Best ad blockers for Edge in 2024
In the world of web browsing, ads can be annoying and disruptive in a whole range of ways. However, whether you’re using Chrome or Microsoft’s flagship browser Edge, a solution is right at reach of your hand.
Ad blockers for Edge offer a way to regain control over your browsing experience. They eliminate intrusive ads, pop-ups, and auto-play videos, allowing you to focus on the content you want. These blockers also boost your privacy and security by preventing tracking technologies used by advertisers to monitor your online activities.
In this article, we’ll give you a curated list of top ad blockers tailored for Edge. We tested numerous ad blockers and based our results on multiple factors, such as reliability, performance, and privacy features.
Best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge: shortlist
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Best Microsoft Edge ad blocker ever
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Great Microsoft Edge ad blocker with a VPN
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Powerful, yet affordable ad blocker for Edge
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Cheap and reliable Edge ad blocker
Missed a big name or two? You believe uBlock Origin or Adguard should feature among the best Microsoft Edge ad blockers? We disagree but share our reasons below. Stick around to get acquainted with our testing and principles that guided the list of the very best solutions for this browser.
What to look for when choosing the best ad blocker for Edge?
Making the best choice from dozens, if not hundreds of options, is always a daunting task if you don’t know what to look for. When selecting the best ad blocker for Microsoft Edge, there are several crucial factors to consider in terms of service quality and features. Here are the key aspects to keep in mind:
- Ad blocking effectiveness. It's important to choose an ad blocker that can effectively remove ads from your screen. You can test the functionality of a service using free online tools like canyoublockit.com.
- Security features. Look for an ad blocker that offers additional security features such as a built-in VPN or antivirus. These provide extra benefits, such as privacy protection, malware removal, or unblocking region-restricted services or websites.
- Browser compatibility. Since you're specifically looking for a Microsoft Edge ad blocker, ensure that it has a dedicated extension for this browser. If that’s missing, not to worry. Opt for an ad blocker that can efficiently work with Edge and other browsers, even with a dedicated app.
- Bang for your buck. Consider the value you're getting for the price. Some ad blockers may be expensive despite offering limited features. The best options sometimes provide added benefits like a VPN at a more affordable price.
Total Adblock exceeded our expectations during the tests. The solution scored the highest point against a variety of ads. Whether you wish to rid yourself of cookies or watch YouTube seamlessly, it’s your best shot.
Get Total Adblock now Total AdBlock discount off
The best Edge ad blockers: overview
- Total Adblock – ultimate ad blocker for Edge with rich feature package
- NordVPN Threat Protection – reliable Edge ad blocker with top-grade VPN
- Surfshark CleanWeb – flexible and secure ad blocker for Edge
- AdLock – cheap Edge ad blocker with a sleek interafce
After trying out different options, we've narrowed down the top three ad blockers for Microsoft Edge. These blockers are seriously good at handling all kinds of annoying ads while you surf the web. And the best part – they come with some cool extra features, like malware filters and tracker blockers, to boost your online security.
You can run these blockers in the background on your devices or as browser extensions, quietly doing their thing without bothering you.
1. Total Adblock – the best ad blocker for Microsoft Edge
24/7, email
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Excellent at blocking ads
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Ad whitelisting
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Intelligent filter lists
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Only available on Android & iOS devices
Total Adblock is the best Microsoft Edge ad blocker since it’s mid-range software with nearly perfect score of blocking ads on the browser. The extension, along with mobile apps, swipe away cookie banners, autoplay ads, static and GIF images, redirects, and other ads off your screen with ease. Besides, the design is intuitive and sleek on all available platforms.
Our team tested Total Adblock capabilities on social media like Facebook and even the demanding YouTube, which combats ad blockers fiercely as of late. The ad blocker slips YouTube's ad block detection and curbs most ads in Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X). Our overall results, in line with those of third party labs like AdBlock Tester and Cover Your Tracks, amount to 96/100.
The broad feature suite is where it’s at. Total Adblock employs a list of intelligent filters to deal with different ads out of the box, requiring little interaction from users. But if you wish to toggle with setting and personalize your experience, you can give some ads a pass with whitelisting. Also, disabling notifications for peace of mind and relaxing streams takes just a couple of clicks.
