5 Best Ad Blocker Apps 2025 (for iPhone, Android & PC)

Short on time? Start with our #1 pick – Total Adblock.

It blocks banners, YouTube ads, cookie pop-ups, and trackers with one click and no setup.

Let’s face it! The modern internet isn’t built for users anymore. It’s built for advertisers, trackers, autoplaying videos, and cookie prompts that seem to multiply every time you click “Accept.”

In 2025, a good ad blocker isn’t just about convenience. It’s about sanity. And privacy. And speed.

That’s why we tested over 50 ad blockers across browsers, devices, and streaming sites. The five tools below stood out for cleaning up pages, speeding up browsing, and keeping your data private.

Quick Comparison – Best Ad Blockers of 2025

Looking for a quick side-by-side view? Here’s how our top five picks stack up on blocking power, privacy, and value.

Ad Blocker	Best For	YouTube Ads	Tracker Blocking	System-Wide	Mobile Support	Custom Filters	Malware Protection	Extra Features	Price
Total Adblock	Simplicity & browsers	✅	✅	❌	✅ (via TotalAV)	❌	❌	TotalAV antivirus + device cleaner	$2.42/mo
CleanWeb	Streaming + privacy	✅	✅	✅	✅	❌	✅	VPN, CleanWeb, breach alerts	$2.49/mo
Threat Protection	Security-first users	✅	✅	✅	Partial	❌	✅ (desktop)	Malware scan, phishing protection, Nord suite	$4.69/mo
AdGuard	Advanced users & families	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	Moderate	Custom filters, router support, parental controls	$2.49/mo or lifetime
MacKeeper	Apple-only simplicity	✅	✅	❌	❌	❌	Moderate	macOS native tool, built-in VPN & ID theft monitoring	$10.95/mo

There’s an option here for every type of user. Scroll down for full breakdowns and real-world test results.

1. Total Adblock: The Easiest Way to Block Ads on Every Browser

Total Adblock delivers a lean, browser-focused solution that works seamlessly with TotalAV’s broader protection suite. It’s best for users who want clean, fast web browsing without system-wide setup or custom configurations.

Technical features:

• Browser extension available for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge
• Built-in tracker suppression to block intrusive scripts and third-party trackers
• GDPR banner filtering for a cleaner, less intrusive browsing experience
• Easy-to-use preconfigured filters for ad and tracker blocking, no manual rule setup required
• Optimized for browser-level protection, delivering ad-blocking where it matters most

Extra tools included:

• TotalAV antivirus engine – scan and remove malware, ransomware, and other threats
• Real-time system protection – continuously monitors and blocks active security risks
• TotalVPN(optional upgrade) – secure your connection and mask your IP with military-grade encryption
• Integrated device cleaner and performance optimizer – remove junk files, manage startup apps, and boost device speed
• WebShield (Browser Protection) – blocks access to phishing and dangerous websites
• Password Vault – store and manage strong, encrypted passwords
• Data Breach Monitoring – receive alerts if your email appears in known data leaks
• Duplicate File Finder – locate and delete redundant files to free up space
• Application Uninstaller – completely remove unwanted software and leftover file

Mobile support: Total Adblock integrates with the TotalAV security app to block ads and trackers on both Android and iOS. The mobile version also suppresses cookie pop-ups inside Safari on iPhone and offers more complete browser-level protection on Android. It doesn’t require separate extensions and runs as part of your TotalAV subscription.

Devices supported: Unlimited (with a single subscription)

Payment options: Major credit cards, PayPal

Money-back guarantee: 30 days

Pricing: From $2.42/month, including unlimited device protection.

Test results: In our tests, Total Adblock consistently removed ads across YouTube, news outlets, blogs, and ecommerce sites with no noticeable slowdown in browser performance. It successfully blocked trackers and cookie prompts while maintaining smooth page loading times, especially on Chrome and Safari. On mobile, paired with the TotalAV app, it offered dependable protection against in-app ads and web trackers.

Verdict: If you want an ad blocker that requires zero effort and delivers reliable results, Total Adblock is the best place to start.

2. Surfshark Adblocker: Best for Streaming & Cross-Device Privacy

Surfshark’s CleanWeb is a DNS-level ad blocker built directly into its VPN, meaning it works across all apps and browsers without relying on a browser extension. It filters out ads, malicious domains, and trackers before reaching your device. Ideal for users who value both online privacy and ad-free browsing in one streamlined app.

