$5K on Ads or Just DM People? What Actually Works for PH Launches?

Hey PH community! In two weeks, I’m launching my app, SUN, here on Product Hunt. It’s been a journey, and I’m now focused on how to get meaningful visibility and upvotes. I’ve been digging into what others have done and came across these 5 common strategies:

1. DM outreach on LinkedIn

2. Joining Product Hunt-focused WhatsApp groups

3. Engaging in Facebook groups for PH launches

4. Running social media ads that link directly to the PH page

5. Buying Product Hunt ads (starting at $5,000 😬)

Has anyone here tried any of these?

What worked? What felt like a waste of time or money?

And most importantly, was the effort worth it?
Would I get more users if I just direct them straight to my app?

Would really appreciate any practical lessons and hacks learned. 🙏