Google AdSense alternative: direct ad sales explained for publishers
Why and how to replace AdSense with direct ad sales: revenue, control, GDPR, performance.
July 23, 2026
TL;DR — Google AdSense keeps up to 32% commission, requires third-party cookies and caps your revenue. A direct ad platform like Addirectly returns 100% of what advertisers pay, without cookies, with full control over the creatives displayed.
Why look for an AdSense alternative?
- High commission: AdSense retains 20-32% of CPM.
- Third-party cookies: mandatory consent banner, low opt-in rate.
- Limited control: you don't pick which advertisers appear.
- Falling CPMs since 2022 across most verticals.
AdSense vs direct ad sales
| Criteria | AdSense | Addirectly (direct) |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 20-32% | 0% |
| Third-party cookies | Yes | No |
| Editorial control | Low | Full |
| Fixed guaranteed price | No (auctions) | Yes (CPM/month) |
| Heavy GDPR banner | Yes | No |
How to migrate from AdSense to direct sales
- Audit your current placements and real eCPM.
- Create an Addirectly publisher account and verify your domain.
- Publish an "Advertise" page with your rates.
- Progressively remove the AdSense script.
FAQ
Can I combine AdSense and direct sales? Yes, as long as slots are separate.
How much traffic is needed? Direct sales become profitable from around 5,000 monthly visitors.
Is it GDPR-compliant? Yes, Addirectly uses no third-party ad cookies.
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