Blocking ads on a computer is much easier than blocking ads on a phone. While Android used to be praised for being an open platform, over the years, Google has made it more restrictive. There are certain folders you can’t access, rooting is significantly harder, and apps must meet a certain criteria before they can be approved on Google Play Store. With all these restrictions, it’s really hard finding a solid ad blocker for Android.
But we’ve tested a lot of these ad blockers, most of them are not available on the Google Play Store. However, we’ve compiled a list of ad blockers that are entirely safe to install, and will block most ads on your Android smartphone.
A Quick Comparison Between The Top 5 Best Ad Blockers for Android
| Ad Blocker | Adblock Tester Score | Starting Price | Where it Works | Why it’s the best? |
| Total Adblock | 100 | $19.99/year | Chrome, Android & iOS | Easy setup, one-click |
| AdGuard | 100 | $39.99/year | Everywhere | Blocks everything |
| Surfshark Cleanweb | 98 | $47.85/year + 3 months | Everywhere | Best VPN ad blocker bundle |
| NordVPN | 91 | $71.88/year or $12.99/month | Everywhere | Streaming ads and privacy |
| AdLock | 100 | $34/year or $3.5/month | Chrome, Firefox, Safari, macOS, Windows, Android, & iOS | User-friendly |
1. Total Adblock – The No-Fuss Ad Blocker
Total Adblock is easy to use and works right out of the box so it’s perfect for Android users who don’t want to deal with complicated settings or configurations. Unlike browser-only ad blockers, Total Adblock removes ads across multiple apps, including freemium games, shopping apps and ad supported utilities.
Blocks Ads Across Apps and Browsers
Many ad blockers only work inside web browsers, so apps like games, productivity tools and streaming services still show ads. Total Adblock removes pop-ups, interstitials and full screen video ads inside many popular Android apps, making it one of the most effective ad blockers on mobile. Since it filters ads before they load it also reduces data usage so web pages and apps load faster and consume less bandwidth.
One Tap Install
Unlike some Android ad blockers that require advanced setup or root access, Total Adblock is a one tap install from the Play Store. Once activated it automatically blocks ads across multiple apps and browsers, no manual configuration required.
Stops Tracking and Personalized Ads
Contextual ads are designed to track user behavior. Total Adblock prevents advertisers from collecting search history, app usage data and browsing habits, so Google, Facebook and ad networks can’t serve hyper targeted ads. By blocking tracking scripts, fingerprinting attempts and URL tracking Total Adblock keeps user activity private and free from unwanted surveillance.
Faster Browsing and Lower Data Usage
Ad heavy websites slow down performance and drain mobile data by loading unnecessary scripts and autoplay videos. Total Adblock removes these elements before they load so pages load faster, scrolling is smoother and data usage is lower. For users on limited data plans Total Adblock helps reduce mobile data usage by preventing ads from consuming unnecessary megabytes in the background.
Blocks In-App Ads on Many Freemium Apps
Freemium Android apps rely on ads to generate revenue but some apps go overboard with intrusive ad placements. Total Adblock removes banner ads, pop-ups and interstitials inside many ad supported apps, giving a cleaner and more enjoyable user experience. It can’t block ads inside all apps but works on many of the most popular freemium apps, so ad interruptions are minimal during usage.
Who Should Use Total Adblock?
Total Adblock is perfect for Android users who want an ad blocker that works instantly with no setup. It’s an excellent choice for:
- Users who want a Play Store-friendly ad blocker that installs easily.
- People who use freemium ad apps and want to remove in-app ads.
- Users looking for faster browsing and reduced data usage.
- Those who want ad-blocking without needing root access.
2. AdGuard – Best System-Wide Ad Blocker
AdGuard is one of the few ad blockers that really works system-wide on Android. While most ad blockers only work inside browsers, AdGuard blocks ads in apps and games. It does so without root access, so it’s the most powerful and accessible ad-blocking solution for Android users.
