What is CPV?
CPV (cost per view) is what you pay, on average, each time someone watches your video ad. It is the main price metric for video campaigns on YouTube and a useful comparison for Instagram and TikTok video ads.
CPV formula
CPV = ad spend ÷ views
Example: 300 spent for 10,000 views = 0.03 per view.
CPV on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok
On YouTube, Google Ads decides what counts as a view for each ad format. Meta and TikTok report several view counts (for example 2-second and 6-second views or ThruPlays); pick the one that matches your goal and use it every time. To see what share of impressions became views, use the video view rate calculator.
CPV vs CPM
CPM prices showings; CPV prices actual watching. Compare them in CPM vs CPC vs CTR vs CPA.
CPV calculator formula with example
CPV = total video ad spend ÷ number of views
Example: a YouTube campaign spends $300 and gets 12,000 views. CPV = 300 ÷ 12,000 = $0.025, or 2.5 cents per view. To compare with display ads, multiply CPV by 1,000 to get cost per 1,000 views.
YouTube CPV vs Instagram CPV
Platforms count a 'view' differently, so compare CPV within one platform before comparing across them. YouTube in-stream ads count a view after a set watch time or an interaction; Meta and TikTok report several view metrics, such as 2-second, 3-second and ThruPlay views. Pick one view definition and keep it the same in every report.
How to use this calculator
Enter ad spend and video views. The result updates as you type, so you do not need to press Calculate after each change. Use Copy result to paste the figure into a report, or Share link to send the calculator with your numbers already filled in.
Related calculators
You may also want the CTR Calculator (Click-Through Rate), Email CTR and Click-to-Open Rate Calculator, CPM Calculator. Browse everything in ad cost metrics calculators.
Frequently asked questions
Is a lower CPV always better?
Only if the views come from the right audience and lead to results.
CPV in Excel?
With spend in A and views in B: =A2/B2
What is a good CPV for YouTube ads?
Many advertisers see a few cents per view, but it varies widely with targeting, country and creative. Track your own CPV over time and aim to lower it while keeping watch time up.
How do I lower my cost per view?
Hook viewers in the first seconds, target narrower audiences who care about the topic, and test several thumbnails or opening shots.
Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter and are not financial advice.