Using ad blocker apps is an efficient way to block ads on Android devices. So, let’s take a look at the best ad blocker apps for Android. You can choose between multiple methods to block ads on an Android device. However, it is hard to determine which is the best option. People are more likely to trust an ad blocker they’ve heard of. An ad blocker is built to block unwanted advertisements that pop up when you are using your Android phone. For instance, you are likely to see ads while browsing the internet.
Also, a lot of ads pop up on the screen while playing video games. Similarly, you probably would get these annoying ads on your phone’s screen when you’re watching your favorite video content. Now, there is no dearth of ad blockers, but they have pros and cons. So, deciding which one is best for you can prove to be an arduous task. Fret not, we have curated a list of the best ad blocker apps for Android. Our list will help you determine which is the best option for you.
Best Ad Blocker Apps for Android
Let’s take a look at the fastest way to block ads on your Android device. First off, go to system settings and then network and internet. From here, go to private DNS where you need to select the private DNS provider hostname. Now, all you need to do is to type “dns.adguard.com” and click on Save. This will block any ad on your websites and apps. Further, this option does not affect the phone’s battery. However, this is a system-wide ad-blocking. So, you can’t whitelist specific apps or websites. You’d need to entirely disable the option.
NextDNS
Using NextDNS to block ads on your Android device involves typing a custom hostname into the above-mentioned Android setting. However, you can choose which apps and websites can still show ads from their website. Also, you do not have to download any app to block ads. All you need to register on their website is an email address and password. Further, you can add more security features to avoid cyber attacks and other online threats.
You can toggle between different block lists. For instance, you can choose energized ad away, etc. This is a useful feature considering that cyber attacks have become common. To recap, a hospital in Paris was hit by a cyber-attack back in 2020. Notably, NextDNS enables you to block the OEM of your own phone from tracking you. However, you can do this only if you are using a Huawei, Xiaomi, or Samsung smartphone. Also, you can use the parental control feature to block specific apps and websites on your Android device.
Further, you can schedule a time when these blocked apps and websites will be accessible. NextDNS has a allow list where you can add domains for websites and apps that you do not want to block. You can even monitor the number of blocked. Moreover, you can view the analytics to figure out what type of domains have been accessed. NextDNS offers all these features without even requiring you to download an app. However, you can add a shortcut to NextDNS to your home screen for quicker access.
AdGuard
AdGuard is an excellent ad blocker app for Android. It adds a myriad of protection layers but consumes a lot of power. So, use AdGuard if the extra battery drain doesn’t bother you. It blocks ads on your apps, as well as your browser. Moreover, AdGuard is the only ad blocker that gets rid of the space where the ad was placed. As a result, the websites look cleaner. Most ad blockers show a big black canvas where the ad was placed. Also, you can select apps that you want AdGuard to ignore.
You can even apply DNS filtering using custom server selections. Further, you can enable the stealth mode to keep your personal information safe. On the downside, you need to pay the subscription fee before it starts blocking ads. NextDNS, on the other hand, starts charging fees once you reach 300000DNS queries in a month.
RethinkDNS
RethinkDNS does a pretty good job in terms of blocking ads on your browser and apps. Moreover, you do not need to pay a subscription fee. There are no in-app purchases either. However, RethinkDNS does not get rid of the blank spaces. Nevertheless, it has a firewall for restricting apps that try to access the internet. You can block all apps, and select specific apps from accessing the internet. This will stop the apps from using the internet when they are locked or inactive.
This is a great feature considering that certain apps can turn out to be malicious if not monitored or restricted. Furthermore, the feature restricts access to any app that doesn’t require internet access to run. it enables you to add any DNS server of your choice as well. To recap, Google had deleted a whopping 1.2 million Android apps earlier this year to protect the privacy of its users. All RethinkDNS code is open source and free software. You can find solutions to issues related to the RethinkDNS app on their active Telegram group.
Blokada Slim
Blokada Slim sports an eye-catching interface. Also, it boasts an array of block lists that you can choose from. So, you can choose more than one block list. Furthermore, it has a wide range of DNS hosts that you can join. Aside from this, Blokada Slim isn’t different than the other apps. it comes with a built-in VPN, but using it is optional.
This is an open-source project that is totally free. You can find their active community on Telegram. Their Telegram channel usually gets updated every month.
Conclusion
So, this was our list of the best ad blocker apps for Android. There are several ad blocker apps that you can choose from. However, each app offers different features and functionality. Notably, NextDNS does not even require you to download an app. it is recommended to create a chrome shortcut for easier access though. Also, you can modify a setting using your phone. NextDNS does not reduce the battery life either.
However, you can go for AdGuard if you fancy having the extra protection. Also, it removes the blank ad spaces. Lastly, if you are looking for a free ad blocker app that actually works, RethinkDNS and Blokada Slim might fill the bill. However, these ad blocker apps consume a lot of battery life.