Hey everyone! Are you looking to get YouTube Vanced on your PC for free? Well, you're in the right place. Although YouTube Vanced was discontinued, there are still ways to enjoy similar ad-free experiences on your computer. This guide will walk you through the alternatives and methods to achieve that. Let's dive in!

What Happened to YouTube Vanced?

Before we get started, let's address the elephant in the room. YouTube Vanced was an incredibly popular modded version of YouTube that offered ad-free playback, background playback, and other cool features. However, due to legal pressure from Google, the developers had to discontinue the project. So, you can no longer directly download or use YouTube Vanced. But don't worry, we have alternatives!

Why Use YouTube Vanced Alternatives on PC?

Okay, so why bother looking for alternatives to YouTube Vanced for your PC? Well, let's break it down. Imagine you're trying to work, study, or just chill out, and bam! An unskippable ad blasts through your speakers. Annoying, right? That's where these alternatives come in handy. They offer a smoother, uninterrupted viewing experience, similar to what YouTube Vanced provided. Plus, many of these options also include features like background playback, so you can listen to your favorite music or podcasts while doing other things on your computer. Who wouldn't want that?

Using a YouTube Vanced alternative can significantly enhance your overall experience. No more interruptions during crucial moments of your favorite videos. Whether you're catching up on the latest news, learning a new skill, or simply unwinding with some entertainment, these tools ensure a seamless viewing session. Background playback is another major advantage, allowing you to multitask without missing out on your favorite audio content. It's all about convenience and optimizing your digital lifestyle. Also, let's not forget the data-saving aspect. Ads consume bandwidth, and by blocking them, you're using less data, which is particularly beneficial if you have a limited internet plan. It’s a win-win situation for productivity, entertainment, and your data allowance. These alternatives aren’t just about blocking ads; they're about providing a better, more streamlined YouTube experience tailored to your needs.

Method 1: Using a Browser Extension (Ad Blockers)

One of the simplest ways to block YouTube ads on your PC is by using a browser extension. There are tons of ad blockers available for Chrome, Firefox, and other popular browsers. Here’s how you can set one up:

1. Choose an Ad Blocker: Some popular options include AdBlock, Adblock Plus, and uBlock Origin. I personally recommend uBlock Origin because it’s lightweight and effective.
2. Install the Extension: Go to the Chrome Web Store (or the equivalent for your browser) and search for the ad blocker you chose. Click “Add to Chrome” (or “Add to Firefox,” etc.) and confirm the installation.
3. Configure (Optional): Most ad blockers work right out of the box, but you can usually customize them to allow ads on specific websites if you want to support certain content creators.

Once installed, the ad blocker will automatically block most, if not all, ads on YouTube. You’ll get a much cleaner viewing experience without those annoying interruptions. Browser extensions are super easy to install and use, making them a great option for anyone looking to quickly get rid of YouTube ads. Plus, they’re not just for YouTube; they work on almost any website, so you'll get an ad-free experience across the web.

Method 2: Brave Browser

Brave Browser is a privacy-focused browser that comes with a built-in ad blocker. This means you don’t need to install any additional extensions to block YouTube ads. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download Brave: Go to the Brave Browser website and download the browser for your operating system.
2. Install Brave: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Start Browsing: Once installed, Brave automatically blocks ads and trackers. Just go to YouTube and enjoy ad-free viewing!

Brave Browser is a fantastic option because it offers a seamless, ad-free experience right out of the box. You don’t have to worry about finding and installing the right extension – it’s all built-in. Plus, Brave offers other privacy features, like tracker blocking and a built-in VPN, making it a more secure browsing experience overall. If you’re concerned about privacy and want an easy way to block YouTube ads, Brave is definitely worth checking out. The browser also rewards you with Basic Attention Tokens (BAT) for viewing privacy-respecting ads, which you can then use to support your favorite content creators. It’s a win-win!

Method 3: Using YouTube Premium (Official Ad-Free)

If you're willing to spend a bit of money, the most straightforward way to get an ad-free YouTube experience is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Go to YouTube Premium: Open YouTube in your browser and click on your profile icon in the top right corner. Select “YouTube Premium.”
2. Sign Up: Follow the instructions to sign up for YouTube Premium. You’ll need to enter your payment information.
3. Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Once subscribed, you'll get ad-free access to all YouTube videos, plus background playback and access to YouTube Music Premium.

YouTube Premium is the official way to support YouTube and get rid of ads. It’s a bit more expensive than the other options, but it offers a seamless, ad-free experience across all your devices, including your PC, phone, and tablet. Plus, you get access to YouTube Music Premium, which is a nice bonus if you’re a music lover. If you value convenience and want to directly support YouTube, this is the way to go. The peace of mind knowing you're supporting content creators while enjoying uninterrupted viewing can be well worth the cost. Additionally, YouTube Premium often includes exclusive content and features that aren't available to regular users.

Method 4: Third-Party Apps for PC

While YouTube Vanced is no longer available, some third-party apps for PC offer similar functionalities. These apps often provide ad-free playback and other enhanced features. However, exercise caution when downloading and installing apps from unofficial sources.

1. Research Apps: Look for reputable third-party YouTube apps for PC. Check user reviews and ratings to ensure the app is safe and reliable.
2. Download and Install: Download the app from the official website or a trusted source. Follow the installation instructions.
3. Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Launch the app and start watching YouTube videos without ads.

Using third-party apps can be a viable option, but it’s crucial to do your homework first. Not all apps are created equal, and some may contain malware or other unwanted software. Stick to well-known and trusted apps, and always download from the official source if possible. Be sure to read the app's privacy policy and user reviews before installing. These apps can offer a range of features beyond ad-blocking, such as customizable themes, download options, and more. Just remember to prioritize your security and safety when exploring this option. Keeping your antivirus software up-to-date and running regular scans is also a good practice when using third-party software.

Method 5: Using a VPN with Ad-Blocking Features

Some VPN (Virtual Private Network) services come with built-in ad-blocking features. By connecting to a VPN server, you can block ads at the network level, providing an ad-free experience across all apps and browsers, including YouTube. Here’s how to use it:

1. Choose a VPN: Select a VPN provider that offers ad-blocking features. Popular options include NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost.
2. Install the VPN: Download and install the VPN app on your PC. Follow the installation instructions.
3. Connect to a Server: Launch the VPN app and connect to a server in a location of your choice.
4. Enable Ad Blocking: Enable the ad-blocking feature in the VPN settings.
5. Enjoy Ad-Free YouTube: Open YouTube in your browser and enjoy ad-free viewing.

Using a VPN with ad-blocking is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Not only do you get an ad-free YouTube experience, but you also get the added security and privacy benefits of using a VPN. This method blocks ads at the network level, meaning it works across all apps and browsers on your PC. VPNs also encrypt your internet traffic, protecting your data from prying eyes. Just be sure to choose a reputable VPN provider with a proven track record of security and privacy. Free VPNs may not offer the same level of protection and may even collect your data. A good VPN will also provide faster and more reliable connections, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable browsing experience.

Conclusion

While the original YouTube Vanced is no longer available, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy an ad-free YouTube experience on your PC. Whether you choose to use a browser extension, Brave Browser, YouTube Premium, third-party apps, or a VPN with ad-blocking, you can find a method that works for you. Happy watching, guys! Remember to stay safe online and always download software from trusted sources.