Ad blockers are pieces of software or browser add-ons that aim to stop ads from showing up on websites. Ad restriction software operates by detecting and stopping various forms of advertisements, like pop-ups, banner ads, video ads, and even in-line ads on web pages.
Ad blockers may also stop tracking scripts employed by advertisers to collect personal information regarding users for tailored ads. By eliminating these undesirable elements, Ad restriction software accelerates page loading speeds, minimizes distractions, increases privacy, and yields a smoother, more pleasant surfing experience.
Whether you want to enhance page loading speeds, safeguard your information from trackers, or just appreciate an ad-free experience, selecting the best ad blocker can make a huge impact. In this blog, we will discuss the top 10 ad blockers of 2025, their features, their advantages, and what sets them apart in the constantly changing world of online privacy and browsing effectiveness.
Why do You Need Ad Blockers?
Ad blockers are much-needed applications for a variety of reasons, giving users a cleaner and safer browsing experience:
- Faster Browsing Speed: Ads, particularly resource-intensive multimedia ads, can delay webpage loading speed. By preventing these ads, Ad restriction software enables pages to load quickly, making your browsing experience more efficient.
- Improved Privacy: Most online advertisements come with tracking scripts that harvest personal information regarding your web activities. Ad restriction software stops these trackers from getting your information, providing improved privacy and less likelihood of being bombarded by intrusive adverts.
- Fewer Distractions: Ads are distracting and intrusive, particularly pop-ups or auto-play videos. Ad blockers get rid of these distractions, enabling you to enjoy the content you’re interested in without any disruptions.
- Less Malware Risk: Certain online ads may have malicious code or take you to malicious websites. Ad restriction software keeps you safe from such risks by blocking suspicious or unsafe ads.
- Tidy User Interface: With less visual disturbance from ads, websites look cleaner and more usable. It improves the overall visual appeal and legibility of the webpage.
- Saving Bandwidth: Advertising, especially video ads, might eat up plenty of data. Ad restriction software prevents bandwidth waste, particularly crucial to users with data limits or those on mobile plans.
- More Content Control: Ad restriction software for most applications allows people to specify which advertisements or content they want blocked, having control over what can be shown on a web page.
List of 10 Best Ad Blockers for 2025
1. NordVPN
NordVPN’s AdBlock technology, included within its CyberSec feature, improves web surfing through the blocking of aggressive ads, blocking malicious sites, and preventing online trackers from gathering data from users. This enhances web surfing speed, security and minimizes distractions from pop-ups and autoplay ads.
As opposed to dedicated ad blockers, NordVPN includes this functionality as part of its VPN service, providing encrypted and anonymous web access and filtering out malicious or unwanted content. This two-layer protection makes it a worthwhile utility for users who want both cybersecurity and an ad-free experience.
Key features:
- Blocks Intrusive Ads
- Prevents Access to Malicious Websites
- Stops Online Trackers
- Enhances Browsing Speed
- Works with VPN for Extra Security
Pricing:
- Complete Plan ($4.89/mo) – Includes VPN, Threat Protection Pro™, password manager, and 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage.
- Plus Plan ($3.89/mo) – Offers VPN, Threat Protection Pro™, and password manager with Data Breach Scanner.
- Basic Plan ($2.99/mo) – Provides secure, high-speed VPN without extra security features.
Website: https://nordvpn.com/cybernews/adblock/
2. Surfshark
Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature is an advanced ad blocker that improves online security and web browsing by blocking annoying ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It saves users from malware infections, privacy leaks, and page loading slowing down by weeding out undesirable content.
Compared to independent ad blockers, CleanWeb is bundled within Surfshark’s VPN service, meaning safe, encrypted browsing with fewer distractions from advertisements and trackers. This option is especially convenient for ensuring a quick and anonymous internet experience without having to sacrifice security.
Key features:
- Blocks Intrusive Ads
- Prevents Tracking and Data Collection
- Protects Against Malicious Websites and Malware
- Enhances Browsing Speed
- Integrated with VPN for Secure and Private Browsing
Pricing:
- Surfshark Starter ($2.19/mo) – Includes VPN, Alternative ID, Antivirus, Alert, Search, and Data Removal by Incogni.
- Surfshark One ($2.69/mo) – Offers all Starter features with additional security enhancements.
