web browser without safari

How-To Geek

The best browser for mac users (and safari alternatives).

Is Safari really the best choice, and what are the best alternatives?

Key Takeaways

• Safari is highly optimized for Apple hardware, but it may have limited web app compatibility and fewer extensions compared to browsers like Chrome.
• Firefox is a privacy-conscious alternative to Safari, offering features like Do Not Track and blocking invisible trackers. Chrome is the most popular browser, known for its compatibility and wide range of extensions, but it may compromise privacy. Consider trying other browsers like Edge and Vivaldi, or unique options like Arc for a different browsing experience.

Your choice of web browser can have a big impact on your Mac experience. From integration with the services you use to power efficiency and reliability, here’s how to decide which is best for you.

Safari is (Arguably) the Best Mac Browser

There are a few good reasons to pick Safari as your browser of choice if you’re a Mac user, especially if you use other Apple devices like an iPhone or iPad . It might surprise you to find out that you’re not alone, with Safari being the second most popular browser on the web thanks to its inclusion on both mobile and desktop devices.

Apple tightly optimizes Safari for use exclusively on Apple hardware. This means that Safari is highly power efficient on a Mac. When Apple gives an estimate of battery life on its latest Mac models for performing activities like “wireless web” they’re specifically referring to the use of Safari. The company is in a position where both the hardware and the software are designed in unison, so Apple is not bound by thousands of different hardware possibilities.

That helps Safari remain performant on Apple hardware too, a fact you can see for yourself using browser benchmarks like Speedometer 2.0 . In use, Safari feels snappy. The UI is small and non-intrusive, and you can even customize the toolbar using the right-click menu as you can other native Apple apps.

Safari is also loaded with familiar features and technology. iCloud makes it possible to share tab groups, browsing sessions, bookmarks, a Reading List, and even extensions with your iPhone or iPad. The Share menu works just as it does on the iPhone. Continuity makes it possible to quickly jump between devices by placing a small icon in your Mac dock.

Apple’s services work especially well in Safari. You can log in with your Apple ID using your fingerprint, pay for items using Apple Pay right in your browser, and use a variety of Shortcuts actions to build workflows that work using Safari .

Apple also makes it easy to add extensions using the Mac App Store. This isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it adds an additional layer of protection against potentially harmful extensions. You can still choose to install unsigned extensions by enabling the Develop menu if you want.

In terms of privacy, Safari isn’t the best browser you can get your hands on but it’s far from the worst. The browser works with Apple’s iCloud Private Relay for iCloud+ subscribers, which anonymizes web requests using a two-step process . Do Not Track is enabled by default, and it provides partial protection against trackers.

You can’t get rid of Safari from your Mac, so it’s ready and waiting for you with every new Apple computer purchase (or every time you reset the operating system ). Apple is always updating and building upon Safari with enhancements, like macOS Sonoma’s ability to turn websites into app-like instances.

Want to Ditch Safari? Here's What to Use Instead

Though Safari is suitable for a wide range of users, it’s far from the last word when it comes to web browsers. It’s convenient and always there if you want it, but it’s not without its critics. One reason you might want to switch is web app compatibility, which can be limited on Safari due to its relatively narrow user base. A lot of Safari users are mobile users, and many services prefer to funnel these users into dedicated apps.

Safari lacks the compatibility of a browser like Chrome or Edge, which means some web apps will simply refuse to work in Safari and demand that you use something else instead. Perhaps worse still, some websites won’t warn you before they refuse to function as intended. You might get glitchy behavior that can be avoided by using another browser.

Safari also isn’t a “platform” quite in the same way that Chrome and similar browsers are. There is a huge range of extensions made with Chrome in mind (including browsers like Edge and Vivaldi), which might make such a platform more desirable if you live inside of browser extensions.

You may even find yourself with no choice but to use an alternative for work or education purposes. Some institutions refuse to support certain browsers, and since Safari is limited to Apple devices it’s easier to tailor an experience to a browser that has cross-platform compatibility.

If privacy is your main concern, Safari might not go far enough to protect you, and you may be tempted to move to something like Firefox instead.

Firefox is the Privacy-Conscious Safari Alternative

Mozilla’s browser is a solid alternative to Safari, with some excellent privacy considerations. Firefox enables Do Not Track by default and blocks both invisible trackers and tracking ads. Firefox even uses DuckDuckGo as its default search engine.

Firefox tests slower than Safari and Chrome in many benchmarks, but how much time this will save you during your daily surfing sessions is up for debate. The browser also enjoys a far wider range of extensions than Safari, though it still falls short of the Chromium family.

Like Safari, Firefox Sync allows you to share browsing sessions and bookmarks with other devices including Windows PCs and mobile platforms like iOS and Android. Firefox remains a browser of choice for those mostly concerned with web privacy and enjoys a loyal (if small) base of users.

Chrome is Number One for Compatibility and Extensions

Google Chrome is the behemoth of web browsers, with more than 60% of all web users choosing to use it. As such, it enjoys excellent compatibility with most websites and web apps, and some even insist on its use (or a similar Chromium-based browser).

Google Chrome fares poorly from a privacy standpoint , with Do Not Track disabled by default, and both invisible trackers and tracking ads able to track you unless you limit this behavior with extensions. On the plus side, there are a huge number of extensions and apps available for Chrome that can help remedy the problem.

Though Chrome has a bit of a reputation for being a resource hog, Google has attempted to address the problem with a feature called Chrome Memory Saver that is designed to purge websites from memory after a period of inactivity. The company also improved Chrome’s energy efficiency with Chrome Energy Saver Mode .

Chromium-Based Browsers Offer Unique Alternatives to Chrome

Chromium is the core open-source browser core on which Chrome and similar projects are built. This means you can have Chrome’s speed, compatibility, and even the full range of extensions without having to use the Google-branded variant.

There are plenty of other Chromium-based browser to choose from, such as Microsoft Edge which falls into the same privacy pitfalls as Chrome; Vivaldi with its customizable interface and email client; and Brave Browser which delivers a slightly confusing combination of cryptocurrency features, opt-in adverts, and privacy considerations.

