Top push ad networks

Best DSP Platforms Examples: A Review of the Industry Leaders

dsp examples

In 2024, programmatic advertising shows no signs of slowing down due to its rapid nature and simplicity of processes, as it allows advertisers to manage several ads across multiple ad networks within one interface.

Yet, not all the affiliates and advertisers realize what is a DSP platform, how it actually works and where to find the examples.

The article explains the notion of DSP platform, as well as provides examples of the top 6 demand side platforms.

What is a DSP Platform?

A demand-side platform (DSP) is a digital advertising tool that empowers advertisers to purchase ad space across various online platforms efficiently, it’s a bridge between advertisers and sell-side platforms (SSPs). Think of it as a high-tech marketplace where brands can bid for their ads to appear in front of specific audiences, all in real-time.

Typically, DSP platforms use Real-Time Bidding (RTB) auctions, which streamline and accelerate the buying and selling of ad space for both websites and advertisers.

Benefits of using a DSP:

  • Affordable advertising
    With real-time bidding, advertisers can often secure ad placements at lower costs compared to traditional advertising methods. This competitive bidding environment helps maximize budget efficiency.
  • Flexibility
    DSPs allow quick corrections based on real-time performance data. If a particular ad or strategy isn’t performing well, advertisers can make fast changes to improve results.
  • Comprehensive reporting tools
    Most DSPs come equipped with detailed analytics dashboards that provide insights into campaign performance. Advertisers can track key metrics such as impressions, clicks, and conversions.

How Does a DSP Work?

There are several key actors that participate in DSP functioning, including advertiser, ad exchange, SSP, and publishers.

Step-by-step functionality of demand side platform advertising:

  1. Advertiser accesses DSP

The advertiser logs into the DSP platform to set up their campaign. They input their targeting criteria, budget, and other parameters. The DSP provides tools for audience segmentation and performance tracking.

  1. DSP analyzes data

Using algorithms and data analytics, the DSP analyzes vast amounts of data to identify potential audiences across multiple ad exchanges. It assesses user behavior, demographics, and contextual signals.

  1. DSP connects to an ad exchange

The DSP connects to an ad exchange, which serves as a marketplace where advertisers can bid on available ad inventory from various publishers.

  1. Ad exchange facilitates bidding

When a user visits a website (publisher’s site), the ad exchange sends out a request for ads in real-time. This request includes user data and available inventory.

  1. Supply-Side Platform (SSP) responds

The SSP receives the request from the ad exchange and identifies available ad spaces from its connected publishers. It also collects bids from various DSPs for that inventory.

  1. Real-Time Bidding (RTB)

The DSP evaluates the bidding opportunity based on the advertiser’s set parameters and audience targeting. It places a bid in real-time for the available ad space through the ad exchange.

  1. Winning bid selection

The ad exchange compares all incoming bids from different DSPs and selects the highest bid. This winning bid is then matched with the corresponding ad creative from the advertiser.

  1. Ad displayed to a user

The winning ad is displayed to the user on the publisher’s website. The publisher earns revenue based on the impressions or clicks generated by the ad.

  1. Performance tracking and optimization

After the ad is displayed, the DSP tracks its performance using various metrics (e.g., impressions, clicks, conversions). This data helps optimize future campaigns by adjusting targeting strategies for reallocating budgets.

  1. Reporting to advertiser

Finally, the DSP compiles detailed reports for the advertiser, providing insights into campaign performance and areas for improvement. The advertiser can then change their strategy for future campaigns based on this data.

Top 6 DSP Platforms Examples

There are several best DSP platforms on the market that are worth highlighting, we’ve collected the main below.

1. Google Marketing Platform

dsp platforms

Google Marketing Platform combines various tools for marketers, providing a comprehensive suite for digital advertising. It integrates Google Ads and Display & Video 360, allowing advertisers to manage their campaigns across multiple channels.

What’s more, it offers advanced machine learning algorithms for automated bidding and optimization, as well as creative management tools.

  • Targeting options: In-depth audience targeting based on interests, behaviors, and demographics.
  • Cross-channel management: Seamless integration across search, display, video, and social platforms.
  • Robust analytics: Detailed reporting and analytics tools for performance tracking.

