When managing your Google Ads campaigns, especially on the Search Network, knowing how many ad variations you can run is essential for testing and optimization. One of the most powerful formats available today is the Responsive Search Ad (RSA) — and here’s a common question marketers ask:
How many Responsive Search Ads can I have per ad group?
✅ The Limit: 3 Responsive Search Ads per Ad Group
As of 2025, Google allows you to have up to three (3) enabled Responsive Search Ads (RSAs) per ad group. (source)
This means:
- You can test up to 3 RSAs simultaneously per ad group
- Each RSA can include up to 15 headlines and 4 descriptions
- Google uses machine learning to test combinations and serve the best-performing versions
🧠 Why the Limit Matters
While three might not sound like much, keep in mind that:
- One RSA can generate thousands of ad combinations, thanks to dynamic headline/description mixing
- Too many RSAs can confuse the system and slow learning
- Having 2–3 well-structured RSAs per ad group is generally more effective than dozens of static ads
In fact, Google recommends keeping at least one RSA active in every ad group to maintain strong performance and ad strength.
🛠️ Best Practices for Using RSAs
To get the most from your Responsive Search Ads:
- ✅ Include at least one RSA with “Good” or “Excellent” Ad Strength in each ad group
- 🧪 Vary headlines and descriptions to test different value propositions
- 📉 Monitor performance by asset (Google reports on top combinations)
- 📌 Pin carefully — pinning limits machine learning, so only pin headlines or descriptions if absolutely necessary for compliance or branding
🚀 Final Thoughts
While you’re limited to three RSAs per ad group, that’s more than enough when done right. The goal is quality and variety — not quantity. Use Google’s machine learning to your advantage by giving the system enough creative material to test and optimize.
Need help writing high-performing RSAs or auditing your current setup? Let’s work together — I specialize in ROI-focused Google Ads strategy and campaign optimization.
