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Best ad-blocks for Safari in 2024: Browse ad-free on Mac & iOS

The web is full to the brim with adverts for all sorts of products and services, so what better piece of kit to invest in than a high-functioning and reliable ad-blocker?

In this article, we've taken a look at the best ad-blockers for Safari. These apps make for a faster, safer, and better browsing experience. 

What is the best ad-block for Safari?

Here's a quick look at the best ad-blockers for Safari. A more detailed analysis can be found further on in this article. 

• Total Adblock - Best adblocker for Safari. A secure ad-blocker Safari extension for iOS devices. Premium plan includes anti-virus protection and an exclusive YouTube ad-blocker.
• CleanWeb - Surfshark’s multi-purpose ad-blocker removes all ads from Safari before the page displays – including video ads. The blocker forms part of the Surfshark CleanWeb service, which comes free with all subscriptions.
• AdLock - A great standalone solution, which works with browsers and apps across all popular platforms.
• AdGuard - The best buy ad-blocker for Safari. Another great choice for blocking ads on this popular browser, with loads of customization.
• Wipr - A beginner-friendly ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a solid service for Safari that's a breeze to set up and even simpler to use.

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Why are these the best ad-blockers for Safari?

If you have looked for an adblocker for Safari before, then you will know that there are hundreds of services out there. We have chosen services with the following properties:

• Great apps and browser extensions
• Works on iOS and Mac
• Secure services

Not all of the services on the list have a free option, however, four of the five services on the list do. 

An in-depth look at the best ad-blockers for Safari

Below we take a closer look at the best ad-block software for Safari. If you still need more information about any of the services in this list, click through to the provider's website. 

1. Total Adblock Editor's Choice | April 2024

Total Adblock is a very secure ad-blocker for Safari browser on iOS devices. If you upgrade to premium, you get full protection with malware and TotalAV (anti-virus) protection.

• Premium: Block Unlimited Ads + FREE Total AV: $2.42/mth 70% OFF
• Free: $0/mth

Total AdBlock is an excellent adblocking solution for Safari on iOS devices. Unfortunately, Safari extension with this ad-blocker is not yet available for Mac devices, however, it efficiently removes all types of annoying ads on iPhones and iPads. But don't worry! If you're a Mac user, you can still use this ad-blocker with all the other popular browsers, including Chrome , Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Opera.

Total Adblock also takes care of your online privacy by blocking trackers and third-party cookies. So you can surf on Safari (and other browsers) without worrying that some advertisers and third-party companies might snoop on your activities or collect your data. And, with its exclusive features like YouTube ad-blocker, your overall online experience becomes much more pleasant, faster, and safer.

If you're looking to enhance browsing in your whole household, consider subscribing to premium, which allows you to block unlimited ads throughout the year. Plus, you'll get anti-malware and anti-virus protection for free, and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee to try all these out with peace of mind.

2. CleanWeb

CleanWeb is Surfshark’s combined ad-blocker, pop-up blocker, and malware and data breach alert service. It’s free with Surfshark subscriptions and easily enabled within the iOS and macOS apps.

• 1 month: $12.95/mth
• 24 months + 2 months FREE: $2.3/mth 82% OFF
• 12 months: $3.99/mth 69% OFF

Surfshark’s CleanWeb is an ad-blocker and pop-up blocker, as well as a way of finding out about data breaches and occurrences of site-based malware. The service is available as part of every Surfshark VPN subscription, and available for Safari via the iOS and macOS apps.

The ad-blocker removes all adverts from pages you start the process of opening – including the video ads favored by streaming platforms.

The pop-up blocker stops cookie requests from appearing every time you visit a site. The feature acts in the background to reject any that are possible to reject. Of those that can’t be rejected, the blocker only accepts those that are strictly necessary in order to use the site.

The third feature – the data breach alert – lets you know if a site you’re visiting has ever been breached. If so, it provides details of the number of exposed accounts and the date the breach happened.

The malware detector lets you know whether any website you’re visiting has ever been corrupted by malware or a virus.

AdLock will transform your Safari browsing experience with its great filtering and customization. Plus, it's affordable and offers multiple subscription plans.

• 60 months: $1.05/mth 70% OFF
• 12 months: $2.28/mth 35% OFF
• 1 month: $3.5/mth

AdLock is certainly one of the pricier ad-blockers around, but still a steal for what you're getting. For a little over $22 dollars a year, you'll have an ultra-reliable piece of kit that works extremely well with Safari. It's available as both an iPhone app and a Mac app, blocking both adverts and the tracking that goes on when you visit websites.

AdLock does not pander to the acceptable ads policy, meaning it blocks all adverts without compromise. This ad-blocker seems to work with just about every site we visit, from streaming sites to social media, but you can also whitelist sites you'd like to support financially. 

AdLock can be installed on up to 5 devices at the same time, which means you can use it on any device for which Safari is your default browser. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can road-test its product and decide for yourself if it does what it says on the tin. Overall, it's easy to use and one of the best additions to your day-to-day browsing experience you could invest in.

AdGuard is the best value-for-money ad-blocker for Safari. A widely used, open-source ad-blocker, with apps for all your devices.

• Free extensions: $0/mth
• 1 yr personal license/3 devices: $29.88/mth
• lifetime personal license/3 devices: $59.99/mth
• 1 yr family license/9 devices: $65.88/mth
• lifetime family license/9 devices: $129.99/mth

AdGuard is an ad-blocker I use regularly. Set up takes a matter of seconds and once you download it, it works brilliantly with Safari. You can choose exactly which kind of adverts and tracking script you'd like to block; it's highly configurable software but the user interface on devices like iPhone are quite easy to navigate.

By blocking tracking scripts, AdGuard will make the pages you open appear quicker simply because they have much less to load. If AdGuard does miss things – a rarity, but something does occasionally happen – there's a feature that allows you to identify certain adverts and remove them. 

The above function is one thing that can be performed with Adguard Assistant, an AdGuard extension that lets you change things up without having to leave the browser. You can add a specific website to a "do not block" list and report the website if it somehow manages to serve you ads, as well as block them as mentioned previously. AdGuard now also operates a VPN service with 44 locations across the globe too and runs a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Wipr is an easy-to-use ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a dedicated ad-blocker for iOS and macOS operating systems.

Wipr is available exclusively on macOS and iOS. It is designed to be set up once and left alone to run on Safari in the background, with its blocklist automatically updating twice a week. Although it isn't a hugely customizable app, it blocks both the adverts and the trackers that become active when you visit websites, as well as also dealing with any cryptocurrency miners and things like EU/GDPR notices that might cause you problems. 

Wipr has an active developer that regularly updates a blog on Wipr's main page, and you can contact him yourself if you have any issues with the app or suggestions you'd like to make. At just $1.99, too, it's a very small price to pay for a significant increase in page loading speed when you use Safari. 

Adblock is the original ad-blocker for iOS.

Adblock is another ad-blocker that works excellently with Safari. It has a local DNS proxy service – which you can enable and disable at will – that will let you see exactly what domains your device is contacting, and you can create your own blocking rules, which Adblock recommends you tie to rules you can find online. You can use it on multiple devices and sync up all your rules with iCloud. 

The vast majority of customers report an excellent experience with Adblock on the App Store too, which is always a good sign, and Adblock's ad-serves update automatically, so once you have it downloaded, there's not much more you need to do!

7. 1Blocker

1Blocker X is the descendant of one of the first blocking apps for Apple and optimised for Safari.

• Free version: $0/mth
• Premium: $2.99/mth
• /year: $14.99/mth

1Blocker X has over 43,000 blocking rules at its disposal to remove ads from the websites you visit, as well as 13,000 known trackers that it can block without breaking a sweat. 1Blocker X makes the lofty but evidenced claim that you can reduce your data usage by 50% by installing its app, which will also stop your browsing time draining your battery too. 

One thing I really like about 1Blocker X is its support section on its website, which takes you through how to create groups of custom rules as well as various troubleshooting methods for different problems you may encounter. There is also a blog that describes in detail updates and new features and they've got a Safari extension that will allow you to block ads straight from your browser.

What is an ad-blocker?

An ad-blocker is an application that will remove or alter adverts on the web pages you visit. When you click on a website, the webpage loads a number of scripts in order to display the content. Some of these scripts are related to adverts on the page. Ad-blockers analyze these scripts whilst webpages load, compare them to a list of known advertising scripts, and block what they recognize (with varying degrees of success). 

Due to the fact that advertisements are necessarily connected to tracking (a lot of adverts you'll see are served to you because of information gathered by trackers from your browsing history and activity on websites), the other crucial thing ad-blockers do is to prevent tracking scripts from running on your device. 

If you're in the market for an ad-blocker, remember that they come in all shapes and sizes, from browser extensions to fully-fledged apps. VPN companies like NordVPN and Surfshark provide ad-blockers as part of their services – which is an excellent way to get ad-blocking that will work on any browser – including Safari.

Safari browser vs Safari app 

When you're using a handheld Apple product like an iPhone or an iPad, you can head over to the App Store to download an ad-blocking app. On a Mac or a Macbook, ad-blockers are available as both Safari extensions or standalone Mac apps . 

However, these are, for the purpose of getting you up and running with an ad-blocker, essentially the same thing. They're just found in slightly different places. 

How to install an ad-blocker on Safari 

Ad-blocker apps.

• Search the app store for your chosen ad-blocker. 
• Download and install the app on your chosen device. 
• Go to your device settings and tap ' Safari '. 
• Scroll down to and click on the menu item entitled ' Content Blockers '. 
• Toggle on the ad-blocker settings you'd like active. 

Ad-blocker browser extensions

Make sure you have the latest macOS update installed and Safari up to date. Extensions are only available on devices with Safari 12 onwards. 

• Click on Safari in the top left-hand corner. 
• Select Safari Extensions from the drop-down menu. 
• Wait for the App Store to automatically open on the extensions page. 
• Search for the ad-blocker you'd like to add. 
• Click Get underneath the ad-blocker extension.
• Sign in with your Apple ID if required and start the download. 
• Click install to get the app up and running.
• Open the extension and follow any subsequent instructions.
• Click on Safari in the top right corner once more.
• Select Preferences from the drop-down menu. 
• Tick the checkbox next to the ad-blocker you downloaded. 

Ad-blocker apps on the Mac App store

• Search for your chosen Ad-blocker on the Mac App Store. 
• Click Get . 
• Select Install to set the ad-blocker up on your device.
• Click Open .
• Enable the app in Safari.
• Check  the relevant boxes in Safari Preferences. 

Can I whitelist certain websites or ads while using an ad-blocker on Safari?

Most ad blockers let you whitelist specific websites and services. This is an important feature as it allows you to support websites that are funded by ads - by allowing them to load on that domain (or subdomain). This also allows you to comply when a website refuses to load until you have turned off your ad-block.

Some ad blockers even give you granular control over which ads you can see. This allows you to allow certain ads to be displayed, while still keeping the ad blocker turned on for that website.

Are ad-blockers legal to use in Safari?

Yes. There is nothing illegal about blocking ads and trackers on Safari. It is your right to use an ad blocker to save data and get better page load times. However, some services may ask you to turn off your ad blocker to continue.

Those services are supported financially by ads, and they cannot afford for users to bypass ads, which are often the only (or a primary) source of revenue. If you choose to support that website and its operations, you may decide to allow ads on that website in order to help support them financially. 

Despite the fact that some services are funded by ads, it is not illegal to block ads, and you will not be prosecuted for using an ad blocker. On the other hand, it may be against the Terms of Services to use an ad block on some websites and services. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis, so be sure to understand the terms before using an ad blocker. This is the case with Twitch, for example.

Under these circumstances, you could potentially have your account or membership canceled for breaking the rules. However, in our experience, it is pretty unheard of for someone to lose an account simply for blocking ads. 

Are free ad blockers for Safari safe?

Free ad blockers for Safari can be safe, but it depends on the specific one and its developers. However, they need access to your data to work, which can raise privacy concerns.

Ad blockers function by identifying and blocking ads on web pages, which requires access to the information on the pages you visit. Some free ad blockers may not block all ads, may break some websites, or may collect or sell your data.

Paid ad blockers often offer more features and better privacy protection, but the choice between free and paid depends on your needs and preferences. Our list of the best ad blockers above and this article will help you make an informed decision.

Final thoughts

If you're a Safari user, investing in an ad-blocker is a no-brainer. To save you scrolling back up, here's a reminder of our top picks for the browser:

From $0.00 /month

Best adblocker for Safari. A secure ad-blocker Safari extension for iOS devices. Premium plan includes anti-virus protection and an exclusive YouTube ad-blocker.

From $2.30 /month

Surfshark’s multi-purpose ad-blocker removes all ads from Safari before the page displays – including video ads. The blocker forms part of the Surfshark CleanWeb service, which comes free with all subscriptions.

From $1.05 /month

A great standalone solution, which works with browsers and apps across all popular platforms.

The best buy ad-blocker for Safari. Another great choice for blocking ads on this popular browser, with loads of customization.

A beginner-friendly ad-blocker for iOS and macOS. It's a solid service for Safari that's a breeze to set up and even simpler to use.

wasn't right for you?

We recommend you check out one of these alternatives:

The best ad blockers in 2024

Say goodbye to irritating online advertising with the best ad blockers

Best in-browser ad blockers

Best ad-blocking apps, best ad-blocking mobile apps, other privacy-focused extensions and apps.

