The Best Ad Blockers for Mac and Safari 2026

We tested every ad blocker we could find on Mac and Safari — here are the five that came out on top.
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Best Overall

5.0
Editorial Rating
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On Total Adblock's website

Total Adblock
PROMOTION: Get 80% Off
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Best for Additional Features

4.7
Editorial Rating
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On 1Blocker's website

1Blocker
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Best for Multiple Devices

4.8
Editorial Rating
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On Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking's website

Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking
PROMOTION: From $1.99/mo. + 3 Months EXTRA
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We've determined that the best ad blocker for Mac and Safari is Total Adblock. Total Adblock is affordable, user-friendly, and one of the highest-performing ad blockers we've tested. 

We're also fans of 1Blocker, Surfshark CleanWeb, and NordVPN Threat Protection. 1Blocker is built for macOS and includes parental controls and a firewall for unique protection. Surfshark CleanWeb allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, covering all your devices. And NordVPN Threat Protection comes bundled with our top VPN recommendation.

With these ad blockers, you can make blog pages easier to read, stop the endless YouTube ads, and keep trackers from building profiles of you on all of your Apple devices. To find the Safari ad blocker that's perfect for you, look at our comparison below.

In this article
The best ad blockers for Mac and Safari 2026
Compare the best Safari ad blockers
Total Adblock: Best overall
1Blocker: Best for additional features
Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for multiple devices
NordVPN Threat Protection: Best for all-in-one protection
How we tested the best ad blockers for Mac and Safari
How to choose the best ad blocker for Mac and Safari
FAQs
Bottom line

The best ad blockers for Mac and Safari 2026

5.0
Ad Blocker
Total Adblock
  • Instantly blocks distracting ads on millions of websites, including Facebook and YouTube ads
  • Blocks third-party trackers to protect your privacy and information
  • Improves page load times and enables faster browsing
Learn More
4.7
Ad Blocker
1Blocker
  • Works seamlessly on macOS, iOS, and Safari
  • Offers lots of features, including regional filters, a firewall, custom filters, and more
  • Free version also proved to be highly effective
  • Can disrupt the appearance/functionality of sites, emails, and apps
Learn More
4.8
Ad Blocker
Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking
  • Blocks ads, banners, and pop-ups on your browser and apps, including smart TVs
  • Enjoy boosted browsing speeds and save money on mobile data with its effective ad-blocking capabilities
  • Added benefit of a VPN to encrypt your data, hide your IP address, avoid phishing scams, and minimize malware risks
Learn More
4.5
Ad Blocker
NordVPN Threat Protection
  • Stops intrusive ads before they can even load, improving browsing speed and experience
  • Identifies malware-ridden files and protects against visiting malicious websites
  • Encrypts your data and blocks third-party trackers for increased security and privacy
Learn More

Compare the best Safari ad blockers

Ad Blocker
Best Overall
Total Adblock logo
1Blocker logo Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking logo
CleanWeb
Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking logo
Threat Protection
Best for Overall Additional features Multiple devices All-in-one-protection
Star rating
5.0
4.7
4.8
4.5
Starting price Starts at $1.59/mo Starts at $2.99/mo Starts at $1.99/mo Starts at $4.39/mo
AdBlock Tester score 100/10077/100 96/100 86/100
Can You Block It score 3/3 2.5/3 3/3 3/3
macOS app
Safari extension
Compatibility Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, SafarimacOS, iOS, SafariWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Firefox Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Firefox
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get 1Blocker

Read 1Blocker Review

Get Surfshark CleanWeb

Read Surfshark CleanWeb Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Total Adblock: Best overall

#1 Adblocker — Even Blocks YouTube Video Ads
5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website
Ad Blocker
Total Adblock
PROMOTION: Get 80% Off
  • Instantly blocks distracting ads on millions of websites, including Facebook and YouTube ads
  • Blocks third-party trackers to protect your privacy and information
  • Improves page load times and enables faster browsing

Total Adblock is an ad-blocking solution from the makers of TotalAV antivirus. Similar to TotalAV, Total Adblock is a product that's easy to install, set up, and use, as it silently works in the background to provide you with an enhanced web browsing experience. 

What we liked

Fast start-up: Our testing proved that Total Adblock is an easy-to-use and reliable ad blocker. As soon as we installed the extension, Total Adblock started working right away, and the setup took only a few minutes. 

If you're curious about how well Total Adblock is working, you can click on the extension to view the number of ads and trackers blocked, as well as the data you've saved from using the ad blocker. 

