The best BigSpy alternative for Facebook and Instagram ads
BigSpy is known for covering ads from many platforms in one search, which makes it popular for broad cross-channel scouting. Here is how it compares with Media Ads Library and how to choose.
BigSpy is good for broad scouting across many networks. Media Ads Library is built for teams who want depth on Meta and a full workflow from research to new creative.
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 | BigSpy | Media Ads Library |
|---|---|---|
| Main platforms | Many ad networks | 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 BigSpy is better
- Breadth of platforms in a single tool
- Useful for quick cross-channel trend checks
Best for: Teams that want a wide view across many ad networks.
Where Media Ads Library is better
- Depth on Facebook and Instagram rather than breadth
- Advertiser profiles with launch timelines and long-running winner filters
- Brand tracker with alerts and swipe file boards
- AI studio for hooks, copy and UGC scripts
- Store DNA for the stores behind the ads
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
BigSpy is known for covering ads from many platforms in one search, which makes it popular for broad cross-channel scouting. If cross-platform ad scouting 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 BigSpy alternative?
It is a strong alternative if your advertising runs mainly on Facebook and Instagram. BigSpy is good for broad scouting across many networks. Media Ads Library is built for teams who want depth on Meta and a full workflow from research to new creative.
How much does BigSpy 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 BigSpy 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.