The best ad blockers are crucial to survive on the modern internet. It often feels like it's impossible to go anywhere online without being harassed by pop-ups, tracker cookies, malvertising and all sort of digital nasties that seem hell-bent on ruining your browsing. The worse part is that these things still plague you if your browsing is above-board — putting you at risk.

Thankfully there's no shortage of apps and browser extensions that can block ads and keep you safer when you're online. Blocking ads and all the other irrelevant stuff that you may encounter. Combined with the best antivirus software and the best VPNs , a good ad-blocker gives you a perfect arsenal of tools to offer as much protection as possible. Even the FBI recommends using an ad-blocker for protection.

The only thing you need to figure out is which ad-blocker is right for you. There are so many to choose from, and whether you are willing to live with the downsides. Most free sites rely on advertising revenue to survive, including Tom's Guide. But if you're happy with the trade-off, we've got a thorough list of the best ad blockers and privacy tools — with options for every browser and platform.

The best ad blockers you can get today

1. adblock plus (chrome, edge, firefox, opera, safari, android, ios).

AdBlock Plus (ABP) is among the most popular ad blockers, with extensions available for Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Edge and Opera. ABP features a quick setup, loading preset filter lists that allow users to quickly block most ads, as well as the option to filter malware and social media buttons. 

Savvy users can chose additional block lists as well as set custom filters or whitelist their favorite sites to keep their ad revenue in the black. AdBlock Plus allows what it calls "non-intrusive advertising" through filters; that may irk some users, though this feature can be disabled in settings. 

On Android, the AdBlock Browser provides a Firefox-based browser that blocks incoming advertising, while on iOS, the AdBlock Plus app integrates with the content blocker system to seamlessly block advertising on Safari with minimal setup.

Download AdBlock Plus: Firefox , Chrome , Safari , Opera , Edge

2. AdBlock (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)

AdBlock (no relation to AdBlock Plus) is the other best ad-blocking browser extension of note, available for users of Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Safari. AdBlock uses a series of filter lists to automatically block ad content coming from known ad servers and providers. Users can stick with the default block lists, subscribe to additional ones, or even create their own, as well as whitelist their favorite websites. 

As one of the most downloaded Chrome and Safari extensions, AdBlock has the trust of many users worldwide.

Download AdBlock: Chrome , Firefox , Safari , Edge

3. uBlock Origin (Chrome, Firefox)

Ublock Origin is a browser-based ad blocker that focuses on simple, efficient blocking with a low resource overhead. The extension comes loaded with a number of filter lists for known advertising and malware sources, with extra filter lists available and the option to read and create your own custom filters from hosts files.

Download Ublock Origin: Chrome , Firefox

4. Poper Blocker (Chrome)

Rather than be an all-in one blocking solution, Poper Blocker (aka Pop Up Blocker For Chrome), is designed to complement other adblockers. 

In this case, Poper Blocker focuses on blocking pop-ups, pop-unders, overlays, timed and scroll pop-ups, and other varieties that might slip past other ad-blocking extensions. Small notifications tell you when pop-ups are blocked. You also can view your blocking stats, but otherwise, you can generally just keep Poper Blocker running in the background with minimal impact alongside other adblocker extensions.

Download Poper Blocker: Chrome

5. Stands Fair AdBlocker (Chrome)

For a fast and light ad-blocking plugin, Chrome users can turn to Stands Fair AdBlocker. The extension does precisely what it promises, blocking ads and pop-ups from cluttering up your browser view while also preventing any tracking from going on. 

Stand's Fair AdBlocker gives you control over the type of ads you can block, specifying everything from autoplay video ads, YouTube ads, expanding ads and more. It can even block Facebook ads if you want.

The "Fair" part of AdBlocker comes into play by giving you the ability to allow certain types of ads or even whitelist ad-supported websites you don't want to shortchange of badly needed revenue. This is one ad blocker that doesn't take a scorched earth approach to its stated purpose.

Download Stands Fair AdBlocker: Chrome

6. Ghostery (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Safari, Edge)

Like the other extensions on our list of the best ad blockers, Ghostery can remove ads from webpages, so you can focus on content and browse more efficiently. But the real value in Ghostery lies in its privacy protection features. You can use Ghostery to view trackers, which lets you see who's trying to collect data on you. With Ghostery, you can also stop that tracking from taking place. If you really want to safeguard your privacy, you can turn to Ghostery's Enhanced Anti Tracking to anonymize your data.

Ghostery's a free download that offers basic web protection. More advanced protection starts at $4.99 a month and the $11.99 monthly tier comes with a built-in VPN. There are also versions of Ghostery that work with Android and iOS devices.

Download Ghostery: Chrome , Firefox , Opera , Safari , Edge

7. Adblocker for YouTube (Chrome, Firefox)

YouTube has gotten more aggressive with ads, so the makers of ad-blocking extensions have followed suit. Adblocker for YouTube is a Chrome extension that promises to automatically block YouTube ads, whether we're talking about the pre-roll ad appearing before your video or any text and banner ads that appear on the video itself.

If you prefer Firefox to Chrome, there's also an AdBlocker for YouTube extension that works on that browser. Same name, different developer apparently, but the functionality of stripping out video and display ads remains. This version works on Android devices too.

Download Adblocker for YouTube: Chrome , Firefox

1. AdGuard (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS)

Uses looking for a more robust experience can try out the subscription-based AdGuard, which provides desktop and mobile options to reduce the ads you see when surfing online. 

AdGuard on Windows and Mac covers popular browsers, with highly configurable options for ads, content, and tracker blocking, as well as a parental controls module for restricting adult content. AdGuard for Android is a no-root ad-blocker that blocks advertising on apps and games, though you’ll have to install it from AdGuard’s site instead of through Google Play. AdGuard for iOS works with Safari to effectively filter ads on the default browser.

Download AdGuard: Windows , Mac , Android , iOS

2. AdLock ($33 per year)

AdLock avoids the browser-based route, instead opting to run as a separate program to be able to block not only browser-based ads, but also advertising in other programs like Skype or games. 

The app runs in the background, using filters to block ads, popups, and autoplaying videos, speeding up loading times and applying Safe Browsing features to automatically block sites that are known to be unsafe. 

For obvious reasons, the mobile version is unavailable on the Google Play Store, so you'll need to sideload the app if you want to get AdLock into your Android device. iOS users can download AdLock directly from Apple's App Store.

Download AdLock: Windows , Chrome ,  Android , Mac , iOS

3. Wipr (macOS, iOS; $1.99)

If you’re a Safari fan, Wipr may be the best ad blocker for both your Mac and iPhone. The app is available for both iOS and macOS — costing $1.99 from either Apple App Store — and it promises to work with Safari as well as apps that use Safari for displaying web pages.

You’ll find a full array of features with Wipr, which not only blocks apps and trackers, but cryptocurrency miners, EU cookie and GDPR notices and anything else that gets in your way of surfing the web. Its blocklist gets updated twice a week, and there’s little configuration; the idea is that you load Wipr and forget that it’s there while it does its job in the background.

With Wipr, pages should load faster in Safari, which will be particularly welcome if you’re surfing from an iPhone, where ads and trackers can bog down your browser’s speed.

Download Wipr: macOS , iOS

1. 1Blocker (iOS)

1Blocker was one of the first really good ad blockers on iOS when Apple opened up that functionality on iPhones and iPads; the apps has since been optimized for Safari. 

The app is designed to make browsing faster and more secure by blocking ads, popups, trackers and other online cruft. Rather than blocking content of a downloaded page, 1Blocker works with Safari's content blocker API to tell the browser what to block in advance, saving time and resources. 

1Blocker features more than 115,000 blocker rules, custom regional adblocking settings, and easy-to-use custom rules settings. The app is a free download, with premium features available as in-app purchases.

Download 1Blocker: iOS

2. Firefox Focus (Android, iOS)

Firefox Focus is another addition to Mozilla's family of browsers. This one's a privacy-oriented version of Firefox that bakes in ad-blocking and anti-tracking into a light and functional package. Firefox Focus blocks ads and speeds up browsing, while also working in privacy-friendly features like automatic history and cookie clearing. 

Users can selectively block ads, analytics, content and social trackers with easy toggles, turn on a "stealth" mode, and set a default search engine.

Our look at the best Android browsers has more on the various flavors of Firefox.

Download Firefox Focus: Android , iOS

3. AdClear (Android, iOS)

AdClear — or AdClear Plus if you're searching for the iOS version — offers the kind of mobile ad blocking in browsers that similar apps provide. But AdClear takes it one step farther by also blocking ads in apps. 

AdClear achieves this through a DNS changer feature that routes traffic through a VPN. AdClear doesn't catch everything in all apps, and in our experience, some apps ran a little slower. But this free download can put a stop to ads interrupting what you're trying to do whether in an app or a browser.

Download AdClear: Android , iOS

1. Decentraleyes (Chrome, Firefox)

Some times, blocking ads can also prevent websites fromn pulling needed resoruces and libraries from third-party sources, breaking web pages in the process. Decentraleyes tries to stop that from happening by acting as a local content delivery network emulator to serve up the files that websites need. By doing so, this extension can stop websites from sending out requests to the likes of Google Hosted Libraries.

Think of Decentraleyes as a complement to ad blockers. In fact, the extension specifically says it can work with uBlock Origin and AdBlock Plus, both of which we recommend up above.

Download Decentraleyes: Chrome , Firefox

2. Opera (Desktop, Android, iOS)

The Opera browser bakes in ad-blocking features into the browser without the need for an extra add-on, while also offering privacy-friendly tools such as an unlimited, built-in VPN service, incognito mode, fraud and malware warnings for suspicious links and pages, and more. In addition, you can further customize Opera's capabilities with a wide array of extensions. 

Mobile users need not fret, as the Android version comes with just about everything the desktop version has but built for touch-screen interfaces. On iOS, the mobile version of Opera is listed in Apple's App Store as Opera Touch. (Incidentally, we've got a guide on how you can use Opera to block ads on the iPhone .)

Download Opera: Mac or Windows , Android , iOS

3. Privacy Badger (Chrome, Firefox, Opera)

The Electronic Frontier Foundation's Privacy Badger browser extension was born from the EFF's concerns about the business models of some privacy tools and ad blockers. 

Privacy Badger functions similarly to extensions like AdBlock Plus (on which it was based), observing the various tracking tools that advertisers and other third parties might use to track your online activities and selectively blocking them from executing. Built-in learning algorithms adapt to the sites you visit and take any new tracking tools discovered into account. 

While not explicitly an ad blocker, Privacy Badger does also block some advertising, depending on how aggressively the ads track you across websites.

Download Privacy Badger: Chrome , Firefox , Opera

4. Tor Browser (Desktop, Android)

The Tor network helps anonymize your internet activity by bouncing the data you send and receive through a distributed anonymous network of routers to foil a common online surveillance technique called traffic analysis, which can reveal the sites you visit or who you're communicating with. 

The Tor Browser is an all-in-one package that includes everything you need to surf the net through the Tor network in an easy-to-install portable package. The package includes a modified version of Firefox with privacy aids such as NoScript baked in, and an automatic setup aid that makes it easy to connect to and create new Tor circuits. 

On the desktop, you can grab a version of Tor Browser for Windows, macOS or Linux. There's also a version of Tor Browser for Android, which replaces the previous OrBot + OrFox combination recommended for browsing Tor on Android.

Download Tor Browser: Desktop , Android

5. Onion Browser (iOS)

iOS users aren’t left out when it comes to browsing the Tor anonymizer network, with the Onion Browser among the more popular options on Apple’s mobile OS. 

Previously a premium app, Onion Browser has since moved to a donation model, opening up access to everyone who wants to download the app, without compromising security or features. The usual caveats apply: Browsing through Tor will slow down the web experience, and some features, like video streams and video files won’t work in order to preserve anonymity.

Download Onion Browser: iOS

How to choose the best ad blocker for you

Many of the best ad blockers are available for free, either as extensions or as standalone apps, though a few, like AdLock, charge a fee. Determine if the free services provide enough ad-blocking to meet your needs or whether a paid app delivers more for your money. You should also figure out if a browser extension will take care of your ad-blocking needs or whether you should consider switching browsers to one with more built-in privacy features.

You can narrow down your choice in ad blockers by deciding specifically what you're looking to accomplish with such an app or extension. Do you just want to stop annoying pop-up ads from appearing or do you want the full range of services, including privacy features and an end to ad-tracking? Grab the ad blocker that ticks off all the boxes on your wishlist.

Some ad blockers, such as AdBlock Plus include filters and the ability to let in non-obtrusive advertising. Others, like AdBlocker Ultimate, take a more aggressive approach. Find out which one best suits your needs and comfort level.

As we noted at the outset, there's also an ethical component to ad blockers. Do you feel comfortable keeping ad revenue out of the hands of sites you enjoy and use for free? As good as the best ad blockers are, that's still a trade-off you need to consider when deciding whether to install one as a browser extension or as a standalone app. 

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• kep55 I'm waiting for an ad blocker that will spoof the websites into thinking there is no ad blocker in place. More and more sites are incorporating code that disables the site entirely or many of the features if an adblocker is in use. Reply

kep55 said: I'm waiting for an ad blocker that will spoof the websites into thinking there is no ad blocker in place. More and more sites are incorporating code that disables the site entirely or many of the features if an adblocker is in use.

