If you’re tired of ads interrupting your favorite songs or videos on YouTube, you’ve probably heard of apps like YMusic and YouTube Vanced. Both promise ad-free streaming and extra features, but they work differently. Let’s break down what each app does, their pros and cons, and help you decide which one fits your needs.
Table of Contents
What Is YMusic?
YMusic is a music-focused app that lets you stream audio from YouTube without ads. It’s designed for people who want to listen to music, podcasts, or playlists in the background (even with your phone screen off). Here’s what it offers:
- Ad-free music streaming from YouTube.
- Background play (keep music running while using other apps).
- Download songs or playlists for offline listening.
- Lightweight design (uses less data and storage).
- Audio-only mode to save battery.
Best for: Music lovers who want a simple way to stream or download songs without video distractions.
What Is YouTube Vanced?
YouTube Vanced was a modified version of the official YouTube app. It blocked ads, allowed background play, and added features like dark mode and video downloads. However, YouTube Vanced was discontinued in 2022 after legal issues with Google. Some users still install older versions, but it’s no longer updated or officially supported. Key features included:
- Ad-free video streaming.
- Background play for videos (audio keeps playing when you minimize the app).
- Customizable themes (e.g., dark mode).
- Video resolution controls.
Best for: Users who wanted an enhanced YouTube experience with video-focused features.
YMusic vs. YouTube Vanced: Key Differences
| Feature | YMusic | YouTube Vanced |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Music/audio streaming | Video streaming + extras |
| Ads Blocked | Yes | Yes (but app is discontinued) |
| Background Play | Yes (audio) | Yes (video or audio) |
| Downloads | Audio & playlists | Videos (required extra tools) |
| Interface | Simple music player | Looks like official YouTube app |
| Updates | Still available | Discontinued since 2022 |
| Safety | Third-party app (download from web) | Risky (no updates, security concerns) |
Pros and Cons at a Glance
YMusic Pros:
- Great for music-only listening.
- Easy downloads for offline use.
- Saves battery with audio mode.
YMusic Cons:
- Not ideal for video lovers.
- Basic interface (not as polished as YouTube).
YouTube Vanced Pros (Before Discontinuation):
- Full YouTube experience with no ads.
- Worked for videos and music.
YouTube Vanced Cons:
- No longer supported (potential security risks).
- Hard to install safely now.
Which Should You Choose?
- Pick YMusic if:
- You mostly listen to music/podcasts.
- You want a lightweight app for downloads.
- You don’t need video features.
- Avoid YouTube Vanced if:
- You care about app safety (it’s outdated).
- Instead, try alternatives like NewPipe or ReVanced (a community-made update).
Final Thoughts
YMusic and YouTube Vanced solve similar problems but in different ways. If you’re a music fan who hates ads and loves background play, YMusic is a solid choice. On the other hand, YouTube Vanced is risky to use now, but video-focused users can explore newer alternatives. Always download third-party apps from trusted sources to avoid malware.
Remember: Neither app is on the Play Store. You’ll need to download them from their official websites and proceed with caution.