Short answer
ChatGPT ads are sold by OpenAI and run only in ChatGPT, below answers, to Free and Go users. Thrad is a third-party network running native ads inside other AI apps that integrate it. ChatGPT offers one huge, known surface; Thrad offers reach across smaller AI apps with more format variety. Most B2B teams should start with ChatGPT and test Thrad only with placement transparency.
Comparison
| ChatGPT ads | Thrad | |
|---|---|---|
| Seller | OpenAI | Thrad (third party) |
| Where | ChatGPT only | AI apps that integrate Thrad |
| Placement | Below the answer, labelled | Native in the response area, labelled |
| Formats | Chat card, product ads, Sponsored Agents (alpha) | Card, Prompt, Carousel, Poll |
| Targeting | Context hints, location, platform, audiences | Context, intent, markets, devices, languages, audiences |
| Minimum | $25/day per campaign (USD) | None self-serve; managed from $10k/month |
| Measurement | Pixel, Conversions API, partners | Pixel, UTMs, Addendum framework |
Questions
Can we run both?
Yes. Give each its own UTMs and compare cost per qualified lead.
Facts checked against the sources below on 12 October 2026. Platforms change quickly: if something here no longer matches what you see, tell us and we will update it.
