The Best uBlock Origin Alternatives 2025

Our favorite alternatives to uBlock Origin come with unique features, increased functionality, and top-notch security to make your online experience as easy as possible.
We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Best overall

4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website

Total Adblock
View More

Best for unlimited devices

4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking's website

Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking
View More

Best for Apple users

4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On 1Blocker's website

1Blocker
View More

While uBlock Origin is one of the best set-it-and-forget-it ad blockers available, Google Chrome's recent campaign against the extension has made it no longer the top choice in the browser. Fortunately, there are other options that can provide a very similar experience, with Total Adblock coming in first place  and yes, it blocks YouTube ads!

Total Adblock, Surfshark CleanWeb, NordVPN Threat Protection, and 1Blocker all offer unique features and functionality that go beyond simple ad blocking. These top alternatives will also protect you from trackers and data-guzzling ads, providing a faster browsing experience and reducing the likelihood of falling for malicious links.

Check out our top picks for uBlock Origin alternatives and why we love them.

In this article
The best alternatives
Total Adblock: Best overall
Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for unlimited simultaneous connections
NordVPN Threat Protection: Best for unique features
1Blocker: Best for Apple users
Why do you need an ad blocker?
FAQs
Bottom line

The best uBlock Origin alternatives

Best for Firefox Overall Unlimited devices Unique features Apple users
Star rating
4.7
4.9
4.7
4.5
4.8
Starting price Free $1.59/mo (billed annually) $1.99/mo (billed every two years) $3.39/mo (billed every two years) $2.99/mo
Types of ads blocked Trackers, pop-ups, video, banner ads, push ads Trackers, invisible trackers, pop-ups, video, banner, push ads Trackers, invisible trackers, pop-ups, video, banner ads, push ads Trackers, invisible trackers, pop-ups, video, banner, push ads Trackers, invisible trackers, pop-ups, video, banner, push ads
YouTube ads
AdBlock Tester score 96/100 100/100 96/100 96/100 100/100
Cover Your Tracks score 2/3 2/3 0.5/3 2/3 1.5/3
Can You Block It score 3/3 3/3 2/3 2/3 2.5/3
24/7 customer support
Compatibility Browsers only Browsers, Android, iOS Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Fire TV Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS macOS, iOS
Browser extensions Firefox, Edge, Safari (prior to 13), Opera Edge, Chrome, Opera, Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge Chrome, Edge, Firefox Safari
Learn more Read uBlock Origin Review Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get Surfshark CleanWeb

Read Surfshark CleanWeb Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Get 1Blocker

Read 1Blocker Review

How we test and rate ad blockers

Each ad blocker we review goes through a standardized test designed to push the limits of what the software is capable of. This includes vigorous third-party testing using websites like adblock-tester.com, coveryourtracks.eff.org, and canyoublockit.com. We also visit popular websites to test the ad blocker’s day-to-day capabilities, including watching YouTube videos and browsing Forbes.

Once we’ve completed the testing, we calculate our editorial rating by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each ad blocker in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, test scores, features, browser support, and editorial score.

To learn more about how we test, read our full ad blocker methodology here.

Total Adblock: Best overall

#1 Adblocker — Even Blocks YouTube Video Ads
4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website
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

Who it’s best for

This service is great for anyone looking for a top-performing ad blocker, even on your mobile devices, that comes with quality antivirus protection at a terrifically discounted rate.

What we liked

Easy to use: Total Adblock is very easy to set up. When we accessed our Chrome browser, we didn’t have to navigate to the extensions page. We simply searched for “Total Adblock,” and the extensions page appeared with it ready. We had it installed and running in under 3 minutes.

Strong ad blocking capabilities: We also appreciate that it effectively blocks ads everywhere, including on our phones. The extension dashboard displays what’s being blocked on each site in a convenient drop-down widget, which includes intrusive ads that may appear in YouTube videos.

Total Adblock skipped the YouTube video ad and went right to our video
Total Adblock skipped the YouTube video ad and went right to our video

What we didn’t like

Annoying upgrade prompts: Although Total Adblock offers a free plan, you'll be prompted to upgrade to the paid program. While the requests aren’t constant, they’re still present and somewhat annoying. We were also disappointed that the free plan excludes many websites.