For a no-frills experience, there’s also vanilla Chromium , the open-source version of Chrome to which Google contributes. Then there are projects like Ungoogled Chromium , which removes dependency on Google services and makes tweaks to enhance privacy.

Alternatively, Try Something Completely Unique

Arc is a browser that does things a little differently than most. Not only does it cull your tabs for you, but it also includes some unique features like side-by-side tab mode, note-taking and whiteboard functionality within the app, and a macOS Spotlight-esque command interface for getting around without touching your mouse.

We reviewed Arc in March 2023 and loved it, though the fledgling browser wasn’t without issues surrounding power consumption and general jitteriness. It’s now out of beta and things have settled down somewhat, so it might be worth a shot if you’re looking for a web browser that helps you stay neat and organized.

It’s far from the only weirdo browser out there though. Colibri is a browser that lacks tabs and emphasizes an uncluttered experience. It’s designed to force you into more mindful browser sessions. Tor is a browser designed for browsing the dark web , but there are other private browsers like Mulvad and Waterfox that you might want to use instead.

The Case for Multiple Browsers

There are so many compelling reasons to use Safari that we think it’s the best choice for most users. Failing that, Firefox offers a solid browsing experience that respects your privacy.

It’s a good idea to have more than one browser installed for those times when you encounter difficulties with your primary choice. On top of this, you can kit a second browser out with extensions that might make certain web operations easier to complete.

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The Best Web Browsers of 2024

We tested the most popular web browsers to see which is the fastest and best.

• Works natively with Google services
• Syncs across multiple devices
• Outperforms the competition in speed

• Blocks cryptominers
• Prevents fingerprinting
• Stores passwords locally

• Provides high customization
• Protects against phishing
• Syncs data between devices

Our pick: Which web browser is best?

Google Chrome is our pick for the most well-rounded web browser you can get. It’s fast and synchronizes across every device you use. You can perform a search within the address bar, group your browser tabs, and more. Want to go dark? Chrome supports themes, too.

We spent many hours comparing the best web browsers in terms of speed using a handful of tests on Windows and Mac. We provide the results in our Methodology section to show which is the fastest web browser on your favorite desktop platform.

Do you have the slow internet blues?

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Jump to : Best overall | What to look for | Best browser features | Which browsers are the fastest? | Our verdict | Methodology |  FAQ

• Best overall
• What to look for
• Best browser features
• Which browsers are the fastest?

Our verdict

Methodology, the 6 best web browsers.

• Best overall: Google Chrome
• Best for security: Mozilla Firefox
• Best for customization: Vivaldi
• Best for social media: Opera
• Best for Mac: Apple Safari
• Best for Windows: Microsoft Edge

Compare web browser features

What should you look for in a web browser.

The best web browser should be fast and clean to give you the best browsing experience. You don’t want excessive bloat that can bog down your device and cause web pages to load at a dial-up pace.

And while speed is great, security should also be a high priority. Internet browsers should protect users from trackers, hackers, and pesky internet eavesdroppers.

Ultimately, a browser should be your interactive window looking out into the World Wide Web—a picture frame that should never distract you from the view at hand.

Get the best router to complement your fast browser

We tested and reviewed more routers than we can count to determine the best of the best you can get. Go with the TP-Link Archer AX11000 if you want a lot of bang for your buck, or choose the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 if you want lots of features at a higher price. The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 is the fastest router we’ve tested to date, but it ain’t cheap.

* Amazon.com Prices (as of 12/19/23 9:35 MST). Read full disclaimer .

Best overall—Google Chrome

• Supports Google services
• Includes tab group management
• Outperforms other browsers in tests

Availability

• Desktop: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS
• Mobile: iPhone , iPad , Android

Data this browser collects from you

And more (see App Privacy )

Chrome is the fastest and best web browser on Microsoft Windows and an excellent alternative to Safari on a Mac in terms of speed. However, you agree to Google’s excessive data collection in exchange for speed and convenience.

More about Google Chrome

Google Chrome is the fastest web browser available for Windows machines. It surpasses the competition in three out of four tests and outranks  Microsoft Edge in all but one test.

On Apple Mac, Chrome is a heavy hitter in performance, outranking Safari in two out of four tests . It’s a good alternative to Safari, but Chrome’s data collection issues are a little disconcerting. If you’re worried about how Google uses your data, Safari or Microsoft Edge may be your better alternative.

Still, despite privacy concerns, Chrome is a great browser overall if you use Google’s services. It’s probably the ideal default browser if you shift between Windows, Android, and Apple devices.

• Supports a huge extensions library
• Syncs across devices
• Collects lots of data
• Uses lots of memory

Best for security—Mozilla Firefox

• Ranks the lowest for speed in tests
• Desktop: Windows, Mac, Linux
• Contact info

If you want the best internet browser that prioritizes security over data collection, Firefox is your best bet. However, it’s not the fastest browser available.

More about Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla’s Firefox browser isn’t known for speed. It falls into last place in most of our tests for Windows and Mac, and that’s okay. Firefox is more about security features than speed, which is ideal if you’re more concerned about blocking malware than loading pages in a flash.

Firefox received a facelift in 2021. Mozilla redesigned the tabs, prompts, menus, and overall look, giving Firefox a new modern interface. Under the hood, Firefox strives to keep you safe online with tools like DNS-over-HTTPS , which encrypts browser requests versus sending the information in plaintext.

Want to improve your home network’s security?

Be sure to check out our list of the best routers for security . We also offer a guide on how to keep your router secure if you don’t need a new one.

• Protects against spyware
• Blocks almost all pop-ups
• Consumes high memory
• Falls behind other browsers in speed

Best for customization—Vivaldi

• Mobile: Android

Vivaldi is great for customizing your browsing experience, but it doesn’t match the speed of Chrome or Safari.

More about Vivaldi

Vivaldi breathes new life into the tired, repetitive web browser design. Here, you can customize the start page, create and use a custom theme, customize and move the menu, customize the toolbar, and so on. You can also assign browser commands to keyboard shortcuts, map commands to gestures, and assign quick commands to the Function keys.

In terms of speed, the Vivaldi browser isn’t the fastest on the planet—at least, not yet. It’s the youngest in the batch, so there’s room for improvement. It ranks fourth in all four tests we run on Windows, while its performance jumps between third and last in the same tests on Mac.

