Best YouTube ad blockers in 2025: watch YouTube without ads

You can't use ad blockers on YouTube because it's a breach of the YouTube Terms of Service. In October 2024, YouTube announced its new "global effort" to combat people using ad blocker software. Now, YouTube can detect many of the most-popular ad blockers – when that happens, you'll be asked to allow ads and create a YouTube Premium subscription. If you continue using the ad blocker software, YouTube can block your access to videos entirely.

Despite YouTube's unwavering stance on this software, some ad blockers still effectively block YouTube ads as of January 2025. After testing more than 15 ad blockers, Total Adblock, NordVPN Threat Protection, and Surfshark CleanWeb 2.0 are the most effective at removing ads and letting me watch YouTube without interruptions. During my tests, these ad blockers avoided detection and didn’t trigger a warning from YouTube. Below, I’ve included other ad blockers you can try. You’ll also find my expert recommendations on which VPNs can help you to avoid a YouTube ban and prevent video playback blocks.

Top 5 ad blockers that work on YouTube in January 2025

1. Total AdBlock

   Overall best YouTube ad blocker
   9.8
2. Nord Adblock

   Undetectable YouTube ad blocker for Windows and Mac
   9.7
3. Surfshark Adblock

   Reliable ad blocker to get around YouTube ads and playback blocks
   9.4
4. IPVanish

   Ad blocker for YouTube with optional VPN
   8.4
5. Adlock

   Standalone ad blocker that works on YouTube
   9.4

How to block ads on YouTube in 2025?

Despite YouTube’s anti-ad blocker policy, using the best YouTube ad blocker still removes mid-video ads, unskippable ads, and promoted videos from the platform. One of the biggest frustrations with YouTube is that these ads interrupt your viewing experience. That’s why many users still use an ad blocker for YouTube, despite it breaching the Terms of Service.

While not every ad blocker works, you can bypass YouTube ads with a reliable ad blocker that’s been specifically tested with the platform. Some work as browser extensions, intercepting and blocking ad-serving web requests so that ads can’t load. System-level ad blockers work across the entire operating system, intercepting network requests or analyzing data packets to detect and block adverts. Network-level blocks are usually integrated with an internet router.

YouTube has several ways of detecting ad blockers and trying to stop users from bypassing advertizing content:

• Tracking scripts check whether the page is interrupted by an ad blocker.
• Ad delivery verification can tell YouTube whether an advert was successfully displayed.
• Account reviews can check whether you have high video views but low ad impressions.
• YouTube pop-ups encourage you to purchase YouTube Premium if detected.

If you breach the YouTube Terms of Service and are detected, you could see the pop-up warning 'Your video access might also be restricted until you've disabled the software'. Fortunately, I haven't found evidence of complete account bans, but it's within the platform's power.

Best ad blockers for YouTube – detailed list:

With YouTube tightening its stance on ad blocker software, I, along with the VPNpro team, conducted extensive tests to select truly effective YouTube ad blockers that still work. Our tests focused on key criteria for ad blocker software, including ad-blocking efficiency, tracker blocking, cookie blocking, malware protection, and other included software like a VPN and antivirus. Tests also took into account where an ad blocker sped up page load times. With that in mind, these are the best ad blockers that work on YouTube in January 2025:

1. Total Adblock - the best YouTube ad blocker in January 2025

Total Adblock is the best YouTube ad blocker because in addition to seamlessly blocking YouTube ads, it also blocks videos that autoplay, malware-loaded ads, advertising cookies, and even hidden trackers. In this way, it’s not just an ad blocker, but an anti-malware and general online safety tool. TotalVPN can be combined with Total Adblock for powerful protection against all online threats.

YouTube ad blocker test results: Throughout my tests, Total Adblock yielded the best results – YouTube didn’t detect the software at all, and it managed to block 98% of all ads. My favorite feature was the malvertising blocker. This stops malicious ads from being able to serve any content so you can’t accidentally click on a malware-infected ad banner or pop-up.

