Using a Mac is different for many reasons. They are minimalist devices paired with an OS that is cleaner and decluttered compared to most Windows machines. This is exactly why ads can absolutely ruin your experience on a Mac. Then, there are performance issues and security risks that often find their way to your computer when you visit shady sites. Now, yes, Apple does a lot to safeguard your data, but it’s not enough and sometimes a third-party solution, like an ad blocker, can help a lot.
Good ad blockers do more than just block ads; they also deal with invisible trackers that follow you around, prevent advertisers from collecting information about your browser, device, and other activities, block other annoyances such as notifications, pop-ups, and floating videos, and speed up web page loading. We’ve tested and compared a range of ad blockers, looking at their effectiveness, customisability, and overall performance on macOS to bring you the top five best options for 2024.
Overview of the Top Contenders
Before diving into the details of each ad blocker, let’s take a look at key aspects like compatibility and pricing.
Total Adblock | AdGuard | AdLock | AdBlock | Wipr 2 | |
Best For | Security features | Best overall | Ease of use | Features and Customisation | Lightweight and Easy to Use |
Compatibility | Chromium Based Browsers, Android, and iOS | Browsers, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS | Browsers, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS | Browsers, iOS | macOS, iOS |
Open-Source | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Support | Email, Phone, Help Center | Email, Knowledge Base | Email, Phone | Email, Help Center | N/A |
Starts At | $19.99/year | $29.88/ | $3.50/month, $34/year | $2/month | $4.99 |
Simple & Secure: Total Adblock
Total Adblock is a no-nonsense ad-blocking extension that helps to clean up your browsing experience on Mac. Total Adblock is not just a basic ad-blocker; it’s designed with both privacy and security in mind. It is built by the team behind the award-winning antivirus TotalAV. If you’re not a big fan of configuring your ad blocker and just want it to work out of the box, Total Adblock comes with a one-click setup that blocks ads, pop-ups, banners, and other annoyances on your browser. Although it mainly works as a browser extension for Safari and Chrome, the security features of Total Adblock also make it an attractive proposition for Mac users.
Total Adblock provides an excellent level of privacy protection that stops ads from appearing on the browser and restricts tracking cookies and third-party scripts collecting information. With all those intrusive elements kept out, Total Adblock can help reduce the information advertisers have about you, thereby limiting targeted ads and enhancing online privacy. Ideal for Mac users concerned about both ad clutter and privacy threats, Total Adblock not only isolates intruders before they infect your system but also excels at keeping browsers ad-free and secure.
Total Adblock is free to use as an extension, but we recommend subscribing as the free version does not block ads on a lot of popular websites. In addition to ad-blocking, premium plan users also gain access to TotalAV antivirus, an appealing package for those wanting both antivirus and ad-blocking capabilities in one. The premium offering includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try Total Adblock risk-free to see if it works well for your Mac.
Features
- Ease of use: Total Adblock is a one-click setup-and-forget kind of extension.
- Blocks ads and trackers: It effectively blocks ads, trackers, and other annoyances.
- Avoids detection: It can avoid detection by websites that try to circumvent ad blockers.
- Allows whitelisting: Users can whitelist specific websites where they want to allow ads.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Security-focused, with anti-malware and anti-phishing features
- Includes TotalAV antivirus with the premium package
- Offers 7-day free trial
Cons
- Limited to browser-based ad-blocking
- No customisation options
- Requires a subscription for full features
Versatile & System-wide: AdGuard
AdGuard is a solid ad-blocking tool powered by a wide range of blocklists and filters. Its own Mac app offers proper system-wide ad-blocking. The all-rounder AdGuard can filter ads in every browser and app you use; it also kills annoying pop-ups on streaming and social media sites. By blocking ads, trackers, and other harmful scripts on the DNS level, AdGuard prevents these unwanted nuisances from reaching your device in the first place, resulting in faster web browsing and improved privacy.
What makes AdGuard so appealing to Mac users is its customisation options. AdGuard is ideal for advanced users who want to fine-tune their ad-blocking experience, featuring a massive filter list, customisable rules, and a Stealth Mode for privacy. Stealth Mode, in particular, allows you to block third-party cookies, hide search queries, and even implement fingerprinting prevention, adding extra layers of privacy beyond what most ad blockers offer. Additionally, AdGuard integrates seamlessly with Safari and other macOS apps.
While AdGuard’s browser extension is free to use, a subscription is needed to access the macOS app and all its advanced features, including system-wide ad blocking, parental controls, and stealth mode. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution that blocks ads across your entire Mac, AdGuard is one of the most effective and flexible choices available.
Features
- System-Wide Ad Blocking: Blocks ads across all browsers and applications on macOS.
- DNS-Level Blocking: Filters ads and trackers before they even reach you, boosting speed and effectiveness.
- Stealth Mode: Blocks invisible trackers, hides search activity, and clears cookies to keep you anonymous on the internet.
- Customisable Filters: Users can set specific filters, add custom rules, and whitelist sites.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and various routers.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extensive privacy controls and DNS-based ad-blocking
- Blocks a wide variety of ads, trackers, and malicious sites
- Highly customisable, catering to both beginners and advanced users
- System-wide functionality provides a cleaner experience across all apps
Cons
- Requires a subscription for full features
- Learning curve for users new to extensive customisation
Safe & Privacy-Focused: AdLock
AdLock is an easy-to-use, privacy-centric ad blocker compatible with various platforms, including macOS. It can block ads, trackers, and even harmful websites throughout the system and ensure an ad-free, clean, and private browsing experience. It does have some user-accessible filters and customisation options, but its anti-tracking features and safe browsing integrations are where it truly shines.
A notable feature of AdLock is its privacy protection, which stops trackers from collecting user data and provides a straightforward summary of blocked elements. It also effectively filters ads and pop-ups on streaming platforms, social media, and some applications, making it a flexible option. For those looking for a simple ad blocker that prioritises privacy and security, AdLock remains a solid choice.
Features
- System-Wide Ad Blocking: Covers all browsers and applications on MacOS.
- Safe Browsing Integration: Keeps users away from potentially malicious sites.
- Anti-Tracking: Blocks trackers to keep your data private and reduce targeted ads.
- HTTPS Filtering: Blocks ads from most secure sites and apps.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effective ad blocking and privacy features
- Straightforward setup and minimal configuration
- Blocks trackers and malicious sites
Cons
- Limited customisation options
- System-wide app requires a subscription
Reliable & Feature-Rich: AdBlock
AdBlock is one of the oldest ad blockers that have been active since 2009. Originally built for Chrome, AdBlock works great on Safari. It effectively removes pop-ups, banners, and video ads on websites. AdBlock flawlessly blocks all YouTube ads. While it lacks system-wide support, if you’re looking for a solid ad blocker for Safari, AdBlock should serve you well.
Since being acquired by eyeo GmbH in 2021, AdBlock has participated in their “Acceptable Ads” program, which is a whitelist of non-intrusive ads. While it was created to support websites that rely entirely on ads, there have been reports of eyeo accepting payment for allowing ads in some of the ad giants like Google. This Acceptable Ads “feature” is enabled by default, but we recommend that you disable it for a better experience.
With AdBlock, you don’t need to worry about complex settings. Just install it, and it gets to work blocking ads. While it may not offer the advanced privacy features of other blockers, it’s still a reliable choice for those looking for basic, hassle-free ad blocking.
Features
- Comprehensive Ad Blocking: Effectively filters out banner ads, video ads, pop-ups, social media widgets, and more, covering all the major browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Firefox.
- Cryptomining Protection: Blocks unauthorised cryptomining scripts to prevent your device resources from being used without your knowledge.
- Privacy Safeguards: Comes with filters to block trackers, ensuring a private browsing experience free from invasive ads.
- Element Blocking: This lets users manually remove specific page elements, giving you complete control over what you see on each site.
- Premium Features: Offers additional tools like distraction control, automatic cookie consent blocking, and customisable themes, all available for a low monthly subscription.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Removes a wide range of ads from popular browsers
- Includes an Acceptable Ads option for those who want to support creators
Cons
- Limited to browser-based ad blocking
- Lacks advanced privacy and customisation features
Lightweight & Easy-to-Use: Wipr 2
Wipr 2 is a simple, lightweight ad blocker designed specifically for Apple devices. It’s ideal for users who want a fast, no-frills ad blocker that takes up minimal system resources while keeping their system clutter-free. Wipr 2 automatically updates its filters to provide an ad-free experience.
Unlike other ad blockers, Wipr 2 doesn’t offer extensive customisation or the option to whitelist ads. Instead, it blocks everything by default. Wipr 2’s blocklist includes banner ads, popups, video ads, non-English ads, native ads, cookie warnings, crypto mining, notification prompts, newsletter sign-ups, floating videos, trackers, and much more. It is very lightweight and focuses heavily on simplicity. It is a great choice if you want effective ad blocking without the extra bells and whistles.
Features
- Extensive Ad Blocking: Covers banner ads, pop-ups, video ads, native ads, and non-English ads.
- Privacy Protection: Blocks trackers, data collection, and cookie consent prompts.
- Distraction-Free Browsing: Removes sign-in prompts, newsletter pop-ups, notification prompts, and “use our app” nudges.
- Cryptomining Protection: Prevents unauthorised scripts from using device resources.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use with no need for manual configuration
- Blocks a wide range of distractions and privacy threats
- Automatic updates keep filters current without user intervention
Cons
- Limited to Safari with no customisation options
- Lacks advanced filtering or element blocking
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right ad blocker for your Mac can make all the difference when it comes to your online privacy and security. Whether you want a system-wide ad blocker, advanced customisation or a simple one that works, each of our top five has something for different users.
Total Adblock is a security-focused option that blocks ads, trackers and phishing attempts, so it’s perfect for those who want to be safe. AdGuard is the most versatile and feature-rich solution; it’s system-wide ad blocking with lots of customisation options, so it’s for both beginners and advanced users. AdLock has good privacy protection with its anti-tracking features and safe browsing integration; AdBlock is a reliable choice for Safari users who want classic ad blocking without too much configuration. Wipr 2 is for those who want a lightweight and straightforward ad blocker for Safari; it’s all about simplicity and ease of use.
Whether you need a full system-wide solution like AdGuard or a lightweight Safari blocker like Wipr 2, these top-rated ad blockers will keep your Mac clean, private, and secure. Choose the one that fits your needs and enjoy clutter-free, safer browsing on your Mac.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Safest Ad Blocker on Mac?
The safest ad blocker on Mac is Total Adblock. Developed by the makers of TotalAV, an award winning antivirus solution, Total Adblock focuses on security along with ad blocking. It has anti-malware and anti-phishing features so it blocks not only annoying ads but also harmful links and malicious websites. Its focus on privacy and online safety makes it the top choice for users who want to be safe on their Macs.
Is There a Free Ad Blocker on Mac?
Yes, AdGuard has a free browser extension for Mac users that blocks ads, trackers and other annoyances on Safari, Chrome and Firefox. The free version is limited to browser based ad blocking but it’s still good for a safer and faster browsing. For users who need system wide ad blocking AdGuard also has a premium version with additional features like DNS level filtering, stealth mode and custom filters so it’s one of the best options for Mac users who want free and paid solutions.