Technical features:

• DNS-level ad blocking blocks ads, trackers, and malicious domains directly through DNS requests
• System-wide filtering works across apps and browsers, not just within the browser environment
• Privacy-focused filtering engine automatically blocks intrusive ads and trackers without requiring custom filter setup
• VPN-based traffic routing filters content through secure VPN tunnels, with no browser extension required

Extra tools included:

• Secure VPN with advanced protocols – includes WireGuard and OpenVPN for fast, encrypted connections
• Real-time breach detection – get alerts if your email appears in leaked databases
• IP rotator – regularly changes your IP address to enhance anonymity
• GPS spoofing(on supported devices) – fake your device’s physical location for added privacy and access
• Compatible with Surfshark Antivirus – comprehensive malware protection available as an optional add-on

Mobile support: CleanWeb runs directly within Surfshark’s iOS and Android apps. It blocks ads and trackers across browsers and apps without needing separate tools.

Devices supported: Unlimited (one subscription covers all devices)

Payment options: Credit cards, Google Pay, PayPal, cryptocurrencies
Money-back guarantee: 30 days
Pricing: From $2.49/month, with unlimited device coverage

Test results: In our tests, Surfshark’s CleanWeb blocked ads in YouTube, mobile apps, and across browsers without slowing down connections. It consistently prevented access to known phishing and tracker domains and worked reliably during video playback on streaming platforms like Hulu and Crunchyroll.

Verdict: Surfshark is perfect for privacy-first users who want comprehensive ad and tracker blocking baked into their VPN, with no extra configuration required.

3. Nord Adblocker: Built for Security, Backed by a VPN Giant

NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro filters ads, phishing links, and malware threats in real time, even when the VPN is disabled. It’s especially strong on desktop platforms, where it scans downloads, blocks trackers, and prevents access to malicious domains. It’s not as customizable as some tools, but it offers far more robust threat defense than most.

Technical features:

• Network-layer filtering blocks ads and trackers before they reach your device, across browsers and apps
• Real-time malware scanning(on desktop) detects and blocks malicious files as you browse or download
• System-wide threat blocking automatically stops phishing attempts and access to known malicious domains
• Preconfigured intelligent filters are optimized for hands-free protection, with no manual list setup required

Extra tools included:

• Secure VPN with WireGuard and OpenVPN – encrypts your connection and hides your IP for safe, private browsing
• NordPass (password manager) – securely store, autofill, and manage passwords across all your devices
• NordLocker (encrypted cloud storage) – safely store and share files with end-to-end encryption
• Advanced tracker suppression – blocks behavioral tracking scripts and third-party data collectors
• Analytics and telemetry blocking – stops unwanted background data collection from apps and websites

Payment options: Credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, crypto
Money-back guarantee: 30 days
Pricing: From $4.69/month with full bundle access

Mobile support: Partial. On iOS and Android, NordVPN includes DNS-level filtering. The full Threat Protection Pro (with file scanning and deep threat detection) is only available on desktops.

Devices supported: Up to 6 devices per subscription

Test results: Nord consistently blocked YouTube and embedded video ads, prevented access to tracker-heavy sites, and stopped malicious links in email tests. On desktop, it caught and flagged multiple malware downloads in real time. The VPN remained stable during full system scanning.

Verdict: Nord is ideal for users who prioritize security over customization. If you’re looking for ad blocking plus real-time threat protection and malware filtering, this is your best bet.

4. AdGuard: The Power User’s Favorite, Now for Everyone

AdGuard provides unmatched flexibility, supporting everything from browser extensions to full-device filtering on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even routers. It’s ideal for power users, families, and anyone looking for advanced customization and strong, system-wide security.

Technical features:

• DNS-level and HTTPS filtering blocks ads, trackers, and malicious content before it loads, even on encrypted sites
• Custom filter rules & script blocking for advanced control over what gets blocked, including JavaScript and tracking scripts
• Cross-device compatibility works seamlessly on routers, smart TVs, mobile devices, and desktop systems
• Browser extensions for all major platforms, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and more, for in-browser control

Extra tools included:

• Parental controls – restrict adult content and enforce Safe Search for safer family browsing
• Real-time filtering stats – monitor blocked ads, trackers, and threats across all devices
• Router-level protection – secure your entire home network with DNS-based or app-level configuration
• DNS customization – choose or add DNS providers for better speed, security, and control
• Stealth mode – block trackers, hide search queries, and prevent fingerprinting for enhanced privacy

Mobile support: Native apps for Android and iOS. Android offers full system-wide ad blocking, while iOS uses Safari content filters and DNS-based filtering.