Key features: Intelligent script blocking prevents any website from gathering your data through cookies. This means that marketing agencies can’t hoover up your personal data and target you with personalized ads – you won’t even see those frustrating cookie consent pop-ups. What’s more, ad whitelisting lets you choose specific websites to whitelist, letting you enjoy the full functionality of trusted websites while blocking irritating ads on others. You can even mute annoying notifications, with all of these features leading to improved page load times.

Compatibility: Total Adblock comes in the form of a browser extension on desktop devices. It’s compatible with Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Opera browsers. If you’re most active on mobile, it’s also available for Android and iOS with a dedicated application in each respective app store.

Currently, you can get the best ad blocker for YouTube for just $29 for the year – that’s approximately $2.46/month. After the first year, the Total Adblock price increases to $99. However, you can get a 7-day free trial and a 14-day money-back guarantee to test the results for yourself!

2. NordVPN Threat Protection - undetectable ad blocker for YouTube

NordVPN Threat Protection is the best Youtube ad blocker because it can easily bypass adds while giving you a huge online security boost. It’s directly integrated into NordVPN, which means you’ll also be able to unblock foreign streaming libraries and use YouTube TV, even if you’re outside of supported countries like the US.

YouTube ad blocker test results: Threat Protection easily blocked 100% of video ads when I tested it with YouTube. It also blocked all banners and pop-up ads when put through tests with various media-stuffed websites such as the UK's Mirror newspaper website. On sites like this that I'm already familiar with, I noted page load times being faster by up to a couple of seconds. When I visited free streaming sites, the malware-stuffed ads that normally clutter the page were gone.

Key features: Outside of ad blocking, the Threat Protection feature offers further anti-malware tools. It scans any files you download in real time and stops malware-infected files from compromising your device. It also entirely blocks access to domains known for serving up malware so that you can't accidentally stumble across them. NordVPN's ad blocker also blocks trackers and cookies, and it's enabled around the clock. Unlike other ad blockers that work in your browser, Threat Protection protects your whole device without the need for repeated setup processes across your various browsers, mailboxes, and other apps.

Compatibility: Since Threat Protection is bundled into NordVPN, it works on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android. Mobile devices get Threat Protection Lite, which also blocks ads and trackers. In my tests, I verified that it works on desktop browsers including Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge thanks to its systemwide protection. I even downloaded a sample malware file from the EICAR website – a European cybersecurity test institution – and Threat Protection quarantined it immediately.

Since Threat Protection is part of NordVPN, you’ll need to sign up for a NordVPN account. Fortunately, prices start from just $3.59, which is what some ad blockers charge without even giving you a VPN or systemwide protection. Get NordVPN’s 7-day trial on Android or use the 30-day money-back guarantee!

2. Surfshark CleanWeb - YouTube ad blocker for every device

Surfshark One is the best YouTube ad blocker thanks to its antivirus and private-search functionality, further boosting your online security and privacy. Beyond that, it also includes Surfshark VPN – a robust IP cloaking and data encryption tool. With all of this and more, Surfshark One is one of the cheapest cybersecurity suites currently available.

YouTube ad blocker test results: CleanWeb 2.0 performed well in my tests, blocking all pre-video ads and those that play in the middle of a stream. I watched Bald and Bankrupt's European travel videos for hours without ever being interrupted. This meant faster video loading and less wasted time. When I ran my tests on ad-stuffed newspaper websites and free streaming sites, Surfshark blocked every ad.

Key features: CleanWeb 2.0 easily blocks YouTube ads – an upgrade from the original version of CleanWeb. However, it can also block ads on other websites, plus advertizing trackers, and malware threats. The antivirus offers real-time protection and scanning to protect your device from threats. Surfshark Search gives you unbiased search engine results, and there’s a data breach alert feature that checks whether your data has been leaked online. Finally, Surfshark VPN is one of the top VPNs available right now, which will cloak your IP and let you unblock YouTube TV and any other foreign website no matter where you’re located.

Compatibility: Surfshark One works across platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS – CleanWeb 2.0 works on mobile devices, too. If you're a desktop user, Surfshark's ad blocker is compatible with Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge since it works at the system level. What’s more, you can use it on unlimited devices for you, your friends, or family members.

