---
# System prepended metadata

title: 'In-Feed TikTok Ads: A Complete Guide for Marketers'
tags: [tiktok ads, agrowth]

---

# In-Feed TikTok Ads: A Complete Guide for Marketers

TikTok has become one of the most influential platforms in digital advertising, giving brands new ways to connect with audiences through short, engaging video content. At the heart of this ecosystem are In-Feed Ads—a format designed to blend seamlessly into the user experience while driving measurable business outcomes.
This guide explores what In-Feed TikTok Ads are, how they work, the distinction between Spark and Non-Spark versions, creative best practices, common mistakes to avoid, and actionable steps to run them effectively.

What Are In-Feed TikTok Ads?
In-Feed Ads are video placements that appear directly in the “For You” feed, making them look and feel like organic TikTok videos. Because they align with the natural flow of content, they tend to capture attention more effectively than traditional ad placements.
Key characteristics include:
Native look and feel within the feed


Full-screen vertical video format (9:16)


Call-to-Action (CTA) buttons like Shop Now, Download, or Learn More


Engagement options such as likes, shares, and comments (for Spark Ads)



Types of In-Feed Ads: Auction vs Reservation
TikTok offers two primary ways to buy In-Feed Ads, each designed for different campaign goals.
Auction In-Feed Ads
Advertisers bid for impressions or actions (clicks, conversions, installs).


Budget-flexible, making them suitable for small to mid-sized businesses.


Ideal for performance-driven campaigns where cost efficiency is critical.


Reservation In-Feed Ads
Guarantee impressions by booking ad placements ahead of time.


Often used by larger brands launching new products or seasonal campaigns.


Prioritizes reach and brand consistency over performance optimization.



Spark vs Non-Spark In-Feed Ads
Understanding the distinction between Spark and Non-Spark Ads is key to planning the right mix for your campaigns.
Spark In-Feed Ads
Promote existing TikTok posts from a brand or creator.


Retain original engagement (likes, comments, shares).


Display the poster’s username, profile picture, and link to their account.


Great for amplifying user-generated content (UGC) or influencer partnerships.


Non-Spark In-Feed Ads
Created entirely within TikTok Ads Manager.


Run under a placeholder account without social engagement options.


Focus purely on driving direct actions like clicks or conversions.


Provide greater creative control and consistent branding.


Which to choose?
Use Spark Ads when you want to build trust, authenticity, and engagement.


Use Non-Spark Ads for strict performance campaigns that prioritize conversions.



Key Specs & Features for In-Feed Ads
To maximize performance, adhere to TikTok’s technical requirements and creative guidelines:
Video duration: 5–60 seconds (9–15 seconds performs best)


Aspect ratio: 9:16 vertical full screen


File type: .mp4, .mov, or .avi


File size: Up to 500 MB


Caption text: 100 characters or fewer


Sound: Strongly recommended—TikTok is a sound-on platform


Hashtags: Add relevant or trending hashtags for discoverability


CTA buttons: More than 20 choices, including Shop Now, Install, Subscribe



Step-by-Step Setup in TikTok Ads Manager
Log in to Ads Manager
 Use a verified TikTok business account or agency account.


Create a Campaign


Choose an objective: Awareness, Consideration, or Conversion.


For e-commerce, conversion campaigns are most common.


Set Up Ad Groups
 Configure placement, audience targeting, budget, schedule, and optimization goals.


Create Your In-Feed Ad


Upload your video or use TikTok’s Video Creation Kit.


Add caption text, CTA button, and destination link.


For Spark Ads, enter the authorization code from the creator.


Install TikTok Pixel


Essential for tracking conversions and optimizing performance.


Define events such as Add to Cart, Purchase, or Sign Up.


Submit & Launch


Review creative previews across devices.


Submit for review (typically within 24 hours).



Creative Best Practices
Hook Viewers Early
Capture attention within the first 2–3 seconds with bold visuals, strong copy, or intriguing questions.
Keep Videos Short
Although 60 seconds are allowed, 9–15 seconds is the sweet spot for retention.
Design for Sound
Leverage trending music, sound effects, or clear voiceovers to boost engagement.
Tell a Story
Structure ads with a logical flow: Hook → Message → Solution/CTA.
Add Captions & Text Overlays
This ensures your message is clear even when sound is off and emphasizes key selling points.
Make Ads Look Native
Blend into TikTok’s culture by mimicking UGC style, using trends, or collaborating with creators.
Strong CTA
Always give viewers a clear next step: Shop Now, Try Free, Learn More.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the hook: Users scroll quickly; generic intros lose attention.


Using poor video quality: Blurry or horizontal videos hurt engagement.


Ignoring captions: Without text, your message may be lost.


Overly polished creatives: Highly produced videos often feel out of place.


Weak CTAs: Without direction, ads may entertain but fail to convert.


Neglecting analysis: Monitor CTR, watch time, and conversions; optimize regularly.


Landing page mismatch: Ensure your website or app loads fast and aligns with ad messaging.



Why In-Feed Ads Work
Native experience: They don’t disrupt user flow.


Flexibility: Suitable for awareness, engagement, or conversion.


Scalability: Easy to duplicate, A/B test, and refine.


High engagement: Especially for Spark Ads leveraging UGC or influencers.


With TikTok users spending over 90 minutes per day on the app (Statista, 2024), In-Feed Ads offer one of the most powerful opportunities to integrate into daily scrolling behavior.

Final Thoughts
In-Feed TikTok Ads are more than just another ad placement—they’re a gateway into TikTok’s culture. By mastering the difference between Spark and Non-Spark formats, tailoring creatives to native aesthetics, and avoiding common mistakes, brands can unlock sustainable growth on the platform.
Whether your goal is scaling e-commerce sales or building brand equity, In-Feed Ads provide the versatility to make it happen. The key is precision: creative that feels authentic, targeting that aligns with audience behavior, and constant optimization guided by real data.

Recommended Resources for In-Feed TikTok Ads
[In-Feed TikTok Ads Guide](https://agrowth.io/blogs/tiktok-ads/in-feed-tiktok-ads) - Comprehensive breakdown of ad specs, formats, and strategies to maximize campaign results.
[Rent TikTok Agency Ads Account](https://agrowth.io/pages/rent-tiktok-agency-ads-account) - Gain access to high-trust ad accounts with higher spend limits, faster approvals, and advanced ad features.