We all hate ads. Even more so, creepy trackers that follow us around the internet are just plain annoying. If you’re browsing Reddit—or spending time trying to keep your online life private—you might’ve come across VPNs that do more than just hide your IP. Some actually block ads and trackers too!
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If you’re looking for a VPN that also blocks ads and trackers, you’re in luck. Reddit’s privacy-loving community has spilled the beans on the best ones. These VPNs help keep your browsing clean, fast, and safe. Plus, they save you from downloading extra blocker apps!
Why use a VPN with ad and tracker blocking?
It’s simple. Less ads = faster internet. No trackers = more privacy. And having both in your VPN means one less app to install. These VPNs act like a superhero shield, deflecting annoying and malicious content before it even reaches your browser.
Top 9 VPNs with Built-In Ad & Tracker Blocking (as loved by Reddit)
We dove deep into Reddit threads on subs like r/privacy, r/VPN, and r/privacytoolsIO, where real users talked about their favorite VPNs. Here are the top 9 mentioned, praised, and geek-approved.
1. ProtonVPN – The Reddit Darling
ProtonVPN stands out for its clean interface and dedication to privacy. Its NetShield feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
- What it blocks: Ads, trackers, malware-infected domains
- Plans: Free (with limited servers) and Paid tiers
- Reddit reviewers say: “The NetShield works beautifully—it’s like Pi-hole lite!”
2. Windscribe – The Feature-Packed Favorite
This Canadian-based VPN is famous in Reddit circles for offering a robust free plan and tight security. Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T feature gives you custom filtering choices.
- What it blocks: Ads, trackers, malware, social media widgets, and more
- Plans: Free (10GB/month) and Paid options
- Reddit tip: “You can even block porn or gambling sites with it—super flexible!”
3. Mullvad – The Privacy Purist’s Pick
Mullvad earns gold stars from privacy nerds. It doesn’t just block ads—it ups the game with a no-email-needed sign-up and privacy-focused DNS filtering.
- What it blocks: Ads and trackers via their encrypted DNS service
- Plans: Simple flat rate—no tiers
- Reddit love: “The only VPN I trust for true anonymity.”
4. IVPN – Nerdy, Yet Nice
Want total control? IVPN offers DNS-level blocking through its custom firewall and DNS options. Redditors respect it for being open-source and super transparent.
- What it blocks: Ads, trackers, malicious domains
- Plans: Two tiers, including a basic “Standard” plan
- Reddit hype: “It’s not the flashiest, but it’s bulletproof.”
5. NordVPN – The Crowd Favorite
NordVPN is hugely popular, and for good reason. Its Threat Protection blocks ads and trackers even when you’re not connected to a VPN server.
- What it blocks: Ads, trackers, malicious websites, and malware-heavy files
- Plans: Paid only
- Reddit quote: “You’re paying for reliability and features galore.”
6. Surfshark – The Budget All-Star
This one gets high remarks in Reddit threads for being affordable and feature-rich. Surfshark’s CleanWeb does the dirty work of blocking unwanted stuff.
- What it blocks: Ads, phishing, and malware
- Plans: Paid, but super cheap with long-term deals
- Reddit comments: “A cheaper NordVPN alternative with similar features.”
7. Private Internet Access (PIA) – The Open-Source Champ
PIA is another community favorite. It offers MACE (its ad, tracker, and malware blocker), which runs as soon as you’re connected.
- What it blocks: Ads, trackers, malware
- Plans: Paid only
- Reddit insight: “It’s all about tweakability. And they support open source!”
8. AdGuard VPN – The AdBlock Giant’s Secret Weapon
Built by the same folks who made the AdGuard ad blocker, this VPN combines their ad skills with strong VPN protocols.
- What it blocks: Ads, analytics, trackers, and annoying popups
- Plans: Paid plans with free trial
- Reddit buzz: “Think of it as AdGuard + VPN = combo power!”
9. Mozilla VPN – Firefox’s Privacy Partner
Yup, Mozilla made a VPN. It doesn’t just protect you online—it adds Tracker Blocking powered by Mullvad’s tech.
- What it blocks: Trackers and malware
- Plans: Paid subscription
- Reddit notes: “If you love Firefox, this is a natural extension.”
How do ad-blocking VPNs work?
They’re like internet bouncers. When you visit a site, the VPN checks the domains linked to ads or trackers and cuts them off. Some VPNs use special DNS servers. Others scan and filter traffic before it gets to you. Simple but powerful.
Benefits of using these built-in blockers:
- Speed: Without ads loading, sites are faster.
- Privacy: Trackers can’t build a profile on you.
- Security: Some even block malware-laden URLs.
- Cleaner web: No more accidentally clicking fake download buttons.
Redditor Tips When Choosing a VPN with Blocking
Keep these in mind, straight from the Reddit trenches:
- Don’t rely only on the VPN: Layer with browser-based blockers like uBlock Origin.
- Test each VPN’s blocker: Visit test pages like ads-blocker.com or use dnsleaktest.com.
- Free plans exist: But they often don’t include the blocking features—read carefully.
- Avoid VPNs who won’t reveal ownership: Trust is key!
Final Thoughts: Which One’s Best for You?
It depends on what you value most.
- For total privacy: Go Mullvad or IVPN.
- For best free option: Try Windscribe.
- For features + ease of use: NordVPN or Surfshark rock.
No matter which you choose, just make sure ad and tracker blocking are enabled once you install the VPN. A few taps could mean way fewer popups, less data collected about you, and a way smoother browsing life.
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