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Maximize Conversions

Definition

Maximize Conversions is a Google Ads Smart Bidding strategy that automatically sets bids to get the most conversions within your daily budget. The algorithm uses machine learning to predict which clicks are most likely to convert and bids aggressively for those opportunities. It is the recommended first step into automated bidding.

How Maximize Conversions Works

Maximize Conversions evaluates hundreds of signals for every auction including device, location, time, audience, and query context. It then sets a bid designed to maximize the total number of conversions your budget can generate. Unlike Target CPA, there is no cost-per-conversion constraint, so the algorithm will spend your entire daily budget. This makes it ideal for accounts that want to grow conversion volume aggressively and are willing to accept variable CPAs in exchange for more total conversions.

When to Use Maximize Conversions

Use Maximize Conversions when you have reliable conversion tracking, at least 15 conversions in the last 30 days, and want to scale volume without micromanaging bids. It works especially well as a transition from Manual CPC: let the algorithm learn for 2-3 weeks, then evaluate whether to add a CPA target. Avoid using it when you have a strict CPA limit, since the strategy will happily generate expensive conversions to maximize total volume. Also ensure your budget is set correctly, as the algorithm will try to spend it all.

Maximize Conversions vs Target CPA

Maximize Conversions optimizes for volume with no cost constraint. Target CPA optimizes for volume at a specific cost. Use Maximize Conversions first to establish a baseline CPA, then switch to Target CPA to control costs. If your Maximize Conversions CPA is consistently $40, set your Target CPA at $40-45 (slightly above average) to maintain volume while adding cost discipline. Setting Target CPA too low relative to your Maximize Conversions baseline will dramatically reduce traffic and conversions.

Maximize Conversions Guidance from AdWhiz

AdWhiz identifies campaigns that are ready to transition from manual bidding to Maximize Conversions based on conversion data volume and consistency. The audit monitors Maximize Conversions campaigns for CPA spikes and budget efficiency, alerting you when costs trend upward and recommending whether to add a CPA target or adjust budgets. This ongoing monitoring ensures the algorithm stays on track and you transition to more advanced strategies at the right time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Maximize Conversions will try to spend your full daily budget by finding as many conversion opportunities as possible. This is by design: the algorithm optimizes for maximum volume, not efficiency. If you need cost control, use Target CPA instead or set your daily budget to match your desired spend level.

Google recommends at least 15 conversions in the last 30 days. With fewer conversions, the algorithm lacks sufficient data to make good predictions. If you have less data, start with Manual CPC or Enhanced CPC and build up your conversion history first.

Yes, especially initially during the learning period. The algorithm may bid aggressively on higher-cost auctions to explore what works. CPAs often stabilize after 2-3 weeks. If CPA remains too high after the learning period, consider switching to Target CPA with a specific cost constraint.

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