Best ad blockers for iPhone and iPad in 2024

In a nutshell, ads are the price we pay for access to free content on the internet. Unfortunately, the ads we encounter don’t only generate revenue. For instance, a number of them have trackers that observe and collect your data traces on the web. Meanwhile, some go as far as posing cyber threats. Luckily, an ad blocker is meant to deal with adware.

The best ad blockers for iPhone and iPad are masters at combating most kinds of malicious ads. While regular content blockers can only stop basic ads, reliable software can prevent video ads, trackers, and more. In addition, the best ad blocker for iPhone is able to offer additional features for multifaceted digital security and peace of mind.

Best ad blockers for iPhone and iPad: shortlist

1. Total AdBlock

   Best iPhone ad blocker on the market
   9.8
2. Nord Adblock

   Security-focused iOS ad blocker
   9.7
3. Surfshark Adblock

   Advanced ad blocker for iPhone
   9.4
4. Adlock

   Robust iPhone ad blocker for maximum privacy
   9.4
5. 1Blocker

   Apple exclusive ad blocker for iPhone & iPad
   9.1

Our top picks nail the sweet spot for price, effectiveness, and functionality. While there are more alternatives, the likes of Magic Lasso, Wipr, Proton Netshield, and Blokada missed the cut due to their limitations. Read on and discover additional tips to dodge ads, cookies, and even trackers. If you want to save time, try the top pick – Total Adblock, now with a 80% discount.

How we tested iPhone ad blockers

Choosing the best ad blockers for iPhones and iPads demands thorough evaluation. Though many ad-blocking clients claim to stop ads, only a few actually manage to do it consistently. As such, we decided to challenge these claims and test dozens of well-known content blockers to see which of them actually keep their word.

So, to save you time, we conducted an in-depth assessment based on several imperatives:

• In-house tests. The ad blockers were tested on iOS using the AdBlocker Tester and CanYouBlockIt websites alongside d3ward testing tool. We also checked ad blocking capabilities in both games and sites that are notorious for excessive advertising. Naturally, we also tested them ourselves on iPhones and iPads to see how and where they succeed or fail at blocking ads.
• Blocking cookies & trackers. To be the best ad blocker for iPhones, the software must be reliable and solid at more than just the bare minimum – blocking browser cookie requests, annoying pop-ups, and trackers is highly valuable as well.
• Blocking YouTube ads. YouTube ads are some of the most annoying pieces of work, so it’s a huge kudos if the ad blocker is capable of blocking them effectively.
• Extra features. It’s super nice if an ad blocker comes with extra features and they are actually worth their salt, not there just to sound better. According to us, the best iPhone ad blockers come with VPNs, which secure digital ventures with extra encryption and security.
• Regularly updated app. Advertising evolves constantly since companies are interested in increasing their revenue and are aware of content blockers. Because of that, the software needs to be updated often. Under the constant care of developers, the iPhone ad blocker is then advanced enough to deal with smart solutions and continue blocking ads.
• Device compatibility. Although we focus on iPhones, having more options is nice. Our picks support major operating systems, devices, and browsers.
• Money-and-value ratio. Lastly, we considered whether the services are worth their coin. So, we chose ad blockers that offer the best pricing for the value they bring to the table.

Total Adblock passed our testing with flying colors and fit the essential and the extra criteria. As such, we have dubbed it the #1 ad blocker for iPhone and iPad. With TotalAV, you can also enjoy all the benefits of reliable real-time antivirus protection and enhanced online privacy powered by Total VPN.

The best iPhone ad blockers: overview

1. Total Adblock –the overall best ad blocker for iPhone
2. NordVPN Threat Protection – iPhone ad blocker with secure VPN
3. Surfshark CleanWeb – the budget-friendly iPhone ad-blocking solution
4. AdLock – flexible and cheap iPhone ad-blocking formula
5. 1Blocker – Apple-focused ad blocker for iPhone and iPad

In a vast sea of ad blockers, finding the best ad blocker for iPhone apps is taxing. To ease the whole procedure for you, we have tested dozens of ad blockers and compiled a list of top recommendations. Naturally, our assessment is based on essential criteria, such as blocking ads and trackers, disabling YouTube ads, extra features, pricing, and a couple more tidbits.