That said, Vivaldi is an excellent middle-ground browser in terms of performance.

• Offers plenty of customization
• Syncs data across devices
• Lacks iPhone, iPad versions

Best for social media—Opera

• Includes a built-in VPN client
• Includes social tools
• Verifies all websites
• Diagnostics

Opera is a good web browser if you want a built-in VPN client and social tools. It provides middle-ground performance in terms of speed.

More about Opera

The Opera browser is great if you want built-in social network tools. The sidebar includes shortcuts to Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram, and three others you can pin to the browser window. 

Opera also supports two VPN services: Free VPN and VPN Pro . The “pro” version costs $7.99 per month and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Our FAQ explains the differences between the two services.

As for performance, Opera is the third-fastest browser in our tests for Windows , falling behind Chrome and Microsoft Edge. It has a similar performance level on our MacBook, falling behind Safari, Chrome, and Microsoft Edge in our four tests. Opera has a “battery saver” mode that reduces background activity and pauses animations, but we verified it was disabled before running our tests.

• Includes built-in social tools
• Loads some websites incorrectly
• Updates less frequently than Chrome

Best for Mac—Apple Safari

• Provides a clean privacy report
• Supports extensions
• Displays tab previews
• Competes with Chrome  in speed on Mac
• Desktop: Mac
• Mobile: iPhone, iPad
• Nitro, WebKit

Safari is the best browser for Macs, hands down. Stick with Safari if you also have an iPhone or iPad. However, if you use other platforms like Windows and Android, Chrome is the better multiplatform solution—if you can ignore Chrome’s data collection woes.

More about Apple Safari

Safari is an excellent example of how Apple optimizes its software for Macs. It’s fast, simply designed, and somewhat customizable. It supports Chrome extensions, tab previews for power users, and easy translations using the menu bar. And while we will always recommend Firefox as the best browser for security , Safari’s privacy report panel lists every website that tracks you across the internet.

The drawback with Safari is that you can’t get it on anything but Apple devices. That means we could measure its performance only on our MacBook, so there are no numbers for Windows-based PCs. That said, Safari and Chrome duke it out for the fastest browser, both taking the top spots in two out of four tests. If you want speed, either browser will do.

• Runs superfast on Macs
• Uses low memory
• Isn’t available outside Apple’s ecosystem
• Has a limited extensions library

Best for Windows—Microsoft Edge

• Stacks tabs vertically
• Groups websites into Collections
• Supports Dolby Audio and 4K
• Competes with Chrome in speed on Windows
• Desktop: Windows, Mac
• Browsing history

Bottom line

Microsoft Edge is a great native browser for Microsoft Windows and a good alternative to Safari on a Mac if you need a browser that runs outside Apple’s ecosystem.

More about Microsft Edge

The original Edge browser was a clunky mess despite Microsoft’s good intentions. It used the company’s in-house EdgeHTML engine and really couldn’t compete with Chrome. Microsoft scrapped its proprietary engine in early 2020 and chose Chromium instead, the browser foundation used in Chrome, Opera, Vivaldi, Brave, and more.

Now, Microsoft Edge is highly competitive in terms of speed. On Windows, it gives Chrome a run for its money, falling just a hair behind Google’s browser in three of four of our tests . On our MacBook, Chrome and Microsoft Edge are nearly identical in performance, both falling behind Safari.

• Synchronizes across devices
• Includes a PDF viewer
• Lacks a version for Linux
• Collects your browser history

Are you troubleshooting speed issues?

If you have connection problems and slow speeds, your web browser may not be the issue. We provide several guides to help you get back up to speed.

• 7 Reasons Why Your Internet is Slow (And How To Fix It)
• Improve Your Wi-Fi in 10 Simple Steps
• Are Ethernet Cables Slowing Your Connection?
• How to Check Your Internet Speed

Which web browsers are the fastest?

To determine the fastest browser on our list, we ran four different tests three times per browser, determined the average, and compared the results.

On Windows, Chrome tested as the fastest browser, followed by Microsoft Edge .

On Mac, Safari and Chrome shared the top spot as the fastest browser, followed by Microsoft Edge .

In all tests, Firefox was the slowest browser on our list.

See the complete test results in the Methodology section .

Browser specs and features

A web browser is software that downloads data from a remote server and pieces it all together on your screen. It’s your interactive window to the World Wide Web, a view that exists only when you open a tab and enter an address. All browsers provide this basic function, but there are five elements you should keep in mind while considering your browser options.

You want a browser that loads pages quickly and can run in-browser apps without slowing you down. A browser should have a relatively small footprint in your system memory, so it doesn’t affect the performance of your other programs and apps while you surf the internet.

Security and privacy

A browser should make secure connections to websites. They should also provide means to block malicious advertisements, cross-site trackers, cryptominers, and fingerprinters. Users should have tools to block and delete cookies, secure their passwords, and use the browser without worrying about how it collects their data.

Learn more about the best internet browsers for security .

Customization

While you don’t want your window to the internet framed with a clunky interface, it’s a nice bonus to add a personal touch. Most of the browsers on our list provide means for customization.

For example, you can apply a theme in Chrome obtained from the Chrome Web Store . You can create themes in Vivaldi, reposition the menu, or create your own menu.

Compatibility

The best browser should be compatible with the latest internet standards, like HTML5 and WebGL . A good way to benchmark a browser’s compatibility is to use the HTML5 Test website or AnTuTu’s HTML5 Test online utility. Plus, you don’t want to install a browser that can’t access all the modern functions of a website, like web apps.

Easy navigation

While customization is great, you want a browser that’s easy to use. Most browsers we list here are just that, with the address bar headlining your window to the internet. Menus should be tucked away and easily accessible. Settings should be just a click away, and bookmarks should be easy to save and load.

Our verdict: Google Chrome is the best web browser

Google Chrome is fast and available on nearly every platform. It’s our top pick in speed, as it goes head-to-head with Safari on our MacBook and Microsoft Edge on Windows. It’s also a firm alternative if you don’t want to use those native browsers.

