AdGuard vs NetGuard
A detailed comparison to help you choose between AdGuard and NetGuard.
AdGuard Ad blocker with DNS-level protection. | NetGuard No-root firewall for Android. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5 (180 reviews) | 4.5 (344 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | freemium | freemium |
| Starting Price | From $0/mo | From $0/mo |
| Best For | Best for users wanting to block ads and trackers across the web | Best for users wanting network-level firewall protection |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
| Visit AdGuard → |
AdGuard
Pros
- + Free, open-source browser extension
- + No “acceptable ads” monetization program
- + Powerful filter lists and manual rules
- + Android app includes DNS protection and firewall
- + AdGuard Home enables network-wide DNS blocking
- + Refund window guidance published (60 days)
Cons
- - Feature set varies by platform and browser limits
- - Advanced setup can require troubleshooting
- - Not all AdGuard products are open source
- - Some privacy controls are global, not per-site
NetGuard
Pros
- + Per-app firewall without rooting
- + Open-source (GPLv3) and publicly reviewed
- + Detailed per-app and global traffic logs
- + Hosts-file domain blocking via GitHub/F-Droid builds
- + Pro features via one-time donation option
- + Good for diagnosing background network activity
Cons
- - Uses Android VPN slot; conflicts with real VPNs
- - Play Store version can’t do ad blocking
- - Domain blocking fails with DoH/DoT enabled
- - Can’t block YouTube ads via domains
- - Unsupported in some work/dual-app environments
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