• View All 2 Comments

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How to Block Youtube Ads on Safari

Key points:.

• YouTube ads can be annoying and intrusive, and some users may want to block them on Safari.
• There are different methods to block YouTube ads on Safari, such as subscribing to YouTube Premium, ad blocker extensions, and browsers with ad block.
• Ghostery is a YouTube ad blocker extension for Safari that’s free and powerful, and lets you block ads and trackers on YouTube and other websites.

Block Youtube Ads on Safari

YouTube is one of the most popular video-sharing platforms in the world.

By June 2022, more than 500 hours of video were uploaded to YouTube every minute, which is about 30,000 hours of uploaded content per hour .

However, videos are interrupted often by ads, and they’re often irrelevant to your interests.

And while Safari comes with some built-in tracking protection , it does not block ads without using a browser extension.

We’ll explain different ways to block YouTube ads, including subscribing to YouTube Premium, using an ad blocker, or downloading a browser with ad blocking built-in.

Why Block YouTube Ads

YouTube ads are a way for the platform to generate revenue and support its creators, but some ads are more intrusive than others.

The main form of YouTube ads are:

• Pre-roll ads: Play before the video starts. They can be skippable or non-skippable, and they can last from 5 seconds to 20 seconds or more.
• Mid-roll ads: Play during the video, usually at a predetermined time. They can also be skippable or non-skippable, and they can interrupt the flow of the video.
• Post-roll ads: Play after the video ends. They are usually skippable, but they can still be annoying if you want to watch another video right away.

These types of ads can negatively affect your YouTube experience in several ways.

For example, YouTube ads:

• Waste your time and bandwidth by forcing you to watch something you are not interested in.
• Interrupt your concentration and enjoyment by breaking the continuity of the video.
• Expose you to unwanted or inappropriate content that may not match your preferences or values.
• Track your online activity and collect your personal data for advertising purposes.

So you may wonder, “Can you block ads on YouTube?”

Here’s how to automatically skip ads on YouTube.

Methods to block YouTube ads on Safari

There are different ways to block YouTube ads for Safari.

YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is a subscription service that offers several benefits for YouTube users. You can:

• Videos without ads: Watch any video on YouTube ad free.
• Offline videos: Download videos to watch them later without an internet connection.
• Background play: Play videos in the background while using other apps or when your screen is off.
• YouTube Music: Access a music streaming service with millions of songs and playlists.
• YouTube Originals: Watch exclusive shows produced by YouTube.

YouTube Premium includes a one-month free trial for new users.

Ad blocker Extensions for Safari

Another way to block YouTube ads on Safari is to use an ad blocker extension for Mac , iPhone , and iPad . An ad blocker extension is a software that blocks or filters out unwanted ads from websites.

There are many ad blocker extensions available for Safari, and one of the best ones is Ghostery Ad Blocker . Ghostery’s Safari YouTube ad blocker is a powerful tool that blocks ads on YouTube and other websites.

With Ghostery’s ad blocker extension, you can:

• Block ads on YouTube, including pre-roll, mid-roll, post-roll ads.
• Stop trackers that may slow down your browser or compromise your privacy.
• Whitelist specific websites that you want to support or see ads from.

Ghostery’s ad blocker extension is free and easy to install.

How to Install Ghostery's Ad Blocker Extension on Safari

To install Ghostery’s Safari ad block extension:

• Go to our website and click on Get Ghostery .
• Follow the on-screen instructions to add the extension to your browser.
• Enjoy an ad-free browsing experience with Ghostery!

Never installed a browser extension on Safari? Check out our instructions on how to get started or watch our YouTube video guide .

Once you’re finished, you can block YouTube ads on Safari on almost any website you visit.

Browsers with Ad Block

If you do not want to add an extension to Safari, then another option to block YouTube ads is to use a browser with ad block. An ad-blocking browser is a web browser that has a built-in ad blocker that automatically blocks ads from websites.

One of the best ad-blocking browsers is the Ghostery Private Browser .

Ghostery Private Browser is a fast, private browser that offers a smooth and ad-free browsing experience. With it, you can:

• Block ads on YouTube and other websites without installing any extensions or making further configurations.
• Protect your privacy and security with features such as private browsing windows and anti-phishing protection .
• Browse faster and save data by reducing page loading time and bandwidth consumption.

Ghostery’s Private Browser is free and easy to use. You can download it here .

TIP: Click here for ways to protect your privacy on Safari.

Final Thoughts

YouTube ads can be a nuisance for many users who want to enjoy their favorite videos without interruptions or distractions. Fortunately, you can block ads on YouTube using Safari by:

• Signing up for YouTube Premium and getting ad-free videos and other benefits.
• Installing Ghostery’s ad blocker extension to stop ads and trackers on YouTube and other websites.
• Downloading Ghostery Private Browser with a built-in ad blocker feature.

Whichever way you choose, you can start blocking ads on most websites.

Get in touch if you have any questions. We’re always happy to help.

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• VPN & Privacy
• Ad-blocker for Safari

Best ad-blockers for Safari

Whether it’s an autoplay video covering the button you’re about to click, or a banner ad obscuring the content you’re trying to read – everyone hates adverts. Happily, the best ad-blocker for Safari will stop adverts and other annoyances from ever bothering you again.

Sophisticated ad-blockers remove a whole host of stubborn adverts, as well as trackers and fingerprinting scripts. They’ll also help prevent you from connecting to malicious websites and will neutralize threatening adware code.

Choosing from one of the multitude of ad-blockers available for Safari on the App Store can be daunting, which is why we’ve done the work for you. If you’re in a rush, our findings are summarized below:

• Total Adblock : Our first choice for a Safari ad-blocker. Strong ad-blocking ability and can prevent social media trackers and access to malicious websites.
• AdLock : Best budget option for a Safari ad-blocker. Able to stop ads on video and audio streaming sites. Blocks all ads by default.
• AdGuard : Open-source ad-blocker able to stop all types of ads as well as trackers, malware and phishing websites.
• 1Blocker : Simple to use and great for quickly creating custom rules. Stops trackers, cookies and fingerprinting scripts as well as ads.
• Wipr : Easy installation and great at blocking ads, trackers, and cryptocurrency miners. Can also prevent EU cookie and GDPR notices.

We used the criteria below to help us narrow down the Safari ad-blocker options. If you’re interested, we have a comprehensive section on our testing process later in this article.

• Comprehensive and reliable ad-blocking
• Good value for money
• No acceptable ads
• Plenty of customization
• Security features

Here’s a list of the best ad-blockers for safari:

1. Total Adblock

Total Adblock is a powerful ad-blocker that removes banners, video ads and pop-ups by default from Safari – but only on iPhone and iPad. Mac users will need to use a different browser if they wish to employ Total Adblock.

The software can be configured to block websites known to distribute malware, and can also remove cookie and privacy warnings on trusted websites – thus speeding up page loading times. Alternatively, adding websites to a whitelist enables them to automatically display without any filters.

Using Total Adblock’s custom filters allows you to block any elements on a web page that you’d prefer not to see. A social media tracking blocking filter stops “like” and “share” buttons from appearing on websites.

The basic Total Adblock app is free, but will not block ads on the top 15,000 websites ranked on Alexa – thus making it fairly useless. You will also get access to TotalAV virus protection and PC Tune-Up software.

• Robust ad-blocking with subscription
• Stops ads on streaming sites
• Enables element blocking
• Subscription includes TotalAV antivirus
• Prevents social media tracking
• Annual subscription required for usable app

BEST AD-BLOCKER: Total Adblock is our top  ad-blocker for Safari. It offers rigorous blocking of ads and malware, and the subscription includes TotalAV antivirus.

AdLock for Safari is a free extension that blocks pop-ups, autoplay videos, and banner ads; while also protecting you against trackers, bugs, analytical systems, and scammers.

The UI is immediately approachable, making it easy to get started. Toggle switches help you set preferences, and there’s a whitelist where you can add any sites that you’d rather see unfiltered. There are no acceptable ads, so you don’t need to dig around trying to turn them off. You also don’t need to worry about your data being sold to third parties.

There’s scope for more comprehensive tinkering via the ad filters – AdLock recommends using a maximum of five for peak performance. These filters are mostly drawn from EasyList, which is the most popular option for ad-blockers. You can create custom rules and AdLock also allows the removal of any element from a page, including non-ad-related callback forms and online chat boxes.

AdLock is great for streaming sites. It can remove all pre-rolls, mid-rolls, post-rolls, and otherwise unskippable video commercials. You just need to engage a special one-click script or use the AdLock player. AdLock also stops social media widgets following you from site to site.

• Rigorous blocking
• Good for streaming sites
• Protects privacy
• Extension is free
• Extension not as powerful as app

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: AdLock’s free Safari browser  extension is a reliable ad-blocker that stops ads in streaming sites.

AdGuard for Safari is a free browser extension that stops all ads, trackers and widgets. You can create custom filtering rules and manually remove any web page element. The software helps with security by issuing warnings if you unintentionally visit malicious or phishing websites.

The AdGuard home screen allows you to set up the basics: notification preferences, update intervals, and which content blockers you’d like to use. Content blockers are thematic clusters of filters. For example, the AdGuard Security Blocker contains filters that stop browser-based cryptominers, domains known to spread malware and spyware, and sites associated with fraudsters.

Alternatively, you can add filters of your choosing in the custom area, or create custom rules that apply specific filtering criteria. For example, you might want a particular element removed when visiting such-and-such website. AdGuard provides instructions on how to master rule syntax.

AdGuard doesn’t collect any user data or allow “acceptable ads”. The software is open-source, with the repository on GitHub available via the AdGuard “About” page.

• Intercepts malicious website connections
• Allows custom rule creation
• Stops social media widgets
• Doesn’t block as much as its app

CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS: AdGuard is a powerful, open-source ad-blocker that encourages the creation of custom filters and rules.

4. 1Blocker

1Blocker uses filters to tell Safari what to stop in advance. It’s effective at removing a range of ads, trackers and fingerprinting scripts. Setup is simple and the app automatically receives cloud updates to the built-in filters.

There is plenty of scope for customization. For example, you can create rules for a defined URL or hide a particular element with a CSS selector. You can also block cookies, or allow ads for a particular site while still blocking trackers and social buttons.

1Blocker doesn’t have access to the pages you visit and doesn’t track you in any way. There are no “acceptable ads,” as funding for the app comes from subscriptions. These cost either $2.99 a month, or $14.99 for a year. There is a free version of the app, but it’s limited in what it can do. For example, you can only block either trackers or ads – not both.

1Blocker is compatible with iPhones running iOS 14.2 or later, iPads running iPadOS 14.2 or later, iPod Touches running iOS 14.2 or later, and Macbooks running macOS 10.15 or later. Any preferences and custom rules are kept in sync across all devices via iCloud.

• Easy to use
• Blocks fingerprinting scripts
• Easy to create custom rules
• Doesn’t block all types of ads
• Best features require subscription

GREAT FOR BEGINNERS: 1Blocker is simple  to set up, with a straightforward interface that makes creating custom rules easy.

Wipr is a relatively simple ad-blocker that can nevertheless block a wide range of trackers and ads, as well as cryptocurrency miners and EU cookie notices. Its blocklist is automatically updated twice a week, ensuring not much gets past it.

If you want to block ads from the likes of YouTube and other streaming sites , you can enable Wipr Extra. This requires full website access, so consider any privacy implications in leaving it turned on long-term.

Wipr is able to block ads in apps that display websites using the Safari View Controller. Note that it is not able to help with blocking scam, phishing or other malicious sites.

If purchased in the App Store, you’ll be able to install Wipr on all the iPhone and iPads with the same Apple ID. If purchased on a Mac, you’ll be able to install it on all the Macs with the same Apple ID. Wipr costs $1.99 in each store, so you’ll have to pay $3.98 if you wish to use it on both an iPhone and a Mac, for example.

The app is compatible with iPhones running iOS 12.0 or later, iPads running iPadOS 12.0 or later, and Macs running macOS 10.15 or later.

• Straightforward ad-blocker
• Doesn’t protect against malicious code
• One purchase won’t cover all devices
• No custom rules

EASY SETUP: Wipr is a straightforward  ad-blocker that keeps itself updated and blocks a decent number of ads and trackers.

Can I use a free ad-blocker for Safari?

You can, and there are many decent free ad-blockers available. However, as with most products that seem free, there’s often a hidden cost. Some ad-blockers make money by allowing some ads through – what are sometimes called “acceptable ads.” Other, less scrupulous, apps may even sell your data to third parties.

More commonly, ad-blocking developers create a free version of the subscription-only service – typically a browser extension. This has less features than the paid-for version, but allows people to become familiar with the service and pay out when they find that they can’t live without a particular feature.

How to install a Safari ad-blocker:

If you want to use a Safari browser extension ad-blocker, follow these instructions:

• Launch the Settings app.
• Scroll down and tap Safari .
• Under General , tap Content Blockers .
• Activate your chosen content blocker by toggling the switch next to it to the green ON position.