But Microsoft Edge is an excellent third-place browser that’s accessible on nearly all platforms. It’s almost as fast as Chrome and Safari and includes a few standout features you can’t get with most browsers, like 4K Netflix streaming.

However, if you want the most secure browser on the planet, Firefox is the way to go, although it’s the slowest browser on our list.

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• How Much Speed Do I Need for Online Gaming?
• How Much Speed Do I Need to Stream Music?
• Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi: Is It Really Better to Go Wireless?
• What Is a Good Download and Upload Speed?

To determine a browser’s speed, we did the following:

• Installed a clean, current copy without any plugins or extensions
• Closed all open programs and unnecessary processes
• Ran four different tests three times
• Calculated the average

To test Microsoft Edge and Safari on their native platforms, we ran browser benchmarks on a Windows laptop and a MacBook . We plugged both in for maximum power performance.

Microsoft Windows

We use a Lenovo ThinkPad with Intel’s Core i7-10850H 6-core processor, 16GB of system memory, and a 500GB SSD for these tests.

Chrome is our biggest performer, taking the top spot in three out of four tests. Microsoft Edge always comes in at a close second, save for one test where it switches seats with Chrome. Firefox is our lowest performer of the browser batch.

JetStream 2

This test measures how fast a browser loads data and how quickly it executes code—higher numbers are better.

Speedometer

This test measures the responsiveness of web applications by simulating user input.

Basemark Web 3.0

This tool performs 20 tests—map scaling, drawing, and so on—in one sitting. It’s also popular for testing a laptop’s battery life, as it loops through all tests until the battery dies.

MotionMark 1.2

This test benchmarks the browser’s capability to render and animate complex scenes within a set frame rate.

Apple macOS

We use a 2018 MacBook Air (A1392) with Intel’s Core i5-8210Y 2-core CPU, 8GB of system memory, and a 128GB SSD for these tests. There’s a huge processor difference between this machine and the Lenovo notebook, so we rerun the benchmarks to compare Safari against the competition on the same Core i5 CPU.

Overall, Safari and Chrome go head to head for the fastest browser. Safari grabs the top spot in two tests, while Chrome dominates in the other two. Microsoft Edge is the best alternative to Safari and Chrome, while Firefox has the lowest performance of the six.

This tool performs 20 tests—map scaling, drawing, and so on—in one sitting.

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FAQ about the best web browsers

Internet browser vs. web browser: what's the difference.

Although we tend to use the term, there’s no such thing as an “internet browser.” The internet is a global network of cables, servers, and switches—it’s the hardware needed to deliver information to your eyeballs. A browser is software that accesses software—the World Wide Web in this case.

In other words, we connect to the internet and use the web. But since “internet” is easier to read and write than “World Wide Web,” we typically stick with the former term.

What is a virtual private network (VPN)?

A virtual private network creates a secure, private connection between your device and the destination. It requires software installed on your device that encrypts your data and establishes a direct, encrypted connection to a remote VPN server. The server then decrypts your data and sends it as plaintext to the destination.

Overall, a VPN prevents the destination from seeing your geological location, IP address, and operating system.

Want to see how a VPN affects your speed?

Run our internet speed test with a VPN enabled. After that, rerun the test with the VPN disabled and then compare the results.

Run a Speed Test

What is a Device ID?

A Device Identifier (ID) is a unique string of numbers derived from other hardware-identifying numbers stored on your device. Browsers use this information to identify your device.

What is a User ID?

A User Identifier (User ID) is a unique profile created by the browser and stored locally as a cookie. This profile includes information such as your processor, storage, screen resolution, and operating system.

What is Chromium?

Chromium is Google’s free, open-source code provided to all internet browser developers. These developers can compile Google’s code with proprietary components and unique designs (Microsoft Edge) or compile the code “as is” (Chromium).

What is HTML5?

HTML5 is the fifth generation of HyperText Markup Language (HTML), the programming language that creates websites you see in your browser. There are three components in HTML5: Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) that dictate how web page elements are displayed, JavaScript that executes interactive components, and HTML code that brings it all together.

HTML5 eliminates the need for browser plugins, like Adobe Flash, Silverlight, and Java.

What is WebGL?

Web Graphics Library (or WebGL ) is an application programming interface (API) that allows a browser to render 2D and 3D graphics. These elements are written in JavaScript and OpenGL ES for the web and are executed on your device’s graphics cores, not your processor. WebGL eliminates the need for a browser plugin, eliminating security risks and providing better animation.

To see WebGL in action, visit the Get WebGL website to view a cube rotating in your browser without any additional software.

What is HTTPS?

Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (or HTTPS) is a secure version of the application layer protocol used to deliver HTML files, video, and more across the internet. 

In a nutshell, the browser (client) sends a request to the server hosting a website. In turn, the server sends the appropriate files to your device that are pieced together within your browser. These files reside on your device as cache.

Browsers and servers that support HTTPS communicate using the Transport Layer Security cryptographic protocol to encrypt the connection between the website and the browser, not the actual data. This encrypted connection prevents eavesdroppers from obtaining your data but only while it’s en route.

What is DNS-over-HTTPS?

DNS-over-HTTPS is a means of sending a browser query over a secure connection.

Short for Domain Name System, DNS essentially translates alphabetic URLs into proper numeric ones. For instance, when you type “google.com” into your address bar, a DNS service consults its address book and sees that the numerical address is 172.217.2.110. It then sends your browser request accordingly.

Typically this request speeds along the internet highways as plaintext. A secure connection doesn’t happen until the website responds to your browser—a handshake, if you will. With DNS-over-HTTPS, a compatible browser sends your query to a compatible DNS server using an encrypted connection. This connection prevents eavesdroppers from viewing your browsing habits.

Free VPN vs. VPN Pro: What’s the difference?

Opera Software launched VPN Pro in May 2022. In a nutshell, with VPN Pro , you get full device-wide coverage on six devices, a network with 3,000+ servers, 30+ unique locations, two-factor authentication, and live chat support. Here’s a chart showing what you get with both services:

Does Incognito Mode hide you from Google and other services?

