Brand Keywords vs. Generic Keywords: What’s Best for Your Business?

When it comes to online marketing and SEO, deciding on the proper keywords is a huge deal. But not all keywords paint in the same manner. In reality, there are two essential sorts you have to understand: branded key phrases and typical keywords. So, what’s the difference—and that's better for your business? 

Let’s spoil it. 

What Are Branded Keywords? 

Branded key phrases are search phrases that encompass your organization's call, product name, or something carefully associated with your emblem. For example: 

Nike footwear 

1. Nike shoes 

2. Apple iPhone 15 

3. Samsung Galaxy S24 

4. Adidas running shoes 

5. Moz keyword tool 

These key phrases are searched by means of folks who already recognise approximately your business. They typically have excessive reason—they’re more likely to buy or touch you. 

What Are Generic Keywords? 

Generic key phrases are huge phrases that don’t mention any precise brand. For instance: 

1. Running shoes 

2. Smartphones 

3. SEO services 

4. OnePlus 12 5G 

5. Reebok ZigTech shoes 

These key phrases have better search volumes, however, extra opposition. They deliver in people who won't recognize your emblem yet but are looking for your services or products. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each 

 Branded Keywords: 

Advantages: 

1. Higher conversion rates 

2. Lower competition 

3. Stronger click-through rates 

4. Cost-effective in paid ads 

5. Improved brand visibility 

Disadvantages: 

1. Lower search volume 

2. Only useful if your brand is already known 

3. Not ideal for new businesses 

4. Doesn’t help with discovery 

Generic Keywords: 

Advantages: 

1. Reach a wider audience 

2. Useful for brand discovery 

3. Useful for content marketing 

4. Competitive insights 

5. Builds topical relevance 

Disadvantages: 

1. Higher competition 

2. Lower conversion rates 

3. Difficult to rank organically 

4. Takes longer to show results 

5. Requires more content to compete 

Which One Should You Use? 

 

The exceptional keyword strategy is a mix of both. 

1. If you’re a new commercial enterprise, start by focusing on popular key phrases to attract visitors and build recognition. 

2. If your logo is already regarded, greater attention on branded key phrases to seize equipped-to-convert users. 

FAQ

What are branded keywords?

Branded keywords are search terms that include your company’s name, product names, or other identifiers closely linked to your brand (e.g. “Nike shoes”). They are used by people who already know your brand and often have higher intent to convert.

What are generic (non-branded) keywords?

Generic keywords are broad search terms that don’t include a brand name—like “running shoes” or “SEO services.” They target users who are searching by topic or need rather than brand awareness.

Which type of keyword is better for a new business?

For a new business, focusing more on generic keywords can help attract new visitors and build brand awareness. Over time, as your brand becomes more known, you can start adding branded keywords to capture intent-ready traffic.

What are the pros and cons of branded vs generic keywords?

• Branded keywords: Pros include higher conversion rates, lower competition, stronger click-through rates, more cost-effectiveness in ads; cons include lower search volume and limited reach for new brands.

• Generic keywords: Pros include wider audience reach and brand discovery; cons include higher competition, lower conversion rates, and longer time needed to see results.