Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection 2025: Security or Simplicity?

Explore the differences between Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection to determine which ad blocker best suits your needs, from straightforward ad blocking to comprehensive security features.
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Best for ad blocking

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

Best for comprehensive security

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

Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection are two of the best ad blockers available, each with unique features that cater to different user needs.

Total Adblock is best for users looking for simple and robust ad blocking features, along with award-winning antivirus protection. On the other hand, NordVPN Threat Protection offers advanced online privacy with the inclusion of NordVPN.

We delve into the specifics of each product, comparing their costs, features, and effectiveness based on comprehensive testing, to help you decide which ad blocker best fits your online lifestyle.

In this article
Overview comparison
Prices
Features
Test results
Compatibility and customer support
FAQs
Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection: Which is better?
Alternatives

Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection compared

Total Adblock logo
Best overall
NordVPN Threat Protection logo
Price $1.59/mo $3.39–$17.99/mo
Ads blocked on Forbes 22 26
Does it block YouTube ads?
Compatibility Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Safari Threat Protection: Windows, macOS

Threat Protection Lite: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge

Mobile compatibility Android, iOS Threat Protection Lite: Android, iOS
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Total Adblock pros and cons

Both Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection provide robust solutions to intrusive ads and trackers, but they each have unique strengths.

Total Adblock is particularly effective for eliminating pop-ups and video ads on popular platforms like YouTube. It's optimized for personal use where straightforward ad blocking is the priority, especially on mobile devices and mainstream browsers.

Pros
  • Effective at blocking pop-ups and video ads
  • Browser extension and mobile app are easy to install and set up
  • Includes a free version for Android and iOS devices
  • Bonus inclusions of TotalAV antivirus software
Cons
  • Free version excludes the top 15,000 websites
  • Annoying pop-ups prompt you to upgrade to premium

NordVPN Threat Protection pros and cons

On the other hand, NordVPN Threat Protection offers a comprehensive suite suitable for users who need an integrated solution that not only blocks ads, but also provides additional security features (like malware protection and advanced privacy tools) across multiple devices and operating systems.

Pros
  • Blocks ads across multiple devices and operating systems
  • Extensive online security and privacy protections
  • Part of the NordVPN security suite
Cons
  • Bundled protection costs more than a standalone ad blocker
  • Not as user-friendly
  • No longer blocks YouTube video ads

Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection: Prices

Total Adblock logo
Best value
NordVPN Threat Protection logo
Price range $1.59/mo $3.39–$17.99/mo
Best value plan 12-month plan for $1.59/mo (billed annually) 2-year plan for $3.39/mo (billed every two years)
Free version available
Money-back guarantee Yes — 30 days Yes — 30 days
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Total Adblock provides a straightforward pricing structure with a free version and a premium plan priced at $1.59/mo (billed annually) per month when billed annually.

This premium option is particularly appealing for its extra features, like:

  • Comprehensive ad blocking capabilities across all websites (unlike the free version, which limits blocking to non-top 15,000 Alexa-ranked sites)
  • Inclusion of TotalAV antivirus and WebShield for real-time phishing and malware protection

NordVPN Threat Protection, on the other hand, is part of a broader suite of cybersecurity tools available through various NordVPN plans. These range from $3.39–$17.99/mo, depending on the length of commitment and the plan tier chosen.

The best value is arguably found in the 2-year plan at $3.39/mo (billed every two years) per month under the Standard tier, which includes both the VPN and Threat Protection.

Higher tiers add features that make them suitable for users who need extensive security measures, like:

Both services offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing flexibility and reassurance to test the services risk-free.

Winner: Total Adblock. For users primarily interested in ad blocking with some added security features, Total Adblock offers the best price. Its low-cost annual plan, combined with robust ad blocking and security enhancements, presents a compelling value proposition.

Total Adblock vs NordVPN Threat Protection: Features

Total Adblock logo
Our Pick
NordVPN Threat Protection logo
Whitelisting
Blacklisting
Malicious ad warning
Ads blocked counter
Paywall blocker
Block pop-up ads
Block tracking
Block video ads
Block banner ads
Block push ads
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection both offer robust feature sets designed to enhance user privacy and online safety, but they cater to slightly different needs.