1. Total Adblock – the best ad blocker for iPhone & iPad

Total Adblock is undoubtedly the best ad blocker for iPhone and iPad users seeking an ad-free browsing experience paired with robust security features. This software does more than just clear ads, as it's a fortress against a whole range of ad-related shenanigans. It swiftly eliminates annoying pop-ups, trackers, YouTube interruptions, banners, and stops malicious websites from doing anything funny.

What sets Total Adblock apart is its all-around approach, offering advanced features for the best browsing experience. For example, the Script-blocking feature proactively stops browser cookies from collecting copious amounts of browsing data. Moreover, the app allows you to whitelist various online sources, ensuring not just ad-free pages but also more rapid webpage loading times at the same time.

Our experts ran Total Adblock through the most popular ad-blocking tests, finally giving us an almost perfect score of 98%. The same goes for tackling YouTube ads, even easily slipping through Google's latest crackdown on online adblockers. On top of that, it strictly adheres to high user privacy standards, with no data logging in sight.

Primarily designed for iOS and Android platforms, Total Adblock boosts its capabilities through fully functional extensions for Safari and all Chromium-based browsers. While the team works on expanding compatibility, mobile users can revel in all the benefits of a streamlined and simple in-app experience.

Despite its comprehensive features, Total Adblock is super affordable, especially with the current 80% sale. Still unsure? There's a great 7-day free trial to explore its capabilities. And if you go further, there's a 14-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind if it doesn't perfectly align with your needs.

For a deeper investigation of Total AdBlock, read our Total AdBlock review.

2. NordVPN Threat Protection – secure iPhone ad blocker with a VPN

NordVPN’s Threat Protection is the finest iPhone ad blocker and VPN combo out there. On iOS, users get Threat Protection Lite, which is an in-built technology solution that comes as part of the VPN service. In short, you get a robust toolkit consisting of ad-blocking, security, and privacy since it’s also the best no-logs VPN. This ad blocker software blocks ads, pop-ups, trackers, malicious banners, autoplay video ads, and even malware.

Like many VPN ad blockers, Threat Protection uses DNS filtering to block access to domains or hostnames that serve ads and host malware by blocking the website’s IP address. Our testing revealed that the ad blocker managed to block a majority of ads on YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, Spotify, Facebook, and more.

Though the service doesn’t have whitelisting, it compensates for it with other features. For instance, unlike most iPhone ad blockers, Threat protection does deal with malware to a certain extent. However, bear in mind that the PC version has an instant malware scanner, which the iOS app lacks. Plus, the ad blocker can minimize your mobile data usage by loading only necessary website content, so imagine all the saved MBs.

Additionally, this iPhone ad blocker is also compatible with Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Android. Plus, Threat Protection is available as an extension on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers.

It’s worth getting Threat Protection along with VPN, considering that the service offers a solid price-and-value ratio. Currently, the VPN is available at a whopping 74% + 3 months free. Plus, you can check out the discount codes. And if you want to test it first, NordVPN’s got your back with a 7-day free trial through Google Play and a 30-day cash-back guarantee.

3. Surfshark CleanWeb – the plug-and-play ad-blocking for iPhone

Surfshark’s CleanWeb is a superb ad-blocking solution for iPhones and iPads. As a matter of fact, the ad blocker is part of the Surfshark VPN suite, which means all-around protection while you combat intrusive ads. CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers, protects from malware, boosts the browsing experience online, and secures your sensitive information online.

The ad blocker removes all adverts from pages before they’re displayed – including the video ads favored by the major streaming platforms. Also, our tests revealed that CleanWeb successfully blocks trackers across the most popular websites and even streaming services. Blocking ads mercilessly also prevents mobile data overconsumption.