Blocks Ads Across Apps and Browsers
Most Android ad blockers only function inside web browsers. But there are ads in freemium apps, and games, that can be very intrusive. AdGuard works at the DNS level, filtering out ads before they even reach your phone. Whether you’re reading news articles, using your favorite apps, or playing video games, AdGuard makes sure no ads slip through.
Blocks Trackers and Stops Apps From Colleting Data
AdGuard is a privacy tool that blocks tracking scripts, analytics tools, and fingerprinting attempts from apps and websites that monitor your activities. By filtering network traffic, it ensures that advertisers can’t collect data on your searches, clicks, or browsing habits.
DNS Filtering
One of AdGuard’s biggest advantages is DNS filtering. Since it doesn’t rely on browser-based extensions, it can block ads at the network level. This means it doesn’t modify any system host files, so no root is required. And it reduces data usage. Also, as most of the ads are being removed using a DNS on the cloud, it also saves battery life.
Built-in Firewall for Extra Security
AdGuard has a firewall that lets you control which apps have internet access. If an app sends too much data in the background, you can block it entirely. This is especially useful for preventing apps from spying on you. This also reduces battery drain from apps running unnecessary background processes. Moreover, you can block internet access for apps that don’t need it.
No Google Play Store? No Problem
Because AdGuard blocks ads at the system level, Google won’t allow it on the Play Store. That means you’ll need to download it directly from AdGuard’s official website. The installation process is easy, and updates are managed directly through the app. If you want the most powerful ad blocker for Android, downloading it from the official source is worth it. This also means it’ll work great on Huawei and other Android phones that don’t come with Google Play Store
Who Should Use AdGuard?
AdGuard is for Android users who want ad-blocking beyond browsers. It’s good for:
- Those who want system-wide ad blocking without root.
- Those who care about privacy and want to stop tracking and fingerprinting.
- Those who need a firewall to control app internet access.
3. Surfshark CleanWeb – The VPN + Ad Blocker Bundle
Surfshark VPN is both a VPN and an ad blocker, so you don’t need a separate ad-blocking app. You get all the privacy benefits of a VPN and ad blocking across apps and browsers, making it one of the best all-in-one solutions for Android in 2025.
Blocks Ads Across Apps, Games and Websites
Unlike browser-only ad blockers, CleanWeb removes ads from apps, games and mobile websites. It filters pop-ups, banner ads and autoplay videos, so you have a smoother browsing experience on news sites, blogs and e-commerce platforms. Since it blocks ads before they load, it reduces bandwidth consumption and page load times. For users on limited data plans, this can mean big savings over time.
No More VPN Conflicts
Most Android ad blockers require a VPN to work, which means you can’t use a proper VPN and ad blocker at the same time. If you enable an ad blocker, your existing VPN gets disconnected and vice versa. With Surfshark CleanWeb, this problem disappears. Since CleanWeb is built into Surfshark VPN, you get the best of both worlds. An ad blocker that works without disabling your VPN.
Stops Trackers and Strengthens Privacy
CleanWeb is designed for privacy. It prevents advertisers from tracking your searches, app activity and browsing habits so Google, Facebook and other data brokers can’t profiling you. By blocking tracking scripts and analytics tools it also reduces background data usage which can improve battery life on mobile devices.
Phishing and Malware Protection
One of CleanWeb’s best features is phishing protection. If you accidentally click on a malicious link or try to visit a compromised website, CleanWeb blocks the page before it loads, reducing the risk of scams and malware infections. It’s not a full antivirus replacement but an extra layer of security to make sure you don’t fall victim to phishing attacks and malicious pop-ups.
Faster Browsing, Less Data
Ads slow down websites and consume data. CleanWeb removes heavy ad scripts so pages load faster and use less bandwidth. For users on metered connections or mobile data plans this can save a lot of data over time and you can browse smoother without the extra clutter.
No Customization, But That’s the Point
Unlike some ad blockers, CleanWeb doesn’t offer advanced filtering options or allow you to manually customize ad-blocking settings. But that’s the point. It’s meant to be simple, automatic and effective without user intervention.
