YouTube is the premier video hosting platform on the internet. It offers an endless catalog of videos on just about every topic under the sun. But, it’s no secret that YouTube’s advertising can be overwhelming, especially with unskippable 15-30 seconds videos that show up before the actual video begins. While ads keep the content creators and YouTube in business, too many ads can hamper the viewing experience.
Thankfully, there are ways to block ads on YouTube on Chrome. This blog post will discuss three of the most popular methods to give you freedom from YouTube’s ads. You’ll also learn why some methods won’t work, FAQs, and tips to help you get the most out of blocking YouTube ads.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenges of Blocking Ads on YouTube
YouTube has made it tough to block ads to support its creator community and business. Since YouTube is owned by Google, it can detect most ad-blockers and asks users to turn off ad-blockers if they want to access the site. Despite these challenges, you can still get around YouTube’s advertising algorithms and maintain your sanity while watching.
Method 1: Use AdBlock on Chrome
AdBlock is a popular extension used for blocking ads on Chrome. You can easily get the AdBlock extension by visiting the Chrome Web Store. AdBlock gets updated regularly, making it a robust extension for blocking ads.
1. Download the AdBlock extension on Chrome’s web store.
2. After you’ve installed the extension, click on AdBlock’s icon in the top right-hand corner.
3. Click on "options" and then select "customize."
4. You can now adjust your customization settings. Choose block ads on YouTube to block ads while viewing videos on YouTube.
5. You’re done! Enjoy your ad-free YouTube experience.
Pros:
✓ User-friendly interface.
✓ Regular updates and improvements to deliver excellent performance.
✓ Blocks ads on YouTube on Chrome.
Cons:
✘ AdBlock is a free extension, and some ads might find a way to display despite the use of AdBlock.
✘ Some users reported that AdBlock slows down browsing.
Method 2: Use AdBlock Plus on Chrome
Another popular ad-blocker is AdBlock Plus, which you can also download from the Chrome Web Store. It works similarly to AdBlock but offers better customization options.
1. Download the AdBlock Plus extension from the Chrome Web Store.
2. Open YouTube and click on the AdBlock icon.
3. Choose "Options" and then click on the "Advanced" tab.
4. Select "Customize AdBlock Plus"
5. Ensure you’ve selected the block ads on YouTube option by checking the box beside the option.
6. Click on "Save" to activate the changes.
Enjoy the ad-free YouTube experience.
Pros:
✓ Powerful ad-blocking feature ensures zero ad pop-ups while browsing.
✓ High level of customization available.
✓ User-friendly interface that’s easy to use.
Cons:
✘ Some free ads might still appear despite the use of AdBlock Plus.
✘ It may slow down your browsing speed.
Method 3: Use a VPN that Blocks Ads
A VPN is a Virtual Private Network that allows you to browse the internet anonymously while keeping your online activity secure. Not only can a VPN block ads, but it can also increase your online privacy and security.
1. Download and install a VPN with an ad-blocker feature, such as NordVPN.
2. Open your VPN and connect to a server.
3. Once connected, open your browser and go to YouTube.
4. Enjoy ad-free streaming without any interruptions.
Pros:
✓ Increased privacy due to the anonymous browsing feature.
✓ High-level encryption keeps your browsing secure.
✓ Blocks all ads, not just those on YouTube.
Cons:
✘ Costly to use compared to free ad-blockers.
✘ May slightly slow down browsing speed.
Why Can’t I Block YouTube Ads?
There are a few reasons why you might fail to block YouTube ads:
1. You’re not using the latest version of your ad-blocker extension or VPN.
2. Your ad-blocker extension or VPN has been disabled without your knowledge.
3. You’re using a subpar ad-blocker browser extension or VPN that doesn’t block ads effectively on YouTube.
To fix these issues, make sure that your ad-blocker extension or VPN is up-to-date. You can also try uninstalling and reinstalling your ad-blocker extension or trying a different VPN.
Additional Tips for Blocking Ads on YouTube
1. Customize your ad-blocker settings to block ads but not pop-ups, or you might have trouble accessing some websites.
2. Blocking too many ads can negatively impact content creators’ earnings.
3. Try using incognito mode when watching videos on YouTube to avoid getting served ads.
FAQs
Q: Can I block ads on YouTube mobile?
A: Indeed, you can. AdBlock has a mobile app that you can download to block ads on YouTube mobile.
Q: Is it illegal to use an extension to block ads?
A: No. The use of ad-blockers is legal. However, it’s worth noting that using an ad-blocker extension may negatively impact content creators’ revenue streams.
Q: Does AdBlock still work in 2022?
A: Yes, it does. AdBlock gets updated regularly and continues to work well in 2022.
Q: Can YouTube detect AdBlock?
A: Yes, they can. YouTube has already responded from detecting AdBlock plus and is working on detecting AdBlock as well.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, blocking ads on YouTube can improve your streaming experience. AdBlock, AdBlock Plus, or a VPN with an ad-blocker feature are the most effective methods to get an ad-free YouTube experience. Make sure that you keep your ad-blocker extensions and VPNs up-to-date to ensure maximum effectiveness. Finally, remember to support content creators as much as possible.