- Surfshark One+ ($4.29/mo) – Provides the most comprehensive protection with all Surfshark features included.
Website: https://surfshark.com/deal/clean-web
3. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN’s exclusive partner deal most probably comes with an ad-blocking feature that boosts internet security by blocking invasive ads, trackers, and potentially malicious content.
The feature facilitates faster browsing by blocking unwanted advertisements and protecting users against online threats like malware and phishing attacks. Incorporated in ProtonVPN’s encrypted and secure network, it offers a smooth experience where users get to access a more private, more secure, and ad-free internet.
Key features:
- Ad and Tracker Blocking
- Improved Browsing Speed
- Enhanced Privacy and Security
- Malware and Phishing Protection
- Seamless Integration with VPN
Pricing:
- 1-Month Plan (€9.99/month) – Billed monthly with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 2-Year Plan (€3.59/month) – Billed €86.16 every 24 months, offering 64% savings.
- 1-Year Plan (€3.99/month) – Billed annually, with 60% savings.
Website: https://protonvpn.com/l/special-partner-offer
4. Total AdBlock
Total AdBlock provides an effective solution to block annoying ads, trackers, and pop-ups, promoting user privacy and faster browsing. It is optimized to work smoothly across devices, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile phones, to provide a uniform, ad-free experience.
By blocking unwanted ads, Total AdBlock also prevents malware, saves data usage, and offers a smoother, faster Internet experience. This utility assures that users can surf safely without interruptions or attacks from malicious sites.
Key features:
- Blocks Intrusive Ads
- Prevents Trackers and Pop-ups
- Protects Against Malware
- Reduces Data Usage
- Improves Browsing Speed
- Cross-Device Compatibility
Pricing:
- 1-Month Plan – $7.99/month
- 1-Year Plan – $47.75/year (approximately $3.98/month)
- Lifetime Plan – $99.95 (one-time payment)
Website: https://www.totaladblock.com/block-ads-3
5. IPVanish
IPVanish’s Threat Protection feature aims to increase online security by stopping malicious websites, ads, and trackers. IPVanish Threat Protection prevents malware infections and phishing attacks, thus offering a safer web experience.
By blocking offensive content, IPVanish’s Threat Protection enhances privacy and surfing speed, giving users the freedom to surf the web without hindrances or danger. IPVanish’s Threat Protection feature coexists perfectly with IPVanish’s VPN service to provide maximum privacy and protection while surfing the web.
Key features:
- Blocks Malicious Websites
- Prevents Ads and Trackers
- Protects Against Malware and Phishing
- Improves Privacy
- Enhances Browsing Speed
Pricing:
- Essential Plan ($2.19/mo) – Billed at $52.56 for the first 2 years, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Advanced Plan ($3.29/mo) – Billed at $78.96 for the first 2 years, offering high-speed VPN, advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited devices, and 24/7 support.
Website: https://www.ipvanish.com/vpn-features/threat-protection/
6. AdGuard
AdGuard provides a powerful ad-blocking solution that enables users to block annoying ads, trackers, and pop-ups and enjoy increased privacy and security. With a priority on optimizing browsing speed, AdGuard stops unwanted ads from slowing down websites, guards against phishing, and keeps users safe from online dangers.
It is available on different platforms, such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and offers uninterrupted protection for all your devices. Furthermore, AdGuard includes functionalities such as parental controls, secure browsing, and DNS filtering in order to create a safer web experience.
Key features:
- Ad and Tracker Blocking
- Pop-up Blocking
- Malware and Phishing Protection
- Parental Controls
- Safe Browsing
- DNS Filtering
- Cross-Platform Compatibility
Pricing:
- Personal Plan – ₹1,329.3 (₹1,899 original price) for up to 3 devices, one-time payment with a 30% discount.
- Family Plan – ₹2,799.99 (₹5,697 original price) for up to 9 devices, one-time payment with a 30% discount.
Website: https://adguard.com/en/welcome.html
7. Ghostery
The Ghostery Contributor Program enables users to contribute financially to the development of Ghostery, a privacy and security solution that blocks trackers and ads, and help keep its mission to defend online privacy, minimize digital tracking, and enhance browsing experiences.
Contributions enable Ghostery to continue developing and adding features, ensuring that it continues to be a free and efficient solution for users who care about their online privacy. Donors may select various levels of giving, with the choice to give one time or regularly.
