Snapchat Geofilter vs. Sponsored Geofilter - What is The Difference?

Last Updated May 1, 2025
Snapchat Geofilter vs. Sponsored Geofilter - What is The Difference?

Photo illustration: Snapchat Geofilter vs Sponsored Geofilter

Snapchat Geofilters allow users to apply location-based, artistic overlays to their snaps, while Sponsored Geofilters are paid advertising tools designed to promote brands or events within specific geofenced areas. Explore the unique features, costs, and targeting options of Snapchat Geofilter and Sponsored Geofilter in this article.

Table of Comparison

Feature Snapchat Geofilter Sponsored Geofilter
Definition Custom overlays available within a specific geographic area for personal or local use. Branded overlays promoted by businesses to reach a wider Snapchat audience in targeted locations.
Targeting Limited to event or local area; small radius geotargeting. Advanced geographic targeting with nationwide or city-wide reach options.
Branding Primarily personal or small event branding without direct advertising. Includes logos, business names, and promotional content for brand awareness.
Cost Low cost, often flat fee or free for personal use. Paid advertising product, pricing based on geotarget size and duration.
Availability Available to all Snapchat users via design submissions. Available to businesses via Snapchat Ads Manager with approval.
Analytics No detailed performance metrics provided. Includes engagement metrics such as views, shares, and uses.
Use Cases Personal events, weddings, local celebrations. Marketing campaigns, product launches, brand promotions.

Introduction to Geofilters: Definition and Purpose

Geofilters are location-based overlays available on social media platforms that allow users to add context-specific graphics or text to their photos and videos. These digital frames or stickers promote user engagement by connecting content to real-world locations, events, or landmarks. Brands and event organizers leverage geofilters to enhance local visibility and drive targeted marketing campaigns.

What is a Snapchat Geofilter?

A Snapchat Geofilter is a location-based overlay that users can apply to their photos or videos within the app, designed to enhance content with custom graphics and text relevant to specific geographic areas. These filters can be created by businesses, event organizers, or individuals to promote brands, events, or local landmarks within a defined radius. Snapchat Geofilters leverage GPS data to activate only when users are within the targeted zone, increasing engagement through personalized and timely digital content.

Sponsored Geofilters: An Overview

Sponsored Geofilters offer brands a unique way to engage users by overlaying location-specific, branded graphics on photos and videos within social media platforms like Snapchat. These dynamic, location-based filters drive user interaction and increase brand visibility by targeting audiences in specific geographic areas or event venues. Measuring engagement metrics such as impressions, swipes, and shares helps marketers evaluate the effectiveness of Sponsored Geofilters in real-time campaigns.

Standard Geofilters vs Sponsored Geofilters

Standard Geofilters are free, user-generated overlays available to Snapchat users within specific locations, often used for personal events or small businesses. Sponsored Geofilters are paid, branded overlays designed by companies to target larger audiences within customizable geographic areas, offering enhanced visibility and marketing potential. Brands leverage Sponsored Geofilters to increase engagement, drive local foot traffic, and boost brand awareness through Snapchat's extensive user base.

Key Features of Snapchat Geofilters

Snapchat Geofilters enable users to apply location-specific overlays on their snaps, enhancing personalization through custom graphics tied to geographic areas. These filters support real-time sharing of local events, landmarks, or brands, driving user engagement and community interaction. Businesses leverage Geofilters for targeted advertising, reaching audiences within precise locations to increase brand visibility.

Benefits of Sponsored Geofilters for Brands

Sponsored Geofilters on social media platforms enhance brand visibility by targeting specific locations, ensuring your audience encounters tailored, location-based content that increases engagement and recall. These geofilters foster heightened user interaction by encouraging sharing of branded, context-specific visuals, effectively turning customers into brand ambassadors. Leveraging this tool drives local awareness and boosts real-time marketing efforts, maximizing ROI through precise demographic and geographic targeting.

Cost Comparison: Snapchat Geofilter vs Sponsored Geofilter

Snapchat Geofilters offer a cost-effective option starting at $5 for small areas, while Sponsored Geofilters require higher budgets often exceeding $20 per 20,000 square feet, making them ideal for larger campaigns. Your choice depends on targeting precision and budget flexibility, with Sponsored Geofilters providing broader reach and advanced analytics. Evaluating the cost per impression and engagement rates helps maximize ROI for your marketing strategy.

Targeting Capabilities and Audience Reach

Social media platforms offer advanced targeting capabilities that allow you to reach specific demographics based on age, location, interests, and behavior, ensuring your content resonates with the most relevant audience. Leveraging these precise targeting options maximizes your campaign effectiveness by delivering personalized ads to potential customers. The extensive audience reach across networks like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn enables your brand to connect with millions worldwide, enhancing visibility and engagement.

How to Create and Submit a Geofilter on Snapchat

Creating and submitting a Snapchat Geofilter requires designing a 1080 by 1920 pixel transparent PNG that adheres to Snapchat's content guidelines. You upload your filter via Snapchat's Create page, setting a precise geofence that targets your desired location and choosing an active timeframe. Your geofilter will be reviewed by Snapchat, and once approved, you can start engaging your audience within the specified area, enhancing Your event or brand visibility.

Which Geofilter Option is Best for Your Needs?

Choosing the best Geofilter option for your social media campaign depends on your target audience location and campaign goals. Location-specific Geofilters allow brands to engage users in precise areas, enhancing local visibility and event promotion. Custom Geofilters offer creative flexibility, enabling tailored messaging that aligns with brand identity to drive higher user interaction and brand recall.



About the author. A.S. Krishen is a renowned author and leading social media expert, recognized for his innovative strategies in digital marketing and brand communication. With over a decade of experience, Krishen has helped businesses and individuals harness the power of social platforms to build engaged audiences and drive measurable growth. His insightful books and articles provide practical guidance on navigating the evolving world of social media, making him a trusted voice in the industry.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about Snapchat Geofilter vs Sponsored Geofilter are subject to change from time to time.

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