BigSpy Review: Is It The #1 Free Ads Spy Tool?
![BigSpy Review](http://ecomposer.io/cdn/shop/articles/bigspy-review_1100x.png?v=1719897752)
Table Of Contents
Is BigSpy the best free ad spy tool? Your answer in this blog. We will give you a full BigSpy review to examine the platform's features, pricing, advantages, and disadvantages. We'll also compare it with other available products.
Let's start!
What is BigSpy Tool?
BigSpy is a web-based ad spy tool that helps organizations and individuals generate advertising ideas and follow trends to improve their marketing campaigns.
![BigSpy’s website](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-website_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896689)
BigSpy's website.
This tool allows teams to gather innovative ideas from a variety of sites, including:
- Facebook.
- Twitter.
- Instagram.
- Admob.
- Yahoo, and Pinterest.
Advertising experts may find the newest hot advertisements monitored by other users on the site. It lets users watch Facebook-highlighted advertisements and People-tracked ads on all seven platforms.
6 BigSpy's Key Features
BigSpy offers solutions to provide you with valuable competitive intelligence and ad ideas. Let's explore the six main capabilities that set BigSpy apart as a tool for entrepreneurs and marketers:
The Multi-Platform Ads Search
Multi-platform ads search on BigSpy.
One of BigSpy's key strengths lies in its expansive multi-platform ad search capabilities. Unlike some competitor tools, BigSpy doesn't limit your view. It lets you explore advertising on:
- Facebook.
- Instagram.
- YouTube.
- AdMob.
- TikTok.
- Twitter.
- Pinterest.
- Yahoo.
- Unity.
BigSpy is more valuable than just a tool for gathering a ton of ads-more than 500,000 per day. The quality and depth of data elevate a competitive intelligence tool, even if volume alone is excellent.
User-Friendly Interface
The first thing that struck us after using BigSpy was how refreshing the user experience was. BigSpy is designed with user-friendliness, making it easy for new and experienced marketers to use. With its robust and intuitive search and filter features on the web base, you may find the kind of ads you're searching for.
![BigSpy's user-friendly interface and navigation](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/user-friendly-interface_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896838)
BigSpy's user-friendly interface and navigation.
You won't need to go through long lessons to understand how to use it. This simplicity saves time and ensures you can quickly find the most helpful information for your marketing plans.
Advanced Search Filters
The next bright feature of BigSpy that we want to discuss is its robust search and filter functions. BigSpy understands that even the most extensive database becomes as useless as a 10,000-page book without an index. So, they provide extensive criteria to help consumers choose the best ad formats and creatives for their campaigns.
Users may filter searches by metrics in the table below using BigSpy's search and filter engine. Also, we will list these filters they should have but don't.
Filter and search parameters |
BigSpy |
Filter by Likes, shares, and comments |
✅ |
Sort based on reactions |
❌ |
E-commerce platform type filter |
✅ |
Ad language filter |
✅ |
Target audience filter |
✅ |
Creative kind (Video, Image, Carousel) filter |
✅ |
Filter by CTAs (Call-to-action) |
✅ |
Running time filter |
✅ |
Daily likes filter |
❌ |
IOS, Android, desktop, mobile filter |
❌ |
Last and first view date filter and sort |
✅ |
Sort by print count |
✅ |
Ad reuse filter (Ads published for the first time or reposted) |
✅ |
Audience analysis filter (New) |
✅ |
These filters help us when we want to use BigSpy to find ads on the Facebook platform, with site type Shopify in the United States, as shown below:
Detailed Ad Analysis
Sure, eye-catching visuals are essential for grabbing attention. But savvy dropshippers know success hinges on data-driven decisions. This is where BigSpy's robust ad data offering truly shines.
Here's a breakdown of the valuable metrics BigSpy provides for each ad:
- Engagement Metrics: Social engagement data, like "Number of Prints," reveals how the ad resonates with viewers. Is it sparking conversations and generating interest?
- Campaign Insights: Information like "Number of Days Advert Was on Social Networks" explains campaign duration and potential budget allocation.
- Targeting Details: Uncover the "Target Audience" and "Target Country" to ensure the product aligns with your ideal customer base.
- Competitive Landscape: Explore "Other Ads from the Same Advertiser" to better understand their marketing strategies.
- Store Performance Indicators: Data like "Shopify Store Rank" and "Total Number of Active Products" can hint at the advertiser's overall success, potentially reflecting the product's viability.
