Which Safari Extensions Are Worth Installing?

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

If you want to get more from Safari on your iPhone or iPad, choosing the right extensions can make your browsing faster, more secure, and a lot less frustrating. On iOS Today, Mikah Sargent and Dan Moren shared their carefully curated picks for Safari extensions, walked through setup, and explained why these tools matter more than ever.

Why Use Safari Extensions on iOS?

Safari extensions add features to your browser without switching apps or exposing your data. As iOS and iPadOS become more powerful, extensions have matured from simple add-ons to productivity boosters and privacy protectors.

The hosts emphasized that, after years of trial and error, they’ve pared down their own setups to a select group of proven extensions that really solve common browsing hassles—like blocking ads, fixing broken web experiences, and adding shortcuts for frequent searches.

Top Safari Extensions Recommended by the Hosts

1. Wipr 2 (Ad Blocker)

• Purpose: Blocks ads and other web clutter for distraction-free browsing.
• Why it stands out: One-time purchase (universal across Apple devices), highly effective, developed independently (supporting indie developers), and “just works” without constant tinkering. Both Mikah Sargent and Dan Moren switched from subscription-based 1Blocker and prefer Wipr 2 for its simplicity.
• Who should use it: Anyone frustrated by pop-ups, slow page loads, or privacy concerns while browsing.

2. Noir (Custom Dark Mode for Safari)

• Purpose: Forces dark mode on any website—even if the website doesn’t support it natively.
• Features: Custom themes (sepia, black, gray, Matrix-style, etc.), auto mode that links with system-wide dark mode settings, per-site customization, and advanced styling.
• Why they like it: Makes reading easier on the eyes, especially in low light, and helps with focus—ideal if you’re staring at screens for hours.
• Bonus use: Mikah Sargent uses Noir to control screen brightness for video calls (reducing reflections and glare from bright websites).

3. StopTheMadness

• Purpose: Removes website annoyances (like sites disabling copy/paste, hijacking right-click, or blocking text selection).
• Features: Fine-grained controls for specific sites, can bypass clever “black hat” web tricks, and even skips YouTube video ads.
• Audience: Power users who hate friction and want full control of their browser—especially useful for writers and frequent researchers.

4. Keyword Search

• Purpose: Create custom search shortcuts (e.g., “;a tv” searches Amazon for TVs instantly).
• Why it matters: Dramatically speeds up repetitive searches and works across devices (unlike some desktop-specific alternatives).
• For whom: Anyone regularly Googling, searching Wikipedia, or using niche databases directly from the Safari address bar.

5. Amplosion & Achoo (by Christian Selig)

• Amplosion: Redirects AMP links from Google searches to the original, full-featured web page (protects privacy, maintains site features).
• Achoo: Lets you view page HTML source—helpful for web devs or curious users on iOS/iPadOS.

6. Pipifier

• Purpose: Enables system-level Picture-in-Picture mode for nearly any video on a webpage (especially when Safari’s default PiP is unreliable).
• Best for: Anyone who multitasks while watching web videos.

How to Find, Install, and Manage Extensions

The process of managing Safari extensions has become more streamlined:

1. Go to Settings > Safari > Extensions: View, enable, disable, or adjust permissions for each extension.
2. Tap “More Extensions”: Directs you to the App Store’s Safari extensions section, making discovery easy.
3. In Safari itself: Tap the puzzle piece icon in the address bar and use “Manage Extensions” for quick toggling.

Extensions often need access to pages you visit. Both hosts recommend checking privacy practices before installing, sticking to well-reviewed options, and disabling any you’re not currently using.

Going on an Extended Safari!

• Focus on a few well-maintained, privacy-conscious extensions and avoid cluttering Safari with too many add-ons.
• The best extensions (like Wipr 2, Noir, and StopTheMadness) solve daily, persistent browsing problems and are easy to manage.
• Setup and management are straightforward on iOS and iPadOS; syncing extensions across devices is an option but not required.

Whether you want fewer distractions, custom dark modes, less data leakage, or faster searches, the right Safari extensions can make everyday browsing smoother and safer on your iPhone or iPad. Review your current setup and consider replacing old or paid extensions with the recommended modern alternatives.

After extensive hands-on experience, Mikah Sargent and Dan Moren agree: A small set of trusted Safari extensions can transform your mobile browsing experience. Start with Wipr 2 for blocking, Noir for dark mode, and Keyword Search for speed, and add StopTheMadness or Pipifier if you crave more control.

Want more expert iOS and Safari productivity tips? Subscribe to iOS Today: https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today/episodes/789