Surfshark One is an excellent deal for people who don’t currently have a full cybersecurity suite. For a powerful VPN, antivirus, and ad blocker, you’ll pay just $2.49/month for the best-value plan. I’ve found standalone ad blockers and VPN services to be similarly priced but without giving you so much functionality and online protection. Surfshark One is a massive deal that you can get now with a huge 86% off.

4. IPVanish Threat Protection - standalone Youtube ad blocker with privacy features

IPVanish Threat Protection is the best YouTube ad blocker because it comes from the company behind the powerful IPVanish VPN service. Since the products are bundled, you'll enjoy IP cloaking, foreign website unblocking, and defense against malware in a single package. The VPN must be activated to benefit from Threat Protection, but it’s not a problem – that only enhances your online privacy further.

YouTube ad blocker test results: To use IPVanish Threat Protection, I had to start by connecting to a VPN server, so I chose the US. When I connected to a US VPN server, I was able to log into YouTube TV, which is ordinarily unavailable to UK residents. Threat Protection effectively blocked all YouTube ads and promoted videos while testing the platform. Whether I was on trusted or untrusted sites, I didn’t see a single ad so long as I was using IPVanish.

Key features: IPVanish Threat Protection includes anti-malware tools to block malicious adverts and phishing links embedded within emails or texts. It also stops malicious sites from loading and blocks marketing trackers. The need for a constant IPVanish VPN connections means you get even greater privacy through IP cloaking and powerful 256-bit data encryption.

Compatibility: IPVanish offers broad compatibility for its VPN and ad blocker services. I was able to use both products on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, and it also worked on Android TV, an Amazon Fire TV, and visionOS. You can use the native app or get a browser extension.

With the current special discount of 81%, you can get IPVanish Threat Protection to block YouTube ads for $2.19/month. You'll also have immediate access to the IPVanish VPN service, which reviewed admirably in our IPVanish review. Get started free with a 7-day free trial on Android and iOS devices. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can get a longer feel for Threat Protection before committing.

5. AdLock - cheap ad blocker that works on YouTube in 2025

AdLock is one of the best YouTube ad blockers as a standalone service. It's well-suited to people looking for a lightweight solution or who have a VPN or antivirus already. However, it still has advanced privacy and anti-malware features. AdLock works across all major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS as a system-level, standalone app. It works on all popular browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. However, due to iOS and macOS restrictions, AdLock is limited to blocking Safari-based ads rather than working at the system level; you can use it as an ad blocker for YouTube on Safari but not in the YouTube app.

YouTube ad blocker test results: AdLock delivered excellent results, removing all immediate and mid-video adverts when I tested it as a YouTube ad blocker. It sped up page load times when put to the test with ad-serving streaming and shopping sites. AdLock excels in allowing you to tailor your own blocking rules and filters, adding sites to a whitelist or blacklist. Finally, the manual blocking wizard lets you hone in on stubborn ads to make sure you're blocking everything.

Key features: AdLock blocks adverts, tracking scripts, and malicious adware and websites. Thanks to systemwide support, it can block adds within applications, including YouTube but also gaming and shopping ads. With custom rule filtering and even the ability to block ads without internet access, it's a powerful standalone tool for speeding up your device.

Compatibility: Adlock protects Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. However, it will also block ads in native mobile apps. Use it on desktop browsers Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, plus apps that include YouTube, Skype, and BBC iPlayer.

The most popular AdLock plan gives you 12 months of ad blocking and malware protection for $2.80/month, billed at $33.60 for the year. This drops to just $1.05/month for a 5-year plan – $63 annually. Currently, get a 14-day free trial for AdLock. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try the service out risk free.

Best YouTube Ad Blockers compared

Total Adblock is the overall best of the ad blockers that still work on YouTube. If you want to see key highlights for the best working adblock for YouTube, I’ve summarized my test results below.

