3 Ways to Remove Ads on YouTube: Complete Guide 2024, Discover Various Tips for Effectiveness

Ads that appear while watching videos often disrupt comfort. It’s no wonder that many people look for ways to remove ads on YouTube. With the right steps, you can enjoy videos without interruptions.

There are several ways to remove ads on YouTube that you can try. From using built-in features to third-party applications, everything can be adjusted to your needs.

1. Understanding YouTube Ads

YouTube logo on mobile (credit: unsplash)

YouTube Ads are paid promotional content displayed before, during, or after YouTube videos. These ads are a primary source of revenue for YouTube and content creators. Although they are important for the platform's sustainability, ads are often considered disruptive by viewers.

YouTube ads come in various forms, such as:

• Banner ads next to or below the video
• Short video ads that can be skipped after a few seconds
• Non-skippable video ads
• Semi-transparent overlay ads that appear at the bottom of the video

The main purpose of YouTube ads is to promote products, services, or brands to a relevant audience. YouTube's advertising system uses advanced algorithms to match ads with viewer interests based on their viewing and search history.

2. Negative Impacts of YouTube Ads

Although ads are an important source of revenue, the presence of excessive ads can have several negative impacts on users:

• Disruption of viewing experience: Ads that appear suddenly can disrupt the storyline or information being conveyed in the video.
• Time wastage: Watching ads, especially those that cannot be skipped, can consume a significant amount of time when accumulated.
• Internet data usage: For users with limited data plans, video ads can consume a large portion of internet quota.
• Psychological discomfort: Continuous exposure to ads can lead to feelings of frustration and stress, especially if the ads are irrelevant or appear too frequently.
• Privacy issues: Some users feel uncomfortable with how YouTube collects data to display targeted ads.

Understanding these negative impacts is important for evaluating the balance between the platform's need to generate revenue and the optimal user experience.

3. Paid Methods to Remove Ads

YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is YouTube's official subscription service that offers an ad-free viewing experience. Here are the main features of YouTube Premium:

• Watch videos without ads on all devices
• The ability to download videos for offline viewing
• Background video playback (for mobile devices only)
• Access to YouTube Music Premium
• Access to YouTube Originals content

How to subscribe to YouTube Premium:

1. Open the YouTube app or the YouTube.com website
2. Click on your profile picture in the top right corner
3. Select “Buy YouTube Premium”
4. Follow the instructions to complete the subscription process

The subscription price for YouTube Premium varies depending on the country and the type of package selected. In Indonesia, the individual subscription price usually ranges from Rp 59,000 to Rp 79,000 per month.

YouTube Premium Family Plan

For greater savings, YouTube offers a Family Plan that allows up to 6 family members to enjoy Premium services with one payment. Here are the details:

• Can be used by a maximum of 6 family members (including the primary purchaser)
• Each member gets a separate YouTube Premium account
• Usually cheaper compared to individual subscriptions for 6 people
• All members must live in the same household

How to subscribe to the Family Plan:

1. Open the YouTube Premium page
2. Select the “Family Plan” option
3. Follow the instructions to add family members
4. Complete the payment process

The Family Plan price is usually about 50% more expensive than the individual subscription price, but it becomes more economical when used by multiple family members.

4. Free Methods to Remove Ads

YouTube Logo on Mobile (credit: unsplash)

Using AdBlock

AdBlock is a browser extension that can block most ads on YouTube and other websites. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open your browser's extension store (e.g., Chrome Web Store for Google Chrome)
2. Search for “AdBlock” or “uBlock Origin”
3. Click “Add to Chrome” (or the other browser you are using)
4. Follow the installation instructions
5. Once installed, AdBlock will automatically block ads on YouTube

Advantages of using AdBlock:

• Free and easy to use
• Effective at blocking most ads
• Works on various websites, not just YouTube

Disadvantages:

• Does not work on the mobile YouTube app
• Can reduce revenue for content creators
• Some sites may detect the use of AdBlock and ask you to disable it

Alternative Browsers

Some alternative browsers offer built-in ad-blocking features. Examples include:

• Brave Browser: Chromium-based browser with built-in ad and tracker blocking.
• Opera: Has a built-in VPN and ad blocker that can be enabled.
• Vivaldi: Offers customizable ad-blocking features.

How to use an alternative browser:

1. Download and install your chosen browser
2. Enable the ad-blocking feature in the browser settings
3. Use that browser to watch YouTube

Advantages of using an alternative browser:

• Integrated ad blocking without the need for additional extensions
• Often offers additional privacy features

Disadvantages:

• May take time to adapt to a new interface
• Some Google Chrome-specific features may not be available

Using a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help reduce ads by changing your IP location. Some countries have fewer ads on YouTube.

How to use a VPN:

• Choose a reputable VPN provider (some are free, but paid services are usually more secure and faster)
• Download and install the VPN app
• Connect to a server in a country with fewer ads (e.g., some European countries)
• Open YouTube and enjoy a less ad-filled experience

Advantages of using a VPN:

• Can reduce the number of ads that appear
• Enhances overall online privacy
• Allows access to content that may be blocked in your country

Disadvantages:

• Free VPNs may be slow or insecure
• Quality VPNs are usually paid
• Can slow down internet connection

Changing DNS

Changing your DNS (Domain Name System) server to an ad-blocking option can help reduce ads on YouTube and other sites.

