How to Watch YouTube Without Ads The internet is awash with solutions claiming to remove YouTube ads, but few are effective. To save you the trouble, I conducted my own tests to discover the best ways to watch YouTube without ads. These methods work on any device and ensure seamless streaming without interruptions. With ad-blockers and premium subscriptions, you can enjoy your favorite videos without being bombarded by ads. Additionally, some browsers offer built-in ad-blocking features that can improve your viewing experience. Whether you’re watching on a desktop or mobile device, these solutions are guaranteed to enhance your YouTube experience.

How to Watch YouTube Without Ads

To block YouTube ads, there are numerous free or near-free apps and plugins available that you can try. However, it is crucial to note that some of these methods might breach the platform’s terms and conditions. After testing several ad-blocking solutions, we found that upgrading to YouTube Premium is the most effective method. Although it requires a subscription fee, it not only blocks ads but also provides access to premium content and exclusive features like offline playback and background play. Additionally, some apps offer free trials or charge a small fee for their services. When choosing an ad-blocker, make sure to read reviews and check for any potential risks before downloading or installing it on your device.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Ways to Watch YouTube Without Ads in 2024

• Get YouTube Premium — The official ad-free version of YouTube comes with additional benefits such as background play and exclusive content, but it requires payment.
• Install an ad-blocking extension on your browser — It blocks YouTube ads on your web browser, but it doesn’t block ads on the YouTube app.
• Try a VPN — You can access YouTube using an IP address from a country without ads, but it might restrict the available content for you.
• Use ad-blocking apps — Available for multiple devices, these stop commercial interruptions on both YouTube’s app and website.
• Download YouTube videos — There are different ways to download and watch videos offline ad-free, but you need a subscription for some.

Use a VPN With YouTube

YouTube, like many other websites, collects data about its users through their IP addresses and cookies. This information is then used to track user activity on the site and create a detailed profile of their preferences and interests. This data is invaluable for targeted advertising, as it allows advertisers to reach their desired audience with personalized content that resonates with their interests. While some users may find this practice invasive, others appreciate the tailored experience that it provides. Regardless of personal opinion, it is important for users to be aware of how their online activity is being tracked and utilized by YouTube and other websites.

A VPN conceals your actual IP address and substitutes it with an IP from a VPN server that you select. This is also how VPNs enable you to obtain an IP address in a region where YouTube does not display advertisements. Nonetheless, it is important to ensure that you are not utilizing the VPN to potentially view content that is not authorized for your location, as this could result in a breach of YouTube’s terms and conditions and potentially copyright laws, which is a significant offense.

6 Ways to Watch YouTube Without Ads

1. Get YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is the most convenient way to enjoy uninterrupted YouTube watching as it eliminates ads and doesn’t violate the platform’s terms and conditions. This paid membership offers various benefits, including access to exclusive YouTube content and YouTube Music. By subscribing, you’re also supporting content creators and allowing them to earn from their work. Another advantage of a premium membership is that it allows you to share one account with multiple users through a family plan. However, the downside is that it comes at a cost and isn’t free of charge. Nonetheless, if you are someone who enjoys binge-watching videos on YouTube without being interrupted by ads, then YouTube Premium is definitely worth considering.

YouTube Premium is a subscription-based service that provides users with additional features, including the ability to download videos for offline viewing. The cost of YouTube Premium varies depending on the region, with prices ranging from 1290 INR ($15.50 USD) for a 12-month subscription in India to around $140 in the US. Along with ad-free streaming and access to exclusive content, YouTube Premium’s video download feature allows users to watch their favorite videos without an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to save data or watch videos while traveling or in areas with poor internet connectivity. Overall, YouTube Premium offers a range of benefits that can enhance your viewing experience and make it more convenient and enjoyable.

2. Install an Ad-Blocking Extension on Your Browser

Browser plugins are a useful tool for detecting and preventing ads across different websites, including YouTube. However, it’s important to note that some websites may be designed to identify users with active ad-blockers and restrict content access for them. Most ad-blocker settings are customizable, allowing you to set permissions for individual sites based on your preferences. This feature ensures that you get an uninterrupted browsing experience while also supporting the content creators who rely on advertising revenue. It is recommended to use reliable and trustworthy ad-blocker plugins to avoid security risks and ensure optimal browsing performance.

