Telegram has rapidly evolved from a secure messaging app into a full-fledged content platform. With over 900 million monthly active users and engagement levels higher than most social platforms, Telegram ads are emerging as a promising tool for advertisers in the adtech space.

In this article, we’ll break down how Telegram advertising works, who should use it, and how you can incorporate it into your performance marketing strategy.

What are Telegram Ads?

Telegram ads refer to the paid promotional messages that appear in public channels with over 1,000 subscribers. These ads are minimalistic—just text and a link—and are placed natively within Telegram channels, making them less intrusive and more contextual.

Telegram introduced these ads to maintain its ad-free appearance while still monetizing the platform. This format is best suited for advertisers focused on user engagement, brand visibility, and traffic generation.

 Want to drive quality traffic to your offers? Discover how Direct Click traffic can work alongside Telegram campaigns.

Why Advertisers Should Pay Attention to Telegram

Here’s what makes Telegram ads stand out in the crowded landscape of social advertising:

• High engagement rates: Telegram users are highly active, with channel post views often exceeding 50% of subscriber counts.

• Audience quality: Telegram’s user base tends to be tech-savvy, privacy-conscious, and international.

• Less competition: Compared to Facebook or Google Ads, Telegram ads face less bidding pressure.

For affiliates and arbitrage marketers, Telegram offers a unique advantage. When combined with push or pop campaigns, it can become a powerful part of your search arbitrage strategy. Learn more in our Complete Guide to Search Arbitrage.

How to Advertise on Telegram

Currently, Telegram offers two main options:

1. Telegram Ad Platform: Self-serve ads managed directly through Telegram.

2. Channel Sponsorship: Direct partnerships with channel owners for sponsored posts or banners.

The self-serve option gives advertisers precise targeting based on channel topics and languages, though demographic targeting is still limited.

If you want more control over targeting, you might also consider running push notification ads in tandem with Telegram campaigns.

Best Practices for Running Telegram Ad Campaigns

• Keep copy short and compelling: You only get 160 characters.

• Use clear CTAs: Drive users toward an action or landing page.

• Choose high-engagement channels: Focus on niche channels relevant to your offer.

• Track performance: Use UTM parameters and shortened URLs.

Need inspiration for combining formats? Read our article on top-performing ad formats for 2025.

Telegram Ads: A Future-Ready Addition to Your Media Mix

Telegram ads may still be in their early stages, but their potential is evident. Whether you’re a media buyer, affiliate, or programmatic advertiser, it’s worth testing this high-engagement channel.

By integrating Telegram into your larger ad strategy—alongside native ads, pops, and push—you can stay ahead of the curve in a competitive market.

Related Articles:

• What is Direct Click Traffic?

• Push Notification Ads: Complete Guide

• Best Ad Formats to Use in 2025

• Search Arbitrage Guide

• Ad Network vs Ad Exchange