In the early days of the internet, before high-definition screens and massive billboards, the 120×90 Button 1 was a staple of online advertising. While it has become less common than its smaller sibling (the 120×60), it remains a valid IAB Standard ad unit that serves a very specific purpose.
The 120×90 is essentially a “tall button.” It offers 50% more vertical space than the standard Button 2, giving advertisers just enough room to include a logo and a tagline, or a product image and a “Buy Now” button.
What is the 120×90 Button?
Defined by the IAB as “Button 1,” this unit is a versatile rectangle that fits perfectly into narrow sidebars.
- Width: 120 pixels
- Height: 90 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 4:3 (The same ratio as old TV screens)
Why Use 120×90 Instead of 120×60?
The standard 120×60 button is often too short for anything other than text. The 120×90 solves this problem by adding 30 extra pixels of height.
1. Better for Branding
If you are a sponsor, you want your logo to be seen. In a 60px high button, a square logo has to be shrunk down to a tiny size. In a 90px high button, the logo can breathe, making it much more legible.
2. The “Sidebar Stack”
Just like other small units, the 120×90 is perfect for “stacking.” You can place three or four of them vertically in a sidebar column to showcase a list of “Gold Sponsors” or “Featured Partners.”
3. Affiliate Product Tiles
For affiliate marketers, 120×90 is a great size for product thumbnails. It is large enough to show a clear picture of a book, a supplement bottle, or a software box, with a small call-to-action underneath.
Conclusion
The 120×90 Button 1 is a bridge between the tiny buttons of the footer and the larger rectangles of the sidebar. It is compact, professional, and offers just enough extra canvas to make your message pop without cluttering the page.