2. Knorex

top dsp platforms

Knorex is an integrated marketing platform that offers programmatic advertising solutions across various channels, including display, mobile, and social media. It focuses on helping brands optimize their ad spend with real-time data analysis.

The platform uses first-party data and AI-driven insights to enhance targeting and campaign performance.

  • Targeting options: Custom audience segments based on user behavior and interests.
  • Real-time optimization: Automated adjustments based on live performance metrics.
  • User-friendly interface: Intuitive dashboard for easy campaign management.

3. RichAds

best dsp platform

RichAds is a programmatic advertising platform that specializes in push and pop ads. The platform supports various ad formats, including in-page and classic push ads,pops, direct click, native and telegram ads, ensuring versatility in advertising with 5+ billion daily impressions.

It provides access to a global market offering traffic from 220 GEOs and focuses on maximizing ROI for advertisers through targeted campaigns. The network offers detailed analytics on user engagement and campaign performance, combined with AI optimization tools, like Target CPA, Performance Mode, Automated Rules to automate the advertising process.

  • Targeting options: Geo-targeting, device targeting, and advanced targeting capabilities.
  • Affordable pricing models: Flexible pricing options, including CPC and CPM.
  • Dedicated support: Strong customer service with account managers for personalized assistance.
  • Automated optimization: Includes tools that fit into desired conversion price automatically, using AI.

4. Smadex

what is a dsp platform

Smadex is a programmatic advertising platform designed for mobile app marketers. It offers real-time bidding and optimization to help brands reach their target audiences effectively, offering 3 billion mobile devices, 4000+ CTV channels, and 2.5 downloads a month.

The platform emphasizes programmatic direct deals with premium publishers to ensure quality traffic.

  • Targeting options: Customizable audience targeting based on app usage and demographic data.
  • User-centric approach: Focuses on user experience with non-intrusive ad formats.
  • Automated optimization: Uses AI algorithms to optimize bids and placements automatically.

5. MediaMath

top demand side platforms

MediaMath is a leading independent DSP that provides marketers with a robust platform for managing digital advertising campaigns across multiple channels. It emphasizes data-driven decision-making.

One more distinctive feature is that it integrates first-party and third-party data sources for comprehensive audience insights. What’s more, the platform calls itself the sole DSP that shares predicted action rate data with external SSP partners, delivering CPAs that are 40% more effective.

  • Targeting options: Extensive audience segmentation capabilities, including lookalike modeling.
  • Transparency: Provides detailed reporting on ad spend and performance metrics.
  • Custom solutions: Ability to create tailored solutions based on specific marketing needs.

6. Amazon DSP

demand side platform advertising

Amazon omnichannel DSP allows advertisers to programmatically buy display and video ads both on Amazon’s platforms and across the web. It leverages Amazon’s rich shopper data for precise targeting.

It uses Amazon’s vast customer data, including purchase history and browsing behavior as well as offers unique access to Amazon’s retail inventory and exclusive ad placements on Amazon properties.

  • Targeting options: In-depth targeting based on shopping behaviors, interests, and demographics.
  • High intent audience: Access to users who are already in a buying mindset due to their Amazon activity.
  • Machine learning usage: Easier campaign management and optimization via ML algorithms.

Final Thoughts

DSP advertising is more than lucrative for affiliates, allowing them to use multiple channels across just one platform in real-time and at affordable pricing. As advertisers seek data-driven solutions, DSPs have emerged as essential tools for navigating the complexities of digital media.

In conclusion, as programmatic advertising continues to grow, DSPs will be at the forefront of this transformation, driving efficiency and effectiveness. Embracing these platforms is not just an option but a necessity for those looking to thrive and increase profits in a data-driven world.

Anna Mardas
Anna Mardas brought together her background as a copywriter in digital marketing. Now, she's got a solid grasp on affiliate marketing, especially when it comes to understanding the following niches: Gambling, Adult, Dating, Sweepstakes and Crypto. Anna stands out for her thorough research and insightful reviews of ad networks, offering her readers valuable knowledge.