If you’ve downloaded an ad-blocker app for Safari, follow these instructions to enable it:

• Click on Safari in the top left-hand corner.
• Select Safari Extensions from the drop-down menu.
• Wait for the App Store to automatically open on the extensions page.
• Search for the ad-blocker you’d like to add.
• Click Get underneath the ad-blocker extension.
• Sign in with your Apple ID if required and start downloading.
• Click install to get the app up and running.
• Open the extension and follow the instructions.
• Click on Safari in the top right corner once more.
• Select Preferences from the drop-down menu.
• Tick the checkbox next to the ad-blocker you downloaded.

Methodology: Finding the best Safari ad-blocker

Most Safari ad-blocking extensions are capable of preventing certain cookies, images, pop-ups and other unwanted content from being downloaded. So what makes one better than the other? The best Safari ad-blockers will perform notably well when tested against the criteria below:

• Comprehensive blocking: We expect ad-blockers to be able to block most types of advert that appears on a web page. This includes pop-ups , banners, and interstitial ads. We also require the removal of autoplay video and audio, as well as the option to stop chat boxes and pre-roll ads.
• Good value: An expensive ad-blocker doesn’t necessarily mean it’s worth your money. We only include ad-blockers that can justify what they charge. This normally means they provide superior blocking ability with other privacy and security features.
• No acceptable ads: We know that developers need to make money, but allowing ads on an ad-blocker doesn’t seem like the right way to do it. For this reason, we don’t recommend ad-blockers that allow paid advertising to be displayed.
• Plenty of customization: Ruthless blocking seems great… until it isn’t. Being able to whitelist sites is a good starting point. However, a good ad-blocker allows you to create custom rules for everything from ads to trackers, cookies and notices. We also like to be able to customize blocking on an element-by-element basis.
• Security features: It’s not just ads we want to see blocked, it’s trackers, fingerprinting script and any malicious code whatsoever. Ad-blockers that intercept connections to untrusted sites score points too.
• Compatibility: Safari is available on all Apple devices, including Mac, iPad, and iPhone. Although all of the ad-blockers we looked at worked with Safari, they didn’t all work great across all devices. The mobile Safari app is different to the macOS Safari app, and so we only recommend ad-blockers that have been specifically designed to work across all Apple devices.

FAQs: Best ad-blocker for Safari

Does apple allow ad-blockers.

Apple began allowing ad-blockers on the iPhone and iPad versions of Safari in 2015. Devices running iOS 9 were – for the first time – permitted to add content blocking extensions to Safari. 

Prior to this, the only way to block adverts was to “jailbreak” the devices, which involved replacing – or modifying – key components of the operating system with custom applications. Where subsequent security measures weren’t instigated, this resulted in their becoming easier for attackers to infiltrate. 

Apple allowing ad-blocking Safari extensions negated the need to do this. At the same time, it ensured that the company could still make money from allowing advertising in apps.

Are ad-blockers legal?

Yes, though there were a slew of court cases when Apple first began allowing ad-blockers. These were brought by media companies that were heavily reliant on advertising money. None of them were successful, and the use of ad-blockers has been steadily increasing since – much to the chagrin of the ad industry. 

The problem is that ads are becoming ever more invasive. Many actively prevent us from enjoying a particular website’s content until we’ve interacted with the advert. Meanwhile, ad-blockers are getting more powerful and easier to install. 

Of course, the people who run that website might say that ad-blockers are morally questionable. After all, advertising revenue effectively pays for the website. There is ultimately no easy solution. Some sites try using a paywall to stay ad-free, while others incorporate adverts into their content. A short-term solution involves site owners asking users to whitelist their sites if they like them.  

How do ad-blockers work?

Ad-blockers detect scripts designed to make your browser load content from the servers of ad networks. By blocking these scripts, the adverts aren’t requested or displayed. Ad-blockers can also block scripts that monitor your online behavior or contain malicious code. Ad-blockers are able to detect scripts by comparing them with huge lists of offending domains – often created by the online community. 

Without these additional advertising requests playing out, pages tend to require less bandwidth and are quicker to download. Indeed, research suggests that the execution of third-party scripts can account for more than half of a page’s loading time.

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How to efficiently block YouTube ads in Safari

In this post, we'll show you how to get rid of YouTube ads in Safari browser on your iOS device. If you don't want to read entirely, skip directly to instructions .

UPD: added support for YouTube Music , several minor bugs fixed. You need to reinstall the shortcut to get the update: https://agrd.io/ios_youtube_shortcut To get a shortcut that updates automatically download a newer version: https://agrd.io/ios_youtube_shortcut_remote

Several weeks ago we started receiving complaints about some YouTube ads that somehow managed to infiltrate Safari. As you may know, because of Safari Content Blocking API our hands are quite tied when it comes to content blocking opportunities. We explained why in this article and in all detail, hoping that Apple will pay attention to the current situation.

UPD: And they did! There is definitely a chance that the situation will improve in the future.

We managed to quickly solve the problem with ads in the AdGuard for Safari extension, on macOS it was easier to do: thanks to the "AdGuard Advanced Blocking" extension, we can compensate for missing Safari content blocking capabilities. But with iOS, the problem persisted, and we must admit that it was rather sad that we could not get rid of ads, like we used to.

And then... eureka ! We remembered that YouTube works without reloading the page. It turns out that you can run a special script that will work and remove ads until the page is reloaded. After realizing this fact, the way to implement it came quickly — last fall, Apple added shortcuts that are great for this task. In the blink of an eye, we developed our own quick command (shortcut) that outright removes YouTube ads.

We're thrilled to have come up with a solution to help iOS and iPadOS devices owners. If you too have been hit by the sudden flurry of YouTube ads popping up in Safari, then this is the solution for you. In the next version of AdGuard for iOS, such a command will appear automatically, and we are already working to bring this version out as soon as possible. But if you don't want to wait, here's what you need to do to activate it right now.

How to add a shortcut to block YouTube ads in Safari

• Open the "Shortcuts" app. It can be found in system settings or downloaded from App Store .
• If you have not used shortcuts before, then to launch ours you will first have to run any shortcut offered by Apple.
• Go to the "Shortcuts" app, launch any, then Proceed to iOS device settings -> Shortcuts and enable the "Allow Untrusted Shortcuts" option.

• Now proceed at this link , tap "Get Shortcut" , and you'll see the contents of the AdGuard shortcut. To install it, scroll a bit down and tap "Allow Untrusted shortcut" (yeah, we know, it doesn't sound too good).

• Now open YouTube in Safari. Click on the bottom icon in the middle, scroll to the end and select Block YouTube Ads (by AdGuard) .

Tap "Allow" in the appeared notification.

All done! Now you can watch YouTube without ads.

If the shortcut is enabled and working, the inscription "with AdGuard" will appear next to the YouTube logo. If it is not there, you probably reloaded the page and the shortcut needs to be restarted.

Apple considers any third-party developer to be untrustworthy, so AdGuard is naturally one of them. But if you know and use our applications, then you can be sure that you can trust us :)

Please note that when you reload the page, you will need to rerun the command.

• This shortcut is open-source. In this repository you can see everything it does.
• The shortcut is not updated by itself. This means that if we change something in it, it will need to be reinstalled. But when the new version of AdGuard comes out, there will be no need to think about it.
• The shortcut can be used without AdGuard. Even if you don't use any blocker on iOS at all, it will completely clean YouTube from ads.

This is a temporary solution, of course. But right now it seems to be the best possible option. The problem is especially noticeable on iPads, where a white blank field appears instead of ads. But even if you have an iPhone, using the shortcut will make the situation better: in addition to advertising, an extra click will disappear, which interferes with the autoplay of the video. If you are used to living happily without YouTube ads and are annoyed to see them again in Safari, try our shortcut.

We will be glad if you can share your opinion on it. Waiting for your feedback here in the comments section or on our social networks!

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How To Block YouTube Ads On Safari

• Software & Applications
• Browsers & Extensions

Introduction

Are you tired of being interrupted by pesky ads while trying to enjoy your favorite YouTube videos on Safari? You're not alone. The good news is that there are effective ways to block these ads and reclaim uninterrupted viewing pleasure. In this article, we'll explore three methods to block YouTube ads on Safari, allowing you to enjoy your content without the frustration of unwanted interruptions.

Whether you're a casual YouTube viewer or a dedicated content creator, dealing with ads can be a significant annoyance. These interruptions can disrupt the flow of your favorite videos, making it challenging to stay engaged. Fortunately, by implementing the right tools and techniques, you can regain control over your viewing experience and bid farewell to those intrusive ads.

Now, let's dive into the methods that will empower you to take charge of your YouTube viewing experience on Safari. Whether you prefer using browser extensions or exploring more advanced solutions, we've got you covered. Let's explore the options available to block YouTube ads and enhance your online video streaming experience.

Method 1: Using AdBlock Extension

One of the most popular and user-friendly methods to block YouTube ads on Safari is by utilizing the AdBlock extension. This powerful tool is designed to effectively filter out unwanted advertisements, providing a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience.

To get started, simply navigate to the Safari Extensions Gallery and search for "AdBlock." Once located, click on "Install" to add the extension to your browser. After installation, AdBlock will automatically begin filtering out ads on YouTube, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content without interruptions.

AdBlock offers a range of customizable options, enabling you to tailor your ad-blocking preferences to suit your specific needs. You can easily whitelist certain channels or websites, ensuring that your support for content creators remains intact while still benefiting from an ad-free viewing experience.

Additionally, AdBlock provides real-time feedback, displaying the number of ads blocked on each webpage. This transparency allows you to see the impact of the extension in action, reinforcing the value it brings to your browsing experience.

Furthermore, AdBlock is continuously updated to stay ahead of new ad formats and techniques, ensuring that you remain protected from evolving advertising strategies. This commitment to ongoing development and improvement underscores the reliability and effectiveness of the AdBlock extension.

By leveraging the AdBlock extension, you can take control of your YouTube viewing experience on Safari, eliminating disruptive ads and enjoying uninterrupted content. With its user-friendly interface, customizable options, and proactive updates, AdBlock stands as a formidable solution for those seeking a seamless and ad-free browsing experience.

In summary, the AdBlock extension offers a straightforward and effective method to block YouTube ads on Safari, empowering you to reclaim control over your online video streaming experience. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated content creator, AdBlock provides a valuable tool to enhance your browsing experience and ensure uninterrupted enjoyment of YouTube content.

Method 2: Using AdGuard Extension

When it comes to blocking YouTube ads on Safari, the AdGuard extension emerges as a robust and versatile solution. This powerful tool is designed to provide comprehensive ad-blocking capabilities, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted browsing experience.

To begin, navigate to the Safari Extensions Gallery and search for "AdGuard." Once located, proceed to install the extension, seamlessly integrating it into your browser. Upon installation, AdGuard immediately begins filtering out unwanted ads on YouTube, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content without interruptions.

AdGuard offers a range of advanced features, setting it apart as a formidable ad-blocking solution. Its extensive filter list, regularly updated by a dedicated team, ensures that a wide variety of ads are effectively blocked, including those on YouTube. This comprehensive approach to ad blocking minimizes the likelihood of intrusive advertisements disrupting your viewing experience.

Furthermore, AdGuard's user-friendly interface empowers you to customize your ad-blocking preferences, providing granular control over the types of ads you wish to filter. This level of customization allows you to tailor your browsing experience to align with your specific preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy uninterrupted content while still supporting your favorite creators.

In addition to its ad-blocking capabilities, AdGuard offers enhanced privacy and security features, further enhancing your browsing experience. By blocking tracking and analytics scripts, AdGuard helps safeguard your online privacy, creating a more secure environment for your browsing activities.

Moreover, AdGuard's commitment to ongoing development and improvement ensures that the extension remains effective against evolving ad formats and techniques. This dedication to staying ahead of the curve underscores the reliability and effectiveness of AdGuard as a leading ad-blocking solution for Safari users.

In summary, the AdGuard extension stands as a powerful and versatile method to block YouTube ads on Safari. With its comprehensive ad-blocking capabilities, customizable features, and commitment to privacy and security, AdGuard empowers users to enjoy uninterrupted content while maintaining control over their browsing experience. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated content creator, AdGuard offers a valuable tool to enhance your online video streaming experience on Safari.

Method 3: Using Pi-hole

For those seeking a more advanced and comprehensive approach to blocking YouTube ads on Safari, Pi-hole presents an innovative and powerful solution. Unlike browser extensions, Pi-hole operates at the network level, providing ad blocking for all devices connected to your network, including those accessing YouTube on Safari.

To implement Pi-hole, you'll need a Raspberry Pi or a similar device to serve as the host for the Pi-hole software. Once set up, Pi-hole acts as a DNS sinkhole, intercepting and filtering out ad-serving domain requests before they reach your devices. This network-level ad blocking ensures that ads are effectively blocked across all devices, including Safari browsers, without the need for individual browser extensions.

The installation and configuration of Pi-hole involve setting it up as your network's DNS server, allowing it to intercept DNS requests and filter out ad-serving domains. This process is well-documented and supported by a dedicated community, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.

One of the key advantages of Pi-hole is its ability to block a wide range of ads, including those served on YouTube, without relying on specific browser-based solutions. This network-wide ad blocking ensures a consistent ad-free experience across all devices, providing a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience for YouTube content on Safari.