![The ad analysis by BigSpy](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/ad-analysis_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896875)
The ad analysis by BigSpy.
By leveraging this rich data set, BigSpy empowers dropshippers and e-tailers to make informed decisions. You can move beyond aesthetics and identify products more likely to drive sales and contribute to your dropshipping success.
Track Ads Over Time
Next, BigSpy's Tracked feature goes beyond simply our ad discovery.
The first gem within "Tracked" is "Featured Ads." This real-time trend tracker section showcases ads generating significant social media buzz. It lets you spot popular items and profit from new trends before they become widely accepted.
"Tracked" also organizes your discoveries. It stores all the ads you've saved during your product research, allowing you to revisit them easily for further analysis or inspiration.
![BigSpy's ad storage and tracking feature](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/track-ads-over-time_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896907)
BigSpy's ad storage and tracking feature.
Ad Ideas
In digital marketing, it's essential to stay ahead of the trend. That's why we highly rate BigSpy's ad ideas feature, which inspires you by revealing market-winning ad creatives.
With BigSpy's set of options, you can narrow down your search for ideas by:
- Topic.
- Network.
- Language.
- The period.
- Copy type.
For example, in the image below, we want to find ideas for the ad text "Mentorship" for the Facebook platform.
![BigSpy’s ad ideas feature the result](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/ad-ideas_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896953)
BigSpy's ad ideas feature the result.
BigSpy also gives you helpful information about how each ad works so you can see how well it works.
![BigSpy’s ad ideas feature](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/ad-ideas_2_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719896985)
BigSpy's ad ideas feature.
However, the revelations don't end there. Using BigSpy, you may also look at extra advertisements from the same advertiser from the same period.
This comprehensive viewpoint may highlight more extensive marketing tactics and provide a more thorough understanding of how the ad fits into the scheme of things.
BigSpy Pricing Plans
BigSpy has four primary pricing tiers, from the basic plan to the premium corporate VIP package. The free version has many restrictions that prevent you from getting a good feel for the program.
![BigSpy’s pricing](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-pricing_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719897008)
BigSpy's pricing.
We will now review each BigSpy pricing:
Basic Plan
![BigSpy’s basic plan](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/basic-plan_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719897033)
BigSpy's basic plan.
BigSpy offers a tiered pricing structure, with the Basic plan starting at $9 monthly. This plan grants access to a foundational set of features, including:
- Industry Switching (3/month). While the free plan limits you to a single industry, the Basic plan allows you to explore opportunities across three sectors.
- Ad Facebook & Instagram access.
- Limited Daily Limits (20 Queries, 25 Tracks & Downloads).
In our opinion, this pricing plan offers $9/month for more extensive features than the free plans, but the increase is not significant. The modest increase in functionalities might not justify the cost for users requiring in-depth research.
This plan could target part-time affiliate marketers with more modest research needs. The daily limits might feel restrictive for those who need more in-depth research.
Pro Plan
![BigSpy's Pro plan](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/pro-plan_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719897071)
BigSpy's Pro plan.
BigSpy's Pro plan further enhances the platform's capabilities, which is available for a reasonable $1 for a 3-day trial, and the total price is $99 a month. What makes the Pro experience better is this:
- Expanded Platform Coverage: Access data from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and Yahoo.
- Enhanced Tracking and Downloading: Track up to 250 ads daily and download the same number for deeper analysis. This allows you to build a robust research library for future reference.
- Limited Featured Ads and Ad Ideas: A carefully chosen collection of effective advertisements is provided in this part, which might act as a catalyst for original ideas.
- Unlimited Search Power.
The $ 99-a-month price might seem high for smaller dropshippers. However, the Pro plan can benefit advanced users who use BigSpy as a support-featured tool for analyzing ad data.
Group Plan
![BigSpy group plan’s pricing](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/group-plans_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719897098)
BigSpy group plan's pricing.
BigSpy's group plan offers an attractive option for teams seeking a cost-effective research solution. Priced at $249 per month, it caters to small teams with one account owner and four team members.
However, it's important to note that the Group plan offers no feature upgrades compared to the Pro plan. Essentially, each team member receives a Pro plan license.
Therefore, the actual value of the Group plan lies in its collaborative nature. Team members can share research findings, track competitor strategies, and brainstorm creative ad concepts. This fosters a more efficient and effective research workflow for small teams.
