Note: Merger Update
Unity and ironSource merged in 2023. While they continue to operate somewhat independently, expect increasing integration. This comparison reflects their distinct capabilities as they exist today.
Overview
Unity Ads and ironSource are the dominant ad networks for mobile games, especially for rewarded video monetization. Both offer strong SDK solutions, mediation platforms, and gaming-focused demand, but differ in approach and strengths.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Unity Ads | ironSource |
|---|---|---|
| Rewarded Video eCPMs | Very High | Very High |
| Engine Integration | Native Unity Winner | All engines |
| Mediation Platform | LevelPlay (Unity) | LevelPlay More mature |
| In-App Bidding | Supported | Industry-leading Winner |
| Playable Ads | Luna platform | Playworks Studio |
| Ad Quality Tools | Good | Excellent Winner |
| SDK Size | Lighter | Heavier (more features) |
| UA Platform | Unity Ads UA | ironSource UA Stronger |
Unity Ads Strengths
- Unity engine native: Seamless integration for Unity games
- Lightweight SDK: Minimal impact on app size
- Game-specific optimization: ML trained on gaming audience
- Luna playables: Strong playable ad creation tools
- Developer community: Large Unity developer ecosystem
ironSource Strengths
- Mediation leadership: Most advanced waterfall and bidding
- Ad quality tools: Superior brand safety and ad filtering
- Cross-promotion: Powerful cross-promo capabilities
- UA platform: Strong ROAS campaigns for games
- Publisher tools: More granular revenue optimization
Monetization Performance
Both networks deliver top-tier eCPMs for gaming inventory:
- Rewarded video: Both typically in top 3 for gaming
- Interstitial: ironSource often edges Unity
- Banner: Similar performance
- Fill rate: Both excellent globally
Recommendation
For Unity engine games: Start with Unity Ads for native integration, add ironSource via mediation.
For other engines: ironSource often provides better tools and support.
For monetization: Use mediation (LevelPlay) with both networks competing for best results.