In this article, we will show you the 15 best FREE Ad Blocker Extensions to stop YouTube ads as viewer, enhance privacy, and enjoy uninterrupted streaming on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and more.

Below is a curated list of 15 free ad-blocking extensions (and a couple of bonus solutions) that are commonly used to block ads on YouTube. Keep in mind:

• Ad-blocking may violate YouTube’s Terms of Service.
• YouTube often updates its platform to counter ad blockers, so results may vary over time.
• If you want a fully compliant solution, consider YouTube Premium.

If you need a custom DNS server that comes with Ad Blocker, simply contact these Fiverr freelancers to build it for you.

That said, many viewers use the following tools for a more ad-free experience. Always download extensions from reputable sources like the Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, or the official websites.

Read Also: 3 Ways to Stop YouTube ads as Viewer

15 best FREE Ad Blocker Browser Extensions to Stop YouTube Ads as Viewer

1. AdBlock (by getadblock.com)

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari
Description:

• One of the most popular and longstanding ad blockers.
• Has customizable filters and can block YouTube pre-roll and in-video ads.
• Allows the creation of custom filter lists for precise control.

2. Adblock Plus

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
Description:

• A pioneer in the ad-blocking space.
• Uses subscription-based filter lists like EasyList to block ads on various websites, including YouTube.
• Has an “Allow Acceptable Ads” feature (which can be turned off) that permits some non-intrusive advertising.

3. uBlock Origin

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
Description:

• Known for being lightweight and highly efficient with memory usage.
• Provides advanced user control over filter lists (EasyList, EasyPrivacy, etc.).
• Considered one of the most reliable for blocking YouTube ads without slowing down browsing.

Read Also: 3 Easy Ways to download YouTube videos on iPhone

4. AdGuard AdBlocker (Browser Extension)

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
Description:

• A robust extension from the well-known AdGuard suite.
• Includes phishing and malicious site protection.
• Provides options to block YouTube ads and other pop-ups, banners, and trackers.

5. AdBlocker Ultimate

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Description:

• Strives to block all ads with no “acceptable ads” policy.
• Good for users seeking to block every ad element possible, including YouTube video ads.
• Actively updated with frequent filter list refreshes.

6. Ghostery

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
Description:

• Focuses on privacy by blocking trackers and scripts, which incidentally helps with ad blocking.
• Provides a detailed view of tracking scripts and analytics on each site.
• Can block many YouTube ads, but sometimes you need to adjust settings for fully blocking in-video ads.

Read Also: 6 Steps to Block Channels on YouTube

7. Privacy Badger

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
Description:

• Developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).
• Primarily a tracker blocker, but also stops a lot of ads by blocking third-party scripts.
• Doesn’t offer as robust ad-blocking customization as uBlock Origin but is very privacy-centric.

8. Fair AdBlocker (by STANDS)

Browser compatibility: Chrome, possibly other Chromium-based browsers
Description:

• Promises low resource usage and a quick setup.
• Lets you configure the level of ad blocking (pop-ups, YouTube ads, overlays, etc.).
• Has an option to allow certain ads or block ads on specific sites.

9. Poper Blocker

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox
Description:

• Specializes in closing pop-ups and pop-unders.
• While primarily for pop-ups, it can help with some ad elements on YouTube.
• Works best when paired with a full-fledged ad-blocking extension but can be used alone.

10. AdNauseam

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox
Description:

• Blocks ads and “clicks” on them in the background to pollute advertising data profiles.
• The concept is to obfuscate your browsing habits rather than just hiding ads.
• Works on YouTube ads by blocking them before they can run.

Read Also: How to Turn on Comments on YouTube

11. AdBlocker for YouTube™

Browser compatibility: Chrome (various clones exist)
Description:

• A specialized extension focused solely on YouTube ads.
• Does one thing: block in-stream (pre-roll, mid-roll) and overlay ads on YouTube.
• Results can vary with each YouTube update, so check for updates regularly.

12. StopAll Ads

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox
Description:

• Less known but offers a straightforward approach to blocking many ad types.
• Incorporates multiple filter lists to capture YouTube video ads.
• User interface is simpler than most mainstream blockers.

13. AdLock (Browser Extension)

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox (also has desktop apps)
Description:

• Available as both a standalone application (paid) and a free extension.
• The extension version focuses on browser-level ad blocking, including YouTube.
• Offers anti-tracking and anti-malware features in the paid version.

14. AdRemover for Google Chrome

Browser compatibility: Chrome
Description:

• A simple, user-friendly interface.
• Blocks banners, text ads, and video ads on YouTube and other sites.
• Has fewer customization options but is easy for beginners.

Read Also: 2 Methods to see dislikes on YouTube

15. Nano Adblocker (Forks of uBlock)

Browser compatibility: Chrome, Firefox (depending on fork availability)
Description:

• Was originally a fork of uBlock Origin with some extra UI tweaks.
• May or may not be updated regularly (check recent forks or developer notes).
• When updated, it usually matches uBlock Origin’s performance in blocking YouTube ads.

Tips & Considerations

1. Keep Filter Lists Updated

   • Most ad blockers rely on filter lists (like EasyList, EasyPrivacy). Ensure automatic updates are enabled to keep up with YouTube’s ad changes.

2. Combine with a Tracker Blocker

   • Extensions such as Ghostery or Privacy Badger also help block scripts that serve ads, improving overall effectiveness.

3. Beware of “Fake” Ad Blockers

   • Many copycats in the Chrome Web Store misuse the names or logos of popular extensions. Verify the developer’s official website and user reviews before installing.

4. YouTube Premium

   • The official ad-free option. Also offers offline downloads, background play on mobile, and includes YouTube Music.

5. Check for Conflicts

   • Running multiple ad blockers can sometimes cause conflicts. If something breaks on YouTube, try disabling one extension at a time to troubleshoot.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to blocking YouTube ads; YouTube actively works to bypass ad blockers. Extensions like uBlock Origin, AdBlock Plus, and AdGuard typically have the most frequent filter updates and community support, making them reliable first choices.

If your ad blocker stops working suddenly, update the extension or check for new filter lists. And if you want to support content creators while still reducing intrusive ads, consider using the ad blocker’s “Allow non-intrusive ads” feature or whitelisting certain channels.

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