No, Chrome’s Incognito Mode feature doesn’t completely protect you. It’s only meant to hide your activities from other people using the same device and browser. Google even confirmed in a court filing in March 2021 that users are not “invisible” when they open an Incognito Mode window. The company said user activity might be visible to websites and third-party analytics and ads.

What happened to Safari for Windows?

Safari 5.1.7 was the last version released on Windows. While you can find links to download the browser, Apple discontinued Windows support in 2012. We do not recommend this browser for Windows users due to the lack of updates and customer support.

What happened to Internet Explorer?

Microsoft retired Internet Explorer on June 15, 2022, but it still lives on in Microsoft Edge as IE Mode. To enable it for legacy websites, click the Settings and more button in the top right corner of Microsoft Edge, followed by Settings > Default browser > Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode . Select Allow on the drop-down menu to enable IE Mode.

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Author - Kevin Parrish

Kevin Parrish has more than a decade of experience working as a writer, editor, and product tester. He began writing about computer hardware and soon branched out to other devices and services such as networking equipment, phones and tablets, game consoles, and other internet-connected devices. His work has appeared in Tom’s Hardware, Tom's Guide, Maximum PC, Digital Trends, Android Authority, How-To Geek, Lifewire, and others. At HighSpeedInternet.com, he focuses on network equipment testing and review.

Editor - Cara Haynes

Cara Haynes has been editing and writing in the digital space for seven years, and she's edited all things internet for HighSpeedInternet.com for five years. She graduated with a BA in English and a minor in editing from Brigham Young University. When she's not editing, she makes tech accessible through her freelance writing for brands like Pluralsight. She believes no one should feel lost in internet land and that a good internet connection significantly extends your life span.

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The best web browsers for 2024

All web browsers have the same basic function, and yet, the choice between them has always been one of the most contentious in tech history. You have more options these days than ever before, whether you’re looking for the best web browser for privacy , the best for speed, or perhaps something a bit more adventurous.

To help you decide on the best web browser, we grabbed the latest browsers and put them through their paces. Even if some could use a complete overhaul, these options are your best chance for a great online experience.

The best web browser: Google Chrome

Chrome is ubiquitous — and for good reason. With a robust feature set, full Google Account integration, a thriving extension ecosystem (available through the Chrome Web Store), and a reliable suite of mobile apps, it’s easy to see why Chrome is the most popular and the best web browser.

• The 5 best laptops for browsing the web in 2024
• The best PDF editors for 2024

Chrome boasts some of the most extensive mobile integration available. Served up on every major platform, keeping data in sync is easy, making browsing between multiple devices a breeze. Sign in to your Google account on one device, and all Chrome bookmarks, saved data, and preferences come right along. Even active extensions stay synchronized across devices.

Chrome’s Password Manager can automatically generate and recommend strong passwords when a user creates a new account on a webpage. Managing saved passwords and adding notes to passwords is even easier. The search bar, or Omnibox, provides “rich results” comprised of useful answers, and it now supports generative AI capabilities. Favorites are more accessible as well, and they’re manageable on the New Tab page. And it’s now easier to mute tabs to avoid unwanted sounds.

Other updates have included a Dark Mode for Windows and macOS , better New Tab customization and tab group creation, tab hover cards, and an in-browser warning if your password was discovered in a data breach. There’s a price tracking feature that can help locate the best deals. Android users will appreciate the Phone Hub for linking and monitoring their phones. There’s also the ability to quiet notifications, so websites don’t bombard you with requests to enable in-browser notifications.

What’s the bottom line? The Google Chrome browser is fast, free, and even better looking than before. With a thriving extension ecosystem, it’s as fully featured or as pared-down as you want it to be. Everything is right where it belongs, privacy and security controls are laid out in plain English, and the browser just gets out of your way. While it can be a little RAM-hungry at times , Google is working to make it more efficient — like Microsoft’s Edge, Google can now hibernate tabs in the background to stop them from using too many resources.

Overall, Chrome remains the best web browser download for the average user.

And, things are looking to get even better. Google announced some significant upgrades to the browser that haven’t gone live yet, to celebrate Chrome’s 15th birthday . A Material You design language will allow users to customize Chrome’s look and feel and attach themes to profiles to make it easy to tell them apart. The menu system will be revamped to provide easier access to a variety of settings and features including Extensions, Password Manager, Translate, and others. The Chrome Web Store will be redesigned using Material You to be easier to use, and AI will help identify useful extensions. And finally, Safe Browsing will now work in real time to protect against threats.

The best Chrome alternative: Microsoft Edge

In response to the market’s rejection of its original home-grown Edge browser, Microsoft rewrote Edge using the open-source Chromium web browser engine. The new Edge launched on February 5, 2020 , as a separate, stand-alone browser that replaced the integrated version. It became part of Windows 10 with the May 2020 update, although you can still download it for Windows 10 builds prior to version 2004. Of course, it’s the default web browser for Windows 11.

At first glance, the new Edge browser looks and feels like Google Chrome. It prompts you to import Chrome’s bookmarks toolbar and other settings. This is great if you hated the old Edge browser and want to give Microsoft’s new browser another shot. It also supports Chrome extensions , though the browser leads you to the Microsoft Store for add-ons. You must manually load the Chrome Web Store to install anything not listed in Microsoft’s repository.

However, it’s not Chrome with a Windows 11 theme. Microsoft reportedly disabled many features, including Google’s Safe Browsing API, ad blocking, speech input, Google-centric services, and more. In return, the company worked to optimize Edge and reduce its footprint while continuing to add new, Microsoft-oriented features. As of January 2023, Edge is the most efficient browser in terms of memory usage. It also allows sleeping tabs, to let tabs release their resources when they haven’t been used for some time.

Features launched since its release have included the new Edge Sidebar that provides easy access to various tools, more flexibility in managing how Edge starts up, Citations to make it easier for students to cite sources, and various other updates to make the browser more productive. Edge Workspaces lets users organize tasks into dedicated windows, and Microsoft has continuously tweaked various features, like the Edge Sidebar, to make them more user-friendly.

Microsoft Edge also provides simpler privacy settings and security updates. Microsoft Edge uses a graphically friendly interface that displays three security levels: Basic, Balanced, and Strict. With Balanced set as the default, many sites request you to disable your pop-up blocker even though one isn’t manually installed. All in all, we’re very optimistic that Edge is on its way to challenging Chrome as the best web browser.