A tally of ads and trackers blocked with Total Adblock
Total Adblock ad and tracker blocker on

High test scores: We also liked that Total Adblock had stellar test scores for ad and tracker blocking. With the free version, Total Adblock had a perfect score of 100/100 ads blocked, and it passed 2/3 of the tracker blocking tests. If you do wish to pay for Total Adblock, the bundle comes with TotalAV antivirus software, so you can protect your devices from malware threats, too. 

What we didn’t like

Limited free product: Total Adblock Free excludes the top 15,000 websites listed on Alexa.com, which can make your ad-blocking experience pretty limited. You'll have to pay for Total Adblock to work its magic on all ads.

Total Adblock pros and cons

Pros
  • Easy setup process
  • Hands-off ad-blocking experience
  • Customizable for managing websites and ad preferences
Cons
  • Free version excludes top 15,000 websites
  • Sends annoying pop-ups pushing you to upgrade

Test results

Total Adblock is our top recommended ad blocker because it has some of the best test scores across the board. It received perfect test scores with AdBlock Tester and Can You Block It. 

Total Adblock also consistently blocks YouTube ads on both desktop and mobile, so you'll be able to stream YouTube ad-free on your Android.

AdBlock Tester results 100/100
Can You Block It results 3/3
Can Total Adblock block ads on YouTube? Yes
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Our Total Adblock Review

Star rating summary

Total Adblock's perfect star rating of 5.0 was achieved due to its 5/5 scores in the experience, value, features, and customer service categories. 

Total Adblock was docked one point in the compatibility factor because it doesn't offer apps for desktop. 

Decision factor Weight Verdict
Our experience 15% 5.0
Value 21% 5.0
Features 15% 5.0
Test results 37% 5.0
Compatibility 5% 4.0
Customer service 7% 5.0

1Blocker: Best for additional features

1Blocker has 12,000+ ratings on the Apple App store, with an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. It also touts itself as a “set and forget” product. According to one reviewer, 1Blocker was the only ad blocker that worked with their school’s mandatory enterprise security software.

What we liked

User-friendly: We are 100% on board with products that want to make the Mac user experience easy, and that’s what 1Blocker came to do. Its compatibility with stronger security software, set-and-forget functionality, the fact that it’s free, and it doesn’t sell your data all make it a strong contender.

1Blocker safari filters.

We’re also excited about the reports from reviewers that customer service was a breeze. 

Consistent protection: Like Total Adblock, 1Blocker scored a perfect 77/100 on AdBlock Tester. Plus, if you want to upgrade to a premium plan and have unlimited category blocking, 1Blocker offers a unique Lifetime plan. 

Having purchased it ourselves (with our own money), we can attest to its longevity and usefulness.

What we didn’t like

Limited free product: The free iOS app only allows you to have one filter at a time. This means you'll have to choose between webpage ads and web trackers. 

Also, the app required a little more setup than just plug-and-play. We had to configure the ad-blocking extension settings manually after installation.

1Blocker pros and cons

Pros
  • Compatible with cybersecurity software
  • Doesn’t sell your data
  • Offers a lifetime paid plan
Cons
  • Free iOS app is limiting
  • Inconsistent test results

Test results

1Blocker proved to be an efficient ad blocker during our testing. It earned solid marks with AdBlock Tester, almost bested all three Can You Block It tests, and it can block ads on YouTube.

AdBlock Tester results 77/100
Can You Block It results 2.5/3
Can 1Blocker block ads on YouTube? Yes
Learn more Get 1Blocker

Read Our 1Blocker Review

Star rating summary

1Blocker's solid star rating of 4.7 was achieved due to its 5/5 scores in the experience, features, compatibility, and customer service categories. 

1Blocker has a lower score in the value category because it only has a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Decision factor Weight Verdict
Our experience 15% 5.0
Value 21% 3.67
Features 15% 5.0
Test results 37% 4.5
Compatibility 5% 5.0
Customer service 7% 5.0

Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for multiple devices

Comprehensive Ad Blocking Online and in Apps + VPN Connection
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking's website
Ad Blocker
Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking
PROMOTION: From $1.99/mo. + 3 Months EXTRA
  • Blocks ads, banners, and pop-ups on your browser and apps, including smart TVs
  • Enjoy boosted browsing speeds and save money on mobile data with its effective ad-blocking capabilities
  • Added benefit of a VPN to encrypt your data, hide your IP address, avoid phishing scams, and minimize malware risks

Although you may not immediately think of a virtual private network (VPN) as being a good ad blocker, Surfshark VPN boasts a built-in ad blocker known as Surfshark CleanWeb. One of the reasons we love Surfshark is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections. Combined with CleanWeb's extensive compatibility, you'll be able to block ads and trackers across devices.

