The Best Ad Blockers for Microsoft Edge 2024

NordVPN Threat Protection, Surfshark CleanWeb, and Proton VPN NetShield offer strong ad blocking features for Microsoft Edge. All three services offer excellent protection against intrusive ads, ransomware, phishing campaigns, tracking cookies, web bugs, and malicious scripts. 

These are some of the best ad blockers we've tested. They provide an easy-to-use user interface that makes setting up blockers a breeze. Whichever option you choose, you'll be sure to have a safer browsing experience on Microsoft Edge that's free of intrusive ads. Let's take a look at each of the best ad blockers for Edge to figure out which one is best suited for your needs.

The best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge in 2024

Microsoft Edge is one of the most popular web browsers in use today, and it’s no surprise that its users want ad blockers to safeguard their surfing experience. Here's a look at some of the best ad blockers we found for Edge:

• NordVPN Threat Protection: Best overall ad blocker for Edge
• Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for numerous devices
• Proton VPN NetShield: Best for torrenting speeds

Top 3 ad blockers for Microsoft Edge compared

Ad blocker	NordVPN Threat Protection Best Overall	Surfshark CleanWeb	Proton VPN NetShield
Price	Starts at $2.99/mo (billed every two years)	Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years)	Starts at $2.99/mo (billed every two years)
Microsoft Edge extension
Learn more	Get NordVPN Threat Protection Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review	Get Surfshark CleanWeb Read Surfshark CleanWeb Review	Get Proton VPN NetShield Read Proton VPN NetShield Review

NordVPN Threat Protection: Best overall ad blocker for Edge

NordVPN Threat Protection is the best choice if you need to block annoying ads along with malware while browsing the web with Edge. Bundled with NordVPN, Threat Protection offers a comprehensive package that not only blocks ads, pop-ups, banners, and trackers but also scans files to protect against malicious downloads.

NordVPN Threat Protection also offers URL trimming, a feature that removes tracking parameters from website URLs you visit. This means your browsing history and data can't be used to track you, giving you an extra layer of privacy. URL trimming works automatically, so there's no need to fight with your cursor to manually highlight parts of a web address.

In addition to the standard ad-blocking features, NordVPN offers next-generation encryption protocols and advanced threat protection capabilities, like an automatic virtual private network kill switch, to ensure your data is always safe and secure.

Overall, NordVPN Threat Protection’s comprehensive suite of features makes it a great choice for privacy-conscious people who want more than just basic ad-blocking functionality.

What we liked

NordVPN Threat Protection is an all-in-one solution that offers comprehensive protection from online threats. With URL trimming, it helps to eliminate tracking parameters from website URLs you visit, making sure your data remains secure and private. Threat Protection also comes with malware scanning capabilities and scans files you download to help protect against malicious software.

The service also provides Meshnet technology, which ensures you’re protected even if you connect to other devices. The VPN provides powerful encryption protocols such as OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard), and IKEv2/IPsec to make sure your browsing activity remains anonymous and untraceable. There’s also a dark web monitor that tracks the safety of your download links and helps you stay safe from potentially dangerous websites.

What we didn’t like

We had some trouble figuring out how to whitelist websites with Threat Protection. We couldn't find the setting after 10 minutes of searching, and we didn't find any clarity with some Google searches. After more testing, we found that you can whitelist websites by turning Threat Protection on and viewing the Web tab. This may not be intuitive for most users. 

In addition, canceling NordVPN is very difficult. The process involves several clicks, including an email confirmation request that expires in 15 minutes. This makes it difficult and time-consuming to cancel the service if you decide you no longer want it.

NordVPN Threat Protection pros and cons

Get NordVPN Threat Protection | Read NordVPN Threat Protection Review

Surfshark CleanWeb: Best for numerous devices

Surfshark CleanWeb is bundled with the highly-rated Surfshark VPN. CleanWeb is a reliable and affordable ad blocker designed to provide you with maximum protection against annoying or intrusive ads, tracking technologies, cookie consent requests, malicious content, and more. The software uses advanced algorithms to detect and block potentially dangerous elements while also freeing up system resources that would otherwise be occupied by unwanted ads.