Key features:
- Ad and Tracker Blocking
- Enhanced Privacy Protection
- Improved Browsing Speed
- Customizable Privacy Settings
- Cross-Platform Compatibility
Pricing:
- Free Plan – Basic ad and tracker blocking features with limited customization.
- Ghostery Plus – $2.49/month, offering enhanced features such as advanced tracker blocking, improved privacy settings, and additional performance optimizations.
- Ghostery Premium – $4.99/month, providing all features from Ghostery Plus along with real-time threat protection, priority support, and extra customization options.
Website: https://www.ghostery.com/
8. AdLock
AdLock is an ad-blocker that was created to eliminate intrusive ads, pop-ups, and trackers from all platforms to provide users with increased privacy and security. It operates by blocking unwanted ads from websites and apps, which ensures faster browsing and a lower threat of malware and phishing attacks.
AdLock has support for several devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, to provide a hassle-free, ad-free experience. Moreover, it has features such as custom filters, privacy protection, and tracking prevention for safer browsing online.
Key features:
- Ad and Pop-up Blocking
- Tracker and Cookie Blocking
- Malware and Phishing Protection
- Custom Filters
- Cross-Platform Compatibility
- Privacy Protection
Pricing:
- 1-Month Plan – ₹158.01/month, billed monthly (VAT may apply).
- 5-Year Plan (Best Price) – ₹47.18/month, billed ₹2,830.80 every 5 years (VAT may apply).
- 12-Month Plan (Most Popular) – ₹125.87/month, billed ₹1,510.41 every 12 months (VAT may apply).
Website: https://adlock.com/
9. Privacy Badger
Privacy Badger is an EFF-developed, free browser add-on that prevents users from being tracked online and stops advertisers from gathering information about them. Privacy Badger blocks third-party trackers that monitor people’s actions on websites without permission, and it does this automatically, creating a more private and secure online experience.
Privacy Badger silently operates in the background without user configuration and increases browsing speed by eliminating unwanted tracking scripts. Privacy Badger is compatible with major browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
Key features:
- Tracker Blocking
- Automatic Privacy Protection
- No Configuration Required
- Improves Browsing Speed
- Cross-Browser Compatibility
- Free and Open Source
Pricing: Free
Website: https://privacybadger.org/
10. Vivaldi
Vivaldi’s Ad Blocker is an integrated feature in the Vivaldi browser that blocks intrusive ads, trackers, and pop-ups for a smoother, faster browsing experience. It works by filtering out unwanted content while ensuring that users still enjoy a clean and fast browsing experience.
The ad blocker is highly customizable, allowing users to adjust settings to block specific ads or content types. It also offers improved privacy by stopping tracking scripts from gathering personal information. This is a feature that is integrated directly into the Vivaldi browser without the need for extra extensions or plugins.
Key features:
- Built-in Ad Blocking
- Customizable Block Settings
- Tracker Blocking
- Improved Browsing Speed
- Enhanced Privacy Protection
- No Extensions Needed
Pricing: Free
Website: https://vivaldi.com/features/ad-blocker/
How to Choose Best Ad Blocker?
Selecting the best ad blocker can greatly improve your web surfing experience by enhancing privacy, eliminating distractions, and accelerating page loads. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you in making the proper selection according to your individual needs:
1. Browser and Device Compatibility
- Cross-Browser Compatibility: Make sure the ad blocker supports the browsers you run (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). Some ad blockers support one browser only, while others are cross-browser compatible.
- Device Compatibility: Some Ad restriction software runs on desktop browsers only, while others support mobile devices (iOS, Android). If you use more than one device, use a solution that supports all your devices.
2. Effectiveness in Blocking Ads and Trackers
- Ad Blocking: Look for an ad blocker that effectively removes intrusive ads, pop-ups, video ads, and banner ads without compromising the user experience on websites.
- Tracker blocking: Many ad blockers also block third-party trackers that collect your data for targeted advertising. A good ad blocker should prevent these trackers from gathering information about your browsing habits.
- Customizable Block Lists: A few Ad restriction software have pre-set filter lists or provide a mechanism to include custom filters for more specific blocking capability.
3. Speed and Performance
- Influence on Browser Speed: A few Ad restriction software can slow down your browser or website loading speed, so you should select one that affects performance minimally. Opt for lean ad blockers that don’t hurt performance with discernible slowdowns.
- Page Load Speed: Ad blockers may make pages load faster by eliminating slow ad scripts and limiting the number of requests the browser sends to ad servers. A good ad blocker will make pages load quickly and decrease data consumption.
4. Privacy Features
- Preventing Tracking of Data: A good ad blocker should not just block advertisements but also stop third-party websites from tracking your internet activity. Check for ad blockers that provide features like anti-tracking and blocking of cookies.
- Malware and Phishing Site Blocking: Some Ad restriction software have extra layers of security, such as blocking malicious ads that might cause malware infection or phishing scams.
5. User Interface and Customization
- Ease of Use: Pick an ad blocker with a clean, simple interface. It should be simple to turn the ad blocker on/off, modify settings, and see blocked content.
- Custom Settings: Seek features such as whitelisting (to display ads on certain websites), blocking certain ad types (such as video or banner ads), or being able to customize the blocking level.
6. Pricing
- Free or Paid: Ad blockers like uBlock Origin and AdBlock are free to utilize. Premium editions of some provide extra features, such as deeper blocking options, quicker updates, and better support. Ask yourself if you will benefit from a paid version’s extra features or if a free one will meet your needs.
- No Subscription Cost: Make sure the ad blocker doesn’t require subscription fees regularly unless you need premium features explicitly.
7. Reputation and Reviews
- Reputation: Select an ad blocker from a well-known developer or company. Established ad blockers such as AdGuard, uBlock Origin, and AdBlock Plus have a proven history.
- User Reviews: Look at user reviews and ratings to see how well the ad blocker performs for others. This will give you an idea of its strengths and weaknesses based on real-world use.
8. Additional Features
- Whitelist Management: A quality ad blocker will enable you to whitelist sites where you want to see ads, like news sites or content creators who depend on ad income.
- Multi-Device Support: In case you use more than one device, verify whether the ad blocker supports both desktop and mobile platforms so you can have an uninterrupted ,ad-free experience on all your devices.
- VPN Integration: Some ad blockers are included as part of a comprehensive privacy suite that also has a VPN, which can give you extra security by encrypting your internet connection and concealing your IP address.
9. Customer Support
- Support Options: See if the ad blocker has customer support, particularly if you’re looking at a paid solution. Good support allows you to resolve issues and get assistance when needed.
- Documentation and FAQs: Having access to detailed guides and FAQs is handy for setting up and troubleshooting your ad blocker.
10. Legal and Ethical Issues
- Open Source: Open-source ad blockers provide users with the ability to examine the code, establishing openness and reliability. This is specifically relevant for privacy-oriented solutions.
- Ethical Factors: Certain Ad restriction software (such as AdBlock Plus) permit “acceptable ads” (ads that are acceptable by certain criteria) for generating website income. If you prefer an ad-free environment, select an ad blocker that does not accept such ads.
Conclusion
In 2025, the best ad blockers will provide a perfect blend of enhanced privacy, faster browsing, and customizable features to meet the needs of diverse users. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, free option like uBlock Origin or seeking advanced protection with AdGuard or AdLock, there’s a solution for everyone.
These Ad restriction software not only remove intrusive ads but also safeguard against malware, prevent tracking, and improve website load times.
Ultimately, the selection of an ad blocker is up to your personal preference, whether that’s ease of use, added privacy features, or multi-platform support. By choosing the appropriate ad blocker, you can have a cleaner, faster, and more secure web experience.
FAQs
Are Ad restriction software legal?
Yes, Ad restriction software is legal. Yet, certain sites might ask users to turn them off since ads frequently are an income source for webmasters. Always think about supporting sites you can rely upon by whitelisting them.
Do Ad restriction software impact site functionality?
In extreme cases, Ad restriction software do interfere with website operations, particularly if the website is based on advertising for income. Most modern ad blockers have the functionality to whitelist websites so that the necessary content is not blocked.
Can I use Ad restriction software on my mobile device?
Yes. There are many Ad restriction software available for mobile phones. Software like AdGuard and Blokada have mobile apps for Android and iOS to block advertisements on websites and applications.
Do Ad restriction software ward off malware?
Some ad blockers, like AdGuard and AdLock, also block malicious ads and trackers and help ward off malware and phishing attacks.