The only real drawback is a little limited device compatibility. Device-wise, you can install the app on Android and iOS. Other than that, browser extensions are the way to go. Download the extension directly from Microsoft store, enable it, and you’re all set up. Total Adblock is also available on Chrome, Brave, Vivaldi, and Firefox browsers.
Total Adblock is a cheap solution for thwarting all manner of ads on Microsoft Edge and surely beyond it. Currently, you can grab a huge discount of 80% and be on your merry ad-free way. As for curious cats, a 7-day free trial and 14-day money-back guarantee secure a commitment-free testing period.
For a deeper investigation of Total AdBlock, read our Total AdBlock review.
2. NordVPN Threat Protection – robust multi-device ad blocker for Microsoft Edge
24/7, email
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Excellent at blocking ads
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Wide compatibility
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Malware scanner
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No whitelisting
With its unparalleled ability to block a wide range of ads, NordVPN's Threat Protection is the ultimate ad blocker for Microsoft Edge. It effectively eliminates autoplay video ads, pop-ups, banners, cookie and newsletter notifications, and more. Additionally, as part of the top-class VPN suite, it provides enhanced user data protection and a host of other advantages.
We extensively tested this ad blocker using various methods. We conducted manual tests on popular sites like YouTube, and apart from a few banner ads, we had no video interruptions. Additionally, we utilized third-party tools such as AdBlock Tester with a score of 96/100 and Cover Your Tracks for thorough tracker removal evaluation. NordVPN Threat Protection showed almost perfect results across the board.
This powerful tool not only removes ads on Edge but also provides web and local protection. It blocks malware, third-party cookies, and removes link tracking while also scanning downloaded files of up to 5GB for suspicious content or viruses. What’s even better, is that it works as a standalone background protection without needing a VPN connection.
Threat Protection is designed to work seamlessly across all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Additionally, NordVPN offers browser extensions for Edge, Brave, Firefox, Chrome, and all Chromium-based browsers, which include the Lite version of Threat Protection. While customization options may be limited, rest assured that the extensions deliver the same exceptional performance as the full app version.
Try NordVPN Threat Protection right now with a fantastic 74% discount and an extra 3 months at no charge with a NordVPN coupon. Start with a 7-day free trial on Android and unlock it on all platforms, and if needed, take that 30-day money-back guarantee for added reassurance.
3. Surfshark CleanWeb – Microsoft Edge ad blocker for unlimited devices
24/7, email
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Whitelisting feature
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Included VPN
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Breach & malware alerts
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Needs a VPN connection
Surfshark's CleanWeb is a reliable and budget-friendly ad blocker for Edge users. As an integral part of their VPN suite, which encrypts all internet traffic, CleanWeb successfully blocks ads, pop-ups, video ads, trackers, malware, cookie consent pop-ups, and more. Just remember to activate the VPN connection for it to function seamlessly.
When testing CleanWeb’s efficiency, the browser extension completely destroyed all ads on AdBlock Tester with 100% success rate. CanYouBlockIt results proved to be very successful too, as it blocked all the ads apart from a single one before playing a video. On the other hand, YouTube couldn’t serve a single banner or video ad whatsoever. Overall, CleanWeb showed some remarkable results to be awed at.
If you're fed up with spam or concerned about unknown cyber threats, CleanWeb is here to help. This efficient Edge ad blocker swiftly deals with adware, malicious sites, and provides robust defense even against phishing attacks. Notably, the browser extension includes a whitelist feature that allows you to selectively enable ads on specific websites of your choice.
CleanWeb is compatible with PCs, mobiles, and smart TVs. It provides browser add-ons for Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and other Chromium-based browsers. The browser extensions feature the enhanced CleanWeb 2.0 version, offering additional functionalities such as breach alerts and blocking the pesky cookie consent pop-ups.
Take advantage of Surfshark CleanWeb's exclusive offer and save 87%, plus get 2 months for free when you sign up with a Surfshark discount code. If you're still unsure, you can explore CleanWeb with the 7-day trial through Android, iOS, or Mac and reap the benefits on all supported devices. After that, continue onward protected by a 30-day money-back warranty on the house.
