How to Block Ads on Twitch: All you Should Know

Twitch has quickly become one of the most popular platforms for live streaming, but the growing number of ads often disrupts the viewing experience. From pre-roll and mid-roll video ads to on-screen banners, users are constantly interrupted while watching their favorite streamers. Beyond being annoying, some ads can also slow down performance or expose viewers to unwanted tracking.

An effective AdBlocker can help solve this problem by removing intrusive ads and giving you a smoother, safer way to enjoy Twitch. In this guide, we’ll explore how to block ads on Twitch, the different methods available, and which tools are most reliable in 2025.

Why Twitch Ads Are So Intrusive

Twitch ads have become increasingly disruptive for viewers, making the platform more frustrating to use. These ads often appear at the most inconvenient times, such as pre-roll ads before streams even start and mid-roll ads during live broadcasts. Some of the reasons Twitch ads are so intrusive include:

1. Frequent Interruptions. Ads on Twitch can interrupt the live stream multiple times during a single viewing session, with pre-roll and mid-roll ads being particularly annoying. These interruptions break the flow of content and can be especially frustrating when trying to enjoy a live event or important moment in a stream.

2. High Volume of Ads. Unlike many other platforms, Twitch has a high frequency of ads, with some users seeing multiple ads per hour. For non-subscribers, this can lead to frequent disruptions, making it difficult to enjoy streams without constantly being interrupted.

3. Unwanted Tracking. Many ads on Twitch are designed to track your online behavior, collecting personal data for targeted advertising. This not only invades your privacy but can also slow down your experience as ads load and collect information in the background.

4. Performance Impact. Ads can sometimes cause a noticeable slowdown in stream performance, especially if they include heavy video or interactive elements. This can lead to buffering or reduced quality during live streams, detracting from the overall experience.

Methods to Block Ads on Twitch

1. Using an Ad Blocker Extension

There are several methods available to block ads on Twitch, each catering to different user preferences and needs. One of the most popular and effective ways to block ads is by using Twitch ad blocker extension. These browser extensions can automatically remove ads as soon as you open Twitch, ensuring an uninterrupted streaming experience. Ad blockers like uBlock Origin, AdBlock, and Stands Adblocker are commonly used by Twitch viewers. Once installed, these extensions detect and block pre-roll, mid-roll, and banner ads, allowing you to enjoy streams without disruptions. Many of these ad blockers also offer privacy features, such as blocking third-party trackers, ensuring a smoother and safer browsing experience.

2. Alternative Twitch Players

Another method is using alternative Twitch players, such as Streamlink, which lets you watch Twitch streams outside of the standard browser interface. By using a third-party player, you can bypass Twitch’s ad system altogether. This method requires some setup, but once configured, it provides an ad-free experience. Streamlink connects to a media player like VLC, allowing you to stream content without encountering any ads.

3. VPN Services

For those looking for a more privacy-focused option, using a VPN can help reduce the number of ads you see on Twitch. Since Twitch delivers ads based on your geographical location, connecting to a VPN server in a different region can sometimes bypass ad delivery. This method is not always foolproof, but it can help minimize interruptions if you’re located in regions with excessive ads.

4. Twitch Turbo Subscription

Lastly, subscribing to Twitch Turbo is an official way to remove ads. This premium subscription service, while paid, removes all ads across the platform, including pre-roll and mid-roll ads. Twitch Turbo also offers additional perks like custom emotes and a badge, providing a more enjoyable and ad-free experience for frequent users of the platform. Each of these methods has its advantages, and the best choice depends on your preferences for convenience, cost, and privacy.

Are Ad Blockers Safe for Twitch?

Using ad blockers on Twitch is generally safe, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First, while ad blockers can effectively remove ads and improve your browsing experience, Twitch’s terms of service do discourage their use. However, Twitch typically does not enforce penalties for viewers using ad blockers, so the risk of facing consequences is minimal. That being said, it’s always good practice to stay informed about any changes to the platform’s rules regarding ad-blocking tools.

Ad blockers are often safe in terms of privacy and security, as they typically block intrusive ads and third-party trackers that could compromise your personal data. However, using third-party ad-blocking extensions from less reputable sources could expose your system to risks, such as malware or data breaches. It’s important to only use well-reviewed, widely trusted ad blockers and to regularly update them to ensure they stay secure and functional.

While ad blockers are effective at improving your Twitch viewing experience by removing unwanted ads, it’s worth noting that they could potentially interfere with certain features on Twitch or other websites. Some functions, like supporting content creators through ad revenue, could be impacted if everyone uses ad blockers. It’s always important to consider the balance between enjoying an ad-free experience and supporting the platforms and content creators you enjoy.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install an Ad Blocker on Chrome

1. Open Chrome Web Store
   Open your Chrome browser and go to the Chrome Web Store by typing “Chrome Web Store” into the search bar or visiting chrome.google.com/webstore.

2. Search for the Ad Blocker
   In the search bar, type the name of the ad blocker you wish to install (e.g., uBlock Origin, AdBlock, Stands Adblocker).

3. Add to Chrome
   Once you’ve found your desired ad blocker, click on it and then click Add to Chrome. A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm the installation. Click Add Extension to proceed.

4. Activate and Configure the Ad Blocker
   After installation, the extension icon will appear in the upper-right corner of the Chrome window. Click on the icon and adjust the settings to suit your preferences, such as blocking specific ad types or enabling privacy protection features.

5. Start Watching Twitch Ad-Free
   Once the ad blocker is set up, visit Twitch and begin streaming. The ad blocker will automatically remove most, if not all, of the ads, providing you with an uninterrupted viewing experience.

In conclusion, blocking ads on Twitch can significantly enhance your streaming experience by eliminating interruptions and improving performance. Whether you choose to use an ad blocker extension, a third-party Twitch player, a VPN, or a Twitch Turbo subscription, each method offers its own set of advantages depending on your preferences and needs. While ad blockers are generally safe to use, it’s important to be mindful of Twitch’s terms of service and ensure you’re using reputable tools. Ultimately, the choice of method depends on how much control you want over your viewing experience, but with the right tools, you can enjoy a smoother, ad-free Twitch experience.