A mobile CPA affiliate network is a marketplace that hosts offers to promote different kinds of apps: games, utilities, music apps, dating and more.
Such a network is capable of tracking and analyzing various actions that people take with apps, such as purchases, conversions, lead sales and more.
Top Mobile CPA Networks
Mobile CPA affiliate networks help webmasters drive traffic from ad networks, developers generate revenue by selling CPI traffic, and Ad Networks drive CPI traffic and earn more.
We’ve curated the top Mobile CPA Networks in this directory.
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Learn moreWhat is a mobile affiliate CPA program?
A mobile affiliate CPA program (known as cost per acquisition) is a type of affiliate marketing program where affiliates earn a commission for driving specific actions related to mobile apps, such as installs, sign-ups, purchases, or other desired activities.
The “CPA” model means affiliates are paid only when a user completes a defined action rather than for clicks or impressions.
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: Mobidea
As affiliates are only paid for results, this reduces the risk for advertisers and rewards affiliates for actual conversions.
In short, mobile affiliate CPA programs offer affiliates a way to earn money by promoting mobile apps, and they earn commissions based on user actions.
What is an example of a mobile affiliate CPA program?
An example of a mobile affiliate CPA program is the Tapjoy CPA network. Tapjoy is a popular mobile ad and app monetization platform that offers affiliate marketers the opportunity to earn commissions through various mobile app campaigns.
The network focuses on driving mobile app installs, in-app actions, and user engagement.
Let’s take a look at how it works.
How a mobile CPA program works:
- Advertisers run campaigns targeting app installs, in-app purchases, or other user actions
- Affiliates (publishers) promote these campaigns through various channels, such as mobile ads, incentivized offers, or affiliate links
- Affiliates are paid based on the specific action the user takes, such as installing the app (also considered CPI – known as cost per install) or completing an in-app purchase
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: CrakRevenue
This is just one example, but many other mobile CPA networks exist, too, such as AdColony, Vungle, and MaxBounty, each offering unique mobile-focused affiliate marketing opportunities.
For example, AdColony specializes in video ads, particularly in-stream video ads (these can be rewarded video, interstitials, and offer walls).
The platform is known for offering high-quality, immersive video ad formats that engage users with rich media experiences. Their rewarded video ads allow users to earn in-app rewards, which can increase user engagement.
The choice between networks depends on whether you prioritize engagement and, in the case of AdColony, high-quality video ads.
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Download our Affiliate marketing companies buyers guide to get a full list of the best service providers on the market to choose from. You will also learn how affiliate marketing works, benefits of using it and top affiliate marketing companies to work with to drive traffic for your mobile app.
What is the difference between CPA and other affiliate models?
A commonly asked question by people new to mobile affiliate marketing is how CPA compares to other models, such as CPC (known as cost per click) or CPM (known as cost per mille).
In short, unlike CPC, where affiliates are paid per click, and CPM, where they earn based on impressions, CPA pays affiliates only when a specific action (like an app install or in-app purchase) is completed.
What are the benefits of mobile affiliate CPA programs?
Mobile affiliate CPA programs offer unique advantages for both affiliates and advertisers. By focusing on specific actions like app installs or in-app purchases, these programs provide performance-based opportunities that can drive significant revenue.
Below are the key benefits of mobile affiliate CPA programs.
Performance-based revenue
Affiliates earn commissions only when a user completes a defined action, such as downloading an app or making a purchase.
This ensures affiliates are paid for actual conversions, making it a reliable and transparent way to generate income.
Reduced risk for advertisers
Advertisers only pay for measurable results, such as user installs or interactions, which minimizes the financial risk of ad campaigns.
This performance-driven model allows for more controlled and effective marketing budgets.
Scalable earnings potential
Mobile affiliate CPA programs provide affiliates with the ability to scale their income by promoting multiple offers or targeting larger, more diverse audiences.
The more successful actions they drive, the higher their earnings potential.
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: iMonetizeIt
Targeted user acquisition
These programs allow advertisers to precisely target users based on demographics, location, and behaviour, ensuring that affiliates drive high-quality traffic.
This results in more efficient and cost-effective user acquisition campaigns.