Get Total Adblock for uninterrupted YouTube videos

How we tested and selected ad blockers that works on YouTube in 2025

To find the best ad blockers that work on YouTube in 2025, I needed to test Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices because ad blocking software can vary across platforms. I also made sure to test within each of the major browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. I checked each ad blocker against specific criteria, including:

• YouTube ad blocking capabilities. The best ad blockers for YouTube can currently block all pre and mid-video adverts, setting the bar high. I only included ad blockers that could achieve this feat.
• Features. Some ad blockers, like free ad blockers, lack many features beyond an ad blocker. The best YouTube ad blockers include anti-malware, tracker, and cookie tools.
• Compatibility. I looked for ad blockers that could serve all major browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. Bonus points were given for systemwide compatibility with apps and other programs.
• Performance impact. Removing cluttered ads should speed up page load times, so I made sure the ad blocker software wasn’t slowing down my browser or device. I did this by checking CPU and RAM usage, or page load speed in the case of browser-based blockers.
• Value for money. Since ad blockers are generally quite inexpensive, I also considered unique features when determining value for money. For example, NordVPN is included with the Threat Protection 2.0 ad blocker, and Surfshark One has Surfshark antivirus.

The clear winner in these tests with a VPN, anti-malware tools, and an ad blocker for YouTube, is Total Adblock. At just $1.59/month, you can get full online data encryption and YouTube ad blocking.

Get Total Adblock for less interruptions

How to get around YouTube ads with an ad blocker: 3 easy steps

One of the easiest ways to block YouTube ads is by using a reliable ad blocker. However, YouTube are becoming increasingly tougher on the use of this software. As a result, many ad blockers stop working. That’s why I tested more than 15 brands to find ad blockers that still work with YouTube – the top three are Total Adblock, NordVPN Threat Protection 2.0, and Surfshark CleanWeb 2.0.

Here’s how you can bypass YouTube ads using Total Adblock as an example:

1. Download TotalAV for your device. Or, choose another of the most effective YouTube ad blockers I’ve recommended.
2. Open TotalAV settings and Safari Preferences. Check all the Total Adblock permissions.
3. Enable Total Adblock. Now, you’ll see it working in real time to block YouTube ads or ads on other websites.

Get Total Adblock for all devices

Why is my ad blocker not working on YouTube?

Your ad blocker may not be working on YouTube due to conflicts between your browser extensions, outdated browser software that isn’t compatible with your ad blocker, and cookies that interfere with your browser’s normal functioning:

• Conflicting browser extensions: Some browser extensions can cause conflicts. I recommend disabling them all and re-enabling them one by one until you – potentially – find the one responsible.
• Outdated browser software: If an ad blocker relies on critical browser processes, yours could be out of date. Ensure you’re using the most up to date browser software available.
• Malware cookies: Malware-infected cookies can stop some browser features from working. Fortunately, tools like Total Adblock detect and remove malicious cookies.
  

If all else fails, you can usually resolve problems with ad blockers by reaching out to customer support.

Can YouTube detect ad blockers?

YouTube can detect ad blockers using a number of methods. Their anti-ad blocker software is growing more capable by the day:

• Ad Delivery Integration: YouTube embeds ads directly within video streams. This makes ads hard to distinguish from genuine content like banners or pop-up ads.
• Anti-Ad Blocker Scripts: YouTube uses JavaScript to check for ad-blocking activity. These scripts can detect when advert scripts are interrupted and stop video playback.
• Dynamic Ad Loading: YouTube frequently changes its approach to serving up adverts. Ad blockers can occasionally have downtime due to changes in YouTube’s algorithms, but the best YouTube ad blockers can recover.

Using the best ad blocker that still works on YouTube means you can avoid both adverts, and YouTube’s detection software.

Get Total Adblock to stop YouTube ads

Are there any free ad blockers that work with YouTube?

There are currently no free ad blockers that work with YouTube. Since the platform began to take a strong anti-ad blocker stance, their detection software has evolved to include script monitoring, ad encryption, and server-side injection. These tools simultaneously make ads harder to detect while scanning for ad blocker activity.

Instead, I recommend using a premium ad blocker’s free trial – for example, Total Adblock has a 7-day free trial so you can try the service out without any risk. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee that can extend your free-use period.