Furthermore, Pi-hole offers extensive customization options, allowing users to fine-tune their ad-blocking preferences and whitelist specific domains as needed. This level of control empowers users to tailor their ad-blocking experience to align with their preferences while ensuring that legitimate content and services remain accessible.

In addition to ad blocking, Pi-hole provides valuable insights into network activity, allowing users to monitor and analyze DNS requests across their network. This transparency and visibility into network traffic contribute to a more informed and secure browsing experience, complementing the ad-blocking capabilities of Pi-hole.

By leveraging Pi-hole, users can enjoy a comprehensive and network-wide ad-blocking solution, ensuring uninterrupted YouTube viewing on Safari and other devices connected to the network. With its robust ad-blocking capabilities, extensive customization options, and network-level approach, Pi-hole stands as a formidable solution for those seeking a more advanced and comprehensive method to block YouTube ads on Safari.

In conclusion, the quest to block YouTube ads on Safari has led us through a diverse array of effective methods, each offering its unique advantages. Whether you opt for the user-friendly browser extensions like AdBlock and AdGuard or venture into the realm of network-level ad blocking with Pi-hole, the overarching goal remains the same: to reclaim uninterrupted enjoyment of YouTube content while maintaining control over your browsing experience.

The AdBlock extension, with its seamless integration and real-time feedback, provides a straightforward and accessible solution for Safari users seeking to eliminate disruptive ads. Its customizable options and proactive updates ensure that users can tailor their ad-blocking preferences while staying protected from evolving advertising strategies. AdBlock's commitment to enhancing the browsing experience makes it a valuable asset for those looking to streamline their YouTube viewing on Safari.

Similarly, the AdGuard extension offers a robust and versatile approach to ad blocking, combining comprehensive filter lists with advanced privacy and security features. Its user-friendly interface and customizable settings empower users to fine-tune their ad-blocking preferences, creating a tailored browsing experience that prioritizes uninterrupted content consumption while safeguarding privacy and security. AdGuard's commitment to ongoing development and improvement solidifies its position as a leading ad-blocking solution for Safari users.

For those seeking a more advanced and comprehensive ad-blocking solution, Pi-hole emerges as a game-changing option. Operating at the network level, Pi-hole provides ad blocking for all devices connected to the network, ensuring a consistent ad-free experience across Safari browsers and other devices. Its extensive customization options and network-wide approach make it a compelling choice for users looking to elevate their ad-blocking capabilities while gaining valuable insights into network activity.

In the ever-evolving landscape of online advertising, these methods stand as pillars of empowerment, offering users the means to take control of their browsing experience and enjoy uninterrupted YouTube content on Safari. Whether you're a casual viewer seeking seamless entertainment or a content creator striving to enhance your audience's experience, these ad-blocking methods provide valuable tools to achieve your browsing goals.

Ultimately, the journey to block YouTube ads on Safari is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of technology, empowering users to shape their online experiences according to their preferences. With these methods at your disposal, you can bid farewell to intrusive ads and embrace a browsing experience that revolves around uninterrupted enjoyment and control.

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13 Best YouTube Ad Blockers

Best YouTube Ad Blockers

Finding the perfect solution to block YouTube ads can significantly enhance your video-watching experience. With the vast array of content available on YouTube, interruptions from ads can be a major annoyance for users. This is where the best YouTube ad blockers come into play, offering a seamless viewing experience without the constant interruption of ads. The demand for effective YouTube ad blockers has surged, as users seek ways to enjoy their favorite videos uninterrupted. The best YouTube ad blockers not only remove ads but also offer additional benefits such as improved privacy protection and faster loading times for videos.

The Need for Best YouTube Ad Blockers

The need for the best YouTube ad blockers is more pressing than ever. With the digital landscape constantly evolving, advertisers are finding more sophisticated ways to place ads, making them increasingly intrusive and disruptive. This not only affects the user’s viewing experience but can also lead to increased data usage and slower loading times for videos. Moreover, privacy concerns have become a significant issue, with ads often being used as a tool for tracking user behavior across the web.

The best YouTube ad blockers address these issues by providing a cleaner, faster, and more private viewing experience. They work by filtering out ads before they reach the user, thereby reducing data usage and improving video loading times. Additionally, by blocking trackers associated with ads, these ad blockers enhance user privacy, making it harder for companies to monitor online activities.

However, it’s important to note that not all ad blockers are created equal. The effectiveness of a YouTube ad blocker depends on various factors, including its ability to keep up with the latest ad-serving technologies and its compatibility with different devices and browsers. Users should look for ad blockers that offer regular updates to ensure that they remain effective against new ad formats and techniques.

The best YouTube ad blockers play a crucial role in improving the online video-watching experience. They not only eliminate the annoyance of ads but also offer benefits such as reduced data usage, faster loading times, and enhanced privacy. As the digital advertising landscape continues to evolve, the importance of using an effective YouTube ad blocker cannot be overstated.

• TOTALAdblock
• Ad Block Ultimate
• AdblockPlus
• AdBlock Pro
• Adblocker For YouTube Videos
• Brave YouTube Ad Blocker
• uBlock Origin
• Block YouTube Ads
• Video Ad Blocker Plus

How do the Best YouTube Ad Blockers work?

The best YouTube ad blockers are software tools or browser extensions that prevent advertisements from being displayed on YouTube. They function by filtering out ad-related content from the web pages you visit, specifically on YouTube. When you load a YouTube video, the ad blocker checks the elements on the page against a database of known ad-related URLs or domains. If it detects an element that matches an entry in its database, it blocks that element from loading, thereby preventing the ad from appearing on your screen.

These ad blockers can be particularly effective against various types of YouTube ads, including pre-roll video ads that play before your video starts, mid-roll ads that interrupt the video, and banner ads that appear on the page. Some ad blockers also offer additional features like the ability to manually block ads, enhance privacy by blocking trackers, and improve page loading times by reducing the amount of data downloaded.

How to choose the Best YouTube Ad Blockers?

Choosing the best YouTube ad blockers involves considering several factors to ensure you get the most effective and user-friendly experience. First, you should look for an ad blocker that is compatible with your preferred web browser and device. Whether you use Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or another browser, the ad blocker should integrate seamlessly.

Next, consider the performance and efficiency of the ad blocker. It should not significantly slow down your browsing speed or consume excessive system resources. The best ad blockers operate in the background without impacting your device’s performance.

The user interface and ease of use are also important. A good YouTube ad blocker should be simple to install and require minimal configuration. It should start working immediately after installation, blocking ads without the need for complex setups.

Privacy features are another key aspect. The ad blocker should protect your online privacy by blocking trackers and not collecting or selling your personal data. Look for ad blockers that are transparent about their privacy policies and data usage.

Lastly, consider the reliability and update frequency of the ad blocker. It should be regularly updated to keep up with the latest ad technologies and potential workarounds that advertisers might use. A well-maintained ad blocker will continue to block ads effectively as new types of ads emerge.

By considering these factors, you can choose a YouTube ad blocker that provides a balance of ad-blocking efficiency, ease of use, privacy protection, and ongoing support.

YouTube Video Ad Blocker

1. ghostery.

Ghostery is a comprehensive digital YouTube ad blocker designed to enhance online privacy and improve web browsing experiences by blocking intrusive ads and stopping trackers from collecting user data. It operates across a wide range of browsers and devices, offering a suite of privacy tools that include an ad blocker, a private browser, and a private search engine. By neutralizing trackers, Ghostery ensures that personal information remains private, contributing to a safer, faster, and less cluttered online environment. This approach not only protects user privacy but also enhances web page loading times, making for a more enjoyable browsing experience.

What does Ghostery do?

Ghostery specializes in providing users with a cleaner, faster, and more private web browsing experience. It achieves this by blocking ads, stopping trackers, and preventing pop-ups across various websites. By doing so, it protects users’ personal data from being collected and used without consent. Ghostery offers transparency by displaying the trackers it has neutralized, allowing users to see the extent of tracking attempts on each website they visit. Additionally, it speeds up web browsing by reducing the load on resources, which can also lead to savings on data plans for mobile users. Ghostery’s community-driven approach ensures that its tracker database is continually updated, enhancing protection for all users.

Ghostery Key Features

Ad and Tracker Blocking : Ghostery excels at blocking ads and trackers across websites, ensuring that personal data remains private and enhancing the overall browsing speed by reducing page load times.

Private Browsing and Search : It offers a private browsing experience with a built-in search engine that detects and displays trackers before users visit a webpage, further protecting privacy.

Tracker Analytics : Users receive in-depth data on how trackers impact website performance, offering insights into the digital footprint left behind.

Privacy Digest : A biweekly newsletter educates users about the dangers of online tracking, keeping them informed about privacy issues.

Ghostery Pricing Plans

Ghostery offers a free YouTube ad blocker with an option to contribute to continue the activities of the company.

AdGuard is a YouTube ad blocker software that effectively removes a wide range of advertisements across websites and applications. It is designed to enhance user experience by eliminating intrusive ads, including pop-ups, video ads, and banners, while also offering protection against tracking, phishing, and malicious websites. AdGuard is available across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it a versatile solution for users seeking a cleaner, faster, and safer online experience. Beyond its ad-blocking capabilities, AdGuard provides additional privacy protection features, such as hiding your data from trackers and ensuring your online activities remain confidential.

What does AdGuard do?

AdGuard stands out by not only blocking ads in browsers and applications but also by offering a suite of privacy and security features. This YouTube ad blocker effectively wipes out annoying advertisements, speeds up page loading, and reduces bandwidth usage. On the privacy front, AdGuard shields users from trackers and analytics systems that attempt to collect information about online activities. It also enhances browsing security by protecting against phishing and malicious websites, thereby ensuring a safer online environment. For families, AdGuard offers parental control options to safeguard children from accessing inappropriate content online. Its comprehensive approach makes it a robust tool for improving overall online experience and security.

AdGuard Key Features

Ad Blocking : AdGuard eliminates all types of ads across websites and applications, providing a cleaner and more enjoyable browsing experience.

Privacy Protection : It prevents trackers and analytics systems from monitoring your online activities, ensuring your personal information remains private.

Browsing Security : AdGuard offers protection against phishing and malicious websites, enhancing your online safety.

Parental Control : This feature allows parents to control and restrict access to inappropriate content, ensuring a safer online environment for children.

Cross-Platform Availability : AdGuard is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, offering a unified ad-blocking and privacy protection solution across devices.

Customizable Filtering : Users can adjust filtering settings to their preferences, including whitelisting favorite websites or blocking specific elements on a page.

AdGuard Pricing Plans

AdGuard offers several pricing plans to cater to different user needs.

Personal Plan : Protects up to 3 devices, offering comprehensive ad blocking, privacy, and security features. The plan is priced at $2.49 per month, billed annually.

Family Plan : Designed for families, this plan covers up to 9 devices. It includes all the features of the Personal Plan, ensuring a safe browsing experience for the whole family. The Family Plan is priced at $5.49 per month, billed annually.

3. TOTALAdblock

TOTALAdblock is a tool designed to enhance the online browsing experience by removing various forms of advertisements and trackers. This YouTube ad blocker targets pop-ups, banners, and video ads, aiming to declutter web pages and speed up loading times. Additionally, it offers privacy protection by blocking third-party trackers, which can prevent users from being followed online. TOTALAdblock is compatible with a range of devices, including Android and iOS, and works across different web browsers to provide a comprehensive ad-blocking solution.

What does TOTALAdblock do?

TOTALAdblock serves as a digital shield against intrusive online advertising and tracking. It operates by eliminating pop-ups, banners, and video ads, which not only simplifies the user’s visual space but also contributes to faster web browsing due to reduced page load times. The tool also prioritizes user privacy by obstructing third-party trackers, thereby minimizing the digital footprint left behind when navigating the internet. For mobile users, TOTALAdblock extends its services to block ads in mobile web browsers, increase battery life, and stop advertisers from following users online.

TOTALAdblock Key Features

Ad and Tracker Blocking : TOTALAdblock excels at removing unwanted ads and trackers from websites, providing a cleaner and more focused browsing experience.

Faster Browsing : By blocking ads, the tool can improve page load times, resulting in swifter navigation across the web.

Privacy Protection : The software safeguards user privacy by preventing third-party trackers from collecting data about online activities.

Mobile Support : TOTALAdblock is not limited to desktop browsers, it also offers ad blocking capabilities for Android and iOS devices, ensuring a consistent ad-free experience across platforms.

Acceptable Ads : Users have the option to whitelist their favorite websites, allowing them to support content creators by viewing ads on those selected sites.

Antivirus Integration : The premium version of TOTALAdblock includes award-winning antivirus protection from TotalAV, adding an extra layer of security to the user’s online presence.

TOTALAdblock Pricing Plans

TOTALAdblock offers 2 pricing plans:

Free Plan : This plan offers basic ad-blocking on a selection of sites, along with protection from malicious websites and the ability to manage trusted websites and acceptable ad preferences.

Premium Plan : Priced at $1.99 per month (billed annually), the premium plan provides comprehensive ad-blocking experience, blocking unlimited ads from all websites. It also includes additional features such as antivirus protection from TotalAV, the ability to block intrusive trackers, manage acceptable ads preferences, and remove unwanted browser notifications. After the first year, the price increases to $119 per year.