Flexibility and variety in ad formats
Affiliates have access to a wide range of monetization options, including video ads, display ads, and incentivized offers, across multiple mobile platforms.
This variety allows for experimentation and optimization, enabling affiliates to maximize their income opportunities.
How much can I earn with mobile CPA affiliate programs?
Mobile CPA affiliate programs can be a highly lucrative source of income for affiliates, but the amount you can earn depends on various factors, including the type of offer, the quality of traffic you drive, and the network or platform you’re working with.
With the growing demand for mobile apps and services, the potential to earn substantial income is significant, especially if you target the right audience and optimize your campaigns effectively.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential earnings you can make with mobile CPA affiliate programs.
App install
- Earnings: $0.50 to $5 per install
- Low: $0.50 to $1 (for countries like India, Brazil)
- Mid-range: $1 to $2 (for Southeast Asia, Mexico)
- High: $3 to $5 (for developed countries like the US, UK)
Lead generation
- Earnings: $1 to $10 per lead
- Low: $1 to $3 (for free trials or low-cost sign-ups)
- Mid-range: $3 to $5 (for email or phone number sign-ups)
- High: $7 to $10+ (for premium app trials or financial offers)
Mobile eCommerce
- Earnings: $5 to $100+ per sale
- Low: $5 to $15 per sale (for lower-priced items)
- Mid-range: $15 to $30 per sale (for mid-tier products or subscriptions)
- High: $50 to $100+ per sale (for premium or high-ticket items)
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: MaxWeb
Subscription offers (recurring CPA)
- Earnings: $10 to $50 per subscription
- Low: $10 to $20 per subscription (for affordable services)
- Mid-range: $20 to $30 per subscription (for mid-range services)
- High: $30 to $50+ per subscription (for niche or high-demand services)
Affiliate networks
- Earnings: Varies by network and offer type (often $1 to $50 per action)
- MaxBounty: $1 to $50 per action
- ClickBank: $1 to $100+ per sale, especially for subscriptions
- CPAlead: $0.50 to $3 per app install or lead
- Admitad: $1 to $10 per app install or lead, up to $50 for sales
Of course, keep in mind these earnings vary based on traffic quality, offer type, and geographic location.
How long does it take to get paid in a mobile CPA program?
The time it takes to get paid in a mobile CPA program depends on the network’s payment schedule, which is usually net 30, net 15, or net 7.
This means you can typically expect to receive your payment 30, 15, or 7 days after the end of the month in which you earned your commission. For example, if you earn commissions in January under a net-30 structure, payment would likely be issued by the end of February.
Payment times can also vary based on the payment method you choose, such as PayPal, bank transfer, or wire transfer. PayPal payments are often processed quickly, within a few days, while bank transfers or wire payments might take longer.
Some networks may also require you to meet a minimum payout threshold (such as $50 or $100) before issuing payment.
What are the best ways to drive traffic for mobile CPA offers?
Driving traffic to mobile CPA offers is crucial for maximizing earnings. To succeed, affiliates must implement strategies that target the right audience and encourage conversions.
Below are some of the best ways to effectively drive traffic for mobile CPA offers.
Paid advertising campaigns
Paid advertising through platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Apple Search Ads is one of the most effective ways to drive targeted traffic.
These platforms allow affiliates to reach specific user segments based on interests, demographics, and behaviours, ensuring that the traffic is more likely to convert into valuable actions like app installs or purchases.
Influencer marketing
Collaborating with influencers in your niche can help amplify your mobile CPA offers.
Influencers on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok can authentically promote your offers to their followers, driving engaged traffic that is more likely to follow through on the desired actions, such as downloading an app or making an in-app purchase.
Content marketing and SEO
Creating high-quality content such as blog posts, reviews, and tutorial videos that are optimized for search engines can generate organic traffic.
By focusing on the right keywords related to your mobile CPA offers, you can attract users who are actively searching for solutions, increasing the chances of conversion without relying solely on paid channels.
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: AdCombo
App store optimization
App store optimization (known as ASO) is essential for increasing the visibility of mobile apps in the app stores.
By optimizing keywords, app descriptions, and visuals and getting positive user reviews, you can improve your app’s ranking, making it easier for users to find and download your app organically, which can lead to higher conversions for your CPA offers.