Devices supported: Up to 9 devices (varies by plan)

Payment options: Credit/debit cards, PayPal, crypto
Money-back guarantee: 60 days
Pricing: From $2.49/month or a lifetime license for a one-time fee

Test results: In testing, AdGuard blocked all tested ad formats, including YouTube pre-rolls, in-app mobile ads, and ad trackers embedded in streaming sites. It excelled on Android and desktop, offering responsive toggles and granular list management.

Verdict: If you want total control, multi-device coverage, and deep configurability, AdGuard is the most flexible and advanced blocker on the market.

5. MacKeeper Adblocker: Native, Lightweight Protection for Mac Users

MacKeeper’s ad blocker is part of a full security and system utility suite tailored specifically for macOS. It filters trackers and ads inside Safari and Chrome, offering users a smooth and private experience with minimal effort. While it doesn’t support system-wide blocking or advanced customization, it’s an effective all-in-one option for Apple users.

Technical features:

• Browser-level ad and tracker filtering blocks pop-ups, banners, and third-party trackers within your browser
• Lightweight and efficient, optimized for native macOS performance with minimal system impact
• Plug-and-play simplicity, built for users who want strong ad-blocking without manual setup or filter management
• Focused in-browser protection, ideal for Safari and other Mac-compatible browsers

Extra tools included:

• Real-time antivirus protection – automatically detects and removes malware, spyware, and ransomware threats
• Integrated VPN with unlimited bandwidth – encrypt your internet traffic and browse anonymously without limits
• ID Theft Guard – monitor email addresses for breaches and get alerts if your personal data is exposed
• Memory cleaner – free up RAM in real time to keep your Mac running smoothly
• Performance optimizer – boost startup speed, remove junk files, and improve overall system performance

Mobile support: None, MacKeeper is macOS-only and does not support iOS or Android devices.

Devices supported: One Mac per subscription (no multi-device plans)

Payment options: Credit cards, PayPal
Money-back guarantee: 14 days
Pricing: From $10.95/month per device

Test results: In our tests, MacKeeper effectively blocked display ads and trackers on Safari and Chrome. It performed smoothly on Apple Silicon Macs and didn’t interfere with browsing speed. While it couldn’t block ads inside apps or other browsers, it provided reliable everyday ad filtering and system maintenance.

Verdict: If you’re a dedicated Mac user who wants lightweight, no-hassle ad blocking combined with system protection, MacKeeper offers a well-rounded solution, especially for those who prefer native apps over multi-tool setups.

How We Tested and Ranked These Ad Blockers

We didn’t rely on vendor claims, passive feature checklists, or traffic simulations. Every ad blocker featured in this list was installed, configured, and tested under real-world conditions across multiple platforms and browsers. Below is how we evaluated them and what we found during testing.

1. Real-World Browsing Tests

We visited high-adload websites, including YouTube, Twitch, CNN, Forbes, Reddit, and AliExpress, to measure how well each blocker handled:

• Pre-roll video ads (e.g., on YouTube): Only Total Adblock, AdGuard, and Nord blocked 100% consistently.
• In-line display ads & banners: All five blockers removed ~90-100%, except on newer Reddit layouts.
• MacKeeper and AdGuard sometimes failed to block delayed pop-ups and floating overlays.
• Autoplay video & dynamic elements: Surfshark’s blocker struggled on Twitch, missing sidebar autoplay.

Overall, Total Adblock and AdGuard provided the most seamless ad-free experience across formats and platforms.

2. Tracker and Privacy Analysis

Using Blacklight, uMatrix, and browser dev tools, we measured how effectively each blocker neutralized:

• Third-party tracking cookies: Total Adblock and AdGuard blocked over 90% in all sessions.
• Fingerprinting scripts: Nord and Surfshark scored highest, with fingerprint-blocking filters enabled.
• Embedded beacons (e.g., Facebook Pixel): MacKeeper blocked most, but required extra toggling.

AdGuard excelled in out-of-the-box privacy protection. Others needed manual rule enabling for full coverage.

3. Cross-Platform Functionality

We tested each blocker on Windows 11, macOS Ventura, Android 13, and iOS 17 using Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge:

• Total Adblock and AdGuard offered the same features across all platforms.
• Surfshark and Nord’s browser blockers worked best on Chrome and Edge but had reduced controls on Safari.
• MacKeeper Adblock was desktop-only (macOS), no mobile integration or extensions.

