AdBlock — block ads across the web
AdBlock is a popular browser extension with over 60 million users, designed to block ads, enhance privacy, and improve browsing speed. Read our detailed review to see how it performs.
AdBlock is one of the most used ad blocker extensions, with over 60 million users and a solid 4.5-star rating with 289,000 reviews. We tested AdBlock extensively to see how it compares to other ad blockers and whether it matches its reputation.
In our recent tests, AdBlock effectively blocked pop-ups, some video ads, and banners on various websites. However, since recent updates, some limitations have affected YouTube performance. Therefore, a completely ad-free YouTube is no longer possible.
Key Features
- Blocks Ads: Removes pop-ups, banners, and video ads for a cleaner browsing experience.
- Protects Privacy: Stops websites from tracking you and blocks harmful ads.
- Sync Across Devices: Premium users can sync settings across multiple browsers.
- Customizable: Change the look and feel of the extension, even swap ads for cute images.
- YouTube Limitations: Works great on most sites, but struggles with blocking YouTube ads.
Pros
- Effective ad blocking on most websites
- Customizable settings and themes
- Sync and backup options
- Reliable privacy protection
Cons
- Recent issues with YouTube ad blocking
- Some users report frequent updates without permission
- Price performance of premium functions for basic users
Pricing
AdBlock offers both free and premium versions. The free version provides basic ad-blocking features, while the premium versions offer enhanced features.
Review
AdBlock — block ads across the web earned a score of 8.2 out of 10 in our tests. This rating suggests a tool that performs very well overall, standing out in its category.
In our review of AdBlock, we considered the categories Features, Performance, Design, Value for Money, Security & Privacy and Ease of Use. Each category was given equal importance and we'll dive into the details of each in the following section.
Features 8.5
Ad blocking:
The free version blocks annoying advertisements on websites. With the premium version, additional functions such as the blocking of cookie banners or pop-ups can also be activated.
Privacy and Security:
AdBlock blocks third-party trackers on every Website and protects your privacy. It also blocking malicious ads with malware, scams, and cryptocurrency miners.
Sync & Backup:
With the Premium version, whitelists and user-defined rules can be synchronized across Chrome profiles.
Performance 8.0
The ad blocker extension generally works without slowing down the browser on most websites. However, recent changes at YouTube have meant that AdBlock has not yet managed to ban ads from YouTube again.
Design 8.5
The user interface is clearly laid out. With the premium version, you can also use functions to make individual adjustments. You're in control of the look, feel, and font size of AdBlock with easy-to-use controls. There is also the Image Swap function, which will still block ads, but it will replace some ads with pretty pictures of cats, dogs, and nature.
Value for Money 7.5
The free version offers good value for money. Compared to other competitors, the premium functions may be somewhat more expensive. Some premium functions are offered free of charge by other providers.
Security & Privacy 9.0
Strong privacy protection through the premium feature malware blocking. The privacy policy is transparent without any indication of data being passed on.
Ease of Use 7.8
Installation is done in one click. However, you are immediately redirected to a website that informs you that payment is required to use it. However, this is only a voluntary donation.
Basic functions are used from this point on. Some settings are set to allow non-intrusive ads and special ads on YouTube, for example. This must first be actively switched off in the settings.
Conclusion
AdBlock is a reliable tool for blocking basic ads. While it blocks most ads and still protects your privacy by preventing tracking, recent updates have failed to prevent ad videos on YouTube. It's a good choice for anyone looking for a simple and reliable adblock extension.
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Good
In the Features category, AdBlock has scored a very good 8.5. It offers a solid array of features, though there may be room for a few additional capabilities.
- Features
- 8.5
In the Performance category, AdBlock has scored a good 8. It performs reliably, though it may not excel in all scenarios.
- Performance
- 8
In the Design category, AdBlock has scored a very good 8.5. The design is appealing and generally effective, with a few minor areas for improvement.
- Design
- 8.5
In the Value for Money category, AdBlock has scored an average 7.5. It offers some value for money, but there are likely better deals available.
- Value for Money
- 7.5
In the Security & Privacy category, AdBlock has scored an excellent 9. It offers robust security and privacy features that effectively protect user data.
- Security & Privacy
- 9
In the Ease of Use category, AdBlock has scored a decent 7.8. It is generally easy to use, but some aspects might be less intuitive.
- Ease of Use
- 7.8
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