Ad-blocking extensions are helpful tools that remove or change online advertising in a web browser or app. However, these extensions might sometimes fail to block ads on Twitch, especially because Twitch often inserts ads directly into the live stream. Below are several methods to help you block Twitch ads:
1. Make Sure Your AdBlock Extension is Up to Date
Technology keeps improving, so it’s important to update your browser extensions regularly. An outdated AdBlock extension might not block Twitch ads effectively.
2. Enable the Right Setting in Your AdBlock Extension
Most ad-blocking extensions start working right away, but some require you to enable specific settings to block ads on Twitch. For example, AdBlock has an option specifically for Twitch ads that isn’t enabled by default.
3. Change Advanced Settings in Chrome
Chrome’s Network Service runs separately and may not be accessible to ad-blocking extensions by default. Adjusting its settings can help.
4. Try Alternate Player for Twitch.tv
The extension Alternate Player for Twitch.tv (formerly Twitch 5) removes most ads from live streams. It also lets you continue watching the stream in another player, such as VLC or Media Player Classic.
5. Use Filter Lists
AdBlock extensions come with filter lists (white lists, blacklists, and custom lists). Adding Twitch ad streams to your blacklist may help. Open Twitch again and see if this method works.
6. Android Device Workaround
Twitch has an Android app, and there’s a trick you can use to avoid some ads there. If you’re on PC, you can try this with an Android emulator (like BlueStacks).
7. Use Streamlink
Streamlink Twitch GUI is a handy app that lets you watch Twitch streams in your favorite video player, such as VLC or Media Player Classic, instead of relying on your browser. Not only does this often provide smoother playback, but it can also help avoid ads on Twitch.tv.
8. Use HLS AdBlock
Twitch places ads directly in its HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) stream, making typical ad blockers less effective. The HLS AdBlock extension modifies the HLS playlist to remove ad segments.
9. Use AdGuard
AdGuard is a powerful ad blocker extension for Chrome and Firefox. It blocks all types of ads, including Twitch’s video ads, pop-ups, banners, and more. It’s also effective at dealing with most techniques Twitch uses to show ads.
10. uMatrix Extension
uMatrix allows you to control what your browser loads, including scripts, iframes, and ads. You can easily allow or block content with a simple click.
11. UBlock Origin
UBlock Origin is a strong, efficient ad blocker that uses little memory and CPU. It can load and enforce extensive filter lists and block a wide range of ads and trackers.
12. Use Brave Browser
Brave is a free, open-source web browser that blocks advertisers and trackers by default. Since it’s based on Chromium, you can also install Chrome extensions for greater power.
13. User-Agent Switcher Extension
You can trick Twitch into thinking you’re on Android or iOS by changing your browser’s user agent. Try this with Brave Browser, with UBlock Origin and uMatrix installed (as described above):
14. Twitch Turbo
If you want an ad-free Twitch experience and don’t mind paying a fee, Twitch Turbo is the official subscription service for ad-free viewing, along with other benefits.
