Best alternatives to uBlock Origin

Chrome has started marking the End of support for extensions based on Manifest V2, and that hits home with one of the most popular blockers. For that reason, it's a good time to start looking for good ones. alternatives to uBlock Origin to continue browsing without intrusive ads and with a decent level of privacy.

Here we analyze these alternatives: from customized versions like uBlock Origin Lite to options like AdGuard or Adblock Plus, as well as browsers with built-in blocking like Brave or Opera, and solid options in Firefox.

What happened to uBlock Origin in Chrome?

Chrome has started displaying warnings and disabling MV2 extensions deemed to be out of line with its new MV3 guidelines and best practices. This package includes uBlock Origin classic, hence the messages like: "This extension is no longer available because it doesn't follow best practices for Chrome extensions." "This extension is no longer supported." or even "This extension has been disabled because it is no longer supported.". The transition to MV3 itself is the cause, not a user error.

The changes are justified in the name of security, privacy and performance, but some point out that limiting blockers benefits Google's advertising model in products like YouTube or search.

Manifest V3 in a nutshell and why it affects blockers

The "Manifest" is The file that defines how an extension operates: permissions, capabilities, and APIs. When moving from V2 to V3, Google has tightened the use of key APIs, modified background execution and restricted access that previously allowed very granular filtering. On paper, these are security, privacy and performance improvements., but with practical consequences: less real-time control and stricter limits on rules.

The API declarativeNetRequest becomes the core of filtering in MV3, replacing more flexible forms of blocking. This reduces the scope for advanced extensions and forces features to be cut or redesigned. Some tools will disappear, others will have less reach, and several are already working on adaptations to avoid losing effectiveness.

If you were using uBlock Origin in Chrome: real options

The most direct way within Chrome is try uBlock Origin Lite (uBOL), the project's adaptation to MV3. The extension works well for basic ad and tracker blocking, with fewer permissions and simpler management, but It does not reach the power of the classic version.

uBlock Origin Lite: What's Good and What's Missing

uBO Lite may initially feel as effective as the original uBO, but over time you'll notice the differences: some ads and annoying elements sneak in and especially The ability to manually lock items has been lost from the interface. This decrease is noticeable in specific places, although the general blockade is still useful on most pages.

Where there is more scope to complement uBO Lite is in privacy. If you miss aggressive tracker blocking, You can add a single privacy extension tested and maintained.

MV3-compatible blockers: alternatives to uBlock Origin to consider

AdGuard (MV3)

License model: AdGuard for MV3 adopt a freemium model: Free version with basic ad and tracking blocking, and premium option with advanced features (e.g. more powerful filtering). The new MV3 extension will replace the old MV2, which has been left in beta and retirement phase.

• Types of applications and platformsAdGuard offers a browser extension tailored for MV3 and native apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as Android and iOS. The MV3 extension is now available in the Chrome Web Store in beta and has been improving its interface to resemble MV2.
• Characteristics and limitsIn MV3, static and dynamic filter rules are limited. Figures like 30.000 static and 5.000 dynamic are mentioned as a theoretical limit, but AdGuard currently offers 5.000 rules instead of 30.000 due to real-world platform constraints. Certain features haven't been ported yet (cookie self-destruction, anti-phishing protection), and sections like Filter Log and Statistics aren't available in the beta. Furthermore, AdGuard doesn't currently retain its prominent badge in the Chrome Web Store.
• Comparison against uBlock Origin Lite: according to users, AdGuard MV3 can perform better than uBO Lite thanks to a more refined use of dynamic rules within the limitations of MV3.

Adblock Plus (MV3)

License model: ABP launched his MV3 compatible version on May 3, 2024. Maintains scheme freemium premium option of payment. Focuses on desktop browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) with the MV3 update focused on Chrome.

• Filter lists and updatesIn MV3, ABP will limit the number of available lists. The current plan allows for up to 100 pre-installed lists, with the option to activate up to 50 at a time. To minimize the impact, they are implementing "differential updates" for lists so that blocking doesn't lose quality along the way.
• State in storeAdblock Plus has retained its prominent Chrome Web Store badge. Current limitations: Subscribing to external lists is not currently supported, although they are working to preserve and restore custom list data.
• Performance after MV3Reviews indicate that ABP remains effective at blocking ads and trackers, although some users still experience issues on YouTube. Your experience may vary depending on your referring sites.

Browsers with built-in blocking and alternatives to switching

Firefox y Brave are Best out-of-the-box options for security and privacyFirefox's native protections and Brave Shields allow you to browse safely, without the need for extensions for basics. uBlock Origin will continue to be in good shape on Firefox, since although it adopts MV3, Mozilla applies the change with more flexibility.

Within the Chromium ecosystem, Opera and Vivaldi They also integrate blockers. They're not on the same level as Firefox or Brave, but they may be sufficient for many users, and it's likely they'll improve their root blocking in this context. Microsoft Edge offers good protections against tracking (with the exception that Microsoft itself can be considered an actor to be limited), while Chrome does not add extra native protections beyond the change to MV3.

And on mobile and other scenarios?

There are peculiarities in Android. There are those who say that Firefox for Android can be heavy on modest devices, and opts for Kiwi or Brave as lighter alternatives. Lemur is also mentioned on Android as an option where the original uBO is still available.. On desktop, Firefox holds the type with support for advanced blockers.

It is important to remember the dependence on rendering engines: most use Blink (Chromium)While Firefox uses Gecko y Safari/WebKit. If Chromium cuts support for something, many "flavors" inherit it (Edge, Opera, Brave, etc.), and Google sets the pace in APIs and support. Firefox goes free and, for example, extended support on systems where Chromium was cut off earlier.

Stands Adblocker: proposal focused on MV3

Stands Adblocker It is presented as one of the best alternatives to uBlock Origin with a light extension and good CPU/memory performance. It maintains its prominent badge in the Chrome Web Store and has launched multiple quick updates to adapt.

promise effective blockade in YouTube, Twitch and social networks, in addition to good compatibility in browsers and reduced memory consumption On Android, the goal is to continue blocking "as usual" within the new rules.

Installation is direct from the Chrome Web StoreSimply search for the extension, click "Add to Chrome," confirm, wait for it to finish, and then open its panel to customize the blocking to your liking.

Tips for choosing the right alternative

• Real compatibility with MV3: make sure the extension is adapted and maintained for MV3. Some teams have rewritten functions or created new versions from scratch.
• Quality signals in the Chrome Web Store: extensions that keep the insignia prominent They usually demonstrate good level of compliance and constant updating.
• Impact on performance: check consumption of CPU and RAM. MV3 pursues performance, but Not all blockers perform equally. Avoid accumulating redundant extensions.
• Support and community: prioritize projects with active teams, well-maintained filter lists and frequent updates. That makes a difference in the medium term.
• Don't stack blockers: using several at once can generate conflicts, consume more resources and tear pages. Choose a main one and at most add a privacy layer (e.g., Privacy Badger) if you need it.