In 2024, programmatic advertising shows no signs of slowing down due to its rapid nature and simplicity of processes, as it allows advertisers to manage several ads across multiple ad networks within one interface.

Yet, not all the affiliates and advertisers realize what is a DSP platform, how it actually works and where to find the examples.

The article explains the notion of DSP platform, as well as provides examples of the top 6 demand side platforms.

What is a DSP Platform?

A demand-side platform (DSP) is a digital advertising tool that empowers advertisers to purchase ad space across various online platforms efficiently, it’s a bridge between advertisers and sell-side platforms (SSPs). Think of it as a high-tech marketplace where brands can bid for their ads to appear in front of specific audiences, all in real-time.

Typically, DSP platforms use Real-Time Bidding (RTB) auctions, which streamline and accelerate the buying and selling of ad space for both websites and advertisers.

Benefits of using a DSP:

  • Affordable advertising
    With real-time bidding, advertisers can often secure ad placements at lower costs compared to traditional advertising methods. This competitive bidding environment helps maximize budget efficiency.
  • Flexibility
    DSPs allow quick corrections based on real-time performance data. If a particular ad or strategy isn’t performing well, advertisers can make fast changes to improve results.
  • Comprehensive reporting tools
    Most DSPs come equipped with detailed analytics dashboards that provide insights into campaign performance. Advertisers can track key metrics such as impressions, clicks, and conversions.

How Does a DSP Work?

There are several key actors that participate in DSP functioning, including advertiser, ad exchange, SSP, and publishers.

Step-by-step functionality of demand side platform advertising:

  1. Advertiser accesses DSP

The advertiser logs into the DSP platform to set up their campaign. They input their targeting criteria, budget, and other parameters. The DSP provides tools for audience segmentation and performance tracking.

  1. DSP analyzes data

Using algorithms and data analytics, the DSP analyzes vast amounts of data to identify potential audiences across multiple ad exchanges. It assesses user behavior, demographics, and contextual signals.

  1. DSP connects to an ad exchange

The DSP connects to an ad exchange, which serves as a marketplace where advertisers can bid on available ad inventory from various publishers.

  1. Ad exchange facilitates bidding

When a user visits a website (publisher’s site), the ad exchange sends out a request for ads in real-time. This request includes user data and available inventory.

  1. Supply-Side Platform (SSP) responds

The SSP receives the request from the ad exchange and identifies available ad spaces from its connected publishers. It also collects bids from various DSPs for that inventory.

  1. Real-Time Bidding (RTB)

The DSP evaluates the bidding opportunity based on the advertiser’s set parameters and audience targeting. It places a bid in real-time for the available ad space through the ad exchange.

  1. Winning bid selection

The ad exchange compares all incoming bids from different DSPs and selects the highest bid. This winning bid is then matched with the corresponding ad creative from the advertiser.

  1. Ad displayed to a user

The winning ad is displayed to the user on the publisher’s website. The publisher earns revenue based on the impressions or clicks generated by the ad.

  1. Performance tracking and optimization

After the ad is displayed, the DSP tracks its performance using various metrics (e.g., impressions, clicks, conversions). This data helps optimize future campaigns by adjusting targeting strategies for reallocating budgets.

  1. Reporting to advertiser

Finally, the DSP compiles detailed reports for the advertiser, providing insights into campaign performance and areas for improvement. The advertiser can then change their strategy for future campaigns based on this data.

Top 6 DSP Platforms Examples

There are several best DSP platforms on the market that are worth highlighting, we’ve collected the main below.

1. Google Marketing Platform

dsp platforms

Google Marketing Platform combines various tools for marketers, providing a comprehensive suite for digital advertising. It integrates Google Ads and Display & Video 360, allowing advertisers to manage their campaigns across multiple channels.

What’s more, it offers advanced machine learning algorithms for automated bidding and optimization, as well as creative management tools.

  • Targeting options: In-depth audience targeting based on interests, behaviors, and demographics.
  • Cross-channel management: Seamless integration across search, display, video, and social platforms.
  • Robust analytics: Detailed reporting and analytics tools for performance tracking.

