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Yes. An ESP32 can run a DNS sinkhole that blocks requests to domains on a blocklist, so you do not need a Raspberry Pi for that basic form of network filtering. But it is not a universal ad remover, and the documented project does not establish that a complete setup currently costs $15.
What an ESP32 network ad blocker does
A DNS sinkhole filters domain lookups. When a device asks for a domain, the sinkhole checks the name against a blocklist. For a match, it can return a non-routable address such as 0.0.0.0; for a name that is not blocked, it forwards the request to an upstream DNS resolver. The Raspberry Pi Foundation describes this general approach in its Pi-hole guide, and the ESP32-C3 project documents a similar pattern for its firmware.
Because filtering happens at DNS level, it can cover devices that cannot run a browser extension, provided those devices send their DNS requests through the ESP32. That is different from removing every ad element from every page or app.
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ESP32-C3 project
The ESP32-C3 DNS ad-blocker project specifies a board with 4 MB of flash and no PSRAM. It stores sorted 40-bit hashes in flash rather than loading full domain names into RAM. The project says its OTA-enabled partition leaves room for a smaller blocklist than its single-app partition. Those are design choices and capacity details for this project, not general requirements for every ESP32-based filter.
#1 Best Overall
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- Ultra-Low power consumption, Compatible with Arduino IDE
- ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
The project recommends stable USB power and describes an optional USB-A-to-USB-C adapter for powering the board from a router USB port. It warns that a weak adapter can cause brownouts during Wi-Fi transmission.
Arduino-based ESP32_AdBlocker project
A separate project, ESP32_AdBlocker, has different hardware requirements: its README says an ESP32-S3 with 8 MB PSRAM can host its currently sized blocklist, while an ESP32 with 4 MB PSRAM may truncate it. Do not treat that profile as interchangeable with the C3 project’s 4 MB flash, no-PSRAM configuration.
Rank #2
- Dual-Core Performance Up to 240 MHz: Run sensor processing, wireless communication, automation logic and connected-device tasks on a 32-bit dual-core ESP32 platform designed for responsive embedded and IoT projects
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2: Connect to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks or use Bluetooth Classic and BLE for wireless sensors, smart devices, remote controls, home automation and other connected projects
- Flexible Power-Saving Modes: ESP32 power-management features support dynamic clock scaling and low-power operating modes, helping developers reduce energy use in compatible sensing, monitoring and connected-device applications, suitable for battery-powered Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
- USB-C Programming with CP2102: Connect through USB-C for power, sketch uploads and serial monitoring, while GPIO, UART, SPI and I2C interfaces support sensors, displays, motor drivers and other modules (USB-C cable not included)
- Over-the-Air Update Support: Configure OTA functionality through a compatible ESP-32 software framework to update deployed firmware over Wi-Fi without reconnecting the board by USB for every revision
Will it block ads across your whole network?
It can filter DNS lookups for clients that use it as their DNS resolver. Network-wide coverage depends on configuration: the router may need to advertise the ESP32 as DNS, or you may need to set DNS on individual devices. Some clients can use a different DNS server, and browser secure-DNS settings can bypass the network’s chosen resolver. The ESP32_AdBlocker documentation also flags IPv6 DNS as a configuration consideration.
DNS filtering has inherent limits. If an ad or other content is served from the same domain as the site’s wanted content, blocking that domain may break the site rather than selectively remove the ad. Cookie notices and app-install banners may also remain because they are not necessarily delivered from a separately blockable domain.
ESP32 or Raspberry Pi with Pi-hole?
A Raspberry Pi is not required for the basic task, but the two routes use different implementations and setup approaches. The Raspberry Pi Foundation’s Pi-hole walkthrough recommends a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W and describes configuring DNS through the router, DHCP, or individual devices. Choose based on the project’s requirements, blocklist approach, and the amount of network setup you are willing to do—not on an assumed performance advantage. The available documentation does not provide a matched, independent performance comparison.
Rank #3
- Powerful ESP-32 Board: Unlock the world of Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced electronics with the heart of this kit: the ESP-32 board. It features a powerful dual-core processor, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, making it perfect for building connected, smart devices that communicate with your phone or the cloud. It's fully compatible with the Arduino IDE for easy programming.
- Super Starter Kit: This kit contains over 35 different modules and electronic components, including sensors, displays, motors, and input devices. From LEDs and buttons to an OLED screen, servo motor, and keypad, you have everything needed to explore a vast range of projects in one box.
- Step by Step Online Tutorial: Jump right in with our detailed, beginner-friendly tutorial. Access 30+ projects with complete code, clear circuit diagrams, and step-by-step instructions. Learn the fundamentals of electronics, coding, and how to utilize the ESP-32's unique capabilities without any prior experience.
- Hands-on Learning for All Skill Levels: Perfect for students, makers, engineers, and hobbyists. Start with basic circuits and coding, then progress to intermediate and advanced IoT applications. Build practical projects like weather stations, smart home controllers, remote-controlled devices, and interactive gadgets. The skills you learn are the foundation for real-world innovation.
- Quality & Great Support: Elegoo is committed to quality. We provide a clear, detailed tutorial guide, refined code, and a well-organized component kit. All modules are carefully selected for reliability and ease of use. Our dedicated technical support team and active online community are ready to help you succeed in your learning journey.
| Consideration | ESP32-C3 project | Raspberry Pi with Pi-hole |
|---|---|---|
| Documented hardware | ESP32-C3 board with 4 MB flash and no PSRAM, according to the project documentation. | Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W recommended for the Raspberry Pi Foundation walkthrough. |
| Filtering approach | Project-specific DNS sinkhole; stores sorted 40-bit hashes in flash. | Pi-hole DNS filtering; blocks listed domains and forwards other requests. |
| Network configuration | Clients must use the ESP32 for DNS; router and device settings, IPv6 DNS, and secure DNS can affect coverage. | The tutorial describes router DNS, DHCP, or per-device configuration. |
| Performance comparison | Not established in a matched independent test. | Not established in a matched independent test. |
Is the complete setup really $15?
The available project documentation does not verify $15 as the current all-in cost. The ESP32-C3 author gives approximate low-cost hardware estimates, but those do not establish current retail prices or a complete bill of materials. The total depends on the specific board, stable power supply, and any adapter or other accessories you need. Treat $15 as an unverified claim, not a dependable current setup price.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Ultra-Low power consumption, works perfectly with the Arduino IDE
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
Rank #4
- 2.4GHz Dual Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Development Board
- Support LWIP protocol, Freertos;ESP32 is a safe, reliable, and scalable to a variety of applications
- SupportThree Modes: AP, STA, and AP+STA
- Ultra-Low power consumption, Compatible with Arduino IDE
- 1PCS 30Pin ESP32 Development Board 2.4GHz WiFi Dual Cores Microcontroller Integrated with Antenna RF Low Noise Amplifiers Filters
How to decide
- Choose an ESP32 implementation if its documented board and blocklist design fit your needs and you are comfortable configuring clients or router DNS.
- Choose Pi-hole on a Raspberry Pi if you prefer the Foundation’s documented Pi-based walkthrough and its configuration options.
- For either option, check that devices actually use the filter for DNS and account for secure DNS, IPv6, and domains that serve both wanted content and ads.
- Do not expect DNS filtering alone to remove every ad, cookie prompt, or in-app banner.
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