If you’ve been exploring digital advertising platforms , chances are you’ve come across two major players: Amazon DSP and The Trade Desk (TTD). Both are powerful tools for programmatic advertising but they are built differently , serve different needs , and come with their own set of strengths.
So which one is better for you? The answer depends on your goals , budget , and where your customers spend their time.
Let’s break it down in a simple , human way no jargon , just clarity.
First , What Are These Platforms?
Before we compare them , here’s a quick intro:
Amazon DSP: The Strengths
✅ Access to Amazon’s First Party Data
This is Amazon DSP’s superpower. You can target users based on what they search , view , and buy on Amazon. For eCommerce brands , this is gold.
Example: You can show an ad to someone who recently searched for "running shoes" or viewed a product page but didn’t purchase.
✅ Ads on Amazon Owned Properties
With Amazon DSP , you can place ads:
That’s premium real estate.
✅ Retargeting Shoppers
You can re engage customers who’ve browsed or abandoned carts. That’s something TTD can’t offer with Amazon’s data.
Where Amazon DSP May Fall Short
The Trade Desk (TTD): The Strengths
✅ Media Neutrality
TTD isn’t tied to any one media owner , which means you decide where and how your ads appear. It’s a great platform if you want to diversify and not be locked into a single ecosystem.
Example: You can run ads on thousands of premium publishers like Hulu , ESPN , Spotify , and more.
✅ Advanced Targeting & Customization
TTD is often preferred by advanced advertisers because it offers:
✅ Strong in CTV and OTT
If you are planning to run ads on connected TV platforms (like Roku , Hulu , or smart TVs) , TTD has wide reach and flexibility.
Where The Trade Desk May Fall Short
Quick Comparison Table
Feature |
Amazon DSP |
The Trade Desk (TTD) |
First party data |
✅ Amazon shopping data |
❌ Not available |
Access to Amazon inventory |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
Media flexibility |
❌ Limited to Amazon + partners |
✅ Broad , multi channel |
CTV/OTT Reach |
✅ Fire TV + partners |
✅ Broad OTT networks |
Ease of use |
✅ Easier to start with |
❌ More technical/advanced |
Ideal for eCommerce? |
✅ Absolutely |
⚠️ Only if not tied to Amazon |
|
|
|
So , Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple way to decide:
Amazon DSP and The Trade Desk are both great platforms , but they serve different needs. Think of Amazon DSP like a highly specialized tool for eCommerce and shopper focused ads.
Still unsure? That’s totally normal. If you’d like help figuring out what’s right for your brand , we are here to guide you.