Top 8 Website Monetization Marketplaces Bloggers Use To Sell Direct Ads Without Relying On AdSense

Let’s be honest – everyone loves the idea of making money from their blog. And while Google AdSense is often the go-to option for beginners, it’s not the only way to earn. In fact, for many bloggers, direct ad sales can be far more lucrative and less restrictive.

TLDR: Want to make real money from your blog without relying on AdSense? You should try direct ad sales using monetization marketplaces. These platforms connect you with brands that want to advertise on your site. It’s easy, more profitable, and can give you more control over your earnings.

Why Skip AdSense?

AdSense is reliable, but it’s not perfect. The CPM (cost per mille) can be low. Their policies can be pretty strict. And sometimes, ads just don’t fit your blog’s vibe. That’s where direct ad marketplaces come in handy.

These platforms let you cut out the middleman. Instead of letting Google handle everything, you strike deals directly with advertisers. That usually means better payouts and more relevant ads.

Here are the top 8 marketplaces bloggers use to sell ad space directly:

1. 1. BuySellAds

   If your site has solid traffic, this is a goldmine.
   BuySellAds connects bloggers with advertisers who are hungry for premium spots. It’s been around for years and is trusted by big-name sites in tech, business, and more.
   You can sell banner ads, sponsored content, and even newsletter placements. They take a 25% cut, but the rest is yours.
   Best for: Bloggers with 100k+ pageviews/month.

2. 2. AdThrive

   High-quality and high-paying for qualified bloggers.
   AdThrive is more selective, but offers excellent payouts. It’s like an elite club for bloggers who take their websites seriously. If your niche is lifestyle, parenting, or food, you’ll fit right in.
   They handle everything—strategy, sales, optimization—so you can focus on content.
   Requirements: 100,000 monthly pageviews and mostly US traffic.

3. 3. SHE Media Partner Network

   Built by women, for women-focused blogs.
   This network caters mostly to female audiences and lifestyle bloggers. SHE Media helps with direct ad sales, sponsored content, and branded campaigns.
   Their support team often helps you grow your site and revenue together. Win-win!
   Ideal for: Moms, fashion, wellness, and lifestyle bloggers.

4. 4. Mediavine

   Everything you need under one roof.
   Mediavine isn’t exactly a direct ad marketplace, but it’s very close. It still works like one because they partner with hand-picked brands to put ads on your site.
   They’re known for their transparency. You’ll know exactly what you’re earning and why.
   Requirement: 50,000 monthly sessions and long-form content.

5. 5. Ezoic

   AI-powered and flexible for all types of blogs.
   Ezoic uses machine learning to place direct ads, optimize your layout, and boost your revenue. It’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t require massive traffic to start.
   You keep control over placements and earnings, and there are no upfront costs.
   Bonus: They offer site speed tools and analytics too.

6. 6. AdClerks

   Simple and straightforward.
   AdClerks lets advertisers buy ad space directly from you. Set your price, approve advertisers, and watch the earnings come in.
   It’s super flexible. There’s no minimum traffic requirement, so even small bloggers can jump in.
   Perfect for: Bloggers just starting out with decent niche traffic.

7. 7. MonetizeMore

   Great for scaling up your revenue.
   MonetizeMore works with larger publishers who are ready to earn serious cash. They help you manage ad inventory and bring in premium advertisers through direct sales and header bidding.
   Added Bonus: Their support team helps you stay compliant with ad policies.
   

8. 8. PropellerAds

   A secret weapon for pop-unders and push ads.
   PropellerAds isn’t suited for every blog, but it works well for certain niches like entertainment or gaming. If you’re okay with more aggressive ads like pop-unders, this platform pays well.
   They also support direct campaigns and targeted push notifications.
   Tip: Test for user experience before going all in.
   

Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Platforms

• Pick the right platform for your niche. Tech bloggers won’t thrive on lifestyle ad networks, and vice versa.
• Make your media kit ready. Advertisers love blogs that look professional and have clear metrics.
• Test placements. Try different ad sizes and locations to see what works best.
• Be transparent with your audience. Avoid misleading ad placements that harm trust.

Additional Ways to Monetize Without AdSense

These marketplaces are just one part of the puzzle. You can also try:

• Selling sponsored posts directly.
• Offering services or digital products.
• Affiliate marketing with trusted platforms.
• Creating subscription content with platforms like Patreon or Substack.

Each of these works well alongside direct ad sales to maximize income.

The Bottom Line

Relying on just AdSense is like putting all your eggs in one unpredictable basket. By selling direct ads through trusted marketplaces, you unlock better rates, more control, and a richer blogging experience.

Explore the list. Test what fits. And don’t be afraid to change things up over time.

Happy monetizing!