Surfshark CleanWeb can be turned on from your Surfshark VPN app for desktop and mobile. It also works for other applications like streaming services and gaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch. This ad blocker is also designed to be lightweight, requiring minimal system resources and memory consumption.

In addition, Surfshark CleanWeb 2.0, which is available as an ad blocker extension for your browser, can be configured to allow certain types of ads or trackers if desired, providing a level of control over your experience.

What we liked

Surfshark CleanWeb is an excellent choice for anyone searching for a secure and convenient online experience. Its low price makes it accessible to almost everyone, no matter your budget.

One of the most notable features is the cookie consent pop-up blocker. It allows you to browse and shop without dealing with unwanted pop-up requests or ads.

Compatibility with various platforms and devices also makes this product more appealing if you need to block annoying ads on multiple devices simultaneously. CleanWeb 2.0 is available as a browser extension for Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Firefox, while the standard CleanWeb is available with the VPN app on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and FireTV.

Additionally, the Surfshark One bundle, which starts at $2.49/mo (billed every two years) for 24 months, includes add-ons like data breach alerts, an antivirus, and a private search engine, which all add up to a complete package that can help protect your privacy even further.

What we didn’t like

We wish CleanWeb was available without having to connect to the Surfshark VPN. On the other hand, CleanWeb 2.0 works even with the VPN disconnected. While we certainly recommend connecting to a VPN for greater privacy and security whenever accessing the internet, in certain situations, this simply may not be possible. So extending this functionality to the original CleanWeb feature would be helpful.

Additionally, CleanWeb may also interfere with the functionality of some websites. For these reasons, you should consider carefully whether or not you need to have Surfshark CleanWeb enabled at all times.

Surfshark CleanWeb pros and cons

Get Surfshark CleanWeb | Read Our Surfshark CleanWeb Review

Proton VPN NetShield: Best for torrenting speeds

NetShield comes built into Proton VPN and blocks pop-up ads, malware, and trackers from websites to keep your browsing activity safe. It also helps protect your device by stopping malicious software from downloading in the background or running on your computer without your knowledge.

NetShield uses multiple levels of protection to keep you safe online. Its advanced security technologies, such as AES 256-bit encryption, advanced server architecture, and a strict no-logs policy, help ensure your data remains protected at all times. (Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, which is outside the Fourteen Eyes alliance.) It also features a kill switch that instantly disconnects you from the internet if it detects any suspicious activity on the network.

What we liked

Proton VPN NetShield is great for torrenting. It's equipped with exclusive servers and is compatible with the most popular clients, such as BitTorrent and qBittorrent.

NetShield uses DNS filtering to block ads and online trackers. It also helps maintain faster browsing speeds by blocking this unnecessary content from the webpages you visit. 

Furthermore, when you change your NetShield settings, Proton VPN will automatically turn on the kill switch. This ensures that if there is any sort of disruption in your connection, all unencrypted data will be blocked to protect your privacy.

What we didn’t like

One of the major issues with Proton VPN NetShield is its higher cost than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost. You can save money by upgrading to a longer term, but you still won’t get the discounts that come with the other services.

In addition, NetShield isn't available with the free Proton VPN plan. So you'll need to pay for a VPN subscription to access its ad, tracker, and malware blocking features.

Proton VPN NetShield pros and cons

Get Proton VPN NetShield | Read Our Proton VPN NetShield Review

Honorable mentions

Even though these three ad blockers didn't quite make the cut, they still deserve recognition. Each of them has its own standout features and is worth exploring if the top three don't fit your needs.

