One of the biggest decisions for an affiliate marketer is choosing the right affiliate network. Two of the most popular affiliate networks are ShareASale and Awin, both offering access to thousands of advertisers across multiple industries.
Although ShareASale is now part of the Awin Group, both platforms continue to operate separately with different dashboards, advertiser catalogs, and features. This often leaves beginners wondering which network is better for earning affiliate commissions.
In this comparison guide, you'll learn the key differences between ShareASale and Awin, including ease of use, advertiser selection, commission opportunities, payment methods, approval process, and which platform is best for your affiliate marketing goals.
Quick Facts
Features | ShareASale | Awin |
|---|---|---|
Founded | 2000 | 2000 |
Parent Company | Awin Group | Awin Group |
Advertisers | Thousands | Thousands |
Best For | Beginners & Bloggers | Beginners & Professional Affiliates |
Payment Frequency | Monthly | Monthly |
Deep Linking | Yes | Yes |
Global Reach | Strong | Very Strong |
ShareASale vs Awin: Key Differences
Although both networks belong to the same parent company, they have different interfaces and advertiser programs.
ShareASale is known for its simple dashboard and beginner-friendly experience, while Awin offers more advanced reporting tools and broader international advertiser coverage.
Ease of Use
ShareASale
- Beginner-friendly dashboard
- Easy navigation
- Simple reporting tools
- Quick affiliate link creation
Awin
- Modern interface
- Advanced reporting
- More detailed analytics
- Additional promotional tools
Winner: ShareASale
ShareASale is easier for beginners because of its simple dashboard and straightforward navigation, while Awin is a better choice for affiliates who need advanced reporting and analytics.
Advertiser Selection
Both platforms offer thousands of affiliate programs across multiple industries.
Popular categories include:
- Web Hosting
- Software
- Fashion
- Finance
- Education
- Home & Garden
- Technology
- E-commerce
Awin generally has stronger international brand coverage, while ShareASale is especially popular among bloggers promoting digital tools and small-to-medium businesses.
Winner: Awin (slight advantage for global brands)
Commission Opportunities
Neither platform has fixed commission rates.
Your earnings depend on:
- Advertiser
- Product category
- Commission model
- Order value
Both platforms support:
- Percentage commissions
- Fixed commissions
- CPA programs
- CPL offers
Winner: Tie
Payment Methods
ShareASale
- Direct Deposit
- Payoneer (where available)
- Check
Awin
- Bank Transfer
- Regional banking options
Both platforms generally process affiliate payments monthly after approved commissions meet the payout requirements.
Winner: Tie
Affiliate Approval Process
Both platforms require publishers to create an account before applying to individual advertisers.
Approval depends on:
- Website quality
- Content relevance
- Traffic quality
- Advertiser requirements
Neither platform guarantees approval.
Winner: Tie
Reporting & Analytics
ShareASale
Provides essential reporting for:
- Clicks
- Sales
- Commissions
- Affiliate links
Awin
Offers more advanced reporting features, including detailed transaction reports and performance insights.
Winner: Awin
Which Network Is Better for Beginners?
If you're completely new to affiliate marketing, ShareASale is often easier to learn because of its straightforward interface.
However, Awin is also beginner-friendly and provides additional tools that become valuable as your affiliate business grows.
Pros and Cons
ShareASale
Pros
- Easy to use
- Beginner-friendly
- Large advertiser marketplace
- Reliable monthly payments
Cons
- Older dashboard design
- Fewer advanced reporting features
Awin
Pros
- Modern dashboard
- Advanced reporting
- Strong international advertiser network
- Deep linking tools
Cons
- Some features may feel overwhelming for complete beginners
Comparison Table
Features | ShareASale | Awin |
|---|---|---|
Beginner Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Advertisers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Reporting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Deep Linking | ✅ | ✅ |
Monthly Payments | ✅ | ✅ |
Global Reach | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ShareASale owned by Awin?
Yes. ShareASale is part of the Awin Group but continues to operate as a separate affiliate network.
Which network has better advertisers?
Both networks have thousands of advertisers. Awin generally offers stronger international coverage.
Which platform is easier for beginners?
ShareASale is slightly easier for beginners because of its simpler interface.
Do both networks pay monthly?
Yes. Both generally process eligible affiliate payments monthly.
Can I join both ShareASale and Awin?
Yes. Many affiliate marketers use both networks to access a wider range of affiliate programs.
Final Verdict
Both ShareASale and Awin are excellent affiliate networks with reliable tracking, monthly payments, flexible commission models, and thousands of advertisers.
If you prefer a simple, beginner-friendly platform, ShareASale is an excellent choice. If you want advanced reporting, stronger international advertiser coverage, deep linking features, and additional affiliate tools, Awin may be the better option.
Many successful affiliates join both networks to maximize their earning opportunities and promote the best programs for their audience.
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