How to Watch YouTube Without Ads Using an Ad-Blocking Web Browser Extension

• Please visit the extension store for Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge. Look for “ad blocker” or “ad remover.” Certain ad blockers can also be used with mobile phone browsers such as Opera Mini.
• Select a blocker. If you are unsure of which service to choose and simply want to explore the options, opt for a blocker with favorable reviews and high popularity.
• The Firefox extension store operates in a manner similar to Chrome’s for locating an ad blocker.
• To integrate the extension, click on Add to Chrome in your browser to install it. Other browsers will have comparable buttons for the same purpose.
• It only takes a few clicks to install an ad blocker on your browser.
• You can use the new extension to access YouTube through your browser. Many of them, such as AdBlock, will adjust the settings for you, so you won’t need to make any changes yourself.
• Take pleasure in watching YouTube videos without any advertisements.

Top Ad-Blocking Extensions for Browsers

Major platforms such as YouTube employ unique software to combat ad blockers, so don’t be shocked if the extension or app you’ve downloaded can’t fully stop YouTube ads. It’s advisable to opt for a trustworthy blocker. After testing over 40 ad blockers, my team and I discovered that, apart from AdBlock, these are the most dependable choices:

AdblockPlus (ABP)	AdGuard	AdBlocker Ultimate	AdBlocker Stands	AdLock
Total AdBlock	uBlock Origin	Adblock for YouTube	Ghostery	Poper Blocker

I found that AdblockPlus also has add-ons for Firefox, Safari, and Edge

3. Connect to a VPN Server in Countries Without YouTube Advertising Program

Advertisers are only able to display advertisements in countries where YouTube is monetized. This means that in countries where YouTube has not implemented its advertising program, users will not see any ads. Albania, Myanmar, and the Bahamas are examples of such countries. Accessing the site from these locations will provide an ad-free experience. However, it is not necessary to physically travel to these countries. By using a VPN, you can alter your virtual location, potentially making your YouTube experience ad-free. For example, connecting to a VPN server in Albania will assign you an Albanian IP address, making it appear as though you are accessing the site from Albania and avoiding ads. Nevertheless, using YouTube with a server in one of these countries may affect the content that is displayed.

Please be aware that using a VPN to potentially view YouTube videos that are not accessible in your country violates the platform’s terms and conditions and may be viewed as a violation of copyright. Therefore, our team and I do not support or endorse this practice. If you intend to watch videos that are already accessible in your country, here is a detailed approach to watching YouTube without ads using a VPN:

• Get a reliable VPN. Select a high-speed VPN with servers located in Albania, Myanmar, or the Bahamas.
• Install it on your device. Get the app for the YouTube platform you prefer and then proceed with the installation instructions.
• Connect to a nearby server. Select a server in Albania, Myanmar, or another country without an ad-enabled YouTube version that is nearest to your location.
• Watch YouTube ad-free. Access the website on your chosen device and indulge in ad-free videos, ensuring that you only view content that is accessible to you without the VPN to comply with copyright laws.
• I was able to access the video in my country before using a VPN.

You can use this method on any device that is compatible with VPNs, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. If your device does not have built-in VPN support, such as smart TVs or gaming consoles, you can configure the VPN on your router. This enables all connected devices to access the VPN’s location settings, resulting in ad-free YouTube streaming across all of them.

4. Watch With Device-Wide Ad-Blocking Software or Modded YouTube Apps

Third-party software can be installed directly on your smartphone, computer, or smart TV to watch YouTube without ads. These apps, unlike a browser extension, block ads on your entire device.

Watch YouTube Without Ads on Your Computer

AdGuard provides a secure option for Windows, macOS, and Linux users. Other well-known applications such as AdBlocker Ultimate and AdLock also performed effectively in my tests. You can easily download your chosen application from the official website. While it’s important to note that blocking YouTube ads violates its terms of use, AdBlocker Ultimate effectively removes pop-ups and video ads from YouTube and prevents trackers from monitoring your online activities, thereby blocking potentially harmful domains. Unlike many ad blockers that require payment, AdBlocker Ultimate offers a free trial.