4. Ad Block Ultimate

Ad Block Ultimate is a comprehensive ad-blocking solution designed to enhance the online experience by eliminating all forms of advertisements across websites, including those on popular platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Unlike many of its competitors, Ad Block Ultimate does not operate on a model of ‘acceptable ads’, meaning it does not whitelist any ads or advertisers. This approach ensures a consistent, ad-free browsing experience for users. The tool is available as a free web browser extension and is celebrated for its effectiveness in blocking display ads, pop-ups, video commercials, and more. It also offers protection against online trackers and malicious websites, aiming to safeguard users’ privacy and enhance their online security, making it as a great addition to the list of the YouTube ad blockers.

What does Ad Block Ultimate do?

Ad Block Ultimate works by removing all advertisements from web pages, allowing users to enjoy a cleaner, faster, and more secure browsing experience. It blocks various types of ads, including pop-ups, video ads, and display banners, even on social media platforms and video streaming sites. Beyond ad blocking, it protects users from potential online threats by blocking access to malicious websites and domains known for distributing malware. Additionally, it prevents online trackers from collecting users’ personal data, thereby enhancing privacy. Ad Block Ultimate’s comprehensive approach not only improves page load speeds and reduces distractions but also contributes to better overall system performance by minimizing the CPU and memory resources consumed by unnecessary content.

Ad Block Ultimate Key Features

No ‘Acceptable Ads’ Policy : Unlike some ad blockers that allow certain ads through a whitelist, Ad Block Ultimate adheres to a strict policy of blocking all ads without exceptions. This ensures a truly ad-free browsing experience.

Protection Against Malware and Tracking : It offers robust protection against malicious websites and online trackers, safeguarding users’ data and privacy.

Custom Whitelisting : Users have the flexibility to create their own whitelist of trusted websites, allowing them to support their favorite sites by viewing ads if they choose to.

Open Source : Being an open-source project, Ad Block Ultimate promotes transparency and community involvement in its development process.

Cross-Platform Compatibility : Available as a browser extension for major web browsers, it ensures a consistent ad-blocking experience across different platforms and devices.

Ad Block Ultimate Pricing Plans

Adblocker Ultimate offers 2 pricing plans:

Adblocker Ultimate (3 Devices) : Personal Security Lifetime License at $29.99.

Adblocker Ultimate (10 Devices) : Family Security Lifetime License at $49.99.

AdLock is a versatile ad-blocking software designed to enhance the user experience by eliminating intrusive advertisements across various platforms. It operates by filtering out ads from web browsers, applications, and games, ensuring a distraction-free environment. AdLock is particularly noted for its ability to block ads in all types of browsers and its compatibility with multiple operating systems, including iOS and Android. Users appreciate AdLock for its effectiveness in blocking ads within apps and games, which is often highlighted as a significant advantage over other ad blockers.

What does AdLock do?

AdLock serves as a comprehensive YouTube ad blocker and a digital shield, safeguarding users from the annoyance and potential risks associated with online ads. It works by employing a series of filters that block different types of ads, such as pop-ups, banners, and video ads, across browsers and applications. AdLock also provides protection against data trackers and malicious software, enhancing privacy and security for its users. By reducing the number of ads and unwanted content, AdLock not only improves browsing speed but also helps in conserving bandwidth and extending battery life on mobile devices.

AdLock Key Features

Blocks Online Ads : AdLock effectively removes various forms of advertisements from web pages, providing a cleaner and faster browsing experience.

Disables Trackers and Scripts : It enhances user privacy by blocking tracking scripts and potential malware, preventing personal data from being collected by third parties.

Saves Traffic and Hastens Site Loading : By filtering out ads, AdLock reduces data usage and improves page loading times, which is particularly beneficial for mobile users with limited data plans.

Works for any browser and app : Unlike some ad blockers that are limited to specific browsers, AdLock is universal, functioning across all browsers and applications.

Provides enhanced privacy : AdLock offers additional privacy features, ensuring that users’ online activities are not tracked or monitored by advertisers.

AdLock Pricing Plans

AdLock offers a variety of pricing plans to suit different user needs. There are four main plans available:

Free Plan : This plan includes basic ad-blocking capabilities for browsers with limited protection of personal data.

1-Month Plan : Priced at $3.50 per month, this plan offers full ad-blocking features across all browsers and apps.

1-Year Plan : At $2.80 per month, billed annually, users can enjoy all the benefits of AdLock, including advanced privacy protection.

5 Years/5 Devices Plan : This long-term plan is available for $63 and provides comprehensive ad-blocking and privacy features for up to five devices, making it an economical choice for families or individuals with multiple devices.

6. AdblockPlus

AdblockPlus is a widely recognized ad-blocking tool that enhances the browsing experience by eliminating unwanted ads and pop-ups. This YouTube ad blocker is designed to work seamlessly with Safari, ensuring that users can enjoy faster page loads and a cleaner web experience without the distraction of video ads, flashing banners, and other intrusive advertisements. AdblockPlus also offers protection against tracking and malware, contributing to a safer online environment. It supports the concept of ‘Acceptable Ads’ to facilitate a balance between user experience and the financial needs of websites, with the option for users to opt-out and block all ads if they choose.

What does AdblockPlus do?

AdblockPlus is a versatile extension for users seeking control over their web browsing experience. It blocks a variety of ads, including video ads and pop-ups, which can significantly speed up website loading times. Beyond ad blocking, AdblockPlus provides a layer of security by preventing tracking, which stops companies from monitoring online activities, and by blocking sites known for spreading malware. This tool is available across major desktop browsers and mobile devices, and as an open-source project, it adheres to the principles of transparency and community-driven development.

AdblockPlus Key Features

Customizable Blocking : AdblockPlus allows users to tailor their ad-blocking preferences, whether it’s to remove all ads or to allow non-intrusive ads that adhere to the Acceptable Ads standard.

Malware Protection : The extension includes features to block domains known to spread harmful software, thereby enhancing the security of the user’s browsing experience.

Anti-Tracking : AdblockPlus helps maintain user privacy by blocking systems that track user behavior across websites.

Performance Enhancement : By removing ads and other unwanted content, AdblockPlus can reduce page load times, saving on data and battery life for mobile users.

Cross-Platform Availability : It is available for all major desktop browsers and mobile devices, ensuring a consistent ad-blocking experience across different platforms.

Open Source : Being an open-source project, AdblockPlus benefits from community input and transparency in its development process.

AdblockPlus Pricing Plans

AdblockPlus offers two pricing plans to cater to different user needs.

Free Plan : This plan includes the core ad-blocking features, anti-tracking, and malware protection at no cost.

Premium Plan : Priced at $20 per year or $2 per month, the Premium Plan builds upon the Free Plan by adding the ability to block additional distractions like floating videos, newsletter pop-ups, and cookie consent notices, enhancing the browsing experience further.

7. AdBlock Pro

AdBlock Pro is an YouTube ad blocker tool designed to enhance the browsing experience for users of Safari on iOS and macOS devices. It focuses on eliminating intrusive ads, speeding up web page loading times, and reducing data consumption. Users can expect a cleaner, more streamlined browsing experience, with the added benefit of improved privacy protection by blocking trackers that collect personal data.

What does AdBlock Pro do?

AdBlock Pro is a powerful extension for Safari, aiming to improve the user’s web experience by blocking a variety of ads and trackers. It operates by applying a set of rules that prevent unwanted content from loading, which not only declutters web pages but also contributes to faster browsing speeds and lower data usage. Additionally, AdBlock Pro offers features to enhance user privacy and security, such as the ability to block social media buttons and prevent tracking scripts from monitoring online activities.

AdBlock Pro Key Features

Block Ads : AdBlock Pro efficiently removes ads from web pages, including video ads, banners, and pop-ups, allowing for a distraction-free browsing experience.

Speed Up Browsing : By blocking unnecessary content, AdBlock Pro helps web pages load faster, which can be particularly beneficial for users with limited bandwidth or those browsing on mobile devices.

Data and Battery Life Savings : With fewer ads and trackers to load, AdBlock Pro can help users save on data usage and potentially extend their device’s battery life.

Enhanced Privacy : The tool includes features to stop various forms of tracking, ensuring that personal information remains private and reducing the risk of data breaches.

User-Friendly Interface : AdBlock Pro is designed with ease of use in mind, providing a straightforward way for users to manage their ad-blocking preferences.

AdBlock Pro Pricing Plans

AdBlock Pro offers a simple pricing structure with a free version and a premium subscription. The free version provides basic ad-blocking capabilities, while the premium subscription includes advanced features such as enhanced country-specific ad-blocking and the ability to enable multiple blocking categories simultaneously.

Free Plan : The free version of AdBlock Pro allows users to block ads and manage a limited number of blocking rules.

Premium Plan : Priced at $9.99/year, the premium plan offers a 7-day free trial and includes additional features like automatic updates of blocking filters in the background and the option to block unlimited ads across all websites.

8. GetAdBlock

GetAdBlock is a widely recognized ad-blocking extension that offers users a seamless and distraction-free online experience. It operates by removing ads from web pages, including those pesky pop-ups, banners, and video ads that can detract from the content you’re interested in. Beyond just blocking ads, GetAdBlock enhances browser performance by preventing ads from downloading, which can significantly boost page load times. It also prioritizes user privacy by blocking third-party trackers, ensuring that your online activities aren’t monitored by advertisers. With its user-friendly interface and robust functionality, GetAdBlock has garnered a loyal user base who appreciates the cleaner, faster, and more private browsing experience it provides.

What does GetAdBlock do?

GetAdBlock is a comprehensive YouTube ad blocker solution for users looking to enhance their online experience by eliminating unwanted ads and protecting their privacy. It effectively blocks a wide range of advertisements across the internet, including those on popular platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. By stopping these ads from loading, GetAdBlock not only declutters your online view but also speeds up page loading times, making for a smoother browsing experience. Privacy is another cornerstone of GetAdBlock’s functionality, it prevents advertisers from tracking your online movements by blocking third-party trackers. This dual focus on ad blocking and privacy protection makes GetAdBlock a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their internet browsing experience.

GetAdBlock Key Features

Block Ads and Pop-ups : GetAdBlock excels at removing various forms of advertisements from your browsing experience, including intrusive pop-ups and banners that can disrupt your online activities.

Stop Trackers : It enhances your privacy online by blocking third-party trackers, ensuring that your browsing habits remain private, and you’re not targeted by ads based on your online activity.

Block Intrusive Video Ads : Video ads, particularly those on platforms like YouTube, can be particularly disruptive. GetAdBlock effectively eliminates these, allowing for uninterrupted video viewing.

Support YouTube Creators : While blocking unwanted ads, GetAdBlock also offers the option to support content creators by allowing non-intrusive, acceptable ads, striking a balance between ad blocking and content creator support.

GetAdBlock Pricing Plans

There are three main pricing plans available for GetAdBlock users, catering to a range of needs and preferences.

Free Plan : This plan includes core features such as ad and pop-up blocking, tracker stopping, and intrusive video ad blocking. It also allows users to support YouTube creators by enabling acceptable ads. The price for this plan is $0, making it accessible to everyone.

Premium Plan : Building on the Free Plan, the Premium, priced at $2 per month (or $20 year billed annually), option adds features like blocking cookie consent pop-ups, enhanced pop-up blocking, and additional customization options like dark mode and themes. Backup and sync settings are also included, providing a more tailored and convenient user experience.

Premium + VPN Plan : The most comprehensive plan, Premium + VPN, priced at $4 per month (or $40 year billed annually), includes all the features of the Premium Plan, plus improved privacy protection, easy access to geo-content, private web browsing, and a strict no-logging policy. Access to servers in over 30 countries is also a highlight, offering users enhanced security and privacy online.

9. Adblocker For YouTube Videos

Adblocker For YouTube Videos is an application designed to enhance the user experience on YouTube by eliminating all forms of advertisements, including pre-roll video ads, text, and banner ads. This YouTube ad blocker is a lightweight and safe solution that requires minimal permissions to operate. Users can enjoy an uninterrupted viewing experience on YouTube, saving time that would otherwise be spent watching unwanted ads. This app is not only about ad removal, it also supports features like 1080p & audio play, picture in picture, background play, and custom video speed adjustments, making it a versatile tool for YouTube enthusiasts.

What does Adblocker for YouTube Videos do?

Adblocker For YouTube Videos serves as a comprehensive solution for users looking to avoid advertisements on YouTube. It automatically blocks all types of ads on the platform, including those that appear before, during, and after videos. The YouTube ad blocker app also enhances the viewing experience by offering support for high-definition video playback, picture-in-picture mode, and background video play, which allows users to listen to videos while using other apps. Additionally, it provides the ability to block all pre-roll YouTube video ads across all sites, not just on YouTube, and it improves browser speed, page load times, and reduces memory/CPU usage and bandwidth.

Adblocker For YouTube Videos Key Features

Support for 1080p & Audio Play : This feature ensures that users can watch YouTube videos in high definition with clear audio, which is essential for enjoying content at its best quality.

Picture in Picture Mode : Allows users to watch YouTube videos in a small, floating window while navigating other apps, providing a multitasking viewing experience.

Background Video Play : With this feature, users can continue listening to their YouTube videos even when the app is not in the foreground, which is perfect for enjoying music or podcasts.

Ad Blocking on All Sites : Adblocker For YouTube Videos is not limited to YouTube, it can block pre-roll video ads on any site that hosts YouTube videos, offering a more extensive ad-free experience.

