Hello, community! While most of us consider TikTok mainly a source of free UGC traffic, the platform actually offers ad tools that can bring in even more high-quality traffic. Sure, you’ll need to pay for it — but is it worth the cost? Let’s find out.
Before we start, a quick reminder: we’ve already discussed the difference between free and paid traffic. Be sure to check it out!
What is TikTok Spark Ads?
TikTok Spark Ads is a native ad format where your video looks just like any other post in the user’s “For You” feed — blending in almost perfectly.
Spark Ads are also great for promoting your profile. TikTok pushes your content into recommendation feeds, helping you grow reach and followers. Since the whole experience feels organic, users can easily end up on your profile — practically every tap sends them there.
But you’re not limited to TikTok alone. You can also direct traffic to external pages — like landing pages, pre-landers, or even straight to your app’s page in the AppStore.
Another reason the format feels native: all user engagement with your ad is preserved. If you promote a post from your own profile, all likes/comments go to the actual video. That makes it feel authentic and not like a separate ad creative.
But this also means you have to plan ahead. Your video title, description, and CTA should already be well thought-out before launching the campaign — because all of it will be pulled directly from the original post.
You can also A/B test which videos perform best and promote the winner. For example, upload 5 similar clips, watch which one gets the most views and engagement organically, and then push that one with paid ads. Simple, but powerful.
Other than that, you get all the classic ad tools: targeting, reach controls, conversion objectives, and more.
What Can TikTok Spark Ads Do? Which Verticals Are a Good Fit?
While many affiliates use Spark Ads, they weren’t originally designed for us. The main audience for this format? Brands. It’s great for building brand awareness — since products are usually shown natively, not “in your face,” it leaves a strong impression without being annoying.
But affiliates can definitely benefit too. There are plenty of successful case studies — and to save you time, we’ll share some ideas.
Spark Ads work best when the entire funnel happens inside TikTok. If you can hook the lead with a video and then close the sale right on your profile — that’s a win.
One of the best fits here is physical products. If you can showcase the item in a few creative videos and drive paid traffic to them, you can later close the sale using simple retention techniques.
This format also pairs well with nutra. Typical “before/after” style videos work great here. Yes, it’s harder to produce compared to, say, trying on a dress (even if you’re a guy — hey, no judgment), but you can always rework creatives you find online.
As for gambling — yes, gambling content can still be promoted with Spark Ads. Obviously, you can’t advertise casinos directly. Instead, use emotional, teaser-style videos where someone appears to win something. Use a strong CTA to drive viewers to your profile — and from there, link them to your Telegram channel with “schemes.”
Limitations of TikTok Spark Ads
Let’s talk drawbacks — because yes, there are some. Here are the main issues with TikTok Spark Ads:
- Cost. Prices are high — which feels like a punch in the gut considering most people associate TikTok with free UGC traffic;
- Conversions are hard. The best results come when everything happens on TikTok. Sending people to a landing page and converting them is way harder here than on, say, Facebook;
- Algorithm changes. TikTok loves to tweak its algorithm, which can mess with your campaigns — and new ad restrictions can appear overnight.
Yes, working with Spark Ads can be frustrating. But for certain products and funnels, it’s still a powerful tool — even with its flaws.
Conclusion
TikTok Spark Ads has been around for a few years now. Yet it’s still not widely used — which makes sense. High traffic costs plus tricky conversion paths aren’t exactly beginner-friendly. But if you’re promoting physical products and your funnel lives entirely within TikTok, then this format is 100% worth testing.
So — have you ever bought TikTok ads, or do you think paying for traffic is cringe? Let’s talk in our Telegram community, where we separate true affiliates from the wannabes!
Respectfully yours — your Geek!