4. AdLock – affordable ad blocker for Microsoft Edge
24/7, email
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Intuitive user interface
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Multiple filtering options
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Solid at blocking ads and trackers
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Doesn’t work simultaneously with VPN
AdLock is one of the liable options for whisking ads away with little effort from a user. In its own league, the ad blocker successfully disables pop-ups, trackers, cookie requests, autoplay video ads, and banners. It’s quite a cheap alternative with a relatively good functionality, but don’t expect a complete elimination of ads.
The Microsoft Edge ad blocker fared fairly well during our tests. Like with other providers, we checked its prowess against social media ads, various websites, and YouTube. We conclude, along with insights from independent labs, that the ad blocking rate is a solid 83/100. While there’s room for improvement with autoplay ads and GIF images, it’s good enough for other nuances.
AdLock comes packed with features that you can either interact with fully or leave them to run in the background. First, you can whitelist which applications and websites can display ads while the rest suffer AdLock’s tyranny. And if you wish to play around further in this department, you can enable and disable smart filtering lists.
The Edge ad blocking solution runs on major operating systems, like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Moreover, mobile and PC users can enjoy clean and pleasing dashboards. Apart from Microsoft Edge, the ad blocker supports extensions for Chrome, Safari, and Firefox. Here users can also dabble in a beginner-friendly interface with menus of quick access.
Now, AdLock is available for a nifty 70% discount. Besides, you can test the capabilities of the ad blocker thoroughly thanks to the 14-day free trial. You’re also welcome to take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee to dodge buyer’s remorse.
Microsoft Edge ad blockers that didn’t make it
Just because our top recommendations don’t feature popular ad blockers for Edge, doesn’t mean that something’s essentially wrong with them. We just found certain drawbacks when reviewing their capabilities as Edge ad blockers. Here’s what held us back from nominating them, but still acknowledge they're generally great:
- AdGuard. The primary issue we have with AdGuard is alleged ties with Russia. Given the current situation in the world, we can’t really recommend such a service until their name is cleared of any suspicions.
- uBlock Origin. It’s alright on Microsoft Edge, though it’s no secret that it works best on Chrome. However, uBlock Origin was just a bit below our top recommendations, thus didn’t make it to the list.
- AdBlock Plus. We feel that this provider plays a sneaky game with secretly letting certain ads pass through. The service is owned by Eyeo, a company known for quasi-alliances with some online advertisers.
Best Ad blockers for Edge: comparison
Provider | ||||
Wesbite | totaladblock.com | nordvpn.com | surfshark.com | adlock.com |
Free version | Yes (7-day free trial) | Yes (Free 7-day trial on Android) | Yes (Free 7-day trial on Android & iOS) | Yes (14-day free trial) |
Price | $1.59/month | $2.99/month | $2.19/month | $1.05/month |
Blocks ads | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
Malware Block | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
Blocks trackers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
Supported platforms | Android and iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, Android TV | Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows |
Browser extensions | Chrome, Opera, Firefox, Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Opera, Safari | Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera | Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge |
Coupons | Get 80% off | Get 73% off | Get 87% off |
How we selected and tested Edge ad blockers
We took it upon ourselves to rigorously test multiple services using the following criteria. Our evaluations delved into their ad-blocking prowess, device compatibility, extra features, pricing, and more. Here's a breakdown of how we put our top Microsoft Edge ad blockers to the test:
- Ad-blocking prowess. An ad blocker must excel at its primary job of blocking ads. We meticulously assessed how well each contender tackled various ad types through multiple ad blocking test sites, such as CanYouBlockIt and AdBlock Tester.
- Supported platforms. We took into account and tested the device support offered by each ad blocker, spanning Windows or macOS PCs, smartphones, and tablets. Support for additional platforms was an extra advantage.
- Extras. We examined the bonus features provided by each ad blocker, such as built-in VPN or antivirus, data breach alerts, and other extra security measures.
- Frequent updates. Advertisers are always on the lookout for new tactics to bypass the ad blockers. That's why we factored in whether the ad blockers receive regular updates and improvements to stay ahead of the game.
- Cost-effectiveness. Our top recommendations struck a fine balance between quality and price. We paid particular attention to premium services offering their ad blockers for free or handing out free trials to test them yourself.