Discovering an ad blocker that deals with malware is a gem. However, remember that it definitely doesn’t substitute for an antivirus. For instance, CleanWeb’s malware alert lets you know whether any website you’re visiting has ever been corrupted by malware. In short, it’s one of the best ad blockers for iPad and iPhone apps.

In terms of device compatibility, Surfshark’s ad blocker comes equipped. The software is available on all of the popular OS: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and FireTV. As for browser extensions, users can enjoy the upgraded CleanWeb 2.0 on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. This upgrade offers increased speeds, enhanced security, and Bypass whitelisting feature.

CleanWeb is available with the Surfshark app on App Store, currently at a discount of 86% + 2 months free. Of course, we encourage you to ransack discount coupons for a chance at a better bargain. Also, you can opt for a 7-day free trial and utilize the 30-day money-return warranty.

4. AdLock – robust, yet affordable iPhone & iPad ad blocker

AdLock is the go-to choice for any Apple user to block ads on iPhone and iPad without breaking the bank. To start with, this pocket rocket shoots down cookie requests, annoying pop-ups, banners, autoplay video ads, trackers, and even ads on YouTube. It's a fantastic choice for anyone aiming to steer clear of ads, safeguard online privacy, and noticeably boost browsing speeds.

What's extra cool about AdLock? Well, it's got this whole suite of features that many iPhone users really dig. You can whitelist sites where you might want to see ads are okay and use smart filters to zap ads in specific apps or games. Oh, and let's not forget how it rids of all trackers that advertisers use to collect your information.

We ran some tests, and AdLock nailed it by blocking up to 90% of all ads, including the ones on YouTube. While not a totally perfect score, it still swiftly outperformed most other ad blockers we tried. It's a pro at wiping out pretty much any breed of ads you know – you name it, AdLock clears it.

And it's not fussy about devices either. Whether you're on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows, or Android, AdLock's got you covered with easy-to-use apps. Plus, it plays nice with browsers like Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

All this goodness already comes at a steal deal, especially considering its performance. If you're not convinced yet, there's a 14-day free trial, so why not give AdLock a test drive and see if it's your perfect match?

5. 1Blocker – highly customizable ad blocker for iPhone & iPad

1Blocker stands out as a top-tier ad blocker for iPhone or iPad made exclusively for Apple devices. It takes on various ad-related nuisances like trackers, push notifications, banners, widgets, and video ads. Notably, it lets you block ads specific to certain regions, like Russia, Germany, or other localized advertising content.

An ace up 1Blocker's sleeve is its Custom Rules feature. This gem allows you to create your own web page preferences using pre-made templates. With it, you can block sites or cookies, hide elements, and enhance overall browsing security. The integrated Firewall tool goes further by tackling in-app trackers, ensuring your browsing remains private at all times. It even syncs up with Siri, allowing control over voice interactions.

During our adblocking tests, 1Blocker showed a solid 86% success rate. Also, as it works on the system level rather than just within a browser, it effectively blocks ads on various apps for iPhones and iPads. It even managed to block several YouTube ads but still slipped up a few more times than its competitors.

In terms of compatibility, 1Blocker only covers macOS, iOS, and Safari exclusively. Essentially, if you also own a Windows, Linux, or Android device, or use other browsers beyond Safari, you’ll be missing out big time. Nevertheless, this exclusive focus on Apple products ensures excellent performance on its main operating systems.

1Blocker supports up to 5 devices at once with a single subscription. And don’t worry – all 1Blocker subscriptions are backed by a rock-solid 30-day money-back guarantee to try out the service completely risk-free.

Best ad blockers for iPhone: comparison

What to look for when choosing an ad blocker for iPhone and iPad?

With so many ad-blocking apps in the wild, choosing one may be tough. Luckily, the search for an effective and comprehensive solution can get much easier if you know the key points to pay attention to.