How to change DNS:

• Choose an ad-blocking DNS, such as AdGuard DNS or CleanBrowsing
• Open network settings on your device
• Look for the option to change DNS
• Enter the DNS address you chose
• Save changes and restart the device if necessary

Advantages of changing DNS:

• Can block ads at the network level
• Works on all devices connected to that network
• Does not require additional software installation

Disadvantages:

• May require technical knowledge to set up
• Not as effective as other methods in blocking YouTube ads
• Can slow down internet speed in some cases

5. Third-Party Applications

In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are several third-party applications that claim to be able to remove YouTube ads, especially on mobile devices. However, it is important to remember that using these applications may violate YouTube's terms of service.

NewPipe (Android)

NewPipe is an open-source application that offers an ad-free YouTube experience without requiring a Google account.

Main features of NewPipe:

• Watch videos without ads
• Download videos and audio
• Background playback and pop-up
• No Google account required

How to install NewPipe:

• Enable installation from unknown sources in your Android settings
• Download the NewPipe APK from the official site or F-Droid
• Install the downloaded APK
• Open the NewPipe app and start using it

Special Browser Apps (iOS)

For iOS users, several special browser apps offer ad-blocking features that can be used to watch YouTube without ads. Examples include Brave Browser and AdGuard for iOS.

How to use:

• Download the browser app from the App Store
• Open YouTube through that browser, not through the official YouTube app
• Enable the ad-blocking feature in the browser settings if necessary

It is important to remember that although these third-party applications offer attractive features, their use may pose risks in terms of security and legality. Always be cautious and consider the risks before using unofficial applications.

6. Additional Tips to Reduce Ads

In addition to the methods mentioned, there are several additional tips that can help reduce ad interruptions while watching YouTube:

Use Private Browsing Mode

Sometimes, watching YouTube in private browsing or incognito mode can reduce the number of ads that appear. This is because this mode does not use your search or viewing history to target ads.

Disable Ad Personalization

You can reduce the relevance of the ads that appear by disabling ad personalization in your Google account:

1. Open your Google account
2. Select “Data & Privacy”
3. Scroll down to the “Ad Settings” section
4. Turn off “Ad Personalization”

This may not eliminate ads completely, but it can reduce targeted ads.

Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Some ads can be skipped faster by using keyboard shortcuts. For example, pressing “L” will fast forward the video by 10 seconds, which can help skip some ads.

Choose Longer Videos

Longer videos tend to have fewer ads per minute of viewing compared to shorter videos. If you are looking for specific content, try to choose longer videos to reduce the frequency of ads.

Download Videos for Offline Viewing

If you have YouTube Premium, download videos for offline viewing. Downloaded videos will not show ads.

Use the YouTube Kids App

If you are watching with children, YouTube Kids has fewer ads compared to regular YouTube.

Subscribe to Channels

Some creators offer ad-free content or fewer ads for their channel subscribers.

7. Risks of Removing Ads

YouTube Logo on Mobile (credit: unsplash)

Although removing ads can enhance the viewing experience, there are several risks to consider:

• Violation of Terms of Service: Some methods for removing ads, especially those using third-party applications or modifications, may violate YouTube's terms of service. This can result in the suspension or termination of your account.
• Security Risks: Using unofficial third-party applications or extensions can open up opportunities for malware or data theft. Always verify the security and reputation of the tools you use.
• Loss of Features: Some ad-blocking methods may disrupt the normal functionality of YouTube, such as video recommendations or syncing watch history.
• Impact on Content Creators: Ads are a primary source of revenue for many YouTube creators. Mass ad removal can negatively affect their income and their ability to continue producing quality content.
• Disruptive Updates: YouTube regularly updates its system to counter ad-blocking methods. This means that solutions that work today may not work tomorrow, requiring constant updates or adjustments.
• Video Quality: Some ad-blocking methods can affect the quality of video streaming, causing buffering or reduced resolution.
• Legal Issues: In some jurisdictions, using tools to avoid ads may be considered a violation of copyright or breach of contract.

Before using any method to remove ads, carefully consider these risks and decide whether the benefits outweigh the potential consequences. If you want to support the platform and content creators while enjoying an ad-free experience, subscribing to YouTube Premium may be the best option.

8. Ethics of Removing Ads

Removing ads on YouTube raises several ethical questions that need to be considered:

• Impact on Content Creators: Ads are a primary source of income for many YouTube creators. By removing ads, we indirectly reduce their revenue. This can affect their ability to continue producing quality content.
• Sustainability of the Platform: YouTube, as a free platform, relies on ad revenue to fund its infrastructure and development. Widespread use of ad blockers can threaten this business model.
• Intellectual Property Rights: Some arguments state that removing ads without permission could be considered a violation of copyright or a breach of contract between users and the platform.
• Content Quality: If ad revenue decreases significantly, there is a risk of declining content quality or an increase in paid and sponsored content that may be less transparent.
• Fairness to Other Users: While some users remove ads, others continue to watch them. This creates an unfairness where some users "pay" with their time while others do not.
• Transparency and Trust: Using methods to remove ads can be seen as an opaque action and potentially undermine trust between users, the platform, and content creators.

