5 Best Free Ad Blockers — Tested & Working in 2024

Online ads can be more than just a minor annoyance — they can slow down your browsing, clutter your screen, and even pose privacy risks by tracking your online behavior. Pop-ups, banners, and video ads interrupt your experience just when you’re getting into the content you love. But don’t worry, there are ways to block these distractions without spending a dime.

In this guide, I’ll explore the best free ad blockers available today. These can help you enjoy a cleaner, faster, and more secure browsing experience across all your devices. Whether you’re tired of intrusive ads on your desktop browser or want to eliminate them on your mobile device, you’ll find a solution that fits your needs.

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Best Free Ad Blockers (Full Analysis)

1. AdBlocker Ultimate — Powerful Free Ad Blocker for Complete Ad Removal

AdBlocker Ultimate removes all forms of ads, including intrusive pop-ups, banners, and even video ads, to give you a seamless browsing experience. It’s available as a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, as well as a dedicated browser for Android. For iOS users, the app integrates with Safari to enable ad blocking directly within the default browser.

During my tests, it successfully blocked ads across heavily ad-driven sites like BuzzFeed and YouTube, while improving page load times. I appreciate that it also blocks intrusive online trackers for an extra layer of protection without draining your phone battery. The extension supports customization through whitelisting and advanced blacklisting rules, letting you control which ads or tracking elements are blocked.

I could stream in HD without any slowdowns

One limitation of the free version is that it covers only one device. For multi-device protection, such as using the blocker across your phone and computer simultaneously, you’ll need to upgrade to the premium plan.

Block Ads With AdBlocker Ultimate

2. AdGuard — Advanced Ad Blocker With Robust Security Features to Keep You Safe

AdGuard offers more than just ad-blocking — it combines advanced privacy and security features into one platform. It’s available as both a browser extension and a standalone app for desktop and mobile devices. I’m a fan of its Tracking Protection feature, which prevents websites from tracking your activities and allows you to customize cookie management. This gives you greater control over how your data is handled.

During my tests, AdGuard effectively blocked ads across a range of websites, including big media sites and YouTube. It also blocks additional web annoyances like cookie consent banners and social media widgets, which often interrupt browsing. The detailed reports on the number of ads and trackers blocked let you monitor exactly how well the blocker was performing in real time.

It got rid of both on-page as well as video ads

The paid plan includes a built-in VPN, parental controls, and multi-device support, making it a comprehensive option if you’re seeking both ad-blocking and security solutions. Even in the free version, the platform’s website security checker offers real-time assessments of website safety, helping you avoid malicious URLs before visiting them. It’s also compatible with Chrome Manifest V3, which can’t be said about many free ad blockers.

Block Ads With AdGuard

3. Adblock Plus — A Trusted, Free Ad Blocker With Plenty of Customizations

Adblock Plus is a free, open-source extension designed to block a variety of ads, including pop-ups, banners, and YouTube ads. It works on popular browsers like Chrome (including Manifest V3), Firefox, and Edge. You can customize it to allow non-intrusive ads through its “acceptable ads” option. This lets you support content creators who rely on ad revenue, while still keeping your browsing cleaner. You can easily toggle this option on or off based on your preferences.

In my tests, Adblock Plus worked efficiently across different platforms, including Twitch and Forbes. Similar to AdBlocker Ultimate, you can whitelist and blacklist sites for maximum control. It also blocks trackers and push notifications for added privacy.

It even removed floating videos from Forbes

That said, the free version doesn’t block cookie consent and newsletter pop-ups, which can be annoying. But you can upgrade to the paid version to avail these features. When I tested the premium version, I could eliminate all these distractions with ease.

Block Ads With Adblock Plus

4. AdBlock — Freemium Ad Blocker With Decent Ad-Blocking Capabilities

AdBlock is one of the most well-known freemium ad blockers, which offers an easy solution to eliminate pop-ups, banners, and other disruptive ads. Available as a free extension, it works on popular browsers as well as mobile devices. The free version operates on a “pay what you can” model, letting you donate to support ongoing development.

In my tests, AdBlock performed well on most general websites — it reliably blocked on-page ads — but it didn’t fare as well with YouTube. Ads sometimes persisted during video playback, and it also fell short in blocking trackers, which limits its appeal for privacy-focused users. That said, the free version still handled ad-heavy news site.

I even noticed slightly improved page loading times

Overall, AdBlock’s free version covers basic needs, but it’s not as feature-rich as some other options. If you want to block more invasive elements, such as floating videos or advanced trackers, you’ll have to upgrade to the premium plan.

Block Ads With AdBlock

5. uBlock Origin — Lightweight, Free Ad Blocker for Maximum Control

uBlock Origin is a free, open-source ad blocker that focuses on effective ad removal on browsers without compromising performance. Unlike many competitors, uBlock Origin relies on community-driven development and refuses donations, staying true to its mission of providing accessible ad-blocking without strings attached.

