Top 5 Best Ad Blockers for Safari in 2024

Safari is built to be fast and private, and Apple’s commitment to data protection makes it a favourite among many privacy-conscious users. But while Safari has added Intelligent Tracking Prevention, it still can’t get rid of ads natively. From pop-ups and banners to those pesky video ads, even Safari users get their fair share of interruptions. To solve this issue and get a truly uninterrupted browsing experience, you must install an ad blocker.

Choosing the best ad blocker for Safari means finding one that integrates well with Apple’s ecosystem, respects user privacy and doesn’t slow things down. Whether you want an ad-free YouTube session, faster page loads or extra protection from trackers, we’ve got the top 5 ad blockers that bring out the best in Safari’s already robust privacy features. Here’s a closer look at the best ad blockers to keep your Safari browsing clean, private and distraction-free in 2024.

Overview of the Top Contenders

We’re laying out some basic details like pricing, compatibility, and other information about our top five contenders. 

Total Adblock: Powerful, User-Friendly Ad Blocker with Added Security for Safari

Total Adblock is an all-in-one ad blocker designed to give you a cleaner and more secure browsing experience on Safari. From the team behind TotalAV antivirus, Total Adblock combines ad blocking with added security for a simple setup and good protection. Once installed, it will block banners, pop-ups, video ads, and trackers so you can browse without distractions.

One of Total Adblock’s main features is its focus on privacy. It blocks tracking cookies and third-party scripts, so advertisers can’t collect as much data about you. Although Total Adblock is limited to browser-based protection on iOS due to Apple’s restrictions, it still gives you good privacy within Safari. Total Adblock’s premium plan also includes a subscription to TotalAV, so you get a complete security suite for Safari users who want all-around protection. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try Total Adblock risk-free.

Features

• All-in-One Ad Blocking: Total Adblock keeps your browsing clean and distraction-free by effectively blocking banner ads, video ads, and pop-ups on Safari.
• Privacy Protection: By blocking trackers, it shields your browsing data from prying eyes, helping to cut down on targeted ads and protect your privacy.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Total Adblock isn’t limited to Safari; it also works on other popular browsers and mobile devices, so you can enjoy consistent ad-free browsing across platforms.
• Customisable Settings: While designed for simplicity, Total Adblock still gives you control with a whitelist option, letting you decide which sites can show ads.
• Anti-Malware and Phishing Protection: Beyond ad and tracker blocking, it adds an extra layer of security by preventing access to suspicious sites that could carry malware or phishing threats.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong ad-blocking and privacy features
• Developed by a trusted antivirus company
• Emphasis on privacy and security
• Easy to use and set up in Safari

Cons

• Fewer customisation options
• Requires a subscription for full access

Wipr 2: Lightweight, No-Nonsense Ad Blocker for Safari

Wipr 2 is a simple, minimalist ad blocker that blocks ads and trackers without slowing Safari down. It’s the perfect choice for users who want ad blocking without all the fuss. Wipr 2 updates its filters every two weeks to stay effective against new ads and trackers. Built for Safari, Wipr 2 is designed to fit in with the browser, so it’s fast and reliable for Mac.

Unlike other ad blockers, Wipr 2 has no options or whitelisting, so it blocks all ads and trackers by default. This is perfect for users who just want ads and trackers gone; there is no need to adjust filters or settings. Wipr 2’s tiny footprint means minimal impact on system performance for a smooth private browsing experience.

Features

• Comprehensive Ad Blocking: Wipr 2 sweeps away banner ads, pop-ups, video ads, native ads, and even non-English ads.
• Privacy Protection: It shuts down trackers, blocks data collection, and handles those pesky cookie consent prompts.
• Distraction-Free Browsing: Gets rid of annoying interruptions like sign-in prompts, newsletter pop-ups, notifications, and “use our app” messages.
• Cryptomining Protection: Keeps your device safe from unauthorised cryptomining scripts that could sap your resources without your consent.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and efficient
• Blocks ads and trackers automatically
• Simple, no-setup installation for Safari
• Works great within the Apple Ecosystem

Cons

• No customisation or whitelisting options

1Blocker: Customizable Ad Blocking for Privacy-Focused Safari Users

1Blocker is a highly customisable ad blocker for Safari that blocks a lot more than just ads. It blocks trackers, social media widgets, comments, adult content and even page elements, so you have full control over your browsing experience. This is perfect for users who want a more fine-grained ad blocking experience, as 1Blocker has many options to manage what gets blocked.

1Blocker stands out from the rest because of its customisation customisation. Unlike most other ad blockers, it lets you create custom rules and regional filters so you can fine-tune the app to your needs. For Apple users looking for a comprehensive and flexible ad blocking tool, 1Blocker has a user-friendly interface and fast filtering without affecting system performance.

Features

• Enhanced Filtering Options: Offers the ability to block ads, trackers, comments, and specific elements on web pages.
• Adult Content Blocking: Includes a dedicated adult content filter to restrict access to most adult websites.
• Anti-Fingerprinting Protection: Prevents scripts from collecting information about your browser, operating system, and device, helping to safeguard your privacy.
• Customisable Rules: Lets users set up personalised rules for a more tailored ad-blocking experience.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Extensive customisation for advanced users
• Blocks various elements beyond standard ads
• Works efficiently with minimal impact on performance
• Integrates well with the Apple ecosystem

Cons

• Requires a subscription for full access to features
• Can be overwhelming for users seeking a simple solution

Ghostery: Privacy-Focused Ad Blocker and Tracker Control for Safari

Known for its focus on privacy, Ghostery is a trusted name for Mac users. It’s ideal for Safari, not only for its ad blocking but also its advanced tracking protection. Ghostery’s comprehensive tracker database blocks a wide range of trackers, including the ones used for advertising, analytics, and social media. This transparency and control over who tracks you make Ghostery a top choice for privacy-conscious users.

Another one of Ghostery’s standout features is its WhoTracks.Me report, which gives you insights into the trackers it blocks and the companies behind them. This unique reporting feature is particularly helpful for users who want to understand more about online tracking. Additionally, Ghostery offers its Never-Consent feature, which automatically rejects cookie prompts on websites. This reduces interruptions while keeping your data safe. With a user-friendly interface and strong privacy protections, Ghostery is an excellent ad blocker for Safari users who want to stay informed about their online footprint.

Features

• Comprehensive Tracker Database: Blocks trackers across different categories, from ads to analytics.
• Never-Consent Feature: Automatically declines cookie prompts on websites.
• Detailed Privacy Reports: Provides insights through WhoTracks.Me, allowing users to view which companies attempt to track them.
• AI-Driven Anti-Tracking: Blocks ads and trackers with AI-powered precision, especially useful on sites with sophisticated tracking.
• Open-Source: Ghostery’s code is open-source, allowing community oversight for increased trust and reliability.
• Search Engine Redirect Protection: Prevents search engines from rerouting links through their servers, preserving direct navigation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong focus on privacy and tracking protection
• User-friendly with detailed privacy insights
• Free to use, with no premium requirements for core features
• Community driven tracker database
• Open-source

Cons

• Limited to Safari on macOS

AdGuard: Feature-Packed Ad Blocker with Private DNS for Safari

AdGuard is one of the most versatile ad blockers for Safari and offers advanced features like DNS-based ad blocking that can even work outside of the browser. With AdGuard’s Private DNS, you can get system-wide ad blocking on iOS, which is impressive for an iPhone ad blocker. AdGuard also has plenty of filtering options, customisable rules, and Stealth Mode to hide third-party cookies, search queries, and more.

While AdGuard is great with Safari, its Private DNS gives it an edge over other ad blockers by blocking ads at the network level. This extra feature means faster, cleaner browsing across your device. AdGuard is perfect for Safari users who want ad-blocking, tracker protection, customizability, privacy, and security features all in one.

Features

• DNS-Level Ad Blocking: Private DNS allows system-wide ad blocking on compatible devices.
• Stealth Mode: Blocks trackers, prevents fingerprinting, and hides personal information.
• Phishing and Malware Protection: Alerts users of potentially harmful sites, adding an extra layer of security to browsing.
• Customisable Filters: Allows users to add specific filters, choose from community-maintained options, or create unique blocking rules.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• DNS-level blocking for broader coverage on iOS
• Highly customisable with a wide range of filter options
• The free version offers the same ad-blocking
• Offers advanced privacy features with Stealth Mode

Cons

• The Mac app requires a premium subscription

Wrapping Up

Safari is already one of the most privacy-focused browsers, but adding an ad blocker can truly make a difference in your browsing experience. The ad blockers we’ve reviewed; Total Adblock, Wipr 2, 1Blocker, Ghostery, and AdGuard; each bring unique features to the table. 

If you prioritise simplicity and security, Total Adblock is an excellent choice, as it blocks ads while protecting you from malware and phishing threats. If you prefer a minimalist approach without too many settings and configurations, Wipr 2 provides straightforward ad and tracker blocking, blending seamlessly with Safari. For advanced users who want complete control, 1Blocker offers extensive customisation, allowing you to personalise your ad-blocking experience. Ghostery, on the other hand, excels in privacy protection, providing detailed insights into trackers and blocking cookies and ads with AI-powered precision. Finally, AdGuard takes it a step further by offering DNS-based ad blocking, which extends beyond Safari for a more comprehensive solution. Each of these ad blockers enhances Safari’s capabilities in its own way, making it easier to browse without interruptions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Best Ad Blocker for Safari?

For Safari users on Mac and iOS, Total Adblock is one of the best. Built by the TotalAV team, it’s secure and user-friendly and blocks all ads and trackers. Total Adblock is easy to install and focuses on privacy protection, so it’s a great choice if you want to boost Safari’s built-in protections.

Does Safari Have a Built-in Ad Blocker?

Safari doesn’t have a traditional ad blocker, but it does have Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP). This feature limits how websites can track your browsing activity by restricting cross-site tracking, which helps with privacy but doesn’t block ads. To get an ad-free experience in Safari, we recommend adding a dedicated ad blocker extension like Total Adblock, Wipr 2, or AdGuard.