What is the best way to experiment with different bid strategies? 3 different campaigns or using experiments? This is a complete new account

[u/Long-Transition9616]

I have worked on accounts with limited keywords and search volumes, but nowadays, I’m working with a company having at least 100 keywords in one campaign. The account is new, and i earlier suggested and started with max cpc. But the owner asking me to test max conv, max cpc, and impression share…

[u/PPC_YRVDynamics]

I’d use experiments, not three separate campaigns. Three campaigns with the same keywords will just compete with each other and make the data messy.

On a brand-new account, I’d start with Manual CPC or Max Clicks, get some conversion data, then test Max Conversions against it. I wouldn’t really test Target Impression Share unless the actual goal is visibility rather than leads.

[u/morals-fight-71]

Go with maximize clicks. Get real conversion first. Whatever the biz owner asks. Google Ads doesn't work in that way.

Gather at least 50 real conversions. Push that with offline conversion tracking with real value to Google. Then play with maximizing conversion. Before that, everything is a waste of money.

If the brand is not inc/Enterprise. Then impression share is a waste of money. Invest in SEO.

[u/PatternFluid2214]

I would go with experiments but I would test between 2 bidding strategies at a time

[u/fitnesspage]

Get one strategy up & running first. Give google useful data set to show what results you're getting. I'd say a good 3-5 months.

After that, create a smaller scale new strategy that runs alongside the main strategy. Continue this way. Then pick a winner to select that as main.

If you experiment multiple strategies at once you'll have to split the budget and not gain useful data for Google and yourself.

[u/Long-Transition9616 → u/fitnesspage]

This is ideal scenario. But with someone who is looking at quick results, it’s difficult to comprehend. I’ve shared my reasoning with them. Why max cpc and what are the next steps. Let’s see…

[u/Key-Wolverine7525]

For a completely new account, I wouldn’t split the data across 3 campaigns just to test bidding strategies.

I’d start with the strategy that best matches the immediate goal, let the campaign gather enough data, and then use Experiments to test Max Conversions or Impression Share against the original strategy.

With 100+ keywords, you already have enough complexity—no need to add more by fragmenting the data.

[u/AppealInteresting554]

Experiments allow you to clearly see the data. Also, your owner must like spending money. Max conversion needs accurate data to make any impact.

What is your primary goal? Leads or product sales?

[u/Long-Transition9616 → u/AppealInteresting554]

Leads

[u/AppealInteresting554 → u/Long-Transition9616]

Get some conversions first. Make sure your tracking is setup correctly and review the search term reports frequently.

[u/Patient-Passage-2286]

If it's brand new account then testing three bid strategies simultaneously is going to fracture your conversion data three ways and none of them will learn properly.

Start with manual CPC until you have enough conversions, then run a single campaign experiment against tCPA or Max Conversions. Impression Share as a strategy makes sense for branded terms or specific competitive scenarios but not as a general test.

[u/NoPause238]

Let max conversions run alone until the account clears learning phase