Free Tool · Google Ads

Google Ads Preview Tool & Character Counter

Write your responsive search ad headlines and descriptions, see a live preview of how your ad can look on Google, and catch character limit problems before you paste them into Google Ads.

Google Ads Management › Google Ads Preview Tool

Responsive search ads let you write up to 15 headlines and 4 descriptions, and Google mixes them into different combinations. This tool counts characters as you type, flags anything over the limit, previews your ad on desktop and mobile, and lets you copy your ad or download it as a CSV.

01Google Ads Character Limits

These are the limits for responsive search ads, from Google Ads Help:

  • Headlines: up to 30 characters each. You need at least 3 and can add up to 15.
  • Descriptions: up to 90 characters each. You need at least 2 and can add up to 4.
  • Display path: two optional path fields of up to 15 characters each, shown after your domain.
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Question to Answer Are you using all 15 headlines, or giving Google only a handful of options to test?

02How to Write Better Responsive Search Ads

  • Make every headline different. Google cannot test combinations when headlines repeat the same idea in slightly different words.
  • Mix headline types. Include your main keyword, your service, your location, your offer, your proof (reviews, years in business), and a call to action.
  • Pin only when you must. Pinning a headline to position 1 is useful for a required disclaimer or brand name, but every pin cuts down the combinations Google can show.
  • Use the full description. Ninety characters is enough for a benefit and a call to action. Short descriptions leave space on the page for competitors.
  • Match the landing page. The promise in your ad should be the first thing people see on the page they land on.

Once your ads are ready, use the Google Ads budget calculator to plan your spend.

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Question to Answer Does your ad tell people what makes you different, or does it read like every other ad on the page?

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Google Ads Preview Tool FAQ

Q
What is the character limit for Google Ads headlines? Each responsive search ad headline can be up to 30 characters. You can add up to 15 headlines per ad.
Q
What is the character limit for Google Ads descriptions? Each description can be up to 90 characters. You need at least 2 descriptions and can add up to 4.
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Will my ad look exactly like this preview? Not always. Google chooses which headlines and descriptions to show for each search, and it can show fewer headlines on mobile. Use the "Show another combination" button to see different versions.
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Is my ad copy saved or sent anywhere? No. Everything runs in your browser. Nothing you type is saved or sent to Surfside PPC.

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