Given these ethical considerations, some more ethical alternatives to removing ads include:

• Subscribing to YouTube Premium to support the platform and creators without seeing ads.
• Supporting your favorite creators through platforms like Patreon or purchasing their merchandise.
• Using the "Skip Ad" feature when available, which still provides some revenue to creators.
• Watching ads patiently, especially for creators you appreciate, as a form of support.

Ultimately, the decision to remove ads or not is a personal choice. However, it is important to consider the broader impact of our actions on the online content ecosystem.

9. Ad-Free YouTube Alternatives

For those looking for an ad-free video watching experience but do not want to use methods that may violate YouTube's terms, there are several alternatives to consider:

1.Vimeo

Vimeo is a video sharing platform that focuses on high-quality and artistic content.Most videos on Vimeo do not have ads, although some creators may include their own ads.Vimeo offers a subscription option for access to additional features.

2.Dailymotion

Dailymotion is a popular alternative to YouTube that offers a variety of video content.Although this platform has ads, the number tends to be less compared to YouTube.Dailymotion also offers a premium option for an ad-free experience.

3. LBRY / Odysee

LBRY is a decentralized content sharing platform that uses blockchain technology.Odysee is a web interface for LBRY.This platform offers a mostly ad-free viewing experience and supports direct payments to creators using cryptocurrency.

4.PeerTube

PeerTube is an open-source and decentralized video platform.There are no centralized ads on PeerTube, although individual instances may have their own policies.The platform supports federation, allowing different communities to connect with each other.

5.Internet Archive

The Internet Archive provides free access to millions of videos, films, and audio recordings without ads. Although not focused on the latest content, this platform is an excellent resource for archival and educational material.

Each of these platforms has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some may have a smaller content catalog compared to YouTube, while others may have a more specific community or focus on certain types of content. However, they offer a viable alternative for users seeking a video-watching experience with fewer ad interruptions.

It is important to note that while these platforms may have fewer ads, they may use alternative revenue models such as donations, premium subscriptions, or cryptocurrency integration. Users are advised to understand the business models and privacy policies of each platform before using them extensively.

10. Latest Developments in YouTube Ads

YouTube Logo on Laptop (credit: unsplash)

YouTube continues to develop its advertising strategy to balance user experience with monetization needs. Some recent developments in the YouTube advertising landscape include:

1. Increased Ad Frequency

YouTube has increased the frequency of ads on certain types of videos, particularly longer ones. This includes adding more ads in the middle of videos (mid-roll ads) and occasionally showing two consecutive unskippable ads.

2. More Targeted Ads

With improved data analytics capabilities, YouTube is increasingly able to display ads that are highly relevant to user interests. This can enhance ad effectiveness but also raises privacy concerns.

3. Interactive Ads

YouTube has introduced interactive ad formats that allow users to engage directly with ads, such as exploring product catalogs or answering short surveys.

4. Emphasis on Non-Skippable Ads

There has been an increase in the number of non-skippable ads, particularly 6-second bumper ads. YouTube believes that this provides a less disruptive experience compared to longer ads.

5. E-commerce Integration

YouTube has begun integrating e-commerce features directly into the platform, allowing users to purchase products featured in videos or ads without leaving the site.

In response to the increasing use of ad blockers, YouTube has also taken the following steps:

• Ad Blocker Detection: YouTube has enhanced its ability to detect the use of ad blockers.
• Warnings to Users: Some users have reported seeing messages asking them to disable their ad blockers or consider subscribing to YouTube Premium.
• Access Restrictions: In some cases, YouTube has started to restrict access to content for users detected using ad blockers.

These developments indicate that the advertising landscape on YouTube continues to evolve. Users may need to continually adjust their strategies if they want to reduce ad disruptions while still complying with the platform's terms of service.

11. FAQ About Removing YouTube Ads

YouTube homepage view (credit: unsplash)

Here are some frequently asked questions about removing ads on YouTube along with their answers:

1. Is removing YouTube ads legal?

Technically, removing ads is not illegal, but it may violate YouTube's terms of service. Official methods such as subscribing to YouTube Premium are a legal way to remove ads.

2. Is using AdBlock on YouTube safe?

AdBlock is generally safe to use, but it can reduce content creators' revenue. YouTube is also increasingly able to detect the use of AdBlock and may restrict access to content in response.

3. How to remove ads in the YouTube mobile app?

The official way is to subscribe to YouTube Premium. Other alternatives such as using third-party apps may violate the terms of service and pose risks to your device's security.

4. Is YouTube Vanced still working?

YouTube Vanced has stopped development and distribution. Although some older versions may still work, their use is no longer supported and can be risky.

5. Can I remove ads on YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is a separate service from regular YouTube. Currently, there is no official option to remove all ads on YouTube TV, although subscribing allows you to skip ads on DVR recordings.

(kpl/psp)