Best YouTube ad blockers in May 2025
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Despite YouTube’s crackdown on ad blockers, some still work. Surfshark CleanWeb is our top choice, blocking YouTube ads on both desktop and mobile while boosting your privacy with a built-in VPN. Total Adblock and Ghostery are also reliable options. However, YouTube’s server-side ad insertion is making blocking harder, especially on mobile. However, Surfshark CleanWeb offers the best mix of effectiveness and value for your money.
Tired of YouTube ads interrupting your videos? A good YouTube ad blocker can help – not just by removing ads but also by blocking trackers and boosting your privacy. Plus, it’s a more budget-friendly option if you don’t want to overspend on YouTube Premium.
However, YouTube is stepping up its efforts to stop these blockers. Since June 2024, it has started disabling videos for users with active ad blockers. So, are these blockers completely useless?
Fortunately, not yet. At Cybernews, we tested a dozen ad blockers to see which ones still work and found some that are still getting through undetected.
Below, I’ve listed the 5 best YouTube ad blockers for 2025 – recently tested and reviewed.
- Surfshark CleanWeb – best ad blocker for YouTube in 2025
- Total Adblock – versatile YouTube ad blocker
- Ghostery Ad Blocker – YouTube ad blocker for mobile
- NordVPN Threat Protection – trustworthy YouTube ad blocker with a money-back guarantee
- uBlock origin – customizable ad blocker for ads in browsers
📢 LIMITED OFFER: 87% OFF Surfshark CleanWeb 2.0 + 3 months FREE
The Cybernews in-house research team and expert writers work together to regularly and thoroughly test ad blockers. We use a variety of testing methods to ensure our recommendations are fact-checked and relevant. Find out how we test and evaluate ad blockers.
Why should you use an ad blocker for YouTube?
You should be using a YouTube ad blocker simply because it’s convenient. YouTube has gotten way too comfortable with displaying advertisements over the years, placing more than one on a single video. Aside from being annoying, it interrupts your online experience. So, here are some benefits of using a YouTube ad blocker:
- Skip middle-of-the-video ads. You already watched an ad at the beginning of the video, so now you deserve to watch a 15-minute video without additional annoyances. YouTube ad blockers allow you to enjoy uninterrupted streaming.
- Avoid unskippable ads. Some advertisers or YouTubers decide that you can’t skip a particular ad, making you sit through a 20-second video about something you may not even care about. The easiest way to avoid this is to get a reliable ad blocker.
- Ensure more privacy. YouTube collects your personal information to personalize ads and lure you into the consumerism trap. Getting an ad blocker in a VPN package ensures data privacy as well as third-party tracker avoidance.
- Improve performance. Ad blockers can help improve the performance of your browser and YouTube by reducing the amount of loaded data. This can be especially beneficial if you have a slow internet connection.
- Save money. Ad blockers can help you to save money by preventing you from being exposed to targeted advertising. When you watch a video on YouTube, advertisers can use your viewing history to target you with ads for products and services that you may be interested in. By blocking ads, you can avoid this and save money on impulse purchases.
The best ad blockers for YouTube – detailed list
Watching YouTube ad-free requires a reliable ad blocker that works across your devices. With YouTube increasing its efforts to block ad blockers and using new server-side ad injection methods, with the help of our research team, I retested each option on my list. Our tests covered multiple devices and operating systems to ensure the ad blockers still work. Below are my top picks based on effectiveness, compatibility, features, and pricing.
1. Surfshark CleanWeb – the best YouTube ad blocker in 2025
| Rating: | |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes (Free 7-day trial) |
| YouTube ad blocking: | ✅ Yes |
| Supported platforms: | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, Android TV |
Surfshark is the best ad blocker for YouTube, especially for those who value great features for an affordable price. If a low-cost ad blocker with extra privacy is what you’re looking for, Surfshark CleanWeb and CleanWeb 2.0 features are just that and more. They remove YouTube and many other ads, cookie consent pop-ups, trackers, and malicious content.
Surfshark CleanWeb's effectiveness at blocking YouTube ads. Surfshark delivered a solid performance in our tests, especially on mobile apps, where it successfully blocked YouTube video ads in both the browser and app versions. While some sponsored content in the suggestions bar or banner ads were still visible, there were no issues on macOS or within its browser extensions. The CleanWeb 2.0 feature worked smoothly across platforms. On Windows, the app started removing ads after a few videos, though it encountered occasional challenges on Firefox.