The best Chromium alternative: Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is the best browser that’s not based on the Chromium browser engine. Mozilla has taken real strides to make its browser a truly modern way to surf from site to site, thanks to efforts like its upgrade to Firefox Quantum , its VR alternative Firefox Reality , and password-free browsing .

It wasn’t too long ago that Mozilla rebuilt the browser’s interface, offering a cleaner, more modern take on what a web browser should be. The changes weren’t just skin-deep, however. There’s some impressive engineering going on behind the scenes.

For example, Firefox Quantum is designed to leverage multicore processors in ways that its competitors just aren’t doing. It was not designed to make a huge difference in your day-to-day browsing, but Mozilla hopes this design will give Firefox Quantum an edge moving forward. By engineering for the future now, Firefox Quantum is in a better position to take advantage of quicker processors as they emerge.

Some Firefox strengths include privacy protections with SmartBlock anti-tracker support, improved password syncing across devices, enhanced readability, integrated breach alerts, and a Protections Dashboard that provides a summary of how Firefox protects your privacy behind the scenes. WebRender improves the graphics performance on Windows PCs with Intel and AMD CPUs.

Recent updates include easier download management, captions, and subtitle support on YouTube, Prime Video, and Netflix videos watched in picture-in-picture mode, HDR support in macOS, and the ability to edit PDFs with text, drawings, and signatures. Firefox can also recognize text from an image, which is copied to the clipboard when selected. Finally, Firefox Colorways provides new options for optimizing how Firefox looks on-screen.

Beneath those changes, Firefox remains a comfortable, familiar standby. It’s a capable browser with a deep catalog of extensions and user interface customization. While managing settings across platforms isn’t as seamless as Google Chrome , the mobile browser app lets you share bookmarks between devices when using a free Firefox account.

There’s a bit of a fringe benefit, too. Since it’s been around longer than Chrome, some older web apps — the likes of which you might encounter at your university or workplace — work better on Firefox than they do on Chrome. For that reason, it never hurts to keep it around.

Overall, Firefox is more privacy-centric than Chrome and comparably fast, but its feature set isn’t quite as expansive elsewhere. If you like the sound of this, download the Firefox browser today.

The most innovative web browser: Opera

Another venerable browser and popular alternative, the Opera browser shares much of Chrome’s DNA and deserves its place as one of the best web browsers. Like both Edge and Chrome, Opera is built on Google’s open-source Chromium engine and, as a result, they all have a very similar user experience. Both feature a hybrid URL/search bar, and both are relatively light and fast.

The differences appear when you look at Opera’s built-in features. Where Chrome relies on an extension ecosystem to provide functionality users might want, Opera has a few more features baked right into the browser itself. It introduced a predictive website preload ability, and an Instant Search feature isolates search results in their separate window while the current page fades into the background, letting users more easily focus on the research task at hand.

You can install extensions from the Opera Add-ons store , which are just like Chrome extensions. Similar to Google’s browser, you’ll find useful tools like Giphy, Amazon Assistant, Avast Online Security, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and more. If Chrome’s wide variety of extensions is important to you, then Opera becomes an intriguing alternative. It might just be one of the best browsers for quickly navigating web pages.

Opera also features a built-in “Stash” for saving pages to read later. There’s no need to sign up for a Pocket or Evernote account to save a page for later reading. Similarly, Opera features a speed-dial menu that puts all your most frequently visited pages in one place. Google Chrome also does this, but only on a blank new tab. Finally, Opera has a built-in unlimited VPN service, making it a more secure browser option.

The biggest changes came with Opera 60 and Reborn 3, a complete revamp that brought a new borderless design, Web 3 support, and a Crypto Wallet, allowing users to prepare for blockchain-based sites. With version 69, Opera became the first browser with a built-in Twitter tool, and the company has added others as well including Instagram and TikTok. Just click the icon on the toolbar, log in to your account, and tweet away right from within the slide-out menu.

Other recent advancements include Lucid Mode, which sharpens video playing on a variety of platforms, supports emojis instead of web links, and other enhancements. The Opera Sidebar adds new functionality much like Edge’s Sidebar, allowing quick access to various Opera features. And Opera Aria adds new generative AI capabilities built right into the browser.

You can see that we’re well into hair-splitting territory, which is why it’s important to remember that your choice of browser is, more than any other service or app you use each day, entirely dependent on your personal preferences — what feels most right for you. The Opera web browser has a unique look and feel, and it combines some of the best features of Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.

Alternative browsers

While the preceding browsers will meet most users’ needs, other alternatives exist for anyone looking for something different. This section is for those who have a more niche preference in web browsers  or want to try something new.

Apple Safari

If you use Apple devices exclusively, Safari is already your default browser. It’s also significantly faster than in the past, surpassing Chrome in its quickness. It’s integrated into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, and you’ll likely get better battery life thanks to Apple’s in-house optimizations and the underlying hardware.

Safari also focuses a great deal on privacy and security. If you want to minimize how you’re tracked and whether Big Brother is looking over your shoulder, then Safari is a good choice. If you also use an iPhone and/or an iPad, then using Safari on your Mac will make for the most seamless transition between platforms. Open websites on an iPad or iPhone are carried over to macOS.

Safari is not offered outside the Apple ecosystem.

Vivaldi Browser

The Vivaldi browser is truly unique. No two Vivaldi users will have the same setup. When you run it for the first time, you’re guided through a setup process that lays out your browser in a way that makes sense for you. You choose where your tabs and address bar go and whether you want browser tabs displayed at the top of the page or in a separate side panel. This is a browser built from the ground up to deliver a unique user experience, and for the most part, it succeeds. Vivaldi 2.0 enhanced the customization features and made them easier to access.

This browser excels at customization, and you can choose from a variety of tasteful themes that don’t feel dated or out of place on a modern PC, in addition to the aforementioned UI choices. It also has some standout privacy-enhancing features, like its team-up with DuckDuckGo to make the non-tracking search tool the default option when in privacy mode.

