Facebook Ads have long dominated the digital ad space, but there’s a quiet revolution happening now. Smart brands are already making the switch. From beauty products to big tech, top advertisers are choosing a different platform, one that understands its shoppers better than anyone else: Amazon DSP.
So, why are they leaving behind a giant like Facebook? What makes Amazon DSP such a big deal? Let’s explore. For a deeper look at global DSP scaling, check out this case study by Carbon6.
What Is Amazon DSP? (And Why It Matters)
Amazon DSP stands for Demand-Side Platform. In simple words, it is a tool that helps businesses show their ads to the right people using Amazon’s own shopping data. With DSP, you can run ads not just on Amazon, but also on apps, websites, and even on TVs.
The best part? It uses what people actually do, such as what they buy or search for, to help you find the perfect audience. That makes your ads smarter and more useful.
Now that you know what it is, let’s look at how it works and why it’s so powerful.
Why Top Brands Choose Amazon DSP
Smarter Targeting with Real Shopping Data
Rather than throwing ads into the digital void and hoping someone bites, Amazon DSP targets individuals who are already showing buying intent. We’re talking about real, trackable actions, such as someone searching for resistance bands or adding a yoga mat to their cart but not completing the purchase. With DSP, you can reconnect with that person and display an ad for yoga accessories while they’re still in the right mindset.
It’s not just smarter, it’s strategic. You’re speaking to people who’ve already raised their hands, making your message land harder and convert better.
Showing Ads That Match the Content (Contextual Targeting)
Timing is everything. Amazon DSP’s contextual targeting reads the actual content on a webpage in real-time. So when someone’s diving into a blog post about hiking tips, they could be shown your ad for a hydration pack or trail shoes.
This isn’t random. It’s relevance done right. Amazon even shared a case study showing ROAS skyrocketed when brands aligned ads with content. One brand saw 20x the return just by being present when the customer’s mindset was right. That’s the magic of being in the right place at the right time.
Reaching People on Any Device, Anytime
We’re all screen hoppers. A user might start browsing on their phone, research more on a laptop, and finish watching product reviews on their smart TV. Amazon DSP keeps up.
It connects the dots between those devices and knows who’s who. So, whether someone is scrolling on their lunch break or binge-watching a series in the evening, your ad can follow their journey and speak to them in a way that feels seamless, not spammy.
Even better, it knows where they are in the buying process. Maybe they’ve just discovered your brand, or maybe they almost bought something and left it behind. DSP adjusts the message accordingly.
Go Beyond Amazon.com
Yes, Amazon DSP works on Amazon, but that’s not all. It opens doors to a much broader network: trusted websites, well-known mobile apps, and popular streaming platforms like Prime Video and Fire TV.
This means you’re not just advertising in Amazon’s world. You’re stepping into your customer’s world, wherever they are online. And because Amazon carefully curates this space, you can be confident that your brand is appearing in reputable, brand-safe environments.
Use Video and Display Ads to Catch Attention
Different people respond to different things. Some stop in their tracks for a strong visual; others get hooked on a story told through video. Amazon DSP lets you play in both fields.
With eye-catching display ads or immersive video formats, you can deliver your message in a way that sticks. Whether it’s a 15-second explainer clip or a banner that pops just right, DSP helps you get remembered, not ignored.
Track What’s Working and What’s Not
Here’s where things get really smart. Amazon DSP taps into over 500,000 data signals to help you make better choices automatically. It tracks everything from where your money’s going to what kind of return you’re getting.
You’ll know exactly which ads are clicking and which ones need a refresh. No more flying blind. And since the system continually learns and adjusts in real-time, your performance improves without the guesswork.
Great for Building Brand Awareness
Even if someone isn’t ready to click “Buy Now,” getting your name out there is important. Amazon DSP helps you consistently appear in the right places, planting seeds that grow over time.
So when you’re launching something new or trying to break into a market, DSP helps you create that first impression and keep it going. Later, when the shopper is finally ready to act, your brand will already feel familiar.
Best for Brands That Want to Grow
Amazon DSP isn’t a casual tool; it’s built for brands ready to play big. If your goal is to move from being “just another seller” to becoming a go-to brand, this is the kind of platform that can help you scale.
It works especially well if you have the resources to invest and the ambition to grow. DSP meets you with power and precision, making it ideal for brands with big visions and the budgets to match.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Let’s not gloss over the details. Amazon DSP, as powerful as it is, comes with its own set of challenges. First, the learning curve isn’t exactly gentle. It can be a bit complex to navigate, especially if you’re used to more straightforward platforms like Sponsored Products or Facebook Ads.
Secondly, the costs can be intimidating. Amazon DSP often requires a minimum spend, and it’s really designed for brands that have some marketing dollars to invest. If you’re operating on a shoestring budget, this might not be the best starting point.
And then there’s timing. If you’re hoping for an overnight miracle, you might be disappointed. Especially for newer brands, DSP campaigns focused on brand awareness take time before they start translating into conversions.
Lastly, performance varies. Your success will heavily depend on the quality of your product listings, the sharpness of your targeting, and the consistency with which you optimize your campaigns. There’s no “set it and forget it” here. DSP works best when you stay actively involved.
Do Amazon DSP Ads Really Convert?
Oh, Absolutely. But there’s a catch: it only clicks when all the puzzle pieces fall into place. Sure, Sponsored Product ads can swoop in for those quick wins, racking up sales like lightning in a bottle. And when it comes to second chances? Retargeting with DSP brings back those almost-customers who ghosted your product page. It’s like sending a gentle nudge at just the right moment.
But let’s not sugarcoat it, DSP isn’t magic on autopilot. If you want results that make your jaw drop, you’ve got to come prepared. Think of it like building a gourmet dish. You’ll need:
- Product listings that shine like diamonds in the rough
- Targeting so sharp it cuts through the noise
- A budget that breathes, not chokes
- And testing… lots of it.
Miss one of those and, well, don’t be surprised if the dish falls flat. But nail every piece? Then buckle up, because that’s when Amazon DSP kicks into high gear, and the returns? Chef’s kiss.
In the end, success with DSP isn’t a roll of the dice. It’s more like baking with a proven recipe: get your ingredients right, and you’ll serve up results that keep people coming back for more.
Is Amazon DSP the Right Move for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all in digital advertising. But if you’re looking for long-term growth, better targeting, and a way to show up where it matters most, Amazon DSP might just be the edge you’re looking for.
If you’re ready to explore DSP but not sure where to begin, the team at Brand Aventus can help you map the way forward. We work closely with brands to simplify the complex, streamline setup, and refine targeting so your DSP campaigns do more than just run; they perform.
Start with strategy. Stay for the results. Let Brand Aventus guide your next step.
