Best uBlock Origin Alternatives on Chrome

It has not been easy to digest the fact of not being able to use uBlock Origin in Chrome to block ads and protect security when browsing. This is a consequence of the most recent updates made by Google to its flagship search engine. Faced with this reality, it is necessary to find theThe best alternatives to uBlock Origin on Chrome, a topic we will discuss below.

There are options for those who are resistant to the idea of ​​ditching Chrome for a browser that allows the use of uBlock Origin. For one, there is the lite version of uBlock Origin, which still has some supported features. On the other hand, you can opt for Other extensions with privacy and security tools similar. Let's get to it.

These are the best alternatives to uBlock Origin on Chrome

Searching for uBlock Origin alternatives in Chrome hasn't been necessary… until now. This extension brings together all the best alternatives in one place. All the essential features of an ideal ad blocker. In addition to being free and open source, uBlock Origin is easy to use and low in resources. It also offers a robust barrier that removes intrusive ads and stops trackers from working.

But all good things come to an end… or at least not as long as we would like. Recently, Google has implemented an update to introduce changes in the way extensions work in its search engine. Specifically, it updated the Manifest file to version 3 with the intention of improving aspects related to the privacy, security and performance of the extensions.

The thing is that these “improvements” also limit the capabilities of some extensions, and uBlock Origin is one of the most affected. So much so that Many Chrome users are already seeing warnings recommending uninstalling themIf that's your case, you're probably interested in knowing what alternatives to uBlock Origin on Chrome are available. Here are the best options.

uBlock Origin Lite

The lite version of uBlock Origin is the main alternative for Chrome users, as It is designed to comply with Manifest V3 restrictions on Chromium-based browsersThe lite name indicates that this is a simpler content blocker with fewer customization options.

For example, it doesn't allow you to apply custom filters or advanced tools like the element selector. Also, uBlock Origin Lite does not update its filter lists directly from the servers, but when the extension itself is updated. Of course, being lite also means that it is lighter than the full version, with a lower impact on overall browser performance.

So, if you are happy with the basic features of uBlock Origin, the lite version is enough. This simplified alternative offers moderate and compatible protection with Google's new policies. However, if you are looking for more complete and robust protection, then you will have to change extensions. Below are your best options.

AdGuard alternatives to uBlock Origin in Chrome

If you want to stay in Chrome and enjoy an added layer of protection against ads and trackers, you can use the AdGuard AdBlocker extension. This tool Remove banners, pop-ups, video ads and more, even in apps and browsersIt also blocks trackers and protects against web analytics, malicious sites and phishing.

Of course, you have the greatest advantages if you move to the paid version of AdGuard. The filtering power is higher and better, and it offers blocking at the DNS level and not just in the browser, as is the case with uBlock Origin. On the other hand, keep in mind that the latter is lighter and consumes fewer resources than AdGuard. So don't worry if you feel that Chrome is running a bit slower than before.

Privacy Badger

Among the free alternatives to uBlock Origin in Chrome, the following stands out: Privacy Badger extension. This tool was developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a non-profit organization. So You don't have to pay for a premium service, but all of its features are available at no cost.

Now, there are important differences between Privacy Badger and uBlock Origin that you should know. For example, the former focuses on privacy and blocking trackers, while the second is a more comprehensive content blocker that includes ads, trackers, and malware.

Furthermore, Privacy Badger does not use predefined block lists, but rather learns to identify trackers as the user browses. In contrast, uBlock Origin uses predefined filter lists, which are very comprehensive and even customizable. This makes it block ads more broadly, unlike Privacy Badger, which Only block ads if they contain trackers.

So, it's not the best uBlock Origin alternative on Chrome, but it does a good job of keeping trackers at bay. Plus, since it consumes few system resources, You can use it in conjunction with other ad blocking extensions.Let's look at two more options.

Adblock Plus among the best alternatives to uBlock Origin on Chrome

Adblock Plus has been established for years as one of the best ad blockers. Although it has a Premium version, which blocks more ads and hides cookie notices, offers a free version that works quite well. BBlocks pop-ups, video ads, banner ads, and third-party trackers, among other privacy and security features.

Although it is one of the best alternatives to uBlock Origin on Chrome, it has important differences. For example, It's heavier, has fewer customization options, and its range is also smaller.. It also allows the presence of acceptable ads by default, although this option can be disabled from its settings. You can try it out, but you will surely notice these and other differences compared to how uBlock Origin works.

Ghostery

Ghostery is a free privacy-focused extension, just like Privacy Badger, but with more features and greater coverage. Specializes in identifying and blocking trackers that collect personal data. It also has the additional Enhanced Anti-Tracking feature, which prevents websites from collecting data about the user's browsing habits. It also removes ads, but it is not as robust or effective as the uBlock Origin extension in this regard.

As you can see, The alternatives to uBlock Origin in Chrome are not many or as complete. In all cases, they create a barrier against ads and trackers, so you won't be exposed to these threats to your privacy. All in all, the taste left by uBlock Origin won't be easy to match, at least for users of Google's browser.