Finally, recent updates added more powerful tab management, enhancements like Web Panels that make for smarter browsing, and (as mentioned) even more powerful customization options. Other new updates include a built-in ad blocker, a built-in tracker blocker, a clock in the Status Bar, a new Notes Manager, and a Break Mode for pausing the internet while keeping the browser open.

Brave Browser

One of the most unusual browsers around is Brave — or, perhaps, it’s Brave’s business model that’s the strangest. Brave blocks all ads on all web pages by default, which makes it arguably the fastest browser around. Ads are a huge portion of how many websites make money — block these ads, and suddenly the most important web financial tool is eliminated.

That’s where the Brave Rewards program comes in. Users receive Basic Attention Tokens (BATs) when they view alternative ads that Brave places in the browsing stream. Users can pass along a portion of their tokens to publishers. As of January 2021, there were over 70,000 websites that supported BAT-based transactions through the Brave browser, including Wikipedia, The Guardian, WikiHow, MacRumors, and more.

What’s in it for users? Simply put, if you’re not waiting for ads to download along with website content, then your web experience will feel much faster. Brave performs no user tracking, making it ideal for private browsing as well.

Tor Browser

The Tor Browser is a version of Firefox that serves one very specific purpose: A simple entry point for The Onion Router, or Tor .

Tor is software combined with an open network aimed at making you invisible by routing your traffic through several anonymous servers. While it’s not foolproof, it’s very difficult for someone to identify you when you’re properly configured and using something like the Tor Browser to surf the web — especially if combined with a VPN .

There are many legitimate uses of the Tor Browser and the Tor network. It’s a good choice for people who live in countries with repressive governments, as well as journalists and activists. The dark web is also one of the destinations for people using Tor, which includes many nefarious and illegal sites.

In any event, if you want to remain completely anonymous while surfing the web, the Tor Browser and network are for you. If you want a more mainstream alternative, Opera includes a VPN component, but it’s far less private.

Avast Secure Browser

Avast Secure Browser first arrived as the Opera-based Avast Safezone Browser in 2016 as part of the Avast Antivirus paid bundle. It was revised and rebranded in 2018 as a free stand-alone product based on Chromium. Originally the “SafeZone” aspect kicked in when users visited websites to make purchases or manage money.

Avast Secure Browser provides several built-in tools to protect your data and privacy. These include an anti-phishing module, fingerprinting and online tracking prevention, an ad blocker, and a Webcam Guard tool to control which websites can access your camera. The Hack Check tool will determine if your info was leaked in a data breach.

Avast Secure Browser is a stand-alone download for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The desktop version doesn’t include an integrated VPN but instead directs users to download the company’s separate SecureLine VPN software. The listed Bank Mode — part of the Avast Free Antivirus client — flips on when users load a banking website.

Best web browser features — what to look for

Benchmark tests.

Notice we don’t include Safari in our main comparison. Apple’s Safari web browser is unavailable on Windows, Android, or Chrome OS, so we removed it from our primary list.

Most browsers are compatible with web standards and handle performance with relative ease. A casual user probably won’t notice a difference in the rendering speed between today’s modern browsers, as all six are much faster and leaner than those of a few years ago.

We ran the following benchmarks on a desktop with an AMD Ryzen 7 5800X processor, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe solid-state drive, and Windows 11. All browsers were clean installs of the most current production versions as of January 2023, and all were run at their default settings.

First, JetStream 2 is a JavaScript and WebAssembly benchmark. It tests how quickly a web browser can start and execute code, and how smoothly it runs. Higher numbers are better.

Notice how all three Chromium-based browsers outperform Firefox. In fact, there’s very little difference between them, while Firefox’s performance is quite poor by comparison.

The next test we ran was Speedometer 2.0 . It measures how responsive a browser is to web applications by repeatedly adding a large number of items to a to-do list. Higher numbers are better.

Here, Opera led the pack, with Chrome and Edge running nearly neck to neck. Firefox came in last here with a relatively low score.

Finally, we tested how much RAM each browser uses, both with no tabs open and then with 10 tabs open accessing the same popular sites. We made sure that each browser had no extensions running, and we let each browser settle in before looking at its memory use. For the test with 10 tabs open, we averaged memory use when all the tabs were opened and then five minutes later to account for any variability.

It’s not a scientific test, but it should be sound enough to give you an idea of which browsers are the most and least efficient in terms of taking up your RAM. We found Opera to use the least amount of RAM when first opened, barely ahead of Edge, while Chrome used the most. Edge used the least with all 10 tabs loaded by a significant margin, a third or less than the other browsers. Chrome used the most with all 10 tabs open, and Firefox and Opera weren’t far behind.

Security and privacy

The most valuable tool for secure and private browsing is user discretion, especially when you consider that every web browser has encountered security breaches in the past. In particular, Internet Explorer and Chrome’s reputations for protecting users’ security and privacy credentials are spotty at best.

Chrome, Safari, Vivaldi, Opera, and Firefox all rely on Google’s Safe Browsing API to detect potentially dangerous sites. Thanks to constant updates, Mozilla, Chrome, and Opera all make constant security improvements. Microsoft disabled this API in Edge.

All browsers offer a private session option, too. Private sessions prevent the storage of browsing history, temporary internet files, and cookies. Browser support for Do Not Track remains spotty.

Mozilla made some strides in differentiating itself from others with a real focus on privacy in recent years. It even debuted a Facebook Container  in 2018 to make it harder for the social network to harvest user information.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to use a VPN when browsing the web? 

You do not have to use a VPN when browsing the internet. However, a VPN can be a good tool to use as it protects your privacy and data by creating a secure and encrypted data tunnel between your browser and a VPN server. In turn, that server creates a secure and encrypted connection between it and the target website.

As a result, the website can’t identify you personally, nor can it see your true geological location or internet address. Not even your ISP knows where you’re surfing or the device you use with a VPN enabled. Some VPN services are free while others require a subscription. We have a list of the current best VPN services .

Which browser is most used in the world? 

Google Chrome leads the web browser market with a 64.68% share, according to Statcounter . Apple Safari follows with 18.29%, Edge at 4.23%, Mozilla Firefox at 3.01%%, and Opera at 2.25%. Internet Explorer is still in use with 0.81%, while Microsoft Edge “Legacy” is fading out at 0.32%.