• Total Adblock: Total Adblock is a great alternative if you want further customization options. It's easy to set up and allows you to choose specific ads that you'd like to block. It also offers the ability to set up custom blocking lists that allow enhanced control over your browsing experience. However, it can be tricky at times to configure all the settings properly, making Total Adblock slightly less user-friendly than other ad blockers on this list.
  Best Basic Adblocker — Including YouTube Video Ads

  

  4.9

  AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

  Editorial Rating

  Learn More

  On Total Adblock's website

  Ad Blocker

  Total Adblock

  BLACK FRIDAY: Up to 80% off

  • Instantly blocks distracting ads on millions of websites, including Facebook and YouTube ads
  • Blocks third-party trackers to protect your privacy and information
  • Improves page load times and enables faster browsing

  Get Total Adblock | Read Total Adblock Review

• Adblock Plus: Adblock Plus provides basic ad-blocking capabilities and offers an easy setup process. The app also has some customization options that allow you to tweak settings to fit your preferences.
  

  4.4

  AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

  Editorial Rating

  Learn More

  On Adblock Plus's website

  Ad Blocker

  Adblock Plus

  • Free product blocks ads, pop-up, trackers, push notifications, social media icons tracking, and even YouTube video ads
  • Open-source software allows for custom filtering and community-based support

  Read Our Adblock Plus Review

How we tested the best ad blockers for Edge browsers

When researching the best ad blockers for Edge browsers, we took into consideration a range of features. We evaluated each program’s ability to block ads, protect against pop-ups, and enhance overall internet browsing speed. Additionally, we assessed the user interfaces for ease of use and performance capabilities.

How to choose the best ad blocker for Edge

Choosing the best ad blocker for Edge is an important decision. After all, it’s responsible for protecting you from intrusive and malicious ads that can compromise your security, privacy, and data. To make sure you find an ad blocker that fits your needs and performs optimally, there are a few key factors to consider:

First, it's essential to research the software and verify its legitimacy before installing an ad blocker on your device. Fake or malicious versions of the software may not provide adequate protection against ads, or even worse — they could be designed to steal your data or infect your device with malware.

Second, ensure the ad blocker has enough customization options to effectively block various types of ads while still allowing access to specific types of ads or content you want to view.

This includes video ads, banners, and pop-ups, as well as other forms of intrusive advertisements. Some ad blockers are too strong and may block relevant content that is necessary for certain websites or applications to run properly.

Third, investigate the customer support provided by the software developer — this could be a key factor in selecting your ad blocker. A reliable customer service team will address any issues quickly and provide guidance if needed when configuring or troubleshooting the software.

Finally, double-check which type of ads are blocked by each ad blocker before making your selection; some programs may only block banner-type ads but not videos or vice versa. Be aware that many free versions of ad blockers may limit the range of ads that can be blocked and could offer limited customization options.

Best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge FAQs

Bottom line: The best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge

Based on our research and testing, we think the best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge are NordVPN Threat Protection, Surfshark CleanWeb, and Proton VPN NetShield. All three provide excellent protection against ads while also offering a range of additional security and privacy benefits in the Edge browser.

But when it comes to our top pick, we found NordVPN Threat Protection to be the best ad blocker for Microsoft Edge. It has a wide range of advanced security features that make it great at blocking ads, as well as protecting your privacy and data while you're online.

Surfshark CleanWeb is another great choice if you need an ad blocker for multiple devices. It supports unlimited simultaneous VPN connections and comes with powerful content-filtering features to block ads across platforms. Proton VPN NetShield is also a good ad blocker for those who need advanced customization features.

3 best ad blockers for Microsoft Edge in 2024

	Price	Best for	Learn more
NordVPN Threat Protection	Starts at $2.99/mo (billed every two years)	Best overall ad blocker for Edge	Get NordVPN Threat Protection Read Our NordVPN Review
Surfshark CleanWeb	Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years)	Best for numerous devices	Get Surfshark CleanWeb Read Our Surfshark Review
Proton VPN NetShield	Starts at $2.99/mo (billed every two years)	Best for torrenting speeds	Get Proton VPN NetShield Read Our Proton VPN Review