What we liked

Bundled: Surfshark One is one of the best cybersecurity bundles available due to its combination of security and affordability. On top of a VPN to remain anonymous online, the Surfshark One Starter plan comes with CleanWeb, which can block ads, trackers, and malicious websites. 

During our testing, CleanWeb got a near-perfect ad-blocking score of 96/100. A two-year plan with Surfshark averages $2.49/mo and allows for unlimited simultaneous connections.

Surfshark CleanWeb's AdBlock Tester results

Versatility: CleanWeb boasts that it can protect against phishing attacks, stop malware, and even speed up your browsing experience. Because it stops infected sites from loading, it stops bandwidth waste. 

If you're on a limited data plan, CleanWeb reduces your overall monthly data use with all of the data-hogging extras it blocks. 

What we didn’t like

No Safari extension: CleanWeb 2.0 is available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge but doesn't offer an ad blocker extension for Safari. You can enable CleanWeb on your Surfshark app for Mac, but it won't be able to block ads on streaming platforms or provide malware alerts. 

Surfshark CleanWeb pros and cons

Pros
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Consistently blocks YouTube ads
  • Bundled with Surfshark VPN
Cons
  • CleanWeb 2.0 isn't available for Safari
  • VPN subscription required to use CleanWeb

Test results

Surfshark CleanWeb is a high-performing ad blocker that pleasantly surprised us with its latest results. It received either perfect or near-perfect scores on all our ad blocking tests. Plus, it successfully blocked ads on YouTube.

CleanWeb
AdBlock Tester results 96/100
Can You Block It results 3/3
Can Surfshark CleanWeb block ads on YouTube? Yes
Learn more Get Surfshark CleanWeb

Read Our Surfshark CleanWeb Review

Star rating summary

Surfshark CleanWeb received a near-perfect star rating of 4.8 due to its 5/5 scores in the experience, value, test results, compatibility, and customer service categories. 

Surfshark CleanWeb received lower marks in the features category because it doesn't block push ads. 

Decision factor Weight Verdict
Our experience 15% 5.0
Value 21% 5.0
Features 15% 4.0
Test results 37% 5.0
Compatibility 5% 5.0
Customer service 7% 5.0

NordVPN Threat Protection: Best for all-in-one protection

Enjoy Privacy and Security Even When Not Connected to a VPN
4.5
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On NordVPN Threat Protection's website
Ad Blocker
NordVPN Threat Protection
PROMOTION: Save Up to 70%
  • Stops intrusive ads before they can even load, improving browsing speed and experience
  • Identifies malware-ridden files and protects against visiting malicious websites
  • Encrypts your data and blocks third-party trackers for increased security and privacy

Similar to Surfshark, NordVPN also boasts a built-in ad blocker known as NordVPN Threat Protection. This means you’ll get the ad blocker you’re looking for, plus the added security of a VPN. It can also scan for malware, protect you from phishing, and alert you of any real-time threats.

What we liked

Malware protection: NordVPN Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers, and malware. You can scan downloaded files for malware, which supplements your antivirus and proprietary Apple protections. For Nord users, all you need to do is visit the settings section of the NordVPN app and turn on the toggle for Threat Protection. 

NordVPN Threat Protection Pro dashboard
NordVPN Threat Protection Pro dashboard

High test scores: NordVPN is multifaceted in its security approach. Threat Protection received impressive test scores: 86/100 on AdBlock Tester and 3/3 on Can You Block It. 

What we didn’t like

Price: Nord could also be an expensive option if all you need is an ad blocker. Plans start at $3.39/mo, which is much more than any of the featured ad blockers on this list. CleanWeb is also more affordable by comparison.

Limited as an antivirus: NordVPN may not be the best substitute for an antivirus, considering that Threat Protection doesn't have its own dedicated firewall.

NordVPN Threat Protection pros and cons

Pros
  • Blocks ads, trackers, and malware
  • Includes top-notch VPN and antivirus protection
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • VPN plans could be expensive compared to just ad blockers
  • Lacks a firewall

Test results

NordVPN Threat Protection is a decent ad blocker, but it's not the most efficient. For one, it can't block YouTube ads at all, which is disappointing if you're looking to block ads on YouTube.

It also struggled with the analytics tools and error monitoring categories in AdBlock Tester. But NordVPN Threat Protection provides some protection against web tracking.