I used AdBlocker Ultimate on YouTube’s Windows appWatch YouTube Without Ads on Your Smartphone and Tablet

There are numerous ad-blocking applications available for Android and iOS devices, including AdblockPlus, AdGuard, and AdBlocker Ultimate. These apps can be directly downloaded and installed on Android phones, iPhones, and iPads. Other alternatives include AdBlock, AdLock, and 1Blocker.YouTube Vanced, a modified version of YouTube that allowed ad-free viewing on Android, was discontinued by Google. However, SkyTube is a similar app that is still operational. In addition to blocking YouTube advertisements, SkyTube offers customization options such as the ability to blocklist channels and filter videos based on language and child-friendly content.

There are Android ad blockers that are not available in the Play Store, but you can obtain the app’s APK directly. When downloading an ad blocker APK for your Android device, ensure that it is from a reliable source. It’s important to note that sideloading apps can pose risks as there are numerous dubious or counterfeit APKs that may compromise your phone’s security.

Watch YouTube Without Ads on Your Smart TV

If you’re tired of watching ads while streaming on YouTube using your smart TV or media streaming devices like Amazon Fire Stick and Android TV, there are ways to filter the commercials out. Installing a third-party app such as NewPipe and SmartTube Next can help pull YouTube videos without showing ads. These options work similarly to the discontinued YouTube Vanced, allowing you to watch ad-free content on your big screen.NewPipe is ideal for Android-based devices that do not support Google-based services such as Huawei TVs. If you prefer an ad-blocker instead of an ad-free YouTube clone, Blakoda is another option to consider. However, regardless of which option you choose, you’ll need to sideload these apps onto your smart TV. If downloading an APK file is impossible on your TV, get it on your computer or phone and transfer it to a flash drive before moving it to your TV.

5. Download YouTube Videos

YouTube Premium is a subscription service that offers an ad-free experience and the ability to download videos for offline viewing. This feature allows users to enjoy their favorite content without interruptions or the need for an internet connection. However, there are also third-party applications and websites available that allow users to rip YouTube clips and save them on their local storage. It’s important to note that using these methods goes against YouTube’s terms of service and can expose users to risks such as data theft, malware, and hacks. It’s best to use YouTube Premium legally if you want to enjoy ad-free videos and offline viewing without any security concerns.

6. Block YouTube Ads on Mobile Devices via DNS Server

Pie-Hole is a custom DNS-based solution that can be used to block ads on your home network using Raspberry Pi. However, if you find it too technical, AdGuard software can provide DNS-wide content blocking that prevents ads, trackers, and malicious websites on all devices connected to your home network. While AdGuard DNS offers limited functionality for free, subscribing to a paid plan will unlock its full potential.It’s worth noting that the DNS server method of blocking ads may not work reliably against certain YouTube ads because YouTube now displays videos using their original URLs. This makes it difficult to distinguish between the content and third-party advertisements. To achieve better results, consider using a VPN with an ad blocker alongside the DNS filtering service. However, keep in mind that using a VPN or any other location-altering service to access copyright-protected YouTube videos may violate copyright laws.

How to Stay Safe on YouTube

YouTube offers a wide range of entertaining and informative videos, but it continuously gathers your data to understand your actions and display personalized advertisements. This not only intrudes on your privacy but also has the potential to compromise your personal information in the event of a security breach.

