The best AdSpy alternative for Facebook and Instagram ads
AdSpy is one of the earliest ad intelligence tools for Facebook and Instagram, known for a large historical database and detailed search options, including searching ad comments. Here is how it compares with Media Ads Library and how to choose.
AdSpy suits buyers who need its specific advanced search features. Media Ads Library suits teams who want research plus tracking, boards and AI tools with a free starting point.
Side by side
Where we cannot verify a competitor detail, the table says check their site. Features and pricing change, so confirm on their website before you decide.
| Capability | AdSpy | Media Ads Library |
|---|---|---|
| Main platforms | Facebook and Instagram | Facebook and Instagram, including Messenger, Threads and Audience Network placements |
| Video and image previews | Yes | Yes, playable videos and carousels |
| Advertiser profiles with launch timelines | Check their site | Yes |
| Brand tracker with new-ad alerts | Check their site | Yes |
| Swipe file boards with public share links | Check their site | Yes |
| AI copy, hooks and UGC scripts | Check their site | Yes, built into the AI studio |
| Store analysis | Check their site | Yes, Store DNA shows platform, apps, catalogue and ads to a domain |
| Free plan | Check their site | Yes, no card needed |
| Local payment in India | Check their site | Yes, Razorpay with UPI and cards |
Where AdSpy is better
- A long history and a large archive of older ads
- Advanced search options such as comment search
- Familiar to many affiliate marketers
Best for: Experienced media buyers and affiliates who want deep search options.
Where Media Ads Library is better
- A modern, clean interface in light and dark mode
- Brand tracker with notifications for new competitor ads
- AI studio for analysis and copywriting
- Store DNA for landing domains
- A free plan to start without a card
Best for: ecommerce brands, agencies and media buyers who spend most of their budget on Meta.
How to switch in one afternoon
- Create a free Media Ads Library account.
- Add your main competitors to the brand tracker so new ads start arriving.
- Recreate your most-used searches in Discover and filter by running time to find winners.
- Save your favourite references into boards for each client or product.
- Use the AI studio to turn those references into hooks, copy and UGC scripts.
Our honest take
AdSpy is one of the earliest ad intelligence tools for Facebook and Instagram, known for a large historical database and detailed search options, including searching ad comments. If facebook and instagram ad search is the centre of your workflow, it is a sensible choice. If you want a single place to research Facebook and Instagram ads, follow competitors and produce new creative, Media Ads Library is designed for exactly that.
Frequently asked questions
Is Media Ads Library a good AdSpy alternative?
It is a strong alternative if your advertising runs mainly on Facebook and Instagram. AdSpy suits buyers who need its specific advanced search features. Media Ads Library suits teams who want research plus tracking, boards and AI tools with a free starting point.
How much does AdSpy cost?
Pricing changes over time, so check their site for current pricing. Media Ads Library has a free plan and paid plans listed on our pricing page.
Can I use AdSpy and Media Ads Library together?
Yes. Many teams use more than one research tool. Use each where it is strongest.
Where does Media Ads Library get its data?
From the public Meta Ad Library. We index ads, keep them searchable after they stop running and add creative previews, advertiser profiles and filters.
Is there a free trial?
Media Ads Library has a free plan that does not need a card, so you can try it before upgrading.
Search millions of real Facebook and Instagram ads with video and image previews. Free to start, no card needed.