YouTube Vanced was the most popular modded YouTube app until Google forced its shutdown in March 2022. Since then, several alternatives have emerged that offer the same ad-free, background play experience. Here's everything you need to know about the best Vanced replacements in 2026.
Why Did YouTube Vanced Shut Down?
After years of providing ad-free YouTube to millions, the Vanced team received a cease and desist letter from Google. They immediately discontinued development and downloads. The original Vanced app still works for some users, but it's outdated and no longer updated for new YouTube changes.
The Best YouTube Vanced Alternatives
🔧 ReVanced
ReVanced is the spiritual successor to Vanced. It's an open-source patcher that modifies the official YouTube app to add premium features.
- Pros: Most feature-complete, active development, customizable
- Cons: Requires manual patching process
- Features: Ad blocking, background play, SponsorBlock, Return YouTube Dislike
📺 YouTube Premium Mod APK
Pre-patched YouTube apps that work just like Vanced did – download and install, no patching required.
- Pros: Simple installation, no technical knowledge needed
- Cons: Need to download updates manually
- Features: Ad-free, background play, PiP mode
🆓 NewPipe
A lightweight, open-source YouTube client that doesn't use Google services at all.
- Pros: No Google account needed, very lightweight, open source
- Cons: Missing some features like comments, different UI
- Features: Ad-free, background play, downloads, popup player
🔒 LibreTube
A privacy-respecting YouTube frontend that uses Piped API instead of YouTube directly.
- Pros: Maximum privacy, no YouTube tracking
- Cons: Relies on third-party instances, occasional downtime
- Features: Ad-free, subscriptions, playlists (stored locally)
Feature Comparison
Here's how each alternative stacks up:
- Ad Blocking: All alternatives ✅
- Background Play: All alternatives ✅
- SponsorBlock: ReVanced, Mod APK ✅ | NewPipe ❌
- Google Account: ReVanced, Mod APK ✅ | NewPipe, LibreTube ❌
- Ease of Setup: Mod APK > NewPipe > LibreTube > ReVanced
Which Should You Choose?
For most users: YouTube Premium Mod APK offers the best balance of features and simplicity.
For privacy enthusiasts: NewPipe or LibreTube if you don't need a Google account.
For power users: ReVanced offers the most customization and features.