Ultra Fast and Lightweight : The app is designed to be fast and not to slow down the user’s device, ensuring a smooth and efficient browsing experience.

Adblocker For YouTube Videos Pricing Plans

Adblocker for YouTube Videos is a free app to download with in-app purchases.

10. Brave YouTube Ad Blocker

Brave YouTube Ad Blocker is an integral feature of the Brave Browser, designed to enhance the user experience by eliminating unwanted advertisements on YouTube. This tool is part of Brave’s broader mission to offer a faster, safer, and more private browsing experience. Unlike traditional browsers, Brave comes with built-in ad-blocking capabilities, which automatically prevent ads from displaying on YouTube and other websites. This not only speeds up the loading time for videos but also ensures that users can enjoy their favorite content without interruptions. Moreover, Brave’s approach to ad-blocking is rooted in a commitment to user privacy, blocking trackers and ads that could compromise personal information. The Brave YouTube Ad Blocker is a testament to the browser’s user-centric design, prioritizing seamless video playback and enhanced privacy.

What does Brave YouTube Ad Blocker do?

The Brave YouTube Ad Blocker works by automatically identifying and blocking ads on YouTube, providing a cleaner and more uninterrupted viewing experience. This functionality is built directly into the Brave Browser, eliminating the need for additional extensions or plugins. By blocking ads, Brave not only speeds up the loading time for YouTube videos but also significantly reduces the risk of malware and tracking, often hidden within ads. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who value their privacy and security online. Additionally, Brave’s ad blocker is designed to be efficient and effective, capable of blocking various types of ads, including pre-roll ads, mid-video ads, and banner ads, without requiring user intervention. This ensures that users can enjoy their favorite YouTube content without distractions or privacy concerns.

Brave YouTube Ad Blocker Key Features

Ad and Tracker Blocking : Brave YouTube Ad Blocker excels in removing all forms of advertisements and trackers from YouTube, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience. This feature not only enhances the enjoyment of content but also significantly improves page load times and protects user privacy by preventing trackers from collecting personal data.

Background Video Playback on Mobile : A standout feature of the Brave YouTube Ad Blocker is its ability to play YouTube videos in the background on mobile devices. This allows users to listen to music or podcasts on YouTube while using other apps, making multitasking on mobile more efficient and enjoyable.

Privacy Protection : Brave places a strong emphasis on user privacy, and its YouTube Ad Blocker is no exception. By blocking ads and trackers, Brave minimizes the amount of personal information that can be collected by third parties, offering users a more secure online experience.

Easy Switching : Transitioning to Brave and utilizing its YouTube Ad Blocker is designed to be straightforward, with the browser boasting a quick setup process. This ease of switching encourages users to adopt Brave for a better browsing experience without the hassle of a complicated setup.

Brave YouTube Ad Blocker Pricing Plans

The Brave YouTube Ad Blocker is free and comes as a part of the Brave Browser.

11. uBlock Origin

uBlock Origin is a highly regarded open-source ad-blocking extension that has gained popularity for its efficiency in blocking ads and its minimal impact on system resources. Developed by Raymond Hill, it is designed to work across multiple web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, among others. Unlike many other ad blockers, uBlock Origin emphasizes being lightweight, ensuring that it does not significantly affect the performance of your computer while browsing. It operates not just as an ad blocker but as a wide-spectrum content blocker, capable of filtering various types of unwanted content beyond just advertisements. This includes trackers, malware sites, and more, providing users with a cleaner, faster, and more secure browsing experience.

What does uBlock Origin do?

uBlock Origin is a YouTube ad blocker tool for improving your online experience by removing intrusive ads, trackers, and other unwanted elements from web pages. It uses a variety of filter lists to effectively block these nuisances, which not only enhances the aesthetics of your browsing but also contributes to faster page loading times and increased privacy. By preventing trackers from monitoring your online activities, uBlock Origin helps safeguard your personal information from being collected and used without your consent. Additionally, it offers users the flexibility to customize their blocking preferences, allowing for a personalized web experience that meets individual needs and preferences.

uBlock Origin Key Features

Wide-Spectrum Content Blocking : uBlock Origin is not limited to blocking ads, it also filters trackers, malware, pop-ups, and other unwanted content, providing a comprehensive solution for a cleaner and safer browsing experience.

Efficiency : One of the hallmark features of uBlock Origin is its minimal use of CPU and memory resources, making it an ideal choice for users who want to keep their system’s performance unaffected while blocking unwanted content.

Customizability : Users have the ability to tailor the blocking to their preferences, including the option to whitelist certain sites or pages, ensuring that they can support their favorite websites while still blocking content elsewhere.

Cross-Platform Availability : uBlock Origin is available for several popular browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, making it accessible to a wide range of users regardless of their preferred web browser.

Open-Source : Being open-source, uBlock Origin benefits a community of developers and users who contribute to its development, ensuring that it remains up to date with the latest web technologies and threats.

uBlock Origin Pricing Plans

uBlock Origin is an open-source free Ad Content Blocker.

12. Block YouTube Ads

Block YouTube Ads is a tool designed to enhance the user experience on YouTube by eliminating interruptions caused by advertisements. This Chrome extension targets the various ad formats that appear before, during, and after videos, allowing viewers to enjoy content without the annoyance of un-skippable ads. It is a solution for those seeking a more seamless video-watching experience on one of the world’s most popular streaming platforms.

What does Block YouTube Ads software do?

Block YouTube Ads serves as a shield against the barrage of commercials that can disrupt the viewing experience on YouTube. By installing this extension on the Chrome browser, users can block different types of ads, including those that are un-skippable or appear as banners and pop-ups. The tool operates in the background, automatically detecting and preventing ads from playing, which not only saves time but also can lead to faster page loading and a more enjoyable browsing experience.

Block YouTube Ads Key Features

Ads Blocking on YouTube : This feature is the cornerstone of Block YouTube Ads, as it directly addresses the primary concern of users: intrusive YouTube advertisements. By effectively blocking ads from appearing in videos, users can watch content without interruptions.

User-Friendly Interface : The extension boasts a straightforward interface that simplifies its use. Once installed, it requires no additional configuration, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.

Trusted by Users : With a significant number of users trusting this extension to block ads, it has established a reputation for reliability. This trust is built on the extension’s consistent performance in delivering an ad-free viewing experience.

Positive User Reviews : The feedback from users who have installed Block YouTube Ads is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfactions with the ad-free environment it creates.

Block YouTube Ads Pricing Plans

Block YouTube Ads offers a free YouTube ad blocker.

13. Video Ad Blocker Plus

Video Ad Blocker Plus is a specialized tool designed to enhance the online video watching experience by eliminating interruptions caused by advertisements on platforms like YouTube™. This extension is tailored to block various types of ads, including video ads, banners, and more, ensuring a seamless viewing experience. Beyond ad blocking, it offers unique features such as warnings for adult video content, providing users with a safer and more controlled browsing environment. Its lightweight design ensures that it operates efficiently in the background without slowing down the browser, making it a user-friendly solution for ad-free video consumption.

What does Video Ad Blocker Plus do?

Video Ad Blocker Plus is dedicated to improving users’ online video watching by automatically removing ads that appear before, during, or alongside videos on platforms like YouTube™. This includes the blocking of intrusive video ads, banner ads, and other advertising formats that can disrupt the viewing experience. Additionally, it provides a layer of protection against adult content by issuing warnings before such videos play, contributing to a safer online environment. The extension is designed to be lightweight and efficient, ensuring that it does not impact browser performance while saving bandwidth that would otherwise be consumed by ad loading.

Video Ad Blocker Plus Key Features

Ad-Free Viewing : Video Ad Blocker Plus excels in removing all forms of advertisements from videos, allowing users to enjoy uninterrupted viewing.

Adult Content Warnings : It enhances online safety by alerting users about potential adult content, offering peace of mind especially for parents or guardians.

Efficiency : The extension is designed to be lightweight, ensuring that it blocks ads without affecting the browser’s performance.

Bandwidth Savings : By blocking ads, it helps users conserve bandwidth, which is particularly beneficial for those with limited data plans.

Video Ad Blocker Plus Pricing Plans

Video Ad Blocker Plus offers a free YouTube ad blocker.

FAQs on Best YouTube Ad Blockers

How do youtube ad blockers work.

YouTube ad blockers function by integrating with your web browser or operating system to identify and block ad content from loading on YouTube. When you visit YouTube with an ad blocker enabled, the software examines the webpage’s elements and requests. It then uses various methods, such as filtering requests, hiding elements, or modifying scripts, to prevent ads from appearing. Some ad blockers also employ advanced techniques to counter YouTube’s efforts to detect and bypass ad-blocking software. This includes regularly updating their filter lists and algorithms to stay ahead of YouTube’s anti-adblock measures. By doing so, ad blockers ensure that users can watch videos without interruptions from pre-roll ads, mid-roll ads, or overlay ads, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Can YouTube Detect Ad Blockers?

Yes, YouTube can detect the presence of ad blockers and has implemented measures to discourage their use. In recent years, YouTube has intensified its efforts to combat ad blocking by displaying messages to users with ad blockers enabled, urging them to disable the ad blocker or subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience. YouTube’s detection methods are part of a broader strategy to protect its ad revenue and support content creators who rely on ads for income. Despite these measures, ad blocker developers continuously update their software to bypass YouTube’s detection, leading to a continuous cat-and-mouse game between YouTube and ad blocker providers. Users may occasionally encounter messages or disruptions when using ad blockers on YouTube, but many ad blockers remain effective at blocking ads on the platform.

Are There Any Risks to Using YouTube Ad Blockers?

Using YouTube ad blockers is generally safe, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, ad blockers can sometimes interfere with website functionality, leading to issues with video playback or access to certain features on YouTube. Developers of ad blockers strive to minimize these disruptions, but occasional glitches can occur. Secondly, relying on ad blockers means that content creators may receive less revenue from ads, which can impact their ability to produce quality content. Some users choose to whitelist their favorite channels or use other means of support, like channel memberships or merchandise purchases, to mitigate this. Lastly, it’s important to download ad blockers from reputable sources to avoid malicious software. Some ad blockers may collect data or include unwanted features, so reviewing privacy policies and user feedback before installation is advisable.

Ad blockers offer a way to enhance your YouTube viewing experience by eliminating ads and reducing interruptions. The best YouTube ad blockers provide various features tailored to different user needs, from ease of use to comprehensive cybersecurity protection. While YouTube has implemented measures to detect and discourage the use of ad blockers, developers continue to update their software to bypass these efforts. However, users should be aware of the potential impacts on website functionality and content creator revenue, as well as the importance of choosing reputable ad blockers to ensure safety and privacy.

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Best ad blockers of 2024

Get rid of those pesky ads — if you so choose

Best overall

Best for privacy, best at removing ads, best for insights, best for protection, best for pop-ups, how we test.

The best ad blockers make it simple and easy to block not just intrusive advertising, but also block rogue ads and website malware.

1. Best overall 2. Best for privacy 3. Best at removing ads 4. Best for insights 5. Best for protection 6. Best for pop-ups 7. FAQs 8. How we test

The No. 1 reason most would cite for using an ad blocker is to eliminate webpage disruptions. Depending on the site and the quality of the ads, the advertising can cause the accidental removal of text, page cluttering, and loading issues. 

Another reason for using an ad blocker is to protect your privacy. By design, most advertisers now use background tracking tools such as cookies to create ads based on your online history. This is why, for example, you might visit Amazon .com to look for a new television and soon after start seeing ads for smart TVs on Facebook and other social networking sites you visit. 

Ad blockers can also help to remove malvertising, which criminals use to spread malware . It will also cut down on the downloadable content on your machines, which many describe as "web bloat." 

Altogether, web ads have gone from being a simple annoyance to actively intruding and disrupting our internet experience, so it's no wonder ad blockers have become increasingly popular.

We've looked at the range of those available, tested them, and otherwise run them through their paces for issues such as usability and accessibility. Below, we've listed what we think are the best ad blockers currently available.

We've also listed the best web browsers .

The best ad blockers of 2024 in full:

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

1. uBlock Origin

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The first product on the list, uBlock Origin, does a terrific job at blocking malware , web promotions, trackers, and the like. Free and open-source, uBlock Origin promises to be “easy on CPU and memory” while blocking online apps. In addition, the software includes various filter lists previously identified for known advertising and malware. You can also add custom filters with relative ease. As you do, however, memory consumption will increase, which could negatively affect older systems. Regardless, it will still consume much less memory than other options. 

More advanced users will want to activate uBlock Origin’s dynamic filtering tool. You can adjust the scripts and domains a webpage can load by doing so.  You shouldn’t confuse uBlock Origin with uBlock. Although the same developer created both, uBlock is now owned by Adblocker Plus. They are two completely different options. 

• ^ Back to the top

2. Privacy Badger

Privacy Badger, which comes from the nonprofit Electronic Frontier Foundation, blocks trackers, not necessarily ads. It does so using unique algorithms and no domain blacklists like other tools. By taking this approach, Privacy Badger attempts to separate the good and the bad without disrupting the website's flow. 

With this solution, there is some wiggle room to make changes. For example, for whatever reason, perhaps Privacy Badger is blocking your favorite website's cookies, which are essential to customize your user experience. You can change this in just a few steps. 

