How to Block Ads on Spotify’s Desktop App Without Paying for Premium

Let’s be honest: Spotify’s ads can ruin the vibe, especially when you’re deep into your playlist. You want uninterrupted music, but not everyone wants to pay for Premium. So, can you block ads on Spotify’s desktop app for free? Yes, and there are a few reliable methods—plus some powerful community tools you should know about.

The Reality: Blocking Spotify Ads Is Possible—But Tread Carefully

Spotify wants you to hear ads if you’re on a free plan. Blocking them can go against their terms, and there’s always a chance your account could be restricted if you go too far. This guide covers safe, popular methods—but use them at your own risk.

1. Use Community Tools Like BlockTheSpot and SpotX (Windows Only)

If you use Spotify on Windows, BlockTheSpot and SpotX are the two most effective solutions for removing ads from the official desktop app. Both are widely used and updated by the community.

How They Work:
These scripts and patches modify the Spotify app to remove ads, banners, and even upgrade UI features. Installation is straightforward but does require a few manual steps.

BlockTheSpot

• BlockTheSpot Script: Download from MEGA
• BlockTheSpot.bat on GitHub: View on GitHub
• BlockTheSpot Releases (latest updates): Get the Latest Release

Quick Steps:

1. Download the latest release from GitHub or MEGA.
2. Follow the instructions in the README or the provided .bat file.
3. Restart Spotify.

Note: Every time Spotify updates, you may need to reapply the patch.

SpotX

• SpotX Releases: Download SpotX

Quick Steps:

1. Download the SpotX release from GitHub.
2. Follow the official instructions to patch your Spotify client.
3. Open Spotify and enjoy an ad-free experience.

2. Use Spotify Web Player with an Ad Blocker (Works on All Platforms)

If you don’t want to patch or risk your app, use the Spotify Web Player with a trusted ad blocker like uBlock Origin or AdGuard.

• Download uBlock Origin: uBlock Origin
• Download AdGuard: AdGuard

Most audio and banner ads will be blocked automatically. You lose some desktop app features, but for most people, this is the easiest method.

3. Advanced: Block Ads via Hosts File

You can block Spotify ad domains by editing your system’s hosts file (Windows or Mac).
This method works, but Spotify regularly changes their ad servers, so you’ll need to keep your block list updated.

Basic Block List Example:

127.0.0.1 spclient.wg.spotify.com
127.0.0.1 audio2.spotify.com
127.0.0.1 adclick.g.doublecklick.net
127.0.0.1 adeventtracker.spotify.com

(For a full guide, see above.)

4. Try Muting Apps Like Mutify (Windows)

If you just want peace during ads, Mutify mutes Spotify automatically when ads start.

• Mutify for Windows

Bonus: Unblock Spotify Songs Not Available in Your Region

Want to listen to tracks that are blocked in your country? Check out this detailed guide:
How to Listen to Spotify Songs Not Available in Your Region for Free

Final Thoughts

You can block Spotify ads without paying for Premium, especially on Windows using tools like BlockTheSpot or SpotX. The web player with an ad blocker is a safe bet for everyone.
But remember: Spotify’s terms of service forbid these workarounds. Use at your own risk, and support the artists if you can.

Disclaimer:
This post is for educational purposes only. Blocking ads may violate Spotify’s terms of service. Proceed responsibly.

Got questions, tips, or feedback? Drop a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!