Total Adblock pros and cons

Pros
  • Includes a free version for Android and iOS devices
  • Browser extension and mobile app are easy to install and set up
  • Hands-off ad blocking experience
  • Options to manage websites and ad preferences
  • Premium plan includes TotalAV antivirus protection
Cons
  • Free version excludes top 15,000 websites
  • Annoying prompts you to upgrade to premium
  • Reviewers note issues with canceling payments

Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for unlimited simultaneous connections

Comprehensive Ad Blocking Online and in Apps + VPN Connection
4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking's website
Ad Blocker
Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking
Save up to 87% + 3 extra months
  • 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

Who it’s best for

Surfshark products are great for people with a lot of devices or a family with multiple devices.

Since it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, you can add laptops, desktops, mobile phones, tablets, and anything else where an ad blocker is compatible. Unlimited use also means that you can protect multiple people with as many devices as they offer.

What we liked

Competitive price: Surfshark offers a comprehensive range of services at a relatively low price. In addition to CleanWeb, Surfshark One includes a VPN and antivirus. The standout feature is the ability to use these services on an unlimited number of devices.

Holistic approach to security: Surfshark has evolved significantly over the years, and we appreciate that it consistently focuses on enhancing security. CleanWeb also monitors the internet for malware and other malicious content. You can even opt for a plan with identity theft protection if you require a comprehensive security stack.

A YouTube video with the Surfshark CleanWeb extension in the foreground
Surfshark CleanWeb blocks YouTube ads

What we didn’t like

Poor anti-track performance: CleanWeb isn’t particularly effective at blocking trackers, scoring only 0.5 out of three areas we tested. Trackers can follow you around the internet, creating a profile of you, which can also compromise your security. We wish CleanWeb did a better job of blocking them.

Surfshark CleanWeb pros and cons

Pros
  • Low cost for high value
  • You can use unlimited devices simultaneously
  • CleanWeb 2.0 blocks all ads, including YouTube ads
Cons
  • Scored only 0.5/3 in tracker tests
  • Whitelisting is unavailable on iOS and macOS

NordVPN Threat Protection: Best for unique features

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
Save up to 76% + an Amazon Gift Card
  • Stops intrusive ads before they can even load, improving browsing experience and speed
  • Identifies malware-ridden files and protects against visiting malicious websites
  • Encrypts your data and blocks third-party trackers for increased security and privacy

Who it’s best for

NordVPN Threat Protection is perfect for someone looking for an ad blocker that also includes a VPN, dark web scanning, and Nord’s Meshnet, which makes it easy to bypass password sharing bans on Netflix and other services.

What we liked

Lots of unique bonus features: We appreciate that NordVPN Threat Protection comes with numerous distinctive features, including a malware scanner, URL trimmer, DNS filtering, and file protection. The enhanced security provided by these additional options will protect your devices across the web.

Easy to use: Nord makes everything easy to access as well. It’s all conveniently located in your NordVPN app, and can usually be turned on and off with a simple toggle.

File scanner: The file scanner is one of our favorite features, as it scans the files you download. If you’ve ever wondered if that email file is safe, Nord can check it before you open it and potentially expose you to digital risks.

Threat Protection Pro tab on NordVPN dashboard

What we didn’t like

Pricier VPN bundle: NordVPN Threat Protection is more expensive than your average ad blocker because it includes NordVPN. The dashboard within the app allows you to toggle between the VPN agent, Meshnet, and Threat Protection, which is a lot to offer, but it can get pricey, especially since the devices max out at 10.

Can't bypass YouTube video ads: Our testing has also proved that Threat Protection can't always block YouTube ads. You may need to bundle it with another product for maximum blocking. 

NordVPN Threat Protection pros and cons

Pros
  • Comprehensive cyber protection that includes VPN and antivirus
  • Ad and tracker blocking capability
  • Supports multiple systems and up to 10 devices
Cons
  • Bundled protection costs more than a standalone ad blocker
  • Inconsistently blocks YouTube ads

1Blocker: Best for Apple users

4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On 1Blocker's website
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

Who it’s best for

Apple users are used to having software that offers only partial features, but 1Blocker is built exclusively for macOS and iOS.

If you’re looking for software specifically designed for Apple products, 1Blocker is tailored exclusively for these operating systems. Since it’s designed for macOS and iOS, it can effectively address the unique challenges of blocking ads, trackers, and other malicious and annoying executables on Apple’s OS.

