Contextual targeting focuses on the content of the web page a user is currently viewing, whereas behavioral targeting uses data about the user’s past online activities. Behavioral targeting tracks users’ browsing history, search behavior, and online purchases to serve ads that align with their past interests. In contrast, contextual targeting aligns ads with the immediate content the user is engaging with, offering a more privacy-friendly alternative that doesn’t rely on personal data tracking.
While behavioral targeting can be effective for reaching users based on their historical actions, contextual targeting is often more immediate and relevant to the user’s current needs. This can make contextual ads feel less intrusive and more natural, as they relate directly to the content the user is already interested in.