Total Adblock focuses primarily on ad blocking capabilities. It includes essential features like blocking:

  • Pop-ups
  • Video ads
  • Banner ads
  • Trackers to prevent websites from monitoring your online activities

A standout feature is its whitelisting capability, which allows users to support their favorite websites by selectively enabling ads. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to ensure that content creators and news sites they care about can still generate revenue.

But for a super low starting rate, Total Adblock also includes the award-winning TotalAV antivirus protection. TotalAV offers real-time protection from viruses, malware, and malicious websites, data breach alerts, and a suite of performance optimization tools. 

The dashboard for TotalAV
TotalAV protection dashboard

NordVPN Threat Protection, on the other hand, provides a more comprehensive data security solution. While it includes similar ad blocking and tracking prevention capabilities, it extends its offerings to include:

  • Malware protection
  • Phishing protection
  • Real-time internet security monitoring

Its real-time protection scans downloaded files for malware, enhancing user safety during internet browsing and file transfers.

Threat Protection Pro tab on NordVPN dashboard

NordVPN Threat Protection also comes bundled with NordVPN, a virtual private network that's more suited for users who require a broader range of security features that go beyond ad blocking, especially those who frequently download files or access potentially risky websites. NordVPN helps to safeguard your identity by hiding your real IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. 

Winner: Total Adblock. For those seeking an affordable online security suite that covers more than just ad blocking, Total Adblock offers TotalAV antivirus protection. Its inclusion of real-time malware scanning, phishing protection, and the ability to block malicious websites provides a more rounded security approach, catering to users who prioritize extensive online protection.

Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection: Test results

Total Adblock logo
Our Pick
NordVPN Threat Protection logo
Adblock Tester score 100/100 96/100
Cover Your Tracks score 2/3 2/3
Can You Block It score 3/3 2/3
YouTube ads blocked
Paywalls blocked
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

In our testing, both Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection demonstrated strong capabilities in blocking unwanted content, but there were noticeable differences in their performances.

Total Adblock achieved a perfect score of 100/100 on the AdBlock Tester, a third-party tester. This indicates its effectiveness across various types of ads and trackers. It also successfully blocked all ads on YouTube and passed the Can You Block It test with flying colors, scoring 3/3.

However, in the Cover Your Tracks test, Total Adblock faltered slightly by not fully protecting against fingerprinting, scoring 2/3. However, pretty much all premium ad blockers only achieve 2/3 in this test. 

NordVPN Threat Protection, while slightly less effective in the AdBlock Tester with a score of 96/100 matched Total Adblock's score in the Cover Your Tracks test, also failing to completely protect against fingerprinting.

Its performance in the Can You Block It test was lower, with a score of 2/3, indicating some gaps in blocking interstitial ads. However, unlike Total Adblock, NordVPN Threat Protection did not effectively block YouTube ads.

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

NordVPN Threat Protection Pro (enabled) side-by-side with YouTube ads

Winner: Total Adblock outperformed NordVPN Threat Protection in our tests, achieving higher scores in the AdBlock Tester and "Can You Block It" test. Its consistent ability to handle various ad types and trackers gives it a slight edge over NordVPN Threat Protection, making it the more effective option for users primarily focused on ad blocking.

Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection: Compatibility and customer support

Total Adblock logo NordVPN Threat Protection logo
Our Pick
Windows
macOS
Android Yes (Lite)
iOS Yes (Lite)
Linux Yes (Lite)
Browser extensions Yes — Chrome, Edge, Safari, Opera Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge
24/7 customer support
Customer support options Live chat, phone, email, online guides Live chat, phone, email, online guides
Learn more Get Total Adblock

Read Total Adblock Review

Get NordVPN Threat Protection

Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection both offer broad compatibility across major operating systems, but they each bring distinct nuances to the table that might sway user preference.

Total Adblock provides seamless integration with popular browsers, making it highly accessible for the typical user. These include:

However, Total Adblock does not offer compatibility with Linux, which could be a limiting factor for users operating on that platform.