Here is what to look for when selecting the best ad blocker for iPhone or iPad:

• Blocks ads beyond the browser. It’s best if the chosen iPhone ad blocker operates on more browsers and apps than just Safari. That way, you can expect thorough protection against ads, especially when you are playing games, watching videos, and using other mobile applications.
• Device compatibility. Yes, we are talking about ad blockers for iPhones and iPads, but it’s still advantageous for the software to have broad device compatibility. Ads span through a variety of gadgets, so having the opportunity to block them on your Mac, smart TV, and other devices is a solid plus.
• Additional features. Of course, it needs no explanation that extra features are always nice since they usually boost security, privacy, or both. The features vary, but the most popular ones include malware blockers, data breach monitors, VPNs, and more.
• No slowdown for your device. Any apps running in the background usually take a bite out of your device’s resources. Some of the best ad blockers actually speed up your browsing with less clutter to load on every webpage you visit.
• Bang for your buck. As the saying goes – buy cheap, buy twice. The absolute cheapest price tags often lead to rabbit holes of ineffective adblocking and rarely updated software. Even the high-end ad blockers can easily be snatched with insane discounts, so be sure to get your money’s worth.

Why do you need to block ads on iPhone?

You need to block ads on iPhone for a variety of reasons. Ads, annoying as they are, do more than just flash before your eyes on a daily basis. They typically have trackers that collect your user data. Usually, they are used for marketing purposes, but sometimes this data can be sold to third parties.
Since we stated that there are at least several reasons for using a reliable ad blocker, here are some:

• Secure your online activity. Certain ads carry various breeds of malware, and some even target sensitive data. While some are of a solely commercial nature and approved by the Acceptable Ads Committee (AAC), it’s still best to avoid them altogether to protect your data.
• Increase website loading time. It’s no secret that running ads puts an extra load on websites, so the loading speed decreases. Since running an ad blocker stops most of the ads, the web pages usually load significantly faster.
• Halt content interruptions. Whether gaming online or watching videos, intrusive ads quickly become aggravating. An advanced ad blocker, like Threat Protection, blocks autoplay and other kinds of ads, so you can enjoy a seamless online activity.
• Decrease mobile data consumption. If you’re on mobile data, then ads are hungrily consuming loads of precious megabytes. It’s a solid reason for iPhone users to concern themselves with ad blockers since they can easily manage this issue by disabling ads.
• Save battery life. Since ads lag websites and consume extra mobile data, it comes as no surprise that they also eat battery life for lunch. Ad removal results in prolonged battery life, which is already a bit of an issue for users of older iPhone versions.

How to enable content blockers on iPhone and iPad: detailed guide

Downloading the ad blocker from the Apple App Store and simply installing it is not enough to get your software working properly. To block ads while using your iPhone or iPad, you will need to take a few extra steps.

1. Go to the Apple App Store and find a reliable ad blocker of your choice. We highly recommend choosing Total Adblock, now 80% off
2. Install and enable the ad-blocking software
3. Go to iOS settings and find Safari
4. Depending on the iOS model, go either to Extensions or Content Blockers
5. Enable all Content Blockers, including pop-up blocking and new adblocker toggles
6. Enjoy your ad-free online browsing experience!

Browse ad-free with Total Adblock

How to block YouTube ads on iPhone?

YouTube ads are collectively regarded as a nuisance for their intrusive autoplay nature. Besides, it’s one of the most common kinds of advertising that sadly isn’t going anywhere soon. In fact, they are spammy, often ridiculous, and some even predatory. However, it’s one of the biggest free entertainment platforms, so we can’t just turn away solely because of ads.

So, a capable YouTube ad blocker for iPhone is in order. While blocking YouTube ads on a browser isn’t difficult on its own, the real challenge is in finding reliable software for it. Once you pick the best ad blocker for iPhone & iPad, you can enjoy an ad-free viewing experience.

