
Glossary
non-brand keywords
Non-brand keywords are search terms that do not include any specific brand name, company name, or branded product names. These keywords are generic terms that describe products, services, or topics without referencing particular brands, such as "running shoes" instead of "Nike running shoes."
Context and Usage
Non-brand keywords are primarily used in search engine optimization (SEO) and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising campaigns by digital marketers, SEO specialists, and business owners. They are employed to attract new customers who may not be aware of specific brands but are searching for solutions to their needs. These keywords are particularly important for businesses looking to expand their reach and capture market share from competitors.
Common Challenges
Non-brand keywords typically face higher competition and lower conversion rates compared to branded keywords, making them more expensive and harder to rank for. They often require significant investment in content creation and link building to achieve visibility. Marketers may struggle with balancing budget allocation between high-intent branded searches and broader non-brand searches that capture earlier-stage prospects.
Related Topics: branded keywords, SEO, PPC advertising, keyword research, search intent, conversion rate optimization, competitive analysis
Jan 26, 2026
Reviewed by Dan Yan