One ad-blocking gem that truly sticks out is NordVPN's Threat Protection. This exceptional service not only provides top-notch ad blocking but also includes one of the top virtual private networks. Ticking all the right boxes, this ad blocker delivered the most fluent and hassle-free experience of the bunch.
Why do you need to block ads on Microsoft Edge?
Ads come in all shapes and sizes: some just litter your view while others actively disrupt your work or daily endeavors. Many casual web surfers might think getting an ad blocker is just too much effort to stomp a few YouTube ads. However, just like a top-quality VPN, a proper ad blocker for Microsoft Edge may help you in more ways than you think.
Here's why it's a game-changer:
- Cleaner and faster browsing. The obvious benefit is just a cleaner view and a more streamlined experience on any webpage or web-based service. A robust ad blocker will vanquish anything that’s not supposed to be there, like banner ads, pop-ups, video ads, and many more. Remember, fewer ads mean less things to load, so a faster browsing experience is a given.
- Enhanced privacy. These days, advertisers go out of their way to collect as much information on you as possible. It’s usually done by browser cookies or even hidden trackers. Robust ad blockers remove said cookies and trackers, not to mention skipping those pesky newsletter and cookie consent pop-ups on every site you visit.
- Stronger security. Not all ads are harmless as some contain straight-up malware. By blocking all ads, you minimize the risk of encountering this type of adware. Also, the top ad blockers even stop you from visiting dangerous sites and block any malware-ridden downloads, creating a safer browsing environment.
As we see, the best Edge ad blockers do more than just clean up a few ads here and there. The most advanced solutions provide a full mix of everyday convenience, added security, and well-deserved privacy for any of your online activities.
How to whitelist websites on Microsoft Edge?
Blocking ads may sound fantastic, but it also means you're not supporting websites that provide free content. That also includes independent content creators on various sites like YouTube or Twitch. For instance, YouTube viewers often whitelist the platform to help their favorite channels earn more through the site’s ad revenue.
If you use ad blockers on Microsoft Edge, here's a simple guide on how to whitelist websites in just a few steps:
- Open the browser extension or the dedicated app of your ad blocker.
- Find the “whitelisting,” “exceptions,” or equivalent option in your ad blocker’s settings. Note that this feature is not always present with every ad blocker for Edge.
- Enter the domain or a website you wish to exclude from the ad blocker.
- Mission accomplished!
How to disable ad blocker on Edge?
Now most Edge users are not aware that Microsoft’s latest browser actually has a built-in ad blocker of its own. SmartScreen is an integrated ad filter that works in the background by default. Of course, it’s by no means useless, but let’s just say that SmartScreen is not the sharpest tool in the shed.
If you want to learn how to disable the ad blocker on Edge, follow these steps:
- Click the three dots on the top-right of the Microsoft Edge window.
- Select "Settings" on the dropdown menu.
- Open the “Cookies and site permissions” tab.
- Find the “intrusive ads” option and disable it.
To further clean up the default settings, you can also turn off the SmartScreen itself. This can be done extremely fast if you simply use the search bar in the browser’s settings. First, type “SmartScreen” into the search bar, find the Microsoft Defender SmartScreen toggle, and simply shut it down.
Keep in mind this only disables the integrated ad-blocking capabilities of the Edge browser, keeping any additionally installed ad blockers intact. If by any chance you wish to keep it running, you can still customize these settings to exclude any specific sites or domains you visit frequently.
How to block YouTube ads on Microsoft Edge
YouTube ads and their prevalence have been a huge talking point for what seems like forever. And rightfully so. Sitting through multiple unskippable ads, of which some take up to twenty seconds before every other video, is a headache we all faced. However, since ad revenue is the main income source of the platform, the days of uninterrupted YouTube entertainment are long gone.
As time goes by, the frequency and length of YouTube ads are getting more egregious by the day. Nevertheless, those wondering how to block YouTube ads have a couple of options to regain control of their video feed.
For starters, getting yourself a YouTube Premium subscription is guaranteed to reduce the ads to a minimum. This subscription will remove any third-party ads before, in the middle, or after the videos you watch. Unfortunately, there are reports of Premium subscribers still being served ads from time to time.