What are the best ad blockers to use for your browser? 

We have a guide on the best ad blockers for Google Chrome , but here’s a short list:

• AdBlock and AdBlock Plus
• AdGuard (Chrome only)
• CyberSec by NordVPN
• Poper Blocker (Chrome only)
• Stands Fair AdBlocker (Chrome only)
• uBlock Origin (Chrome and Firefox only)

What is browser fingerprinting and how can you prevent it? 

Websites want to know everything about you: Your tastes, your habits, and where you like to surf. When you load a website, it quietly runs scripts in the background that collect information about you and your device. The operating system, the web browser, all installed extensions, your time zone — all of this information is strung together to create a “fingerprint,” which in turn can be used to trace you across the internet via cross-site tracking.

Avast provides a detailed explanation and outlines various forms of fingerprinting. For example, the “canvas” method forces the browser to draw an image or text in the background, without the user knowing, to determine the operating system, web browser, graphics card, installed drivers, and the current font style. Device fingerprinting determines all internal and external device components.

As your fingerprint is tracked across the internet, this “profile” can be sold to data brokers, who then resell the data to advertisers. It’s a more silent means of gathering information about you versus using cookies that require your consent. The problem is, browser fingerprinting is still perfectly legal.

The best way to prevent browser fingerprinting is by randomizing and generalizing data. Third-party software like Avast AntiTrack does this by inserting “fake” data when website scripts try to collect your information. However, this tool allows scripts to continue running in the background so the website doesn’t “break.”

Many browsers offer some type of anti-fingerprinting protection. These include Avast Secure Browser (see above), Brave Browser (randomization), Mozilla Firefox (blocks fingerprinting scripts), and Tor Browser (generalization).

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Mark has been a geek since MS-DOS gave way to Windows and the PalmPilot was a thing. He’s translated his love for technology into a marketing, consulting, and freelance writing career aimed at helping people use technology to enhance their lives. At Digital Trends, he reviews laptops and desktops, including the latest from HP, Dell, Lenovo, Apple, and more, and writes news and easy to understand how-to articles about the computing industry as a whole.

When he’s not writing, you’ll find him reading and watching science fiction, taking photos with his family, and obsessing over Indiana University basketball.

Laptop Reviews

Best Budget Laptops Best 2-in-1 Laptops Best Business Laptops Best Laptops Under $1,000

Microsoft continues to struggle with the adoption of Windows 11 among its users. Recent data from Statcounter reveals a notable decline in the operating system’s market share, specifically compared with Windows 10.

After reaching an all-time high of 28.16% in February 2024, Windows 11 has experienced a drop, falling below the 26% mark.

If you love the power of gaming PCs and the portability of the Nintendo Switch, you should think about getting a handheld gaming PC like the Asus ROG Ally. If you're interested, it's currently on sale from Walmart with an $87 discount that pulls its price down to $400 from $487. It's a pretty popular device so we expect this offer to attract a lot of attention, which means it's probably not going to last long. If you want to get this handheld gaming PC for this cheap, you should proceed with the transaction immediately.

Why you should buy the Asus ROG Ally handheld gaming PC It's the version of the Asus ROG Ally with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme that's listed in our roundup of the best handheld gaming PCs, but the Asus ROG Ally Z1 is still a worthwhile purchase because it gives you a gaming PC that you can bring with you wherever you go. Unlike a gaming laptop that's still pretty bulky with its large screen and keyboard, the Asus ROG Ally takes on the form of a portable gaming console like the Nintendo Switch, but with Windows 11 pre-installed as a familiar operating system to navigate and launch the best PC games.

Gamers don't need to spend more than $1,000 if they want to buy a new gaming PC because there are affordable options like the HP Victus 15L gaming desktop. From its original price of $1,400, you can get it for just $850 as HP has applied a $550 discount on this machine. However, you shouldn't delay your purchase because there's no assurance that the gaming PC will still be 39% off tomorrow. If you want to make sure that you get it for less than $1,000, you're going to have to complete the transaction for it within the day.

Why you should buy the HP Victus 15L gaming desktop You shouldn't expect the HP Victus 15L gaming desktop to match the performance of the top-of-the-line models of the best gaming PCs, but it's surprisingly powerful for its cost. Inside it are the 13th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, with 16GB of RAM that our guide on how much RAM do you need says is the best place to start for gaming. It's enough to play today's best PC games without any issues, and it may even be capable of running the upcoming PC games of the next few years if you're willing to dial down the settings for the more demanding titles.

8 Great Safari Browser Alternatives for Mac Users

Not a fan of Safari on Mac? Here are best alternative web browsers to use on your iMac, MacBook, or other Mac device.

With every Mac since 2003, users have gotten a copy of Safari. It's basically Apple's vision of the ideal web browser, targeted at general users. But there are many Safari alternatives for Mac users—some common, some more obscure.

It's worth checking them out, because although Safari isn't a bad browser, other Mac browsers can often offer something different.

So with that in mind, here are some of the best Mac web browsers you'll find right now.

1. Google Chrome

There isn't much to say about Chrome. In a relatively short time, it's grown far beyond every other browser. It's one of the most extensible browsers you can use. You can get everything from password safes to full-on text editors that all live right in your browser.

Even with all the additions, Chrome is a strong contender for the fastest browser.

But this power all comes at a cost. If you're on a laptop, Chrome can chew up a ton of battery life with only a few browser tabs. If you're looking to extend your battery life, this is not the best choice. It is great for web apps, though, especially Google's.

One of the most unsung aspects of Chrome is its built-in web developer tools. If you're messing around with JavaScript, you have a full-on console to experiment in.

Download: Chrome (Free)

Firefox is the original alternative browser and one that many called "doomed" when Chrome came on the scene. Firefox is not dead, but it was touch and go for a few years as there was a persistent idea that it was slow.

Firefox has a renewed sense of relevance driven by quick updates. Performance can also be improved by clearing out old extensions that might hurt performance.

Related: Reasons to Switch From Google Chrome to Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is not the same as Chrome. You won't find an array of apps that turn your browser into an OS. But you will