Threat Protection
AdBlock Tester results 86/100
Can You Block It results 3/3
Can NordVPN Threat Protection block ads on YouTube? No
Learn more Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read Our NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Star rating summary

NordVPN Threat Protection received a solid star rating of 4.5 due to its 5/5 scores in the experience, compatibility, and customer service categories.

NordVPN Threat Protection is more expensive than most of the ad blockers on this list because it's only available with a NordVPN subscription. It also lacks features like blocking YouTube ads and it received lower scores with AdBlock Tester.

Decision factor Weight Verdict
Our experience 15% 5.0
Value 21% 4.3
Features 15% 4.0
Test results 37% 4.0
Compatibility 5% 5.0
Customer service 7% 5.0

How we tested the best ad blockers for Mac and Safari

Security tools for Apple products are notoriously lacking. Some of the products we looked at, such as uBlock Origin, didn’t support Safari and didn’t offer an iOS app. When choosing an ad blocker for Apple products, we looked at security, features, compatibility, and how well the products worked.

Must-haves:

  • Compatibility: It had to work on macOS and iOS as well as Safari.
  • Actual ad blocking: It had to successfully block various ad types, including pop-ups, tracking ads, banner ads, interstitial ads, and video ads. We test all ad blockers against AdBlock Tester and Can You Block It
  • Security: Were there additional security features, such as virtual private network services, antivirus software, malware and phishing protection, etc.?
  • Extras: Did the product include extra features such as allowlisting, blacklisting, acceptable ads, etc.?

If you want to learn more, check out our full ad blocker testing methodology.

How to choose the best ad blocker for Mac and Safari

There are plenty of products out there claiming to block ads. When you’re looking for a product, many of the features and services depend on what’s important to you. However, you should consider some non-negotiable features in all ad blockers.

  • Removes most or all ads: Free products should remove most, if not all, ads, whereas paid products should remove all ads.
  • Lag-free video streaming: It shouldn’t slow down your video.
  • Functionality: This may block some images or links, but it should still allow you to use the internet as intended.
  • Compatibility: It has to work with your operating system.
  • Privacy: It can't sell your data.
  • Price: There are good free products out there, and the paid ones should be even better.
  • Security: A good ad blocker will keep you safe from tracking ads and other malicious scripts or executables.
  • Online fingerprint: It should reduce your online fingerprint to help you avoid tracking and data collection.

How do I turn off an ad blocker on a Mac?

If your ad blocker doesn’t have a toggle button in the extension, you can go into the settings from your browser. You can also go to Safari > Settings > Extensions and unclick whatever extension you don’t want running. If your ad blocker is an app, go to your dashboard and toggle it off.

Bottom line: The best ad blockers for Mac and Safari

Total Adblock offers the best overall protection based on price point, features, and usability. 

We also recommend 1Blocker, Surfshark CleanWeb, and NordVPN Threat Protection because they work with Apple products and provide helpful features such as ad-blocking and malware protection. We were even impressed to find a product like 1Blocker that was built exclusively for macOS and iOS. Apple devices may not be infallible, but at least we know there are products committed to keeping them safe.

Still unsure of which ad-blocking solution may work best for you? Check out how our top recs compare to Total Adblock in our comprehensive reviews:

FAQs

Do ad blockers work on Mac?

Yes, there are many choices for macOS ad blockers. You can use an Apple-exclusive app like 1Blocker, macOS-compatible apps like Surfshark CleanWeb or NordVPN Threat Protection, or try an ad blocking extension through Safari like Total Adblock

Does Safari need an ad blocker?

Although Safari claims to block trackers, it really isn’t getting them all. To stop annoying ads, pop-ups, trackers, and even phishing attempts and malware, you should be using an ad blocker.

How do I block YouTube ads on a Mac?

You can block YouTube ads on a Mac by using ad blockers with macOS apps, like Surfshark CleanWeb, NordVPN Threat Protection, and 1Blocker. 1Blocker is built exclusively for Apple systems, including macOS, iOS, and Safari. 

If you use Safari on your Mac, other top-tier ad blockers like Total Adblock Premium will block YouTube ads. 

Is Adblock Plus good for Mac?

Adblock Plus is easy to use and will block some ads on Mac. It’s not the strongest or best ad blocker, though. Fortunately, there are better options for macOS, like 1Blocker, NordVPN Threat Protection, and Surfshark CleanWeb.


#1 Adblocker — Even Blocks YouTube Video Ads
5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website
Ad Blocker
Total Adblock
PROMOTION: Get 80% Off
  • Instantly blocks distracting ads on millions of websites, including Facebook and YouTube ads
  • Blocks third-party trackers to protect your privacy and information
  • Improves page load times and enables faster browsing
Author Details
Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.