Here are some ways to enhance your safety and privacy while using YouTube:

• Use a VPN. YouTube displays advertisements based on your location, which it identifies by examining your IP address. By using a VPN, you can conceal your actual IP, resulting in fewer targeted ads. This helps to make YouTube tracking less intrusive and stops third parties from spying on you.
• Review privacy settings. Head to your YouTube account settings and modify them to improve your privacy. Establish restrictions on who has access to your liked videos, subscriptions, and playlists. You may also wish to think about pausing or removing your YouTube watch and search history.
• Limit personal information. Refain from disclosing personal information in comments or video descriptions, such as your address, phone number, or full name, as it could be exploited if it gets into the wrong hands.
• Update passwords regularly. It’s important to periodically update your YouTube (Google) password, making sure it’s distinct and not shared with other online accounts to prevent risk in case of a compromise.
• Avoid suspicious links. Exercise caution when encountering links in YouTube comments or video descriptions, as not all links are secure and some may direct you to phishing websites.
• Use a secure connection. Make sure to use HTTPS when connecting to YouTube for a more secure connection, which will safeguard your data from eavesdroppers, especially on public networks. You can verify this by checking for “https” at the start of the YouTube URL or a padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar.
• Anonymous browsing. If you are worried about the privacy of your data, think about making a YouTube account that is not connected to your main email. Another option is to use YouTube in Incognito mode. However, remember that this is not completely private and it will not retain preferences or history across sessions.
• Stay informed. Make sure to regularly review YouTube’s privacy policy and terms of service to stay informed about any potential changes in the way your data is utilized.

Best VPNs for YouTube

• ExpressVPN — The top VPN for YouTube offers robust security and privacy features, high-speed performance for seamless HD and 4K streaming, and includes Threat Manager to prevent pop-up ads, trackers, and malware.
• CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers safeguard your data from third-party interference, and the Block Content feature stops malicious pop-ups and trackers.
• Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a wide server network to avoid overcrowding and uses MACE to block banner ads and trackers.

It’s crucial to note that my coworkers and I do not support copyright violation or violating YouTube’s terms and conditions. The VPN providers we suggest have strong no-logging rules to protect your online activities. Therefore, you are accountable for your VPN usage and should comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

Conclusion

YouTube’s ads are becoming increasingly invasive, and the platform is getting better at bypassing ad-blocking tools. Thankfully, there are many ways to watch YouTube videos uninterrupted. One method is to use browser extensions that block ads or connect to a VPN server located in a country where YouTube doesn’t monetize its content. However, the most effective solution to get rid of ads altogether is to subscribe to YouTube Premium. With this subscription service, you can enjoy ad-free videos and various other perks like offline playback and exclusive content. While it comes with a subscription fee, it is worth considering for those who value their time and want an uninterrupted viewing experience.

How to Watch YouTube Without Ads 2024: FAQs

Why does YouTube have so many ads?

YouTube generates revenue from unpaid users by displaying advertisements. The greater the number of ads they can incorporate, the higher their earnings. While it can be frustrating, there are methods to watch YouTube content without ads. Although ad-blocking tools may not be flawless, they can help minimize the occurrence of banners and commercials in YouTube videos. The most reliable and efficient approach to eliminate YouTube ads is to upgrade to YouTube Premium.

Due to the competition from platforms such as Twitch and TikTok, YouTube now shows an increased number of advertisements to increase its earnings. Monetizing YouTube channels serves as a strong motivation for content creators as the ads generate income from their videos, encouraging them to continue creating and uploading new content.

Does a VPN block YouTube ads?

Certainly, utilizing a VPN could potentially assist in preventing YouTube ads. Although VPN ad blockers integrated into browsers may not be able to completely eliminate all pop-up ads and in-video ads, there is an alternative approach. By connecting to a VPN server located in Myanmar, Moldova, or Albania, YouTube will not display any ads as these locations are not targeted for ad serving.

Ensure that you continue to access content that was originally available in your country before using the VPN, even after connecting to these locations. It is crucial to adhere to this to avoid violating copyright laws.

Do content creators still get paid if I block ads?

YouTubers receive payment based on ad views, but they also earn income from other sources such as branded merchandise, affiliate programs, Super Chat, Super Stickers, YouTube Premium royalties, and channel memberships.

Can I block YouTube ads for free?

Certainly, you have the option to prevent YouTube advertisements by utilizing a no-cost browser extension or application. The majority of no-cost software gathers information such as your browsing habits, which is why I sought out free ad blockers that prioritize your privacy to the greatest extent possible.