.webp "How to Stop Annoying Ads on Android: Private DNS & Blocker Guide (2025).")
You are trying to read a news article or play a game, and suddenly—BOOM. A loud video ad covers your entire screen. You can't find the "X" button, and you accidentally click it.
Sound familiar?
We all hate ads. They are annoying, they eat up your mobile data, and worst of all, they drain your battery.
I spent the last week testing over 20 "free" ad blockers from the Play Store. The truth? Most of them are garbage. They either don't work, track your data, or kill your battery life.
But I found 5 gems that actually deliver on their promise. Here is the honest list of ad blockers that deserve a spot on your phone in 2025.
1. The "No-App" Trick (Best for Battery) 🔋
Before you install anything, try this hidden Android setting. It blocks ads at the DNS level without using any battery or RAM.
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Private DNS.
Select Private DNS provider hostname.
Type:
dns.adguard.comand hit Save.
Pros: Zero battery usage.
Cons: Doesn't block YouTube ads or some in-game ads.
Note: If saving battery is your priority, make sure you also check our guide on [5 Mistakes Draining Your Phone Battery].
2. Brave Browser (Best for Surfing)
If you mostly see ads while browsing Chrome, just switch browsers. Brave has a built-in "Shield" that aggressively blocks trackers and cross-site cookies.
It loads pages 3x faster because your phone isn't downloading junk data. This also helps if you have a slow internet connection.
(Speaking of speed, here is how to [Boost Your Internet Speed Instantly] using other tricks).
3. The Heavy Lifter: System-Wide Blocker (Top Pick) 🏆
The DNS trick is great, but it won't stop stubborn ads inside your games or apps. For that, you need a dedicated processor.
We found a powerful tool that creates a local VPN filter to strip ads from traffic before they reach your screen.
Why we recommend it:
🛡️ Blocks malicious "Malvertising".
📉 Saves up to 40% of your mobile data.
🚀 Makes games run smoother (less lag).
If you want a cleaner, faster phone experience, this is the tool to get.
4. What About YouTube Ads? (The Honest Truth)
Let's be real. Google owns Android and YouTube. They make it extremely hard for Play Store apps to block video ads.
If an app promises to "Remove All YouTube Ads," it's likely lying or unsafe.
However, using a [Secure VPN] can sometimes help you access premium features cheaper in other regions, or you can use third-party clients like NewPipe.
5. Security Warning: Fake Blockers
Be careful. Many "Ad Blockers" are actually spyware in disguise. They collect your browsing history and sell it.
Always check for [Signs of Malware on Your Phone] if you installed a shady app recently.
Comparison: Which One to Choose?
| Feature | Private DNS | Brave Browser | Recommended App |
| Blocks In-App Ads | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Battery Drain | None | Low | Medium |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Root Required | No | No | No |
Reasonable Verdict
For the lazy: Use the Private DNS trick. It takes 10 seconds.
For the gamer: You need the [Recommended App above]. It’s the only way to stop ads from interrupting your gameplay.
Don't let ads ruin your digital life. Take control of your screen today.