Who is Surfshark CleanWeb for?
Surfshark CleanWeb is for Android users who want ad blocking and VPN in one package. It’s perfect for:
- Users who want ad blocking without losing their VPN connection.
- People who need a VPN for privacy but also want ad-free browsing.
- Anyone who wants malware and phishing protection alongside ad blocking.
- Users who want a no setup ad blocker that works system wide.
4. NordVPN Threat Protection Pro – Security-Focused
NordVPN is known for its VPN services but Threat Protection Pro goes beyond just encrypting internet traffic. It blocks ads, trackers, malware and phishing attempts system wide so it’s a complete online security tool not just an ad blocker.
Blocks Ads Across Apps and Browsers
Threat Protection Pro blocks ads inside browsers, apps and games so annoying pop-ups, autoplay videos and interstitial ads are completely removed. Unlike some ad blockers that only work inside Chrome or Firefox it works system wide so ads won’t appear in news apps, streaming platforms or even ad supported games.
Works Seamlessly With NordVPN
Most Android ad blockers create a local VPN connection to filter network traffic which means you can’t use a regular VPN and an ad blocker at the same time. With Threat Protection Pro this issue disappears since the ad blocker is built directly into NordVPN you get ad-blocking and encrypted browsing in one. This makes NordVPN one of the only solutions that lets you stay connected to a VPN while still blocking ads and trackers.
Blocks Trackers and Strengthens Privacy
Beyond ad-blocking Threat Protection Pro is designed to stop advertisers and websites from tracking user activity. It prevents Google, Facebook and other data brokers from collecting browsing habits, search history and app usage data. It blocks tracking cookies, prevents fingerprinting and strips URLs of tracking parameters so advertisers can’t follow users across multiple websites and apps.
Extra Security Beyond Ad-Blocking
Unlike most ad blockers that only remove ads Threat Protection Pro actively prevents malware infections and phishing scams. If a user clicks on a malicious link or visits a compromised website it blocks access before any harm is done. It also scans downloaded files in real time checking for malware before the file is opened. If a file contains a known virus or security threat Threat Protection Pro flags it immediately reducing the risk of infections.
Faster Browsing and Less Data Usage
Ads slow down websites and increase data consumption. Threat Protection Pro removes autoplay videos, pop-ups and tracking scripts so pages load significantly faster. By filtering out unnecessary network requests it also reduces mobile data usage which is especially useful for users with metered or limited internet plans.
Who Should Use NordVPN Threat Protection Pro?
Threat Protection Pro is for Android users who want a VPN and ad blocker in one. It’s great for:
- NordVPN users who want extra security features.
- Those who need a VPN and ad blocker without conflicts.
- Those looking for an ad blocker that also blocks malware and phishing.
- Users who want a simple, no setup ad blocker that runs automatically.
5. AdLock – Lightweight Ad Blocker
AdLock is an ad blocker that removes ads across apps, browsers and games while keeping your data private and device secure. Unlike many Android ad blockers that only work in browsers, AdLock blocks ads system wide so you get an ad free experience across multiple apps.
Blocks Ads in Apps, Games and Browsers
AdLock removes ads from news apps, utility apps and even mobile games, so it’s a great choice for users who use freemium ad supported apps frequently. Unlike browser based ad blockers that only work in Chrome or Firefox, AdLock ensures ads are removed system wide so you get a cleaner and faster Android experience. Since it blocks ads at network level, apps and websites load faster and consume less data so you get better performance and battery life.
VPN Based Ad Blocking Without Internet Slowdowns
Like all Android system wide ad blockers, AdLock works using a local VPN which allows it to filter network traffic and remove ads before they load. But unlike many other ad blockers, AdLock doesn’t route your traffic through external servers so your internet speed is not affected. So you get full ad blocking capabilities without lag or slow connections.
Removes Pop-Ups, Floating Ads and In-App Ads
Freemium Android apps often rely on intrusive pop-ups, interstitials and banner ads to generate revenue. AdLock removes these ad formats so you can enjoy apps without interruptions. It can’t block ads inside YouTube or Facebook app but works on most other ad supported apps.