VIP Enterprise Plan
![BigSpy’s VIP Enterprise Plan](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/vip-enterprise-plan_2048x2048.jpg?v=1719897122)
BigSpy's VIP Enterprise Plan.
The final pricing list is for the VIP enterprise plan, which BigSpy customizes based on the company's needs. One user is expected to pay more than $3600 annually.
With this package, all BigSpy features are also accessible without any restrictions.
BigSpy's Pros & Cons
We've reviewed BigSpy's great features and pricing. Now, we examine its advantages and disadvantages honestly and without prejudice.
Pros |
Cons |
|
|
BigSpy's advantage:
✅ Expansive Ad Library:
With an extensive collection of advertisements from popular social media sites. Their vast database lets you keep up to date with trends and find successful ad formats.
✅ Granular Search and Filter Options:
BigSpy gives you the tools to use several filters to focus your search. Research by category, language, chronology, or even social interaction-a potent tool for finding undiscovered treasures in the data.
✅Actionable Data Insights:
Beyond just showcasing ads, BigSpy provides valuable data points on each ad's performance. This includes metrics like social engagement and campaign duration, offering insights into potential effectiveness.
BigSpy's disadvantage:
❌The price list has large spaces that are confusing:
Although BigSpy has four-tiered pricing, we found it ineffective, especially since the price difference between the packages is too confusing.
First, the price difference between the Basic plan ($9/month) and the Pro plan ($99/month) is significant. For users requiring a middle ground with more features than the basic plan but not the full power of Pro, this gap might be a hurdle.
Second, the Group plan ($249/month) allows for five accounts, functioning as a shared Pro plan. While cost-effective for teams, the pricing might be confusing. It could be perceived as encouraging account sharing, similar to practices frowned upon by platforms like Netflix.
❌Few features in the free plan version:
BigSpy's free plan is a valuable demo, allowing users to explore its interface and experience core features. We understand that users shouldn't ask for too much from the free plan, but BigSpy's current pricing structure may make the free tier feel less valuable.
Also, the limitations might make users feel they are "forced" to buy.
Is BigSpy Right For You?
With BigSpy, users have access to a comprehensive set of tools for researching social media ads. Here's a breakdown of who can benefit most from BigSpy:
However, it's crucial to consider your requirements and willingness to spend. BigSpy's free and essential services may suit casual users or social media advertising researchers. However, high plans are necessary for in-depth research and advanced features.
While BigSpy is a powerful tool, it's not the only option in the competitive intelligence landscape. If you're looking for alternatives with different features or pricing structures, explore the other tools we'll introduce next.
Read more:
BigSpy vs. The Competition
In this part, we'll compare BigSpy to its main rivals so you can make an informed choice.
#1. BigSpy vs. AdSpy
![BigSpy vs. AdSpy](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-vs-adspy_2_2048x2048.png?v=1719897492)
Choosing the right ad intelligence tool can significantly impact your digital marketing campaigns. Here's a breakdown of BigSpy and AdSpy to help you decide which one suits your needs:
Feature |
BigSpy |
AdSpy |
Pricing |
More affordable prices with basic and pro packages |
More expensive |
Free plan |
✅ |
❌ |
Database |
Over 1 billion ads |
Over 161 million ads (Global) |
Supported platforms |
Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, AdMob, Twitter, Pinterest, TikTok and more. |
Only for Facebook and Instagram. |
Advanced search |
Keyword, URL/ID, Industry (Ecom, Game, App). |
Keyword, URL, Demographics (Beta) |
Affiliate network |
Nine networks |
Around 100 networks |
Affiliate commission |
20% (Forever) |
50% (First three months), 0% (After) |
In-depth analytics |
Engagement, Landing Page, URL, Track. |
Engagement, Demographics (Beta), Landing Page, UR. |
Disadvantages |
The price list is confusing |
Limited Platforms, No Marketing Goal Filter |
Both BigSpy and AdSpy offer valuable tools for marketers. However, BigSpy's more extensive database, multi-platform support, and more affordable pricing plans make it a compelling choice for a broader range of users.
Read this blog for a more in-depth AdSpy review.