Consistency across browsers and mobile apps gave TotalAdblock and AdGuard a clear advantage here.

4. Performance Monitoring

Using Task Manager, Activity Monitor, and Google Lighthouse, we tracked:

• CPU usage and RAM impact during normal browsing
• Load times on ad-heavy pages before vs after enabling each blocker
• Network request reduction via DevTools audit panels

Key findings:

• AdGuard had the lowest memory footprint and fastest page loads (~27% improvement).
• Total Adblock slightly increased RAM use but blocked more aggressive elements.
• MacKeeper had moderate resource use; no lag noted in testing.
• Surfshark and Nord were lightweight, especially in Chromium-based browsers.

No blocker caused significant slowdown, but TotalAdblock delivered the best balance of power and efficiency.

5. Setup and Usability Assessment

We rated onboarding, UI layout, and filter control:

• Total Adblock and AdGuard had the smoothest setup, clear dashboards, and easy whitelisting.
• Nord required toggling via browser UI, with fewer filter options exposed.
• Surfshark’s interface was basic: good for casual users, but limited for advanced ones.
• MacKeeper’s dashboard was polished, but lacked filter customization.

For both beginners and power users, TotalAdblock offered the most flexible and transparent control system.

6. Pricing & Value

We compared pricing tiers, refund terms, and bonus features (VPN, malware filtering, parental controls):

• Total Adblock gave the most value when bundled with antivirus and VPN (under $2/mo in promo).
• AdGuard‘s lifetime license offered long-term savings.
• MacKeeper is pricier but includes full system cleanup tools.
• Nord and Surfshark block ads as part of a VPN package, which is ideal if you want full web security, not just ad control.

All tools offered a money-back guarantee (14–30 days). AdGuard and Total Adblock stood out for combining performance and pricing flexibility.

We tested each blocker across ads, trackers, performance, usability, and platform coverage, not just marketing claims. Only those that delivered real-world blocking, cross-platform reliability, and clear user value made the final cut.

This list isn’t based on popularity or affiliate perks. It’s based on adblockers that actually did the job in real browsing conditions.

What’s the Best Ad Blocker for You?

Ad blockers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your ideal pick depends on your operating system, browsing behavior, and technical comfort level. Based on real-world stress testing and technical benchmarks, here’s how the top tools stack up across devices and use cases.

Best Ad Blockers by Device

Windows: Total Adblock delivered the cleanest browser-level experience on Chrome and Edge, with zero configuration required. For users needing fine-grained filter control, DNS-level blocking, and smart TV/router support, AdGuard stands out as the more advanced choice.

macOS: MacKeeper integrates tightly with Safari and macOS system utilities, including its own VPN and antivirus. If you need one solution that handles both cleaning and blocking on Mac, it’s the best fit. For multi-device households, Total Adblock offers a lightweight, browser-based experience that syncs well across platforms.

Android: Surfshark’s CleanWeb filtered out mobile in-app ads, trackers, and video ads without harming battery life or performance. If you need DNS-level filtering, custom rules, and parental control in one interface, AdGuard for Android is best-in-class.

iOS: Total Adblock offered robust Safari ad blocking and cookie suppression with minimal setup. Surfshark is a close second for users who want VPN-integrated filtering and extra privacy protections like IP rotation and GPS spoofing.

Best Ad Blockers by Use Case

For minimal setup and maximum cleanup: Total Adblock is browser-based and works immediately after install. Great for users who don’t want to deal with filter lists or toggles.

For streaming and app-wide blocking: Surfshark’s DNS-level filtering blocks ads in YouTube, Hulu, apps, and mobile games. It also encrypts your traffic via VPN for added privacy.

For family-wide protection: AdGuard supports multi-device filtering with parental controls, DNS-level settings, and router-based deployment. Ideal for managing household browsing without constant oversight.

For strong malware and phishing defense: Nord’s Threat Protection Pro delivers system-level blocking, live malware scanning, and tracker suppression. It works even without an active VPN session.

For Mac-native performance: MacKeeper is built specifically for macOS and Apple Silicon. It includes integrated VPN, real-time antivirus, and ad blocking without draining system resources.

How to Block Ads Like a Pro Using Total Adblock

Ad blockers are easy to install, but here’s how to get the most out of them.

Modern ad blockers, such as Total Adblock, work right out of the box. However, if you want a truly clean, fast, and private browsing experience, a few quick setup tips can make a huge difference.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tool