The best Facebook Ad Library alternative for Facebook and Instagram ads
The Meta Ad Library, often called the Facebook Ad Library, is Meta's free public database of ads running across its apps. It is the original source of public ad data and is free for everyone. Here is how it compares with Media Ads Library and how to choose.
Use the official library for quick free checks. Use Media Ads Library when you need to research a whole niche, keep history, track competitors and turn findings into new ads.
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 | Facebook Ad Library | Media Ads Library |
|---|---|---|
| Main platforms | Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Threads and Audience Network | 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 | Page view only, no timelines | Yes |
| Brand tracker with new-ad alerts | No | Yes |
| Swipe file boards with public share links | No | Yes |
| AI copy, hooks and UGC scripts | No | Yes, built into the AI studio |
| Store analysis | No | Yes, Store DNA shows platform, apps, catalogue and ads to a domain |
| Free plan | Free | Yes, no card needed |
| Local payment in India | Not applicable | Yes, Razorpay with UPI and cards |
Where Facebook Ad Library is better
- Completely free and official
- Always shows ads that are active right now
- Spend and impression data for political and social issue ads
Best for: Quick checks of what a single brand is running today.
Where Media Ads Library is better
- Keeps ads searchable after they stop running
- Filters for niche, format, call to action and running time
- Sort by longest running to find proven winners
- Save ads to boards, track brands and get alerts
- AI studio and Store DNA built in
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
The Meta Ad Library, often called the Facebook Ad Library, is Meta's free public database of ads running across its apps. It is the original source of public ad data and is free for everyone. If transparency for ads on meta platforms 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 Facebook Ad Library alternative?
It is a strong alternative if your advertising runs mainly on Facebook and Instagram. Use the official library for quick free checks. Use Media Ads Library when you need to research a whole niche, keep history, track competitors and turn findings into new ads.
How much does Facebook Ad Library 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 Facebook Ad Library 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.