Smartlink vs direct affiliate link
A direct affiliate link points to one offer. A smartlink applies routing rules across enabled offers — often influenced by location. Choose based on GEO mix and how closely you need creative-to-brand attribution.
Use a direct link when traffic is concentrated in one GEO or you need precise brand-level creative testing. Consider a smartlink when audiences span multiple countries and allowlists cover those GEOs. Smartlinks do not bypass exclusions.
Direct: clearer brand attribution, simpler mental model, easier creative matching. Limitation: manual GEO management. Smartlink: convenience for mixed GEOs. Limitation: less transparent destination per click unless you test carefully.