Overall, if privacy is your most important reason for considering a blocker, this might be the one for you. 

3. Adblocker Plus

If you're looking for an ad blocker that's been around for a while, you can't do much better than Adblock Plus. Its ease of use and price (free) have made it a winner for many years. After installation, Adblock Plus immediately gets to work and begins blocking and obstructing things you probably won't want to see. In the process, it does a great job of not negatively affecting the look and feel of a website. 

Despite its pedigree, one criticism you'll hear most about Adblock Plus is its " acceptable ads " policy. These are described as those that "aren't intrusive or annoying. They are respectful, don't interfere with content, and are clearly labeled with the word "advertisement" or its equivalent." Of course, these words are highly subjective, which is probably one of the reasons decisions on what makes a committee now makes an acceptable ad. Regardless, you can now manually remove these ads in a few steps. 

A minor point about Adblock Plus is its sometimes confusing way of presenting extra features that can also be beneficial. This confusion is primarily because of its design. My advice: take the time to look at the Adblock Plus instructions; you might be surprised by what you discover. 

4. Ghostery

Ghostery features a terrific design and lots of customization options. Better still, it provides a much higher level of insight about what's being blocked and how you're being tracked online. With the free version of Ghostery, you get a tracker and ad blocking, and custom blocking preferences. For as little as $3.99 per month, you can get Ghostery Plus, which ads extension themes, historical stats, and more. 

The biggest drawback of Ghostery is there's no way to add customizable filters. In other words, you get what you get. 

One of the newest solutions on this list, AdLock, does a terrific job at zeroing in and eliminating malware, phishing sites, and more through various browsers. For the full benefit of AdLock, it’s best to buy a yearly subscription. However, its Chrome extension is free. 

AdLock is very good at protecting your online privacy, and it's a lightweight solution, which is vital for many. Though relatively new, AdLock is already one of the best ad blockers and worth your consideration. 

On the negative side, AdLock support could be better, and hopefully, in time, it will be. 

6. Poper Blocker

I've included Poper Blocker on this list, even though it's a secondary tool. With Poper Blocker, whatever pop-ups another adblocker might have missed will get squashed forever. Only available for Chromium-based browsers, the solution also goes after pop-users, overlays, and other nuisances. When a pop-up is removed, you'll get a notification, which comes in hand when something you do want to see is flagged. 

Because of its limited use, you should find an ad-blocker that best suits your needs and add Poper Blocker. You'll be happy you did. Although Poper Blocker is free, you'll need to pay for a membership to access every feature. 

We've also featured the best privacy tools and anonymous browsers .

Is advertising always bad?

On the benefits side, online advertising, especially e-commerce sites, can remember who you are and adjust its pages accordingly. Have you noticed how your favorite shopping store  always  seems to have what you're looking for on the home page or is running a sale on your favorite shorts? Again, you can thank online advertising. 

These ads can also help you better compare products, so you're always paying the best price — if that means visiting another site. Online advertising can also track the latest trends, news headlines, and more, so you're a more savvy shopper or citizen. 

To test for the best ad blockers, we downloaded and installed a number of extensions for different browsers, especially Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. We ran through their settings to see how easy they were to customize and set up. Then we went surfing through the internet, especially on mainstream media websites which are flooded with advertising. We kept a lookout for how well ads were blocked, and whether using the ad blocker adversely impacted our viewing experience.

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Bryan M. Wolfe is a staff writer at TechRadar, iMore, and wherever Future can use him. Though his passion is Apple-based products, he doesn't have a problem using Windows and Android. Bryan's a single father of a 15-year-old daughter and a puppy, Isabelle. Thanks for reading!

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YouTube’s New Anti-AdBlock Walls

You may have noticed that YouTube now shows anti-ad block walls to users. While our teams are working hard to figure out what we can do to continue offering a superior user experience, AdBlock continues to block pop-ups and other annoying ads for you across the web.

Block YouTube Ads with AdBlock

YouTube is one of the most popular destinations on the Internet. But unskippable ads that run before, during, and after videos can make YouTube unbearable. With AdBlock, you can block YouTube ads and take control over your YouTube experience .

YouTube Ad Blocking Options

AdBlock blocks YouTube ads by default, and we provide powerful tools to customize how you block ads on YouTube.

YouTube Channel Allowlisting AdBlock is the only YouTube ad blocker with an easy-to-use option for allowing ads on your favorite channels, making it simple to support content creators.

Pause/Unpause Use AdBlock's Pause feature to turn AdBlock off temporarily. Please note: you will see ads when AdBlock is paused.

Prefer YouTube in dark mode? Prefer YouTube in dark mode? AdBlock includes an optional dark mode theme for the AdBlock menu and Options pages.

Blocking Ads on YouTube

We block billions of YouTube ads per month, which is why we are one of the best ad blockers for YouTube . Install AdBlock today and say goodbye to:

• Unskippable video ads
• Sidebar ads

Block YouTube Ads Wherever You Go

Take control of your YouTube experience no matter how you choose to browse. Block YouTube ads in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, Android or iPhone .

More Than a YouTube Ad Blocker

AdBlock does more than block YouTube ads, it actually makes YouTube better! Use AdBlock to decrease page load times, protect yourself from malware and adware , and more.

Install AdBlock and experience:

• Faster video loading
• Malware protection
• Uninterrupted playlists

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YouTube eliminates a workaround to block ads on videos

YouTube's ad-blocker crackdown has reached third-party apps.

What you need to know

• YouTube started cracking down on users watching videos with ad blockers in October 2023, preventing video playback if an ad blocker is in use. 
• Now, the platform is also taking steps to block third-party apps from circumventing ads, and videos might not play properly while using apps that attempt to avoid ads. 
• As YouTube has consistently done, it is urging people to subscribe to YouTube Premium if they don't want to watch ads.

YouTube's attempt to thwart ad blockers on the platform now covers third-party apps, as explained in a community announcement on Monday, April 15. The video streaming site first started to crack down on users employing ad blockers to avoid watching ads in October 2023 in browsers. If you tried to watch a video on YouTube while using an ad blocker, playback would be paused until YouTube was whitelisted or the ad blocker was disabled. However, for months, a few apps could get around ads using YouTube's API. 

That appears to be over, as YouTube says it is "strengthening our enforcement on third-party apps that violate YouTube's  Terms of Service , specifically ad-blocking apps." A popular app that served as an alternative to watching YouTube ads was AdGuard, and some browsers include ad-blocking functionality as well. YouTube Vanced was another as well, before it shut down in 2022 due to legal reasons. 

While YouTube's ad blocker crackdown on the web featured a pop-up that clearly instructed users to disable their ad-blocking software, the platform's approach to third-party apps with ad blockers is more subtle. Users who try to watch a YouTube video on one of these apps might notice buffering problems that prevent playback. Alternatively, the YouTube API might show "the following content is not available on this app" as an error message.

"We want to emphasize that our terms don't allow third-party apps to turn off ads because that prevents the creator from being rewarded for viewership," YouTube explains, "and Ads on YouTube help support creators and let billions of people around the world use the streaming service."

YouTube is once again pushing users who want an ad-free experience to subscribe to YouTube Premium . It costs $14 per month and, among other things, removes all ads on the platform. YouTube Premium subscribers can watch videos uninterrupted, but a portion of their subscription fee is still shared with creators in the YouTube Partner Program.

"When we find an app that violates these terms, we will take appropriate action to protect our platform, creators, and viewers," YouTube said. 

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Brady is a tech journalist covering news at Android Central. He has spent the last two years reporting and commenting on all things related to consumer technology for various publications. Brady graduated from St. John's University in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in journalism. When he isn't experimenting with the latest tech, you can find Brady running or watching sports.

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• The Inventory

Your Mobile Ad Blocker Will No Longer Stop YouTube's Ads

Youtube is expanding its crackdown on ad blockers to mobile users, escalating its "global effort" to make you watch ads..

YouTube has become the internet’s go-to library for all things video, but make no mistake, advertisers run this library . YouTube escalated its war against ad blockers on Monday with an update saying the use of mobile ad-blocking apps may result in buffering issues and error messages that read “the following content is not available on this app.”

Related Content

“We want to emphasize that our terms don’t allow third-party apps to turn off ads because that prevents the creator from being rewarded for viewership,” said YouTube in a blog post on Monday. “Ads on YouTube help support creators and let billions of people around the world use the streaming service.”

YouTube wants you to know that advertisers make the whole world go round, and the company seems to be blaming ad-blockers for underpaid creators. Mobile users are now on the front lines of YouTube’s war on ad-blockers, who have previously slipped by the company’s efforts to force you into watching its ads. Instead, YouTube is once again encouraging users who want an ad-free experience to shell out $13.99 a month for YouTube Premium.

In October, YouTube made it nearly impossible to watch its website while using an ad blocker. Users were presented with the message, “Video playback is blocked unless YouTube is allowlisted or the ad blocker is disabled.” At the time, the company claimed it had “ launched a global effort ” to encourage users to watch ads, a YouTube spokesperson told The Verge.

YouTube’s fight against ad blockers dates back to May 2023 , when users first started noticing pop-ups stating “Ad blockers are not allowed on YouTube.” At the time, a YouTube spokesperson called this a “small experiment,” but it’s turned into an outright war against tools that make the Internet more bearable. However, ad-blocking tools were quietly allowed to circumnavigate YouTube’s ads for years, so what changed?

In April 2023, Google reported a decline in ad revenue for its second straight quarter. Google’s ad revenue has barely ever declined in the last 20 years, so alarm bells were surely going off at the company’s headquarters. One month later, YouTube’s crackdown on ad blockers commenced.

In its Monday blog post, YouTube says ad blockers violate its terms of service. This may be true, but the continued crackdown seems to have more to do with protecting YouTube’s bottom line than supporting its creator economy.

Advertisement

Your Mobile Ad Blocker Will No Longer Stop YouTube's Ads

YouTube has become the internet’s go-to library for all things video, but make no mistake, advertisers run this library . YouTube escalated its war against ad blockers on Monday with an update saying the use of mobile ad-blocking apps may result in buffering issues and error messages that read “the following content is not available on this app.”

“We want to emphasize that our terms don’t allow third-party apps to turn off ads because that prevents the creator from being rewarded for viewership,” said YouTube in a blog post on Monday. “Ads on YouTube help support creators and let billions of people around the world use the streaming service.”

YouTube wants you to know that advertisers make the whole world go round, and the company seems to be blaming ad-blockers for underpaid creators. Mobile users are now on the front lines of YouTube’s war on ad-blockers, who have previously slipped by the company’s efforts to force you into watching its ads. Instead, YouTube is once again encouraging users who want an ad-free experience to shell out $13.99 a month for YouTube Premium.

In October, YouTube made it nearly impossible to watch its website while using an ad blocker. Users were presented with the message, “Video playback is blocked unless YouTube is allowlisted or the ad blocker is disabled.” At the time, the company claimed it had “ launched a global effort ” to encourage users to watch ads, a YouTube spokesperson told The Verge.

YouTube’s fight against ad blockers dates back to May 2023 , when users first started noticing pop-ups stating “Ad blockers are not allowed on YouTube.” At the time, a YouTube spokesperson called this a “small experiment,” but it’s turned into an outright war against tools that make the Internet more bearable. However, ad-blocking tools were quietly allowed to circumnavigate YouTube’s ads for years, so what changed?

In April 2023, Google reported a decline in ad revenue for its second straight quarter. Google’s ad revenue has barely ever declined in the last 20 years, so alarm bells were surely going off at the company’s headquarters. One month later, YouTube’s crackdown on ad blockers commenced.

In its Monday blog post, YouTube says ad blockers violate its terms of service. This may be true, but the continued crackdown seems to have more to do with protecting YouTube’s bottom line than supporting its creator economy.

For the latest news, Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

YouTube’s ad blocker crackdown expands to third-party apps

If you buy through a BGR link, we may earn an affiliate commission, helping support our expert product labs.

Late last year, YouTube finally began cracking down on ad blockers. The company encouraged users who blocked ads to upgrade to YouTube Premium and disabled all videos if they refused. This year, the video service is expanding the enforcement of its ad-blocker policy by setting its sights on third-party apps that allow viewers to skirt advertisements.

If an app can block ads on YouTube, it doesn’t align with the Terms of Service . Before now, the company was not doing much to stop these apps from operating, but that’s about to change. As the company explains, blocking ads prevents creators from being rewarded for viewership. The fewer ads YouTube runs, the less it’s able to pay creators.

There isn’t exactly an abundance of ad-blocking YouTube apps available. YouTube Vanced was the most notable third-party app, but the developers shut it down in 2022 after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from Google. ReVanced has since taken its place, but it is more of a utility than an app, allowing users to patch first-party apps like YouTube.

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Avoiding ads on YouTube is becoming increasingly difficult, and that’s exactly what YouTube is trying to accomplish. Unless you want to scour the internet for solutions that might be useless or defeated by the time you actually find them, the only way to watch YouTube without ads is to pay for YouTube Premium. Oh, and wouldn’t you know it— YouTube just raised the price of Premium from $11.99 to $13.99 per month last summer.

This article talks about:

Jacob Siegal is Associate Editor at BGR, having joined the news team in 2013. He has over a decade of professional writing and editing experience, and helps to lead our technology and entertainment product launch and movie release coverage.

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