Retargeting and remarketing
Retargeting ads help you re-engage users who have interacted with your offer but didn’t complete the desired action.
Using platforms like Google Ads and Facebook allows you to show ads to users who have already visited your landing pages or shown interest in your offer, encouraging them to complete the conversion, such as downloading the app or signing up.
What are the common challenges in mobile CPA affiliate marketing?
Mobile CPA affiliate marketing presents a lucrative opportunity for affiliates looking to monetize mobile app traffic. However, the space is not without its challenges.
While the potential for high earnings exists, affiliates often encounter obstacles that can impact their success. These challenges can range from driving the right kind of traffic to dealing with payment delays, fraud concerns, and competition.
Below, we’ve listed some of the most common hurdles affiliates face in mobile CPA affiliate marketing.
Quality traffic
One of the biggest challenges in mobile CPA marketing is driving high-quality, converting traffic.
Affiliates may struggle with attracting the right audience that is both interested in the mobile offers and willing to take the desired actions, like downloading apps or making in-app purchases. Poor-quality traffic can lead to low conversion rates, which directly impacts earnings.
Fraud and chargebacks
Mobile CPA networks are often targets for fraudulent activity. Affiliates may face issues like fake installs, invalid leads, or chargebacks, which can result in lost commissions.
Some networks may withhold payments or reverse commissions if they detect fraudulent activity, which can negatively affect an affiliate’s income and reputation.
Payment delays and thresholds
Payment delays and minimum payout thresholds are common frustrations in mobile CPA marketing. Many networks operate on net-30 or longer payout cycles, meaning affiliates may have to wait a month or more before receiving their commissions.
Additionally, some networks have payout minimums, requiring affiliates to reach a certain earnings threshold before being paid.
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: CPAlead
Ad saturation and competition
Mobile CPA marketing is highly competitive, with many affiliates promoting similar offers.
Ad saturation can occur when too many marketers target the same audience, leading to higher ad costs, reduced click-through rates, and overall lower conversion rates. Standing out from the competition requires creative ad strategies and continuous optimization.
Ad network policies
Different mobile CPA networks have varying policies and restrictions on the types of ads you can run, how you can promote offers, and which traffic sources are allowed. These guidelines can be restrictive and may limit your marketing tactics.
For example, some networks may not allow incentivized traffic or certain types of social media ads, making it important to thoroughly understand the rules before running campaigns.
How to choose the best mobile affiliate CPA network?
Choosing the best mobile affiliate CPA network is crucial to your success in the affiliate marketing space. With so many networks offering various campaigns and offers, it can be difficult to determine which is right for you.
To make the best decision, consider factors like reputation, payout structures, and the tools provided to help you succeed.
Below are five key aspects to focus on when selecting the ideal network for your mobile affiliate marketing efforts.
Network reputation
A network’s reputation is a crucial factor in choosing the right platform for your campaigns. Look for established networks with positive reviews and a proven track record of paying affiliates on time.
Make sure to check affiliate forums or online communities for insights into the network’s reliability and overall trust.
Quality of offers and advertisers
The quality and variety of offers available can significantly impact your ability to generate revenue.
Choose a network that offers high-converting, relevant offers aligned with your audience’s interests. A network with reputable and well-known advertisers can help you maximize your earnings and build trust with your audience.
Mobile CPA affiliate network example
Source: Perform[cb]
Competitive payout structure
Examine the payout models, commission rates, and payment schedules each network offers.
A competitive payout structure with attractive commission rates and clear payment terms ensures you earn fairly for your efforts. It’s important to compare different networks to see which one offers the best financial terms and incentives.
Tracking and reporting tools
Accurate tracking and detailed reporting are essential for measuring the success of your campaigns.
Choose a network that offers advanced tracking features, real-time analytics, and in-depth reporting tools. These tools will help you monitor conversions, optimize campaigns, and understand your traffic’s performance.
Support and affiliate resources
The level of support and resources a network offers can make a big difference in your affiliate marketing journey.
Look for networks that provide responsive support, dedicated account managers, and helpful affiliate resources like guides and training materials. A network that invests in helping affiliates succeed can lead to more profitable and long-term partnerships.
