenge

This one’s a TikTok favorite.

• You create a fun challenge and invite users to join in.
• Videos made by users create UGC (User-Generated Content) around your brand.
• You get a custom hashtag, banner in the Discover tab, and your own landing page.

Think viral. Think fun. Think dance-offs or crazy magic tricks. The creative sky’s the limit!

5. Branded Effects

Want to be part of the visuals? Try Branded Effects!

• Custom AR filters, 2D/3D objects, or stickers that users can play with.
• Available for up to 10 days.
• You can mix it with a Hashtag Challenge for greater impact.

This lets users “wear” your brand or interact with it in a fun way. Cool, right?

6. Spark Ads

What’s better than making a new ad? Boosting a trending one!

• Uses existing organic content—made by you or others—with permission.
• Looks and feels like regular TikToks.
• Great for authenticity and higher engagement.

If someone’s already talking about your product, let Spark Ads take the spotlight and run with it!

7. Carousel Ads (For TikTok Lite)

This one’s a little special.

• Only for TikTok Lite (a lighter version of the app).
• You can show multiple images in one ad (video coming soon, folks!).
• Great for showcasing different products or telling a mini story.

It’s not the main format, but if you’re targeting TikTok Lite users, it can be super effective.

Choosing the Right One

Picking the right format depends on your goals:

• Brand Awareness? Go for TopView or Brand Takeover.
• Engagement? Hats off to Hashtag Challenges and Branded Effects.
• Conversions? In-Feed and Spark Ads work wonders.

Play around! TikTok is all about fun and creativity. And with the TikTok Ads API, you can automate, optimize, and scale all these formats like a pro marketer.

Pro Tip!

Don’t just advertise. Entertain. TikTokers have a short attention span but a big appetite for fun. Hook them fast, keep it real, and let your brand personality shine.

Now that you know the ad formats available through TikTok’s Ads API, go ahead—get creative and get seen!