One of the most frequent questions we hear from business owners in Guwahati is:
“Should I put my money into Facebook (Meta) or Google?”
In 2026, the answer isn’t “one or the other”—it’s about understanding Intent vs. Attention.
The digital landscape has shifted. Meta (Facebook & Instagram) has become an AI-powered discovery engine, while Google has evolved into a hyper-precise intent machine. If you are still running basic “Boost Post” campaigns or simple Search Ads without a strategy, you are likely leaving money on the table.
Here is the breakdown of how to choose the right platform for your goals this year.
The Core Difference: “Finding” vs. “Searching”
The biggest mistake businesses make is treating both platforms the same. They are fundamentally different psychological environments for the user.
1. Google Ads: Capturing Intent
Google is where people go when they already know they have a problem.
- The User Mindset: “I need a plumber near me,” “Best digital marketing agency in Guwahati,” or “Admission for Class 11.”
- Why it works: You are paying to show up exactly when the customer is holding their credit card or ready to call. The conversion rate is typically higher because the intent is high.
- Best for: Service-based businesses (clinics, repairs), B2B software, and urgent needs.
2. Meta Ads (Facebook & Instagram): Generating Demand
People don’t go to Instagram to buy a water purifier; they go to be entertained. But they might discover they need one if they see a compelling video ad.
- The User Mindset: “Entertain me.”
- Why it works: Meta’s advantage in 2026 is its “interest-based” AI. It knows your customer better than they know themselves. It can find people who didn’t know they wanted your product yet.
- Best for: Lifestyle products, fashion, courses (DreamZone), real estate, and brand awareness.
2026 Trend: The “Hybrid” Funnel
The most successful brands in Assam aren’t choosing sides; they are using a Hybrid Strategy.
The SIQES “2-Step” Formula:
- Step 1 (Awareness): Use Meta Ads (Reels/Video) to grab attention at a low cost. Show off your product design, your campus, or your software interface.
- Step 2 (Conversion): Use Google Ads to capture the people who saw your ad and then went to search for you.
Why this works: If you only run Google Ads, you are fighting for a small pool of people already searching. If you only run Meta Ads, you might get likes but fewer direct sales. Together, they feed each other.
Cost Comparison (2025-26 Data)
- Google Ads: Generally higher Cost Per Click (CPC) because the traffic is “ready to buy.” You pay a premium for high quality.
- Meta Ads: Lower CPC and CPM (Cost Per 1,000 Impressions). Great for reaching thousands of people cheaply, but requires stronger creative (videos/graphics) to get them to stop scrolling.
Which one is right for you?
| If your goal is… | Start with… | Why? |
| “I need leads TODAY.” | Google Ads | Captures people actively looking for you now. |
| “I need to build a brand.” | Meta Ads | Visual storytelling builds trust before the sale. |
| “I have a visual product.” | Meta Ads | Fashion, food, and design sell best with visuals. |
| “I offer emergency services.” | Google Ads | No one browses Instagram for a locksmith. |
Conclusion: Stop Guessing, Start Tracking
In 2026, you cannot afford to “spray and pray.” You need to track every rupee.
At SIQES, we don’t just run ads; we build Sales Funnels. We use advanced tracking (Google Analytics 4 & Meta Pixel) to tell you exactly which ad brought in the customer—down to the last cent.
Ready to Stop Wasting Ad Budget?
Get a free audit of your current ad campaigns.