If you're an Apple user looking for an efficient, lightweight, and privacy-focused ad blocker, Wipr might be the perfect choice. Unlike many other ad blockers that require manual configurations, Wipr is designed to work seamlessly in the background, blocking ads, trackers, cryptocurrency miners, and even GDPR notices. But how well does it perform compared to alternatives like AdGuard and uBlock Origin? Let’s find out in this in-depth Wipr review.
What is Wipr?
Wipr is an ad and tracker blocker exclusively for Apple devices, available on macOS and iOS. It integrates with Safari’s content blocking system, ensuring a fast and efficient browsing experience while maintaining strict privacy protections.
Key Features:
✔ Blocks Ads & Trackers – Removes banners, pop-ups, video ads, and hidden trackers. ✔ Privacy-Focused – Prevents tracking scripts, fingerprinting, and online tracking. ✔ No Acceptable Ads Policy – Unlike AdBlock Plus, Wipr blocks all ads. ✔ Works on Safari for Mac & iOS – Optimized for Apple’s ecosystem. ✔ Blocks Cryptocurrency Miners – Prevents background mining scripts from using system resources. ✔ Automatic Updates – The blocklist is updated twice a week for the latest protection. ✔ Fast & Lightweight – Works efficiently without slowing down Safari.
Performance & Efficiency
Wipr leverages Safari’s built-in content blocking API, making it much faster than traditional browser extensions that modify web pages. Because Wipr doesn’t rely on third-party extensions injecting scripts, it runs silently and efficiently without affecting system performance.
Comparison with Other Ad Blockers:
| Feature | Wipr | AdGuard | uBlock Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ad Blocking | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent |
| Tracker Blocking | ✅ Strong | ✅ Strong | ✅ Strong |
| Privacy Focused | 🔒 Yes | 🔒 Yes | 🔒 Yes |
| System Resource Usage | 🚀 Very Low | 🔋 Moderate | 🔋 Low |
| Acceptable Ads | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Works on iOS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Since Wipr is designed specifically for Apple devices, it works more seamlessly on Safari compared to other options like AdGuard or uBlock Origin.
Pros & Cons of Wipr
✅ Pros:
- Blocks all ads and trackers by default (no whitelist like AdBlock Plus).
- Optimized for Apple devices, ensuring fast and efficient browsing.
- Lightweight and doesn’t slow down Safari.
- Automatic blocklist updates without user intervention.
- Does not break websites, unlike some aggressive ad blockers.
❌ Cons:
- No customization options – Users cannot manually add blocklists.
- Paid app ($1.99 one-time purchase) – No free version available.
- Limited to Apple devices – Not available for Chrome, Firefox, or other browsers.
- No advanced features like script-blocking or DNS filtering.
How to Install & Use Wipr
Installation:
- Download Wipr from the App Store:
- macOS: Download for Mac
- iOS: Download for iPhone & iPad
- Open Safari Settings on your device.
- Go to Extensions and enable Wipr.
- Wipr will automatically start blocking ads and trackers.
Unlike other ad blockers, Wipr doesn’t require any configuration – just install and forget.
Final Verdict: Is Wipr Worth It?
If you use Safari on Mac or iOS and want an ad blocker that is fast, lightweight, and privacy-focused, Wipr is an excellent choice. It works silently in the background, requires no manual setup, and doesn’t slow down your device.
However, if you need custom filters or more advanced features, alternatives like AdGuard might be a better fit. But for most Apple users who want simple and effective ad-blocking, Wipr is one of the best options available.
⭐ Overall Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Do you use Wipr? Share your experience in the comments below!