When I put this to the test, uBlock Origin reliably blocked ads and trackers all while offering detailed reports on the elements it filters out. Like other ad blockers on this list, you can add trusted websites to the allowlist or manage multiple filter lists for enhanced control.

No matter which site I tried, uBlock Origin worked seamlessly

It's too bad that uBlock Origin lacks a dedicated mobile app or desktop software, limiting its use to browsers. This makes it less versatile compared to some competitors that offer multi-platform support.

Block Ads With uBlock Origin

Quick Comparison Table: Free Ad Blocker Features

The table below highlights the key features of the recommended free ad blockers. It covers important aspects like the ability to block different types of ads, support for multiple devices, and privacy features.

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Our Methodology for Testing Best the Free Ad Blockers

When testing free ad blockers, we focus on key factors that directly impact your browsing experience. First, we test each ad blocker’s ability to block various types of ads, including pop-ups, banners, video ads (such as YouTube ads), and intrusive cookie consent notices. We also assess how well each tool handles trackers, ensuring your online privacy is protected while browsing.

Usability is another major consideration. We examine the installation process, interface design, and the customization options available, such as whitelisting and blacklisting specific sites. Performance is also tested, including the ad blocker’s impact on browsing speed and whether it can handle high-traffic sites without slowing them down.

For mobile users, we check compatibility and performance across different devices. Finally, we consider additional features such as privacy tools, VPN integration, and multi-device support. These added capabilities give some ad blockers an edge in terms of security and convenience

Free vs Paid Ad Blocker: Which Is Better?

The choice between free and paid ad blockers largely depends on your browsing needs and preferences. If you only need basic ad-blocking functionality, a free ad blocker will likely serve you well, as it offers solid protection against intrusive ads, pop-ups, and banners. Some are even customizable, giving you control over which sites display ads through features like whitelisting and blacklisting.

However, free versions tend to have limitations. They tend to struggle with more advanced ads, like video ads on platforms such as YouTube. Privacy features, such as blocking trackers and enhancing online security, are often limited or absent in free versions. If privacy is a top priority, relying solely on a free ad blocker may leave gaps in protection, as these tools typically don’t block all forms of online tracking.

Paid ad blockers offer more comprehensive features. They often come with enhanced privacy tools, like tracker blocking, cookie management, and even VPN integration. Some also provide multi-device support, parental controls, and the ability to block floating videos and cookie consent pop-ups. These added features make paid options more suitable for users who prioritize privacy and security or use multiple devices.

How to Stay Safe While Using a Free Ad Blocker

While free ad blockers can significantly enhance your browsing experience by removing ads, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure your online privacy and security. Here are some key tips to stay safe while using a free ad blocker:

• Download from reputable sources. Always download ad blockers from official extension stores (like Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons) or the developer’s official website. Avoid third-party websites, as they may offer modified versions of the ad blocker that could include malware or unwanted tracking software.
• Check permissions. Before installing an ad blocker, review the permissions it requires. If it asks for access to more data than necessary (e.g., your browsing history or personal information), consider using a different tool.
• Keep your ad blocker updated. Regular updates ensure that your ad blocker can keep up with evolving ad technology and security threats. Most legitimate ad blockers release updates frequently to patch vulnerabilities and improve performance, so make sure automatic updates are enabled.
• Be cautious with whitelisting. Only whitelist trusted websites. Allowing ads from unknown sites could expose you to harmful content, such as malware or phishing attempts. Use this feature sparingly and only for sites you trust.
• Use a VPN. A VPN masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for websites, advertisers, and third parties to track your online activities. This is especially important when using free ad blockers, as some of these tools may still collect browsing data or expose you to privacy risks. A private, no-logs VPN helps mitigate these risks by hiding your real location and preventing ISPs or websites from tracking your online behavior.

Military-Grade Security Features

DEAL: Save 82% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Security

Our Score: 10.0

High-level encryption keeps you safe online

Verified to not collect or share data

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Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Other Ways to Block Ads

In addition to using ad blockers, there are several effective methods to reduce or eliminate ads from your browsing experience. Here are a few alternatives that can complement or replace traditional ad-blocking tools:

• Use a privacy-focused browser. Browsers like Brave and Firefox come with built-in ad-blocking features. These browsers prioritize privacy by blocking ads, trackers, and scripts by default, without needing extra extensions. Switching to a privacy-centric browser helps reduce ads across websites while improving your overall online security.
• Enable DNS-level ad blocking. DNS services like AdGuard DNS or NextDNS block ads and trackers at the network level. These services filter out domains known for serving ads, preventing them from loading. DNS-based solutions work across all devices on your network, including those where browser extensions aren’t available, making it a more comprehensive option for blocking ads.
• Use a VPN with an ad blocker. Many VPNs come with built-in ad-blocking features to block on-page ads while improving privacy. Plus, VPNs let you connect to servers in countries where certain platforms, like YouTube or Twitch, don’t serve ads due to regional monetization policies. By connecting to these regions, you can enjoy an ad-free experience without interruptions.
• Modify your hosts file. By altering your device’s hosts file, you can block ads at the system level. This involves manually listing ad-serving domains and redirecting them to a local address. It requires some technical knowledge but is an effective way to prevent ads across browsers and apps without relying on third-party software.
• Install Pi-hole for network-wide ad blocking. Pi-hole is a dedicated system that blocks ads across all devices on your network by acting as a DNS sinkhole. It gives you full control over which domains to block or allow. Installed locally on a device like a Raspberry Pi, it filters out ads at the network level, preventing them from appearing on browsers, apps, and even smart devices without requiring browser extensions or apps.
• Try a paid subscription service. Many platforms, such as YouTube Premium or Spotify, offer paid subscriptions that eliminate ads. While this option requires a financial commitment, it ensures an ad-free experience and supports content creators directly.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs on Using Best Free Ad Blockers

Can free ad blockers remove YouTube and Twitch ads?

Yes, free ad blockers (including ones on this list) can remove ads from YouTube and Twitch. However, it’s better to use a VPN and connect to a country where these platforms serve little to no ads. That’s because the effectiveness of free blockers can vary due to constant updates in the ad delivery systems. For a more reliable experience, many VPNs offer a free trial, so you can test them out without any financial risk.

Some free ad blockers are capable of blocking standard display ads and pop-ups, but they may struggle with video ads that play before or during YouTube and Twitch content. The ad blockers on our list are equipped to handle a range of ads, including those found on video platforms, but due to the constant updates in ad delivery systems, performance may fluctuate.

What’s the best free ad blocker for browsers like Chrome and Firefox?

All the ad blockers on this list work well with popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. However, our top pick stands out for its comprehensive features and ease of use. It effectively blocks pop-ups, banners, and even video ads, while also offering customization options like whitelisting and blacklisting for more control over your browsing experience.

It’s lightweight and improves page load times, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking for reliable ad-blocking without performance issues.

Does Chrome have a built-in ad blocker?

Yes, Chrome has a basic built-in ad blocker, but it’s not designed to block all ads. Instead, it focuses on blocking ads that don’t meet the standards set by the Coalition for Better Ads, such as overly intrusive or disruptive ads. This means that while some ads are blocked, many still get through. For a more comprehensive ad-blocking experience, I recommend using a dedicated ad blocker in addition to Chrome’s built-in feature.

Is there a free ad blocker for Android and iPhone?

Yes, there are free ad blockers available for both Android and iOS. Many of the ad blockers on our list offer dedicated apps or browsers for Android. On iPhone, they integrate with the built-in Safari browser to block ads effectively.

These free ad blockers can remove pop-ups, banners, and other intrusive ads while improving your browsing experience on mobile devices. However, the level of functionality can vary between platforms, with some ad blockers offering more features on Android compared to iPhone due to system limitations.

Do ad and pop-up blockers affect website revenue?

Yes, ad and pop-up blockers can affect website revenue. Many websites rely on ad revenue to support their content. When ads are blocked, it reduces the number of impressions and clicks, directly impacting their earnings. However, some ad blockers offer features like whitelisting, allowing you to permit ads on certain trusted websites to help support content creators while still blocking intrusive ads elsewhere.

Is using a free ad blocker legal?

Yes, using a free ad blocker is legal. Ad blockers are simply tools that give you control over your browsing experience by filtering out unwanted content like ads.

However, some websites may attempt to restrict access or block content if they detect that you’re using an ad blocker, but this is a website policy, not a legal issue. As long as you’re complying with the terms and conditions of the websites you visit, using an ad blocker remains a legal choice.

What are the best free ad blockers for Chrome Manifest V3?

While Manifest V3 has posed challenges for ad blockers in Chrome, there are a couple of free options in my list that have successfully adapted to the new requirements. The second and third ad blockers I listed both work with Chrome Manifest V3.

For these ad blockers to work with Chrome’s big update, they adapted to its new restrictions, which primarily affect how extensions can interact with web pages and network requests.

Conclusion

A reliable free ad blocker can greatly improve your overall browsing experience. Whether you’re looking for a straightforward ad blocker or additional features like privacy protection and tracker blocking, the free options we’ve discussed offer a range of solutions to fit your needs.

However, it’s important to recognize the potential impact on websites that rely on ad revenue — especially for creators and smaller platforms. If you value the content provided by these sites, consider using features like whitelisting to support them while still maintaining control over your browsing environment.