Maximizing Google Ads: Three Keyword Types and Their Advantages

Rikki Broussard • September 18, 2023

Optimizing Google Ads campaigns hinges on an effective keyword strategy. Grasping the different keyword types and their unique benefits is instrumental in realizing your ad goals. Let's dive into the three primary keyword match types for Google Ads: Broad Match, Phrase Match, and Exact Match.


Broad Match Keywords Explained

Broad Match keywords, the most versatile among the trio, ensure your ads surface for many search queries that Google finds pertinent to your chosen keyword.


Advantages of Broad Match Keywords:

  1. Extended Audience Reach: Perfect for brand promotion and exploration, Broad Match keywords can spotlight your ads for relevant, related searches, ushering in potential customers.
  2. Efficient Keyword Research: Say goodbye to crafting exhaustive keyword lists. Google efficiently links your ads to relevant searches, saving you time.
  3. Unearth Keyword Gems: Review which search terms bring up your ads to identify fresh keyword avenues and finetune your ad strategy.


However, tread with caution. The versatility of Broad Match might result in irrelevant clicks and escalated ad costs. Monitor your search term reports and utilize negative keywords to sidestep unrelated traffic.


Diving into Phrase Match Keywords

Positioned between Broad and Exact Match, Phrase Match keywords will display your ads when queries encompass your keyword phrase sequentially, with possible extra words flanking the phrase.


Phrase Match Keyword Benefits:

  1. Zero-In On Your Audience: More precise than Broad Match, leading to quality traffic and enhanced conversion rates.
  2. Balanced Flexibility: Not as confined as Exact Match, capturing keyword variations and long-tail keywords integral to your brand.
  3. Managed Ad Expenditure: Direct your ad budget effectively, minimizing chances of off-target clicks.


The Precision of Exact Match Keywords

For ultimate control, turn to Exact Match keywords. Your ads will surface solely for the exact keyword phrase you earmark.


Exact Match Keyword Advantages:

  1. Peak Relevance: Increases ad relevancy to the searcher's query, amplifying conversion chances.
  2. Budget Mastery: Total control over ad displays, ensuring optimal budget use.
  3. Boosted Quality Score: Enhance your Quality Score through relevant ads, potentially decreasing your CPC and elevating ad positions.


Selecting the appropriate keyword match type in your Google Ads can profoundly influence outcomes. Whether Broad, Phrase, or Exact Match, each carries distinct advantages. Tailor your choice to your campaign objectives, often merging match types for optimal outcomes.


It's imperative to monitor and tweak your Google Ads endeavors continually. Routinely scrutinize your data, modify your keyword approach, and engage negative keywords to exclude unrelated traffic. Armed with a profound understanding of each keyword type's perks and employing them judiciously, you'll craft potent ad campaigns that yield tangible business rewards.


At BlinkJar, our goal is to help make your marketing easier. If you'd prefer to teach a cat to yodel than have to fool with optimizing your Google ads, let our digital marketing experts help.

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
zero click search
By Jared Broussard September 30, 2025
Website traffic down? Learn how zero-click search and AI Overviews are shifting behavior and creating new opportunities for stronger, high-intent leads.
Can Performance Max Campaigns Succeed Without Search Ads
By Rikki Broussard September 22, 2025
Learn the pros and cons of running Google Performance Max campaigns without Search ads. Discover strategies to make PMax work with only video and display placements.
AI and the Future of Search
By Jared Broussard September 16, 2025
Discover how AI and the future of search are reshaping how customers find businesses. Learn why adapting early to AI-powered search is key to staying visible and competitive.