Its interface is straightforward, ensuring users can easily find settings and adjust ad blocking preferences as needed. Customer support is robust, including 24/7 access via multiple channels such as email, phone, and comprehensive online guides.

NordVPN's Threat Protection offers a more versatile approach with its dual offerings:

  • Threat Protection: Feature rich, with malware scanning and advanced ad blocking capabilities, suitable for desktop users on Windows and macOS without requiring a VPN connection
  • Thread Protection Lite: Designed to cater to users on Linux, Android, and iOS, extending basic ad blocking and security features but necessitating a VPN connection

NordVPN also excels in customer support, providing extensive options including 24/7 live chat, phone support, and a wealth of online resources, which are crucial for addressing user issues promptly and effectively.

Winner: NordVPN Threat Protection offers the best compatibility and customer service. Its dual version approach — covering both advanced and basic security needs across nearly all platforms — and its comprehensive customer support network set it above Total Adblock, particularly for users seeking versatility and robust support options.

Total Adblock vs NordVPN Threat Protection FAQs

Is Total Adblock legit?

Yes, Total Adblock is a legitimate tool that effectively blocks a wide range of ads across many websites and platforms, enhancing the browsing experience. In fact, it's one of the best ad blockers we've tested.

Is there a downside to Total Adblock?

The main downside to Total Adblock is the limited free version. If you don’t purchase a premium plan, its effectiveness is reduced on websites ranked in the top 15,000 on Alexa.

Is NordVPN Threat Protection any good?

NordVPN Threat Protection is highly effective, offering comprehensive security features such as malware scanning, ad blocking, and real-time protection against phishing and other cyberthreats.

Does NordVPN Threat Protection block ads?

Yes, NordVPN Threat Protection blocks ads effectively. It includes an ad blocker as part of its suite of tools to enhance online security and improve users’ browsing experience. However, during recent repeat testing, it was unable to block YouTube video ads. We recommend using an ad blocker like Total Adblock for a seamless YouTube experience.

Total Adblock vs. NordVPN Threat Protection: Which is better?

Total Adblock and NordVPN Threat Protection each offer unique advantages tailored to different user needs, but we recommend Total Adblock for most users.

For users primarily looking for robust ad blocking across multiple devices and browsers without the need for extensive security features, Total Adblock is the better choice due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Plus, you also get to try out TotalAV antivirus software for a low first-year starting rate. 

4.9
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

Even still, NordVPN Threat Protection is a solid security bundle because it includes NordVPN, but it's not the better ad blocker.  For those who require a more comprehensive security solution that includes advanced protection features alongside ad blocking, NordVPN Threat Protection is the superior option, especially given its versatility and extensive customer support. 

Total Adblock vs NordVPN Threat Protection alternatives

If Total Adblock or NordVPN Threat Protection don't perfectly match your needs, consider these best ad blocker alternatives:

  • Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking: This feature is part of the Surfshark VPN service, providing not only ad blocking but also protection against malware, trackers, and phishing attempts. It's an excellent choice for those who want VPN functionality combined with robust online protection.

    Get Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking | Read Our Surfshark CleanWeb Ad Blocking Review
  • AdLock: AdLock is a standalone ad blocker that excels at removing all types of advertising from web pages and applications without whitelisting. It offers a comprehensive solution for users seeking a dedicated ad blocking tool that works across multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, and Chrome.

    Get AdLock | Read Our AdLock Review
  • uBlock Origin: Known for its efficiency and lightweight impact on system resources, uBlock Origin is a popular open-source ad blocker that allows detailed customization for tech-savvy users. It supports various browsers (but not Chrome or Safari) and is ideal for those who prefer a hands-on approach to ad blocking.

    Read Our uBlock Origin Review
#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
Ryan Clancy is a writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing tech down to a level that everyone can understand.
Kate is an Editor at All About Cookies. She has a decade of digital publishing experience and a background in EdTech. As a digital security expert, she leverages her passion for helping people to create authentic, well-researched content on a wide-range of digital privacy and security topics.