#2. BigSpy vs. PowerAdSpy
![BigSpy vs. PowerAdSpy](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-vs-poweradspy_2048x2048.png?v=1719897529)
BigSpy and PowerAdSpy are compared here:
Feature |
BigSpy |
PowerAdSpy |
Pricing |
More expensive |
Prices are more affordable |
Free plan |
✅ |
✅ |
Data volume |
One billion ads, 40 countries, 76 languages. |
Over 50 million ads, 20 countries. |
Monitored channels |
Broad across popular platforms but not specialized in TikTok ads. |
There's more Google, Reddit, and Quora than BigSpy. In-depth knowledge of Tiktok Ads. |
Search & Filtering |
More |
Less |
Analysis & Tracking |
Advertising classification, duration, performance (likes, comments, shares), device, creative download, landing page tracking, audience demographics, and ad copy analysis. |
Ad time, social engagement, country, age, gender. |
Ease of use |
Online tool, simple registration. |
Complex registration. |
For most users, BigSpy will be the more versatile and powerful tool. However, PowerAdSpy's lower starting price might be an option for budget-conscious users who only need to specialize in TikTok advertising.
#3. BigSpy vs. Koala Inspector
![BigSpy vs. Koala Inspector](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-vs-koala-nspector_2048x2048.png?v=1719897566)
We compare BigSpy and Koala Inspector in the following ways:
Feature |
BigSpy |
Koala Inspector |
Pricing |
More expensive |
More affordable |
Free plan |
✅ |
✅ |
Focus on |
Competitive ad intelligence |
Dropshipping store analysis & automation |
Target audience |
Marketers, social media managers |
Dropshippers |
Data |
Ads data across various platforms |
Competitor store details, product data |
Key features |
Analyze competitor ads, find inspiration |
Product research, theme detection, data export |
Koala Inspector is a specialized tool for dropshippers, focusing on competitor store analysis and task automation.
While both offer free plans, BigSpy's might be more useful with a limited budget, while Koala Inspector's paid plans offer more value for established dropshippers.
#4. BigSpy vs. EcomHunt
![BigSpy vs. EcomHunt](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0643/9262/6408/files/bigspy-vs-eccomhunt_2048x2048.png?v=1719897607)
A comparison between BigSpy and EcomHunt is shown here:
Feature |
BigSpy |
EcomHunt |
Pricing |
More expensive |
More affordable |
Free plan |
✅ |
✅ |
Focus on |
Competitive ad intelligence |
Dropshipping product research & marketing |
Data |
Ads data across various platforms. |
Product data, social media trends, and marketing tips. |
Target Audience |
Marketers, social media managers. |
E-commerce business owners (dropshippers). |
Key Features |
Analyze competitor ads to find inspiration. |
Find trending products, analyze sales data, and suggest marketing strategies. |
EcomHunt is a specialized tool for dropshippers to find winning products, analyze sales data, and develop marketing strategies.
Read this blog for a more in-depth EcomHunt review.
FAQs
Is It Illegal To Use BigSpy?
No, using BigSpy is not illegal. It's a legitimate tool for gathering competitive intelligence through publicly available information.
Does BigSpy Collect User Data?
Yes, BigSpy (or Clients and other application providers they work with) may collect information about users' interactions with their Services' mobile applications, including your IP address and time-stamp information.
Mobile devices also include device type, handset name, operating system information, mobile identifiers such as Apple IDFA and Android Advertising ID, and app-specific identifiers.
How Does BigSpy Compare To Other Ad Intelligence Tools?
You can visit their website (https://bigspy.com/en) to explore their plans and potentially sign up for a free trial (limited features) or a paid plan, depending on your needs.
The main interface has a search bar to enter keywords related to your niche or competitor brands.
- Platforms: You can choose specific platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc., or select all for a broader search.
- Ad Type: Specify image, video, or carousel ads based on your preference.
- Countries: Target specific regions where competitor ads might be running.
- Ecommerce Info: Filter by Shopify stores or other platforms your competitors might use.
- Dates: See ads running currently or specify a date range.
BigSpy displays search results with previews of the ad creatives (images or video snippets). Click on an ad to see details.
Instructions for using BigSpy are included in the article "Guide to Spy on Facebook Ad."
Conclusion
BigSpy offers a valuable toolkit for marketers and business owners on a budget. Its free plan provides basic functionalities to get you started with competitor analysis and ad inspiration. Upgrading unlocks advanced features for deeper insights.
Consider BigSpy if you're seeking inspiration for your ad creatives and marketing strategies. However, other tools cater to this niche if your focus is solely on dropshipping product research.
We hope this BigSpy review has been helpful! For honest reviews of other applications and software, explore our review blog.
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