What we liked

Next-level blocking features: The paid version can block a number of items above and beyond simple banner ads, including trackers, cookie requests, adult sites, and even the comments section on websites.

Made for Apple users: Since it’s built for Safari on both macOS and iOS, we don’t worry about it glitching or not working properly.

One-time fee option: You can purchase it for a one-time fee and get all the updates and protection that 1Blocker offers forever.

Forbes homepage with 1Blocker extension open (14 ads blocked).

What we didn’t like

Overzealous firewall: The firewall is actually a little too good. When we have it active, it blocks pictures in emails, prevents some app operations, and removes content from websites. We know all of these blocked items are linked to cookies and trackers, but we ended up disabling the firewall for everyday use.

1Blocker pros and cons

Pros
  • Works seamlessly on macOS and iOS
  • Lots of options, including a firewall
  • Inexpensive
Cons
  • No smart toggles in iOS Safari
  • Can disrupt the appearance/functionality of sites, emails, and apps

Why do you need an ad blocker?

Ad blockers offer several benefits. For one, they block ads that clutter up a webpage. Second, they reduce the overall data that you’re processing. If you’re on a restricted data plan or have a VPN with a data cap, this can help you stay under your monthly data limit.

Finally, ad blockers keep you safe online from trackers or malware that may be embedded in malicious sites or interstitial ads. You need an ad blocker to eliminate intrusive ads while browsing and keep your device infection-free.

So if you're a Chrome user and still want ad-blocking protection, you should consider ditching uBlock for a better alternative.

How do I uninstall uBlock Origin from my desktop?

To uninstall uBlock Origin from Chrome

  1. Open Chrome.
  2. Click the Chrome menu icon in the toolbar.
  3. Hover over More Tools.
  4. Click Extensions.
  5. Find uBlock Origin.
  6. Click remove.
  7. Click remove again in the new dialog box.
  8. Close the tab.

To uninstall uBlock Origin from Edge

  1. Open Edge.
  2. Click the Edge menu icon in the toolbar.
  3. Click Extensions.
  4. Find uBlock Origin.
  5. Click remove.
  6. Click remove again in the new dialog box.
  7. Close the tab.

FAQs

Is there anything better than uBlock Origin?

Since uBlock Origin is no longer on Chrome, we think Total Adblock, Surfshark CleanWeb, and NordVPN Threat Protection are better ad blockers for Chrome users.

Is Chrome banning uBlock Origin?

uBlock Origin no longer meets Chrome's guidelines on filter lists, since it relies on millions of filters to work as well as it does. Because of this, Chrome has been automatically disabling the extension in browsers, and have recently begun removing the option to re-enable manually. 

To continue using uBlock Origin, switch to another browser. You could also install uBlock Origin Lite on your Chrome browser, but our tests found it to be much less effective in blocking tracking ads than the full version. If you prefer to stay on Chrome, the best alternative is Total Adblock, which blocks ads and trackers flawlessly.

Is there a completely free ad block?

Total Adblock offers a great free product that has high test scores for blocking ads and trackers. 

Bottom line: The best alternatives to uBlock Origin

We love our uBlock Origin alternatives for the additional features, functionality, and security they provide. Total Adblock’s free product is robust, but its premium product offers significantly more. Surfshark CleanWeb allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices. NordVPN Threat Protection features unique security measures that you won’t find anywhere else. And 1Blocker is a best friend for Apple users.

The best ad blockers don’t just block ads, they also stop tracking and malware. Online security is necessary in our modern world due to the ever-increasing presence of hackers and scammers. Having good security on hand will help reduce your chances of being hacked. Plus, who doesn’t want to watch YouTube videos without all the ads?

4 best uBlock Origin alternatives 2025

Starting price Best for Learn more
$1.59/mo (billed annually) Best overall Get Total Adblock
$1.99/mo (billed every two years) Best for unlimited simultaneous connections Get Surfshark CleanWeb
$3.39/mo (billed every two years) Best for unique features Get NordVPN Threat Protection
$2.99/mo Best for Apple users Get 1Blocker


#1 Adblocker — Even Blocks YouTube Video Ads
4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website
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
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.