If you’re wondering what is the best YouTube ad blocker for iPhone, our top recommendation is Total Adblock. We’ve tested this provider and can assure you that it works flawlessly with the app version and Safari browser, thus successfully blocking video ads. Here is a brief on how to block YouTube ads on iPhone:

1. Download and install the best YouTube ad blocker for iPhone from Apple App Store. Total Adblock is the most reliable solution
2. Activate adblocker through the application
3. Open iOS settings
4. Click on ‘Safari’ option
   
   
5. Navigate either to Extensions or Content Blockers (depending on your iOS model)
6. Enable all Content blockers
7. Watch YouTube without ads endlessly!

Watch YouTube ad-free today

Are free iPhone ad blockers safe?

We recommend not opting for free ad blockers for iPhones. Free ad blockers are usually ineffective at the main goal: ad blocking. So, quite often, relying on a free service may instead bring more harm than good. Here are several reasons to reconsider choosing a free service.

• Inability to block ads. The service usually comes free of charge for a reason, and such ad blockers are known to be barely, if at all, effective at blocking ads.
• May compromise user data. In fact, some free ad blockers for iPhone & iPad were confirmed to track user data and sell it to third parties, which entirely beats the purpose of any content blocker.
• Potentially loaded with malware. While such cases are extremely rare and hard to track, a bunch of free ad blockers can infect your iOS device with malware.
• Drains mobile data & battery. Ad-blocking apps consume extra mobile data and battery life and sometimes even hog the bandwidth. Plus, since they don’t block ads really, they also drain your iPhone of resources.

None of these drawbacks will trouble you if you opt for premium and reliable ad blockers. They aren’t limited to just blocking a few ads and calling it a day. Additionally, they don’t cost much and often offer a free trial, one of the examples being Total Adblock with a 7-day free trial.

Try Total Adblock risk-free

Wrapping up

Though ads are part of our daily online life, they don’t have to be. In fact, it’s advisable to disable online ads on iPhone since many of those track and sell your personal information, compromise device security, drain mobile data, and more. Luckily, a solution exists in the shape of ad blockers.

The best ad blocker for iPhone apps is Total AdBlock. The paid service offers comprehensive protection against ads and even malware, saves your mobile resources, and increases overall digital life quality.

What do you think is the best ad blocker for iPhone & iPad? Which ones let you down? Let us know by leaving a comment!

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You may also like to read:
Best free ad blockers
Best ad blockers for Hulu
Best ad blockers for Mac
Best ad blockers for Twitch
Best ad blockers for Android
Best ad blockers for Chrome

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FAQ

What is the best ad blocker on iPhone?

The best ad blocker for iPhone is Total AdBlock. The software effectively blocks ads, trackers, annoying pop-ups, cookies consent requests and actively protects from malware. Additionally, the Total Adblock app offers high-end functionality and an intuitive user-interface for all iOS users.

Does iPhone have a built-in ad blocker?

No, iPhones only have a built-in tool to limit tracking. However, it’s reportedly quite ineffective, especially compared to paid and reliable ad blockers. They are far more efficient at stopping adware and increasing your online browsing experience.

Is it safe to use ad blockers on iPhone?

It's safe to use ad blockers on iPhone if you choose a reliable service. Most ad blockers don't block ads, and some, especially free ones, may harm your device with malware. Hence, we advise choosing Total AdBlock since it's one of the best ad blockers for iPhones. Plus, it comes with included antivirus.

Is there a totally free ad blocker for iPhone?

There are free ad blockers for iPhones. However, users aren't encouraged to use free ad blockers since they are ineffective at blocking apps. In some cases, free ad blockers for iPhone may compromise your personal data and infect your mobile device with malware. It's better to opt for a paid service.

Does Apple allow ad blockers?

Yes, Apple does allow ad blockers on iOS devices. In fact, it's advisable to use an ad blocker to secure your online ventures and enjoy a seamless browsing experience. However, the catch is that it's best to choose a reputable option from the best ad blockers for iPhone, like Total AdBlock.