2. Knorex

top dsp platforms

Knorex is an integrated marketing platform that offers programmatic advertising solutions across various channels, including display, mobile, and social media. It focuses on helping brands optimize their ad spend with real-time data analysis.

The platform uses first-party data and AI-driven insights to enhance targeting and campaign performance.

  • Targeting options: Custom audience segments based on user behavior and interests.
  • Real-time optimization: Automated adjustments based on live performance metrics.
  • User-friendly interface: Intuitive dashboard for easy campaign management.

3. RichAds

best dsp platform

RichAds is a programmatic advertising platform that specializes in push and pop ads. The platform supports various ad formats, including in-page and classic push ads,pops, direct click, native and telegram ads, ensuring versatility in advertising with 5+ billion daily impressions.

It provides access to a global market offering traffic from 220 GEOs and focuses on maximizing ROI for advertisers through targeted campaigns. The network offers detailed analytics on user engagement and campaign performance, combined with AI optimization tools, like Target CPA, Performance Mode, Automated Rules to automate the advertising process.

  • Targeting options: Geo-targeting, device targeting, and advanced targeting capabilities.
  • Affordable pricing models: Flexible pricing options, including CPC and CPM.
  • Dedicated support: Strong customer service with account managers for personalized assistance.
  • Automated optimization: Includes tools that fit into desired conversion price automatically, using AI.

4. Smadex

what is a dsp platform

Smadex is a programmatic advertising platform designed for mobile app marketers. It offers real-time bidding and optimization to help brands reach their target audiences effectively, offering 3 billion mobile devices, 4000+ CTV channels, and 2.5 downloads a month.

The platform emphasizes programmatic direct deals with premium publishers to ensure quality traffic.

  • Targeting options: Customizable audience targeting based on app usage and demographic data.
  • User-centric approach: Focuses on user experience with non-intrusive ad formats.
  • Automated optimization: Uses AI algorithms to optimize bids and placements automatically.

5. MediaMath

top demand side platforms

MediaMath is a leading independent DSP that provides marketers with a robust platform for managing digital advertising campaigns across multiple channels. It emphasizes data-driven decision-making.

One more distinctive feature is that it integrates first-party and third-party data sources for comprehensive audience insights. What’s more, the platform calls itself the sole DSP that shares predicted action rate data with external SSP partners, delivering CPAs that are 40% more effective.

  • Targeting options: Extensive audience segmentation capabilities, including lookalike modeling.
  • Transparency: Provides detailed reporting on ad spend and performance metrics.
  • Custom solutions: Ability to create tailored solutions based on specific marketing needs.

6. Amazon DSP

demand side platform advertising

Amazon omnichannel DSP allows advertisers to programmatically buy display and video ads both on Amazon’s platforms and across the web. It leverages Amazon’s rich shopper data for precise targeting.

It uses Amazon’s vast customer data, including purchase history and browsing behavior as well as offers unique access to Amazon’s retail inventory and exclusive ad placements on Amazon properties.

  • Targeting options: In-depth targeting based on shopping behaviors, interests, and demographics.
  • High intent audience: Access to users who are already in a buying mindset due to their Amazon activity.
  • Machine learning usage: Easier campaign management and optimization via ML algorithms.

Final Thoughts

DSP advertising is more than lucrative for affiliates, allowing them to use multiple channels across just one platform in real-time and at affordable pricing. As advertisers seek data-driven solutions, DSPs have emerged as essential tools for navigating the complexities of digital media.

In conclusion, as programmatic advertising continues to grow, DSPs will be at the forefront of this transformation, driving efficiency and effectiveness. Embracing these platforms is not just an option but a necessity for those looking to thrive and increase profits in a data-driven world.

Anna Mardas
Anna Mardas brought together her background as a copywriter in digital marketing. Now, she's got a solid grasp on affiliate marketing, especially when it comes to understanding the following niches: Gambling, Adult, Dating, Sweepstakes and Crypto. Anna stands out for her thorough research and insightful reviews of ad networks, offering her readers valuable knowledge.

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