Features. Surfshark CleanWeb implements a cookie pop-up blocker. This helps put a stop to every site asking for cookie consent. The ad blocker comes with the Surfshark VPN or the whole Surfshark One bundle. The latter also includes data breach alerts and a private search engine on top of a time-tested VPN.
Compatibility. You can get Surfshark CleanWeb on most devices, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, Fire TV, and iOS. The CleanWeb 2.0 feature is available on browser extensions only (Chrome, Firefox, and Edge).
Pricing. If you get CleanWeb with the Surfshark VPN service, you’ll pay as low as $1.99/month for unlimited devices. You can even get a 7-day free trial. The Surfshark One and One+ bundles, however, cost $2.49 and $4.29/month, respectively, and come with many beneficial additions. Whichever option you pick, a 30-day money-back guarantee is also available.
You can read more about this service in our in-depth Surfshark CleanWeb review.
2. Total Adblock – a great YouTube ad blocker for different types of ads
| Rating: | |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes (Free 7-day trial) |
| YouTube ad blocking: | ✅ Yes |
| Supported platforms: | Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, Firefox, Android, iOS |
Total Adblock is a great YouTube ad blocker that still works in 2025, based on our testing. It can remove various other types of ads aside from countless interruptive YouTube ones. It can also eliminate trackers, pop-ups, and banners. So you not only remove annoyances but also improve your online privacy posture.
Total AdBlock's effectiveness at blocking YouTube ads. The setup of Total AdBlock was quick, taking less than 3 minutes. In our May 2025 tests, it effectively blocked YouTube ads across both mobile apps and desktop devices. Whether using the YouTube app or website on Chrome or Safari, Total AdBlock consistently removed ad interruptions. Similarly, its browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge performed well, ensuring YouTube ads were blocked across the board. While I didn’t encounter any in-video ads during tests on mobile, Total AdBlock offers the option to open or share YouTube videos directly through the app, ensuring full ad-free playback.
Features. Total Adblock allows whitelisting ads and pop-ups when they’re acceptable. If you’re a mobile device user, you’ll be able to make use of various convenient blocking filters. You can also get this ad blocker with the Total Security antivirus package. This way, you also get a full-on malware protection and removal tool.
Compatibility. You can get Total Adblock on iOS and Android. While it’s not available as an app on desktop devices, you can use it as a browser extension on Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, and Firefox browsers.
Pricing: Total Adblock is completely free for 7 days. If you wish to continue using it, a limited version is completely free, while Total Adblock Premium costs $1.59/month (a 30-day money-back guarantee is in place).
To learn more about this service package, read our Total Adblock review.
3. Ghostery ad blocker – a free YouTube ad blocker app
| Rating: | |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| YouTube ad blocking: | ✅ Yes |
| Supported platforms: | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, macOS, and Windows |
Ghostery Ad Blocker is primarily a tracker blocker, but it also blocks pop-ups, ads, and even cookies. Additionally, it seems to work with YouTube ads.
Ghostery's effectiveness at blocking YouTube ads. During our most recent tests, Ghostery Ad Blocker successfully blocked YouTube ads on various popular browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Safari, and Edge.
Features. The Ghostery Ad Blocker application allows users to customize the tracker blocking, as well as see statistics on which ads and trackers were removed. You can also use the Never Consent feature to remove cookie notifications and whitelist websites.
Compatibility. Ghostery is available as a browser extension on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge browsers, as well as an app for Mac, Windows, and iOS. There is also a mobile app called Ghostery Private Browser which also includes ad and tracker blocking.
Pricing. Ghostery Ad Blocker is a completely free ad blocker and private browser. Additionally, if you sympathize with its mission, you can support the creators with donations.
For more information, check out our Ghostery review.
4. NordVPN Threat Protection – trustworthy YouTube ad blocker
| Rating: | |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes (Free 7-day trial) |
| YouTube ad blocking: | ✅ Yes |
| Supported platforms: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Brave, Opera, and Edge |
NordVPN Threat Protection is another ad blocker that works on YouTube in 2025. Aside from YouTube ads, it can remove pop-ups, banners, autoplay video ads, trackers, and even malicious files.
NordVPN Threat Protection's effectiveness at blocking YouTube ads. Based on my latest tests, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro (DNS filter) is an effective YouTube ad blocker. I didn’t get any in-video ads during testing, though some ads still appeared elsewhere in the app. For the best results, use NordVPN’s browser extensions for ad blocking. On the desktop, I tested both the browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge) and the desktop apps with Threat Protection Pro enabled. While ads were blocked at times, I did still see occasional ads during video playback with both the extension and the app. In short, NordVPN wasn’t consistently effective at blocking YouTube ads on desktop.
