Let’s face it — online ads can be super annoying. Whether you’re reading an article, watching a video, or just browsing your favorite website, getting bombarded with pop-ups, banner ads, and autoplay videos is the last thing anyone wants. Fortunately, if you’re using Google Chrome, there’s good news: you can block those pesky ads and enjoy a smoother, cleaner browsing experience.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to block ads in Google Chrome using both built-in features and powerful third-party tools. Whether you’re on a desktop or mobile device, this article has got you covered.
Why Block Ads in the First Place?
Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Ads aren’t just annoying — they can also:
- Slow down your browser
- Eat up your data
- Track your online behavior
- Compromise your privacy
- Display inappropriate or misleading content
Blocking ads helps create a faster, safer, and more enjoyable browsing experience.
1. Use Chrome’s Built-in Ad Blocker
Did you know that Chrome already has a built-in ad blocker? It’s not as aggressive as third-party tools, but it does a decent job of filtering out the worst offenders.
How to Enable It:
- Open Chrome and go to
Settings. - Navigate to Privacy and security > Site settings.
- Scroll down to Additional content settings and click on Ads.
- Make sure it says Blocked on sites that show intrusive or misleading ads.
Chrome uses the Better Ads Standards to determine which ads to block, targeting those that are particularly disruptive like pop-ups, auto-playing videos with sound, or large sticky ads.
2. Install an Ad Blocker Extension
For more advanced ad blocking, Chrome extensions are the way to go. These tools can block nearly all types of ads, including YouTube ads, Facebook ads, and more.
Top Ad Blocker Extensions in 2025:
- uBlock Origin – Lightweight, powerful, and open-source.
- Adblock Plus – One of the most popular ad blockers, with customizable filters.
- AdGuard – Offers both browser extensions and a full desktop app.
- Ghostery – Focuses on privacy by blocking trackers and ads.
Tip: You can find and install these from the Chrome Web Store.
How to Install:
- Visit the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for your chosen ad blocker (e.g., uBlock Origin).
- Click on Add to Chrome.
- Confirm by clicking Add extension.
Once installed, you’ll see the extension icon near the address bar — click it to manage settings or pause ad blocking for specific sites.
3. Block Pop-Ups and Redirects
Pop-ups and redirects are some of the most frustrating types of ads. Luckily, Chrome allows you to block them directly.
How to Block Pop-Ups:
- Go to
Settings> Privacy and security > Site settings. - Click on Pop-ups and redirects.
- Set it to Don’t allow sites to send pop-ups or use redirects.
This will eliminate most of those annoying pop-up windows that appear when you’re clicking around the web.
4. Use a Dedicated Ad Blocking App (For Mobile Users)
If you’re browsing on Android or iOS, extensions may not be enough. Instead, you can use dedicated apps that filter ads at the system level.
Recommended Apps:
- AdGuard for Android – Works across browsers and apps.
- 1Blocker for iOS – Designed specifically for Safari, but improves overall performance.
- Brave Browser – A Chrome-based browser with built-in ad blocking and privacy features.
Installing one of these apps can drastically improve your mobile experience, reducing data usage and battery drain caused by ads.
5. Consider Using a Privacy-Focused Browser
If you’re serious about blocking ads and trackers, switching browsers might be worth it. Some options include:
- Brave – Built on Chromium, blocks ads and trackers by default.
- Mozilla Firefox – Offers enhanced tracking protection.
- Opera – Includes a free built-in ad blocker and VPN.
These browsers offer a more private and ad-free experience right out of the box.
Should You Whitelist Certain Sites?
Here’s the thing: many websites rely on ad revenue to offer free content. If you find value in a site, consider whitelisting it — allowing ads to support the creators.
Most ad blockers make it easy to whitelist a site with just a couple of clicks. It’s a great way to support quality content without compromising your overall browsing experience.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Browsing
In 2025, there’s no reason to endure an internet full of annoying, intrusive ads. Whether you’re using Chrome’s built-in tools or installing a robust ad blocker, you’ve got plenty of options to create a faster, cleaner, and more private web experience.
So why wait? Take a few minutes to block ads in Google Chrome today — your eyes, your data, and your sanity will thank you.
FAQs
Q: Will ad blockers work on YouTube?
A: Yes, most ad blockers can block YouTube ads, though some may need extra configuration or filters.
Q: Can ad blockers affect website functionality?
A: Occasionally, yes. Some sites may not load correctly. You can always whitelist those sites if needed.
Q: Is it legal to block ads?
A: Absolutely. You have the right to control what loads in your browser.