If YouTube ads are starting to feel relentless, you’re definitely not alone. One minute you’re clicking a quick video, the next you’re stuck watching ads before, during, and sometimes after the content you actually want. The good news is there are a few practical ways to reduce how many ads you see.
Using Ad Blockers and Extensions
Ad blockers are usually the first thing people try, and for good reason. They sit quietly in the background and stop ads loading before the video even starts, which can make watching YouTube feel far less interrupted. Alongside video ads, many blockers also filter out pop-ups and HTML banner ads that firms like https://thebannermen.com/banners/animated-ads/html5 specialise in, plus reduce tracking across sites.
Browsers with Built-In Blocking
If extensions feel like too much faff, switching browsers can be an easier option. Some browsers come with ad and tracker blocking built in, so you don’t need to install anything extra or tweak loads of settings. You just open YouTube and get on with watching. This can be especially useful on mobile, where managing add-ons isn’t always straightforward. TechRadar outlines the top browsers to consider this year.
Paying for an Ad-Free Option
For a no-nonsense solution, YouTube’s paid option removes ads completely once you’re signed in. It works across devices and doesn’t rely on workarounds, which appeals if you watch a lot and want things to just work.
There’s no single right way to block YouTube ads. It’s about choosing what suits how you watch, how much effort you want, and what trade-offs you’re comfortable with.