What ad blockers don’t work on YouTube (tested in January)

While testing ad blockers, I found a number of them that don’t work with YouTube at all. These ad blockers can’t get past YouTube’s detection in January:

• AdBlock: Not the same product as TotalAV AdBlock, this standalone ad blocker has trouble due to YouTube serving ads via server-side injection. This disguises them among regular videos.
• uBlock Origin: In my tests, uBlock Origin occasionally struggled with YouTube’s detection software. However, I was often able to get it working again by refreshing the page and video.
• AdGuard: Domain obfuscation and ad encryption means that AdGuard cannot always block ads on YouTube.
• Opera Ad Blocker: I wasn’t able to get Opera’s built-in ad blocker working with YouTube. While I’ve seen it work in the past, I suspect that YouTube’s increased focus on ad blockers has caused problems for Opera.

Get Total Adblock to block all ads

Final thoughts on choosing the best YouTube ad blocker

The best YouTube ad blockers currently allow users to get around all YouTube ads, including those that play before and during videos. This speeds up page load times and removes interruptions – but it’s against YouTube’s Terms of Service. That’s why the platform is now using anti-ad blocker software. Fortunately, there are effective YouTube ad blockers in 2025 that not only remove all adverts, but also protect your privacy and security. Built in anti-malware and VPN software will encrypt your data and keep you safe while you’re streaming. Total Adblock is the best ad blocker for YouTube in 2025 thanks to blocking all adverts during my tests with YouTube and ad-stuffed websites that are notorious for ads.

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You may also like to read:
Best ad blocker for Chrome
Best ad blocker for Safari
Best ad blocker for Firefox
Best ad blocker for Edge
Best ad blocker for Mac
Best ad blocker for Twitch

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FAQ

Are ad blockers banned on YouTube?

Yes, YouTube’s Terms of Service forbid the use of ad blockers because they take ad revenue away from the platform. However, frustrated users still use the best ad blockers that still work on YouTube like Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection Pro.

What happens if you use an adblocker on YouTube?

Using an ad blocker on YouTube is again the Terms of Service and can result in the platform blocking your video access. However, many of the best ad blockers that still work with YouTube include a VPN. Total Adblock can currently bypass YouTube’s detection measures. To date, there are no widespread reports of users being permanently banned for using an ad blocker.

Is there a way to watch YouTube without ads on Android and iPhone?

Yes, many users watch YouTube without ads on Android and iPhone by using a YouTube ad blocker like Total Adblock. However, it’s against the YouTube Terms of Service and can result in video playback being blocked if you’re detected. NordVPN Threat Protection, Surfshark CleanWeb 2.0, IPVanish Threat Protection, and AdLock are all capable of fully blocking YouTube ads in 2025 too.

How do I block YouTube ads on Chrome?

You can block YouTube ads on Google Chrome by using an ad-blocking browser extension. However, the most effective way is by using one of the best YouTube ad blockers that work at a system level. Total Adblock will block YouTube ads in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari, as well as in the native YouTube application and other apps too. It’s currently the best YouTube ad blocker for January 2025 based on my extensive tests.

What is the best YouTube ad blocker for Firefox?

Total Adblock is the best YouTube ad blocker for Firefox, plus Edge, Chrome, and Safari. In my tests, Total Adblock on Firefox was able to block all pre-roll videos and interrupting videos. Total VPN comes bundled with Total Adblock and offered secure 256-bit data encryption for all my data, further boosting my online security.

What is the new ad block policy on YouTube?

YouTube's new adblock policy bans the use of ad blockers to bypass YouTube adverts and promotional videos. YouTube is treating this as a breach of their Terms of Service and can detect ad blockers with script tracking, ad delivery verification, and other methods. Your video playback could be blocked – unless you use one of the best YouTube ad blockers to remain undetected.

How much does it cost to watch YouTube without ads?

You can watch YouTube without ads by paying for YouTube Premium, which costs $13.99/month for individual use. Students can get a discount and pay $7.99/month, while the family plan is $22.99/month. The best ad blockers that work on YouTube are a cheaper solution that some users choose instead – Total Adblock works best and is just $1.59/month.