Features. With NordVPN Threat Protection Pro, you get the URL trimming feature. It deletes tracking parameters from the URLs you visit so that you won’t be tracked. Additionally, it scans the files you download to prevent malware from getting into your device. The ad blocker comes in a VPN package, letting you watch your favorite YouTube videos without interrupting.
Compatibility. DNS filtering is available through the NordVPN Threat Protection feature, which works across iOS, Android, and all major browsers, including Safari, Chrome, Opera, Brave, and Edge. The more comprehensive Threat Protection Pro is included in the Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop apps, but it’s currently less effective for blocking YouTube ads.
Pricing. You can get Threat Protection or Threat Protection Pro with several NordVPN plans. The prices start at $3.39/month, and you can also use the 7-day free trial, but only on Android. However, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re left unsatisfied, so you can try any plan for any device risk free.
You can learn more about the other features in our NordVPN Threat Protection review.
5. uBlock Origin – free ad blocker extension for YouTube on desktop
| Rating: | |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| YouTube ad blocking: | ✅ Yes |
| Supported platforms: | Firefox, Edge, Safari, and Opera |
uBlock Origin is a free and open-source ad blocker available as a browser extension on Firefox, Edge, and Opera browsers. In our tests, it proved to block a variety of ads, including those on YouTube.
uBlock Origin's effectiveness at blocking YouTube ads. Our most recent 2025 tests revealed that uBlock origin can successfully block ads on Firefox, Opera, Safari, and Edge browsers, on Windows and macOS. However, uBlock Origin is no longer available on the Chrome Web Store, as it was removed for not aligning with Chrome extension best practices. Also, keep in mind that uBlock Origin isn’t available as a mobile app, so you’ll need to use a different ad blocker for mobile YouTube ad blocking.
Features. uBlock Origin is a pretty extensive ad blocker for browsers and includes a variety of settings and filtering options. You can adjust whether you want to see placeholders for blocked ads, the number of blocked requests, enable or disable cosmetic filtering, and more. Besides, you can adjust, add, and disable filter lists, as well as add your own filters and rules. Whitelisting is also available. However, while they can be beneficial, some of the less experienced users may feel overwhelmed by all these customization options.
Compatibility. uBlock Origin is available as a browser extension for Firefox, Safari, Opera, and Edge, as well as a manual installation. Unfortunately, there is no mobile application.
Pricing. uBlock Origin is completely free and open-source, and you can easily install it on your own browser. The creator of uBlock Origin does not accept any donations or sponsorships, but you can get in touch with them if you want to contribute otherwise.
Comparing the best YouTube ad blockers
Various YouTube ad blockers are more or less suitable for different devices and browsers. Below, you’ll find different picks based on your needs.
| YouTube ad blocker | Best for | Browser compatibility | OS compatibility | Read review | |
| Surfshark CleanWeb | Best for removing YouTube ads | Chrome, Firefox, and Edge | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Fire TV | Surfshark CleanWeb review | |
| Total Adblock | Best for eliminating different types of ads | Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, and Firefox | iOS and Android | Total AdBlock review | |
| Ghostery Ad Blocker | Best for blocking YouTube and other browser ads and trackers | Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera, and Firefox | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Ghostery review | |
| NordVPN Threat Protection | Best for removing pop-ups and banners | Chrome, Firefox, Edge (includes malicious websites and intrusive ads blockers) | Windows, macOS include all Threat Protection features. Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux support Threat Protection Lite | NordVPN Threat Protection | |
| uBlock origin | Best for blocking YouTube and browser ads and trackers | Edge, Safari, Opera, and Firefox | Any desktop OS |
How we selected and tested YouTube ad blockers
We started our tests with our research team filtering out unreliable ad blockers. After researching the top options, we tested their YouTube ad-blocking capabilities across different devices and browsers. To evaluate their performance, we watched multiple videos both with and without the ad blocker enabled, tracking how effectively each tool reduced YouTube ads. While exact numbers can vary and aren’t directly comparable, our main focus was on whether the ad blocker noticeably improved the viewing experience by cutting down on ads.
Most of the testing was done using Chrome and Firefox browser extensions, as this is currently the most effective way to block YouTube ads. We also tested mobile apps where available, but it’s worth noting that ad blocking on phones and smart TVs is usually less effective due to YouTube's use of server-side ad insertion on those platforms.