On the other hand, going for a trustworthy YouTube ad blocker is a way smarter investment. First off, it costs way less than the Premium subscription and zaps all ads in the middle of the video, including ad banners. Secondly, a well-rounded ad blocker will clean up your whole browsing experience rather than a single video streaming site.
But that's not all. You know how YouTube loves collecting your data to personalize those ads? Well, reliable ad blockers come to the rescue by keeping those sneaky trackers at bay. That means more privacy online to dive into your favorite content without a worry in mind.
Block YouTube ads with Total Adblock
Are free Edge ad blockers safe?
We generally do not recommend cheaping out on any security-related tools, and in this case, that includes ad blockers. Although everybody loves a good freebie, the only free thing is the cheese in a mousetrap. That’s probably the closest to what you usually get with costless ad blockers these days. Let’s see how and why completely free ad blockers are often hazardous:
- Underwhelming performance. Much of the free software out there is powered by (or rather funded by) running ads. A free ad-running ad blocker is naturally counter-intuitive. This means that tools like these, being resource-heavy, produce almost no income and are hard to maintain. As a result, these free ad blockers get little to no updates, which are crucial to keeping up with the newest ads, how they are delivered, and how to stop them.
- Security risks. Apart from shoddy safety measures and exploitable vulnerabilities, free tools pose more threats. As a matter of fact, there have been multiple cases of free ad blockers injecting unsuspecting users’ devices with malware.
- Data collection. Information is power and collecting user data is a shady business practiced by many dodgy software developers. To make their efforts worthwhile, some free ad blocker makers extensively collect browsing data and user information for the sole purpose of reselling it.
To ensure a more secure browsing experience, we sincerely recommend checking out our best Edge ad blockers. These options have been tested and offer additional value, such as free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test their effectiveness yourself. Prioritizing your online security and privacy is crucial, and using reputable ad blockers is an essential step toward your ad-free online journey.
Conclusion
Apart from being annoying and disruptive, ads also compromise your online privacy. Advertisers keep a close eye on your online activities and use targeted ads to tempt you into buying all kinds of stuff. And the easiest way to tackle this issue is to get yourself a trusty ad blocker. These nifty tools not only block ads but also keep trackers and malicious content away from you and your devices.
Total Adblock is the best Microsoft Edge ad blocker because of the multifaceted approach to ad blocking, clean interface, and robust features. If you want an out of the box high-tier functionality with little interaction from you, this ad block is perfect. It smoothly blocks ads, cookies, banners, autoplay videos, and even stands its ground against YouTube. Small price tag crowns the whole reputation that precedes Total Adblock.
What do you think is the ad blocker for Edge? What are your experiences with Microsoft Edge ad blockers? Let us know by leaving a comment!
You may also like to read:
Best Chrome ad blockers
Best ad blockers for Safari
Best ad blocker for Firefox
Best Android ad blocker
Best ad blockers for iOS
FAQ
Which ad blocker is best for Edge?
Total Adblock is the best ad blocker for Edge. It ensures outstanding ad blocking functionality and effectively eliminates trackers. All wrapped in sleek design apps and extensions. And best of all – it costs a meager coffee cup a month but delivers ad-free browsing and streaming to Edge users.
Does Edge have a built-in adblocker?
Yes, but it blocks little to no ads. More often than not, it even activates certain errors in websites, mostly because of its weak and unstealthy nature. We generally recommend getting a proper tool for the job and shutting down the built-in Edge ad blocker altogether.
Why am I getting Microsoft Edge ads?
Microsoft Edge displays ads as websites rely on them for revenue. However, excessive ads can hinder reading and content consumption. To eliminate these annoyances, a trusted ad blocker, like Total Adblock, is necessary for a seamless web experience.
How do I stop pop-up notifications on Edge?
Not all pop-ups are ads as some of them are notifications. To block them, go to the Edge setting in the top-right corner and go to “Cookies and site permissions”. Then, select “Notifications” and look for “Allow” section. There, click the three dots next to the website and select either “Remove” or “Block”.
Does Edge support Manifest V3?
According to Microsoft, Edge supports Manifest V3. A manifest is a blueprint for any internet browser extension. This API (Application Programming Interface), developed by Google, introduces fresh guidelines for browser extensions to enhance their privacy and security.