Top 5 Best Ad Blockers for Windows in 2024

If you have been a Windows user for a long time, you have mistakenly downloaded adware at some point. Then, there are ads in your browser, ads in games you download from the Microsoft Store, and maybe even in some other apps like Discord. Ads are annoying, sure. But they’re not harming anyone, right? Maybe not. Most of the ads you get are specifically catered to you because of trackers, which run based on your data and preferences. If you blindly go through the Windows set-up page, you may have permitted Microsoft to show you personalised ads based on the data they collect on you. So maybe an ad blocker is not the worst idea ever?

For Windows, system-wide ad blockers are probably the way to go. But if you just want something for your browser, we’ve also got you covered. We have tested dozens of ad blockers for many different platforms, and here are our top five picks for the best ad blockers for Windows in 2024.

Overview of the Top Contenders

Here’s an overview of the key aspects, including pricing, compatibility, and other crucial details, for our top 5 selections.

One-Click Solution: Total Adblock

Total Adblock is a very new ad blocker that quickly piqued the interest of a lot of users because of its effectiveness and its focus on privacy. It was also late in bringing out the Manifest V3 update for Chrome, but that’s finally here, too,  making it a top choice for Chrome users. Developed by the team behind TotalAV antivirus, Total Adblock is an easy-to-use ad blocker with a strong emphasis on security. If you’re looking for a tool that removes ads and trackers and blocks malware and phishing attempts, Total Adblock offers comprehensive protection without requiring much setup.

Unlike other options that focus on customisation, Total Adblock prioritises a streamlined experience, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity and don’t want to spend too much time configuring their ad blocker. This no-nonsense ad blocking approach means you can install and forget it, and Total Adblock will take care of the rest. While it doesn’t provide system-wide blocking on Windows, it offers reliable browser-based ad blocking that eliminates video ads, pop-ups, and banner ads, especially for Chrome users who value safety.

Features

• Anti-Malware and Phishing Protection: Includes security features for safe browsing.
• Privacy Protection: Blocks trackers and minimises targeted ads based on your browsing data.
• One-Click Setup: Simple, no-fuss ad-blocking solution.
• Manifest V3 Support: Will continue to receive updates on Chrome.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Emphasis on security
• Includes an antivirus with the bundle
• Cross-platform support, including Android and iOS

Cons

• Lacks system-wide ad blocking for Windows
• Limited customisation options
• Primarily browser-based

Most Comprehensive: AdGuard

AdGuard goes above and beyond by offering an entire suite of privacy and security features alongside its elaborate ad blocking. It doesn’t just stop ads on your browser, AdGuard provides system-wide protection, making it one of the most comprehensive ad blockers for Windows users. Whether you’re dealing with pop-ups, banner ads, YouTube ads, or tracking scripts in apps, AdGuard has you covered.

What sets AdGuard apart is its DNS-based blocking, which intercepts ads and trackers before they even reach your network. This DNS-level filtering ensures faster browsing and reduced data usage, all while keeping your device safe from phishing links, malicious sites, and cryptojackers. AdGuard’s Stealth Mode takes privacy to the next level by blocking trackers, hiding search queries, and automatically clearing cookies. This enhanced level of control lets you fine-tune your privacy settings to match your specific needs, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user.

AdGuard also stands out with its extensive customisation options. You can modify filters, add custom rules, block specific elements, and whitelist trusted sites for a personalised ad-blocking experience. You can even set up AdGuard on some Wi-Fi routers to block ads across your entire network. If you’re seeking a versatile, reliable, and privacy-oriented ad blocker, AdGuard is an all-in-one solution that won’t disappoint.

Features

• System-Wide Ad Blocking: Blocks ads across all browsers and applications on Windows.
• DNS-Level Blocking: Filters ads and trackers at the network level, boosting speed and privacy.
• Stealth Mode: Blocks trackers, hides search activity, and clears cookies to maintain privacy.
• Customisable Filters: Users can set specific filters, add custom rules, and whitelist sites.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and select 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 system-wide features

Lightweight and Customisable: uBlock Origin

uBlock Origin has long been a favourite among enthusiasts, particularly for its lightweight design and robust customisation options. It’s a powerful, open-source tool developed for users who want precise control over their ad-blocking. While it has run into compatibility issues with Chrome due to the new Manifest V3, uBlock Origin remains fully functional on Edge and Opera, which still supports Manifest V2 extensions. Chrome users who wish to stick with uBlock may have to switch to the more limited uBlock Lite for compatibility, but users on other browsers like Firefox should be fully supported.

Despite its advanced features, uBlock Origin is also known for its efficient resource usage. It’s a lightweight option that won’t slow down your browsing experience, making it ideal for Windows users who want effective ad-blocking without compromising performance. With a range of filter options, dynamic filtering, and element blocking, uBlock Origin is perfect for users who want a customisable ad-blocking experience.

Features

• Dynamic Filtering: Offers real-time control over content blocking on websites.
• Customisable Filters: Supports a wide range of filters and allows custom rule creation.
• Efficient Resource Usage: Lightweight, ensuring smooth performance even on older systems.
• Open Source: Free and community-driven, with regular updates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Highly customisable with extensive filter options
• Lightweight, with minimal impact on system resources
• Open-source and free-to-use

Cons

• Limited compatibility on Chrome
• No system-wide ad-blocking support

Easy to Use: AdBlocker Ultimate

AdBlocker Ultimate is another solid choice for Windows users looking for straightforward, reliable ad-blocking with some system-wide support. Unlike browser-only options, AdBlocker Ultimate can block ads across different Windows applications. It provides a cleaner experience while utilising many of the same filters from AdGuard and uBlock Origin. It’s particularly effective at eliminating ads on social media and streaming platforms, making it a popular choice among users who want to block video ads and pop-ups.

AdBlocker Ultimate offers a “no acceptable ads” policy, which blocks all ads by default without letting any through. This makes it appealing to users who want an entirely ad-free experience. While it’s easy to use and requires little configuration, advanced users may find it lacking in customisation options. However, its simplicity and effectiveness make it an excellent choice for users prioritising ease of use and broad ad-blocking capabilities.

Features

• System-Wide Ad Blocking: Extends ad-blocking to apps and other Windows interfaces.
• Simple Setup: User-friendly with minimal configuration required.
• HTTPS filtering: Can intercept ads while maintaining encryption in secure websites.
• No Whitelisting of Advertisers: Blocks all ads by default without allowing any exceptions.
• Avoids Detection: Handles websites that deploy anti-adblock techniques.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Blocks ads across browsers and other Windows applications.
• Simple to install and use with a no-nonsense approach.
• No acceptable ad policy for complete ad-blocking.
• Element blocker for manual removal of web elements.

Cons

• Limited customisation for advanced users.
• Fewer features compared to some other options.

Reliable System-wide Ad Blocking: AdLock

AdLock perfectly balances ad-blocking and privacy features, making it ideal for Windows users looking for a clean, interruption-free browsing experience. While it may not provide the extensive customisation options of other ad blockers, AdLock reliably blocks a wide range of ads, including YouTube ads, across most browsers. What truly sets AdLock apart is its focus on user privacy, with anti-tracking tools and Safe Browsing integration to protect you from potentially risky sites.

The AdLock app for Windows is straightforward to install and requires minimal setup. Enable it, and it’ll start blocking ads across your entire system. Although the Chrome extension has encountered some challenges due to Manifest V3, the Windows application remains unaffected, allowing for reliable performance on all browsers. AdLock’s system-wide protection is particularly useful on Windows, as it blocks ads not only on all major browsers but also in certain apps, eliminating the need for separate extensions.

AdLock is simple yet highly effective, performing well in all of our tests. It’s an excellent choice for Windows users who want a straightforward, no-fuss ad-blocking solution that provides solid privacy protections along with reliable ad-blocking across apps and browsers.

Features

• System-Wide Ad Blocking: Blocks ads across Windows applications, not just in browsers.
• Privacy Protection: Uses anti-tracking filters to block trackers and prevent unwanted data collection.
• Safe Browsing Integration: Leverages Google Safe Browsing to alert you of phishing sites and other online threats.
• One-Click Use: Simple to enable and runs smoothly without extensive customisation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective ad blocking across Windows apps and browsers.
• Prioritises privacy with tracker blocking.
• Easy to set up and requires minimal configuration.

Cons

• Subscription-based service.
• Limited customisation options.

Wrapping Up

If your Windows PC is your primary device for using the Internet, an ad blocker is a must for you. Browsing the web without ad blockers these days is going to give you a significantly worse experience. And with more and more websites using tracking cookies and social media widgets, not using an ad blocker can be a potential privacy hazard. 

We’re pretty confident you will be well served with any of the ad blockers we have listed. We really like Total Adblock because of its focus on security and the fact that it includes TotalAV with it. AdGuard and uBlock Origin cover all the bases when it comes to ad blocking with extensive features, high customizability and wide compatibility. AdLock and Adblocker Ultimate are two really easy-to-use options. No matter which one you choose, you will get a seamless, ad-free experience witch a few added bonuses. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Ad Blockers For PC?

The best ad blockers for PCs in 2024 are Total AdBlock, AdGuard, uBlock Origin, AdBlocker Ultimate, and AdLock. Each has something unique to offer and caters to a different user base.  Total Adblock is the top recommendation as it offers security features alongside ad blocking for Chrome users. But if you want system-wide ad blocking on your Windows PC, AdGuard, AdLock, and AdBlocker Ultimate are the way to go. AdGuard offers DNS-level blocking, which makes it faster and compatible with a wide range of devices. And if you’re interested in an ad blocker for Firefox, you cannot go wrong with uBlock Origin. 

Do Ad Blockers Stop Viruses?

While ad blockers mainly focus on getting rid of ads and trackers, some, like Total Adblock and AdGuard, offer additional security features to help protect against malicious threats. Total Adblock, for instance, includes anti-malware and phishing protection, which can alert users to potentially harmful websites. AdGuard’s filters also offer protection from phishing links and block suspicious sites, reducing exposure to malicious content. However, ad blockers are not replacements for antivirus software. They help by preventing ads that may contain malicious links or pop-ups, but they do not provide the comprehensive virus scanning and real-time protection that antivirus programs offer. If you want proper protection against malware, you need an antivirus working alongside your ad blocker. Total Adblock comes bundled with TotalAV, which is an award-winning Antivirus. And together, they can provide full protection against ads and malware. 

Are Ad Blockers Safe For PC?

Yes, ad blockers are generally safe to use on your PC. AdGuard, uBlock Origin, and Total Adblock are developed by established companies and respected communities, focusing on privacy and security. Many ad blockers, such as uBlock Origin and AdGuard, are also open-source, allowing transparency and community oversight to ensure safety. Ad blockers like Total Adblock, with additional security features, protect users from malicious ads, trackers, and phishing sites, enhancing browsing safety. However, you must download ad blockers from official sources or trusted app stores to avoid fake or malicious versions.