Here are the criteria we looked at:
- YouTube ad-blocking capabilities (40%). Our main focus was on how well each ad blocker removes YouTube ads. We tested them on both the YouTube app and website across various devices and browsers to ensure they could bypass YouTube’s latest restrictions.
- Other ad-blocking capabilities (20%). The best ad blockers don’t just work for YouTube. I picked providers that also block other interruptions, such as intrusive third-party trackers and cookie consent pop-ups.
- Extra features (10%). Some ad blockers come bundled with additional cybersecurity tools like VPNs or antivirus software. These features can highly improve your privacy and security.
- Compatibility (15%). I only included ad blockers that support various operating systems and browsers. Since most allow usage on multiple devices with one account, compatibility is an important decision factor.
- Value for your money (15%). I made sure that you’re getting yourself more than just an ad blocker for the price you pay. The products on our list are not only effective but also reasonably priced, often with extra security and privacy perks.
Surfshark CleanWeb is the best ad blocker for YouTube. It blocks intrusive ads that often contain malware and prevents various trackers, pop-ups, and banners. You can get the best YouTube ad blocker for 86% OFF or try it out with a 7-day free trial.
Get Surfshark AdblockWhat to look for in the best YouTube ad blocker?
The best YouTube ad blockers do exactly what the name suggests – remove ads on YouTube. But not all ad blockers work the same way. Here are some key factors to consider when getting the right one:
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Brave, Opera, and Edge |
| Features | Whitelister, tracker blocker, cookies blocker |
| Ad blocking capabilities | Blocks YouTube mid-roll video ads, pop-ups, banners |
| Trial | 7-day or longer free trial, 30-day or longer money-back guarantee |
- Great ad-blocking capabilities. Do prior research and find out whether the ad blocker of your choice works on your device or browser. The ad blockers on our list can all effectively remove YouTube ads.
- Additional security features. If an ad blocker comes with a VPN or antivirus package, you’re already getting a great deal. You get extra cybersecurity benefits, such as malware protection or improved privacy – all for a much better price than YouTube Premium.
- Intuitive apps. Before getting an ad blocker, make sure it’s compatible with your device or browser. Some have a very limited number of apps or don’t offer browser extensions at all.
- Affordable prices. Ad blockers shouldn’t be expensive, even if you’re getting them with an additional security service, such as an antivirus or VPN. A few bucks a month will do the trick just as well.
How to use YouTube with an ad blocker?
YouTube and ad blockers don’t get along and, sometimes, your ad blocker might be detected or stop working. Here are some tips to keep watching YouTube ad-free and avoid detection:
- Use one ad blocker at a time. Stick to one reliable ad blocker for YouTube – running multiple extensions or apps at once makes it easier for YouTube to detect and block them.
- Use apps instead of extensions. Ad blocker apps offer more features and filtering options than browser extensions. Plus, since they work system wide, they block ads not just on YouTube but across other sites and apps as well.
- Update your ad blocker. Ad blockers rely on constantly updated filter lists and rules. As such, you should always install the latest updates to ensure your blocker stays effective.
- Disable JavaScript. Some websites, including YouTube, may use JavaScript-based bait ads to detect ad blockers. By disabling JavaScript in your browser, you can bypass this, but keep in mind that this might impact site performance.
- Use your browser’s reading mode. A reading mode (or reading mode extension) will prevent JavaScript from running on YouTube, blocking ad blocker detection. However, it also simplifies the webpage, which may impact its layout and functionality.
For more tips on keeping YouTube ad-free, check out our guide for bypassing ad blocker detection on YouTube.
Why is my YouTube ad blocker not working anymore?
As of March 2025, YouTube has been stepping up its ad delivery game by experimenting with server-side ad insertion (SSAI). Unlike traditional ads that load separately from the video content, SSAI stitches ads directly into the video stream before it even reaches your device. That means the ad becomes part of the video itself – making it nearly impossible for most ad blockers to detect or remove without disrupting the stream.
Instead of solely improving ad blocker detection, YouTube is shifting toward new ways of serving ads that bypass traditional ad-blocking methods altogether. SSAI is still in its experimental phase, but it’s already making things harder, especially on mobile devices and smart TVs, where closed systems limit the effectiveness of blocking tools.
YouTube’s ad system uses real-time bidding, adaptive streaming, and advanced ad servers to personalize ads based on user demographics and behavior. On desktop browsers, ad blockers still work relatively well by targeting separate ad requests or hiding elements via scripts. But when ads are served from the same domain or streamed as part of the video, as with SSAI, distinguishing ads from content becomes a serious challenge.
Fortunately, not all hope is lost. The ad blockers I recommend in this guide have been tested and proven to still block YouTube ads, particularly on desktop browsers and mobile apps where filtering is still possible.
YouTube Premium for ad-free YouTube – is it worth the money?
Whether YouTube Premium is worth your money depends on how much YouTube you watch and which features you need. YouTube Premium is a paid subscription that completely removes ads and lets you enjoy videos in the background as well as download them. You also get access to YouTube Music Premium.
To push users toward paid subscriptions or ad-supported viewing, YouTube has stepped up its fight against ad blockers. Some users reported video loading delays while others have been blocked from playing videos until they disable their ad blocker.
However, despite YouTube’s crackdown on ad blockers, many Reddit users agree that background play and ad-free viewing are not worth paying $13.99/month – especially if you watch only a few videos per day.
Instead, you can spend less and get an ad blocker. For instance, Surfshark CleanWeb blocks ads for only $1.99/month, a fraction of the cost of YouTube Premium.
Conclusion
The battle between YouTube and ad blockers isn’t slowing down. As ad blockers adapt to bypass detection, YouTube keeps countering with tougher measures like server-side ad injection, making traditional ad blockers ineffective.
To stay ahead, the Cybernews research team tested top ad blockers on both mobile and desktop. Our top recommendation? Surfshark CleanWeb. For just $1.99/month, it effectively blocks YouTube ads across all your devices, keeping your viewing experience smooth and uninterrupted.
FAQ
Why is my ad blocker no longer working on YouTube?
Your ad blocker might no longer work on YouTube due to YouTube’s stricter crackdown on all ad blockers. It employs ad blocker detection measures, pop-up warnings, and even disables video playback until ads are enabled. To keep your ad blocker working, keep it updated, disable JavaScript, or switch to a reliable provider such as Surfshark CleanWeb.
Which ad blocker still works on YouTube?
There are multiple ad blockers that still work on YouTube, such as Surfshark, Total AdBlock, NordVPN Threat Protection as well as all the other ad blockers listed on this page.
Why does YouTube have so many ads?
YouTube relies on ads to help creators earn revenue and keep the platform free for regular users. However, while YouTube used to show ads at the beginning of the video only, it now interrupts your viewing every few minutes.
Do YouTube ads use my data?
Yes, YouTube collects your data to personalize ads both on YouTube and across other Google services. Gathered information includes demographics, location, and search history. Using an ad blocker alongside a VPN can help block ads and mask your IP address for better privacy.
How much does it cost to watch YouTube without ads?
YouTube offers a YouTube Premium subscription to remove ads, yet it costs $13.99/month. Alternatively, you can get an ad blocker, such as Surfshark CleanWeb, starting at $1.99/month, and block all kinds of ads across various sites, not just YouTube.
and blocks all kinds of ads on different sites.
Is YouTube trying to block ad blockers?
Yes, YouTube is trying to block all ad blockers. It uses advanced ad blocker detection methods and pop-up warnings and even prevents videos from playing until the ad blocker is disabled. To get around YouTube ad blocker detection, use a reliable provider like Surfshark CleanWeb, disable JavaScript, and keep your ad blocker updated.
Why is YouTube not allowing ad blockers?
Apart from Google's Manifest V3 update, YouTube doesn't allow ad blockers to maintain a flowing income. Since YouTube is available for free, the streaming service uses advertisements to make money. When users block ads, they bypass sponsored content and YouTube partners’ services, leading to lower revenue for the platform and creators.
Do ad blockers work on YouTube?
Yes, ad blockers work on YouTube. Although YouTube ads are among the toughest to bypass, robust providers like Surfshark CleanWeb successfully block various YouTube ads, including video ads.
Is YouTube going to block ad blockers?
Yes, it's possible that YouTube will block ad blockers. As for now, the streaming service is experimenting with ad blocker detection and blocking processes. However, ad-blocking apps and extensions still work and aren't completely blocked by YouTube.
What is the best free YouTube ad blocker?
If you're looking for a free YouTube ad blocker, try out Surfshark CleanWeb which comes with a 7-day free trial. According to our tests, Surfshark CleanWeb is one of the most effective options for blocking annoying YouTube ads – and it works well on other platforms and websites too.
What is the best YouTube ad blocker for Chrome?
We recommend Surfshark CleanWeb as the best ad blocker for Chrome browser in 2025.
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