AdLock vs Disconnect

AdLock blocks ads and helps filter tracking and malicious activity across Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, with Android TV also listed. It blocks ad types by default and does not participate in acceptable ads; users can allow ads on selected websites or apps. Other protections include blocking tracking scripts, malware, malicious requests and redirects, plus filtering HTTP and HTTPS connections. Users can add custom filter lists and block cookie popups. Browser coverage includes Chrome, Safari and Firefox, as well as major browsers generally. AdLock says it uses few device resources, can save mobile data and can extend battery life. Free browser extensions are available, and standalone applications offer free trials. The free plan and paid options coexist: plans are $9.95 a month, $39.50 a year, or $15.99 a year when billed every five years. Paid plans cover five devices and include a 30-day money-back guarantee. The company lists 24/7 technical support and is based in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Disconnect exposes and blocks trackers, data brokers and surveillance networks across websites, apps and email. Its Basic Extension displays and blocks trackers on visited websites. On iOS and Android, Tracker Protection uses encrypted DNS to block trackers across apps and browsers without a VPN. Privacy Pro for iOS adds Smart VPN, custom blocking rules and activity logs. Disconnect Premium can encrypt internet activity and mask the user's IP address in encrypted mode, using AES 256-bit encryption and 2048-bit Diffie-Hellman key exchange. Users can choose Blocking mode, focused on privacy and performance, or Encrypted mode, which may slow connections. Its ad blocking targets privacy-invasive ads that track users or may distribute malvertising, rather than every advertisement. A free plan is available, and the pricing note lists paid plans from $50/yr; Premium is also listed at $5 a month. Website subscriptions cover three unique devices. App Store subscriptions are limited to the purchasing iTunes user and their iPhone or iPad devices.