Stops Trackers and Fingerprinting
Contextual ads are designed to track your behavior. AdLock prevents advertisers and websites from monitoring your browsing habits so Google, Facebook and third party ad networks can’t collect your personal data. By blocking tracking cookies, analytics scripts and fingerprinting techniques AdLock enhances online privacy and prevents advertisers from creating targeted ad profiles.
Safe Browsing
AdLock has a Safe Browsing feature which uses Google’s Safe Browsing database to detect phishing websites, scam pages and malicious links. If you try to visit a compromised website AdLock will block the connection before any harm is done. It’s not a full antivirus replacement but an extra layer of protection so you’re not exposed to online threats while browsing.
Who Should Use AdLock?
AdLock is for Android users who want a lightweight ad blocker that removes in-app ads and trackers. It’s ideal for:
- Freemium app users who want ad free.
- Users who want system wide ad blocking without rooting.
- Privacy conscious users who want to stop tracking and fingerprinting.
Pricing Comparison – Which One Offers the Best Value?
And don’t forget to get the best deal. Some ad blockers offer lifetime licenses, others lock features behind a yearly subscription. Some plans allow multiple devices, so you can use the same subscription on both Android and desktop without paying extra. Here’s how the top five Android ad blockers compare in terms of price, device coverage and long term value.
Total Adblock has one of the cheapest first year prices, so great if you want an ad blocker at a low initial cost. But after the first year the renewal jumps to $99.99/year which is way higher than AdGuard and AdLock. This plan only covers one device, so if you want ad-blocking on both Android and desktop you’ll need separate subscriptions, not very cost effective for multi-device users.
AdGuard is the only ad blocker on this list that offers a lifetime license, so if you don’t want to pay yearly fees it’s the best option. With one purchase you get ad-blocking on Android and desktop for life, and up to 3 devices under one plan. The yearly plan is $39.99 which is cheaper than Total Adblock’s renewal price, but if you plan to use an ad blocker long term the $99.99 lifetime license is by far the best value.
Surfshark CleanWeb comes with Surfshark VPN, so you get ad-blocking and VPN encryption for one price. Unlike other ad blockers that charge per device, Surfshark allows unlimited connections so one subscription covers all your Android devices, desktops and even smart TVs. If you already use a VPN or need one, this is a great deal. But if you only want ad-blocking, cheaper standalone options like AdGuard or AdLock are better.
NordVPN bundles Threat Protection Pro with its VPN service, so you’re paying for both ad-blocking and security features like malware protection and phishing prevention. The plan covers up to 6 devices, so you can use the same subscription on Android, Windows, macOS and even iOS. But at $71.88/year it’s one of the most expensive options, so only a good deal if you need a VPN, not worth it if you only want ad-blocking.
AdLock is one of the cheapest premium ad blockers, system-wide ad-blocking on Android and desktop for $34 per year. And the 5 year plan is only $63, so the best long term deal on this list. It covers up to 5 devices so you can use one plan for both Android and desktop, so great for users who need ad-blocking on multiple platforms.
Which One is the Best Bang for Buck?
If you want the best balance between cost, ease of use and effectiveness, Total Adblock is the winner. Lowest first year cost and while the renewal is higher no complex setup required. Unlike VPN based solutions it only does adblocking so great for users who want ad free experience without paying for extra features they don’t need. If you just want an ad blocker that works instantly on Android and desktop Total Adblock is the overall best.
Wrapping Up
Ad-blocking on Android isn’t as simple as on desktop, thanks to Google’s restrictions and the way mobile apps handle ads. While browser-based solutions can help, they don’t eliminate ads inside apps, games, or streaming services. That’s why finding the right system-wide ad blocker is key for a truly ad-free experience. Whether it’s reducing distractions, improving privacy, or speeding up browsing, a good ad blocker gives you more control over how you use your device. With the right setup, you can enjoy a cleaner, faster, and more private mobile experience.