How To Block ADS On YouTube? (2024)

Have you ever started watching a video, only to get hit with loud commercials? Those pre-roll ads can really ruin the mood, especially when they keep popping up. But don’t worry, there are ways to block ads on YouTube and enjoy uninterrupted viewing. This post will discuss different methods, like using ad blockers or paid subscriptions, to help you take control of your watching experience.

Why Block YouTube Ads?

• Enhancing User Experience: YouTube ads, while a vital revenue source for content creators, can often be a source of frustration for viewers. The primary reason to block these ads is to enhance user experience. Frequent interruptions can detract from the enjoyment of videos, disrupt concentration, and even consume additional data—concerns that are particularly significant for those with limited bandwidth or on metered connections.
• Improved Video Playback: Blocking ads on YouTube leads to smoother and faster video playback. Viewers can enjoy their favorite content without pauses or buffering that may occur as ads load. This is especially beneficial when streaming high-definition videos, where interruption-free viewing is key to a quality experience.
• Control Over Content: Viewers often seek more control over their viewing experience. By blocking ads, users can prevent exposure to unwanted or irrelevant content. This is crucial for parents or educators who wish to ensure a safe viewing environment for children, free from inappropriate advertisem*nts.
• Enhanced Privacy: Ads are not only a distraction but can also be a privacy concern. Advertisers often track viewing habits and preferences to target users with specific ads. By blocking these ads, users can safeguard their privacy, reducing the amount of personal data that is collected and shared online.
• Economic Considerations: Some users might prefer to avoid ads as a statement against certain economic models of the internet, which rely heavily on advertising revenue at the potential cost of user privacy and content quality. Blocking ads can be seen as a way to promote alternative revenue models that might better align with user interests and ethical considerations.

How To Block Ads On YouTube?

Blocking ads on YouTube can greatly enhance your viewing experience by removing interruptions, saving data, and reducing load times. Here’s how you can achieve an ad-free experience across various devices:

1. Blocking Ads on YouTube Using Computer

a) Using uBlock Origin

uBlock Origin is a popular and free ad blocker extension for web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. It’s known for its effectiveness in blocking ads, including those on YouTube. Here’s how to use uBlock Origin:

• Install uBlock Origin: Visit the appropriate web store for your browser and search for “uBlock Origin.” Install the extension.

• Enable uBlock Origin: Once installed, make sure the extension is turned on. You can usually find this option in your browser’s extension settings.
• Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: uBlock Origin should automatically block most if not all, ads. Enjoy your viewing experience.

b) Using YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is a paid subscription service offered by YouTube. It provides several benefits, including ad-free viewing, background play, and access to exclusive YouTube Originals content. Here’s how YouTube Premium eliminates ads:

• Subscribe to YouTube Premium: Visit the YouTube Premium website or app and choose a subscription plan.
• Sign in to your YouTube Account: Use your existing Google account or create a new one to subscribe.
• Enjoy Ad-Free Viewing: Once subscribed, you’ll automatically watch videos on YouTube ad-free. This applies to all devices linked to your YouTube account.

c) Using Brave Web Browser

Brave Web Browser is a privacy-focused browser that comes with built-in ad-blocking capabilities. This means you can enjoy ad-free viewing on YouTube without installing any additional extensions. Here’s how Brave helps block ads:

• Download and Install Brave: Visit the Brave website and download the browser for your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux).

• Enable Shields: Brave uses a feature called “Shields” to block ads and trackers. By default, Shields are activated when you launch Brave.
• Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Head to YouTube and start watching videos. Brave’s built-in ad blocker should automatically take care of most if not all, advertisem*nts.

d) Using Adblock For YouTube Extension

While uBlock Origin is a powerful general ad blocker, there are extensions specifically designed to target YouTube ads. Adblock for YouTube is a popular example. Here’s how to use it:

• Install Adblock for Youtube: Visit the Chrome Web Store (or the appropriate store for your browser) and search for “Adblock for Youtube.” Install the extension.

• Enable Adblock for YouTube: Once installed, make sure the extension is turned on. You can usually find this option in your browser’s extension settings.
• Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Head to YouTube and start watching videos. Adblock for YouTube should automatically block most if not all, YouTube ads.

e) AdLock For Windows And Mac

AdLock offers standalone applications for both Windows and Mac that block ads system-wide, including those on YouTube. Here’s a breakdown for each:

AdLock for Windows:

• Download and Install: Visit the AdLock website and download the installer for Windows. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

• Activate Ad Blocking: Launch AdLock and activate the free license or purchase a premium plan for additional features.
• Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: AdLock should automatically block ads not only on YouTube but also in other applications and browsers. You can now enjoy your viewing experience through AdLock.

AdLock for Mac:

• Download and Install: Visit the AdLock website and download the application for Mac. Drag and drop it into your Applications folder.

• Activate Ad Blocking: Launch AdLock and activate the free license or purchase a premium plan for additional features.
• Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Visit YouTube to watch videos uninterrupted. Similar to the Windows version, AdLock should block ads across your entire system.

2. Block ADS on YouTube Using Android

Blocking YouTube ads on Android devices can be achieved through various apps and browser modifications. Here’s how to ensure an uninterrupted viewing experience on your Android device.

Using a DNS Ad Blocker

This method involves changing your device’s DNS settings to point to a server that filters out ad traffic. It’s a system-wide approach that can block ads not only on YouTube but also in other apps and browsers. Here’s how to do it:

• Access Wi-Fi Settings: Open your Android settings and navigate to the Wi-Fi section.
• Modify Network Details: Tap on the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to. Look for an option called “Modify Network” or “Advanced settings.”
• Change DNS Settings: Locate the DNS settings option. You might see choices like “DHCP” or “Static.” Choose “Static.”
• Enter DNS Server Address: In the DNS server fields, enter the address of a DNS server known to block ads. Popular options include AdGuard DNS (176.223.128.199) or CleanBrowsing DNS (185.172.208.68).
• Save Changes: Once you’ve entered the DNS server address, save the changes.

Via NewPipe:

• Install NewPipe from F-Droid or download its APK from the official website. NewPipe is an open-source alternative to the YouTube app that does not use Google’s frameworks or show ads.
• Open NewPhis and search for your desired videos. NewPipe also allows downloading videos and playing audio in the background.

AdGuard for Android:

• Install AdGuard from its official website or Google Play Store.
• Open the app and configure it to filter your traffic. This app blocks ads across all apps, including YouTube, by filtering out ad traffic before it reaches your device.

3. Block ADS on YouTube iPhone

For iPhone users, options to block YouTube ads are slightly different due to iOS system restrictions. Here are some effective methods:

Using Safari Content Blockers with YouTube Website:

While you can’t directly block ads within the official YouTube app on iPhone, you can achieve ad-free viewing by using content blockers within the Safari browser. Here’s how:

• Install a Content Blocker App: Visit the App Store and search for content blocker apps. Popular options include AdGuard for iOS, 1Blocker, and Lockdown Privacy. Choose a reputable app with good reviews.
• Enable Content Blocker in Safari: Open your iPhone Settings and navigate to “Safari.” Scroll down and locate the “Content Blockers” section.
• Activate the Content Blocker: Toggle on the switch for the content blocker app you installed.
• Access YouTube Through Safari: Open Safari and navigate to the YouTube website (m.youtube.com). Content blockers should automatically remove most ads while browsing YouTube on Safari.
• Consider Adding YouTube Shortcut: For easier access, create a shortcut for the YouTube website on your home screen. Open YouTube in Safari, tap the “Share” icon, and choose “Add to Home Screen.

DNSCloak:

• Download DNSCloak from the App Store.
• Configure it to use a DNS server that blocks ad domains. This app allows for more control over your DNS queries, effectively blocking many types of ads on YouTube when viewed in browsers.

Other Methods to Block YouTube Ads

Exploring alternative methods can enhance your ad-blocking strategy on YouTube. Here are some additional techniques:

❖ Smart DNS Services

Smart DNS services modify your device’s DNS settings to bypass geographical restrictions and can also block ads. To use a Smart DNS service:

• Sign up for a Smart DNS service like Getflix or Unblock-Us.

• Follow their instructions to change your device’s DNS settings.
• This method can reduce ad interruptions while accessing YouTube from various devices, not limited to web browsers.

❖ VPN with Ad Blocking Features

VPNs that incorporate ad-blocking capabilities provide a dual function of privacy and ad blocking. Here’s how to use one:

• Choose a VPN provider that offers ad-blocking, such as NordVPN or CyberGhost.

• Download and install the VPN app on your device.
• Connect to a server through the app, ensuring that the ad-blocking feature is activated.
• This method not only helps in blocking ads on YouTube but also encrypts your internet traffic, enhancing your online privacy.

Legal And Ethical Considerations

When choosing to block ads on YouTube, it’s important to consider both the legal and ethical implications. Here’s what you need to know:

Legal Standpoint: Generally, using ad blockers is legal. However, certain methods, like modified apps or software that manipulate the service functionality directly, might violate the terms of service of the platform. Always ensure that the ad-blocking method you choose complies with the legal frameworks and terms of service of your region and the platforms you use.

Ethical Considerations:

• Impact on Content Creators: Many YouTubers rely on ad revenue as a significant part of their income. Using ad blockers can reduce their earnings. Consider supporting your favorite creators by other means, such as direct donations or subscriptions, if you choose to block ads.
• Fair Usage: While ads can be intrusive, they are also a key part of the economic model that allows free access to vast amounts of content on YouTube. Evaluate the necessity of blocking ads against the benefit of having free access to content.

It’s crucial to strike a balance between enhancing your viewing experience and supporting the platforms and creators that provide valuable content. Ethically, it is about making informed choices that align with your values and the sustainability of the services you enjoy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When using ad blockers to enhance your YouTube experience, you might encounter some technical issues. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

Ad Blocker Not Working:

• Update Your Ad Blocker: Ensure that your ad blocker is up-to-date. Developers frequently update ad-blocking software to keep up with new advertising strategies and formats.
• Check the Configuration: Review your ad blocker settings. Sometimes, you may need to adjust your filters or whitelist certain domains to improve functionality.

YouTube Videos Not Loading:

• Disable the Ad Blocker Temporarily: To determine if the ad blocker is causing the issue, try disabling it and reloading the page. If YouTube works without the ad blocker, consider adjusting your settings or switching to a different ad blocker.
• Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Sometimes, corrupted cache and cookies can cause loading issues. Clearing them might resolve the problem.

Slow Browser Performance:

• Limit the Number of Block Lists: Using too many filter lists can slow down your browser. Optimize your ad blocker settings by selecting only the necessary block lists.
• Switch Ad Blockers: If your current ad blocker is significantly slowing down your browser, consider trying a different one that might be more efficient in resource usage.

Conflicts with Other Extensions:

• Check for Extension Conflicts: Disable other extensions to see if they are causing conflicts with your ad blocker. Re-enable them one at a time to identify the culprit.
• Reinstall Ad Blocker: Sometimes, a fresh installation of the ad blocker can resolve conflicts with other extensions or software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, you now have a toolkit for conquering YouTube ads! From browser extensions to system-wide blockers, there’s a solution for every device and preference. Remember, consider the impact on content creators and explore ways to support them you find ethical. With the right approach, you can enjoy uninterrupted viewing while respecting the creative community. Happy watching!