YouTube has become one of the world’s most popular video platforms, but its ads have grown increasingly intrusive—longer ads, unskippable ads, mid-roll ads, banner ads, and sponsored cards. While YouTube Premium removes ads entirely, many users wonder whether the subscription is worth it. For some, the price is too high; for others, they prefer free solutions. The good news is that there are several effective ways to block YouTube ads without paying for Premium.

This guide covers the most reliable methods available today, along with step-by-step instructions so you can easily learn how to block ads on YouTube across different devices.

Method 1: Block YouTube Ads with Browser Extensions

Browser extensions remain the most popular and straightforward way to block YouTube ads on desktop browsers. Among the most reliable is Adblock Plus, an open-source extension trusted by millions.

Adblock Plus filters out video ads, display ads, and pop-ups on YouTube, helping you enjoy an uninterrupted experience. While YouTube has recently tried to block some ad blockers, Adblock Plus continues updating its filters to bypass detection.

How to Block YouTube Ads Using Adblock Plus

Step 1 — Install the Extension
Visit your browser’s extension store (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, etc.) and search for Adblock Plus. Install the extension.

Step 2 — Enable YouTube Ad Blocking
Adblock Plus automatically blocks YouTube ads. If needed, check that “Allow Acceptable Ads” is turned off for full blocking.

Step 3 — Refresh YouTube
Reload your YouTube tab to activate the ad-blocking filters.

Step 4 — Customize Filters
You can manually add blocking rules or subscribe to additional lists for even stronger ad filtering.

Browser extensions work well on most desktop browsers, making them one of the easiest ways to block YouTube ads instantly.

Method 2: Block YouTube Ads with Ad-Blocking Browsers

If you want to block ads without installing extensions, using a privacy-focused browser like Brave is an excellent solution.

Brave comes with built-in Shields technology that blocks YouTube ads, trackers, pop-ups, and malicious scripts automatically. Because the blocking is native, it works more reliably than many extensions and bypasses most of YouTube’s ad-detection systems.

How to Block Ads on YouTube with Brave

Step 1 — Download Brave
Install Brave from its official website for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android.

Step 2 — Enable Shields
Shields are enabled by default, but you can verify by clicking the Brave logo in the toolbar.

Step 3 — Visit YouTube
With Shields active, Brave removes pre-roll ads, banner ads, in-video ads, and mid-roll interruptions.

Step 4 — Adjust Protection Level
You can set the blocking strength to Standard or Aggressive depending on how strict you want the filters to be.

Ad-blocking browsers ensure smooth playback across devices and consume fewer system resources than separate extensions.

Method 3: Block YouTube Ads with a VPN

A VPN is not traditionally used to block ads, but certain providers—like ExpressVPN—include DNS features or ad-blocking servers that reduce or eliminate YouTube ads on supported devices.

ExpressVPN can block trackers and malicious ad networks, and in some regions, connecting through its DNS servers can reduce pre-roll ads on YouTube. While effectiveness varies by region, it’s useful for users wanting privacy and ad reduction together.

How to Block YouTube Ads Using ExpressVPN

Step 1 — Install ExpressVPN
Download the app for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or Smart TV.

Step 2 — Enable Threat Manager
ExpressVPN includes Threat Manager, which blocks trackers and some ad-serving domains.

Step 3 — Connect to a Server
Switch servers to one that shows fewer regional ads. Some locations serve fewer or lighter YouTube ads.

Step 4 — Test YouTube
Refresh YouTube to see improved performance and reduced ad frequency.

While VPNs typically won’t block all YouTube ads, they can minimize interruptions and provide major privacy benefits simultaneously.

Method 4: Block YouTube Ads with CleverGet Recorder

For users who want a guaranteed way to watch YouTube without ads, even offline, CleverGet Recorder is a powerful option. It captures YouTube videos directly to your computer with an automatic ad-filtering system. This ensures your saved videos—and your viewing sessions—are completely ad-free.

CleverGet Recorder is an advanced desktop tool that records YouTube videos in high quality while automatically blocking and removing ads from the recording.

Unlike browser blockers, CleverGet Recorder works even when:

• YouTube blocks ad-block extensions
  
• Ads bypass browser-based blocking
  
• You want to save videos for later viewing
  
• You want an uninterrupted viewing experience across any device
  

How to Block YouTube Ads with CleverGet Recorder

Step 1 — Install CleverGet Recorder
Download and install it on Windows or macOS.

Step 2 — Open the Built-In Browser
Use the internal browser to navigate to YouTube.

Step 3 — Enable Ad Filter
CleverGet automatically filters ads while detecting the main video.

Step 4 — Start Recording
Click Record, and the software captures only the clean, ad-free video stream.

Step 5 — Save & Watch Without Ads
Your recorded video is saved locally with no interruptions, so you can watch YouTube without ads anytime.

This method is ideal for users who want a permanent, ad-free YouTube experience across any device—TV, phone, tablet, console, or projector.

FAQs

1. Can I block YouTube ads on mobile devices?

Yes. Options include:

• Using Brave browser on iOS or Android
  
• Enabling a mobile DNS ad blocker
  
• Using a VPN with ad-block features
  

YouTube’s official app cannot be modified on mobile devices without workarounds.

2. Are ad-blockers safe to use?

Most reputable ad blockers are safe, including Adblock Plus, uBlock Origin, Brave Browser, etc. Always download extensions from official stores to avoid malicious clones.

3. What is the easiest way to block YouTube ads on all devices?

Using CleverGet Recorder is the most universal method because videos recorded without ads can be watched on smart TVs, phones, and any device you like. Once recorded, ads will never return.

4. How can I support creators if I block ads?

If you prefer an ad-free experience but still want to help creators, you can:

• Join channel memberships
  
• Use Super Thanks
  
• Support them on Patreon
  
• Buy merchandise
  

This ensures your favorite creators continue earning revenue.

Conclusion

You don’t need to purchase YouTube Premium to enjoy an ad-free experience. Whether you prefer browser extensions, privacy-focused browsers, VPN-based filtering, or powerful tools like CleverGet Recorder, there are multiple ways to block YouTube ads and watch videos without interruptions.

By choosing the method that best fits your device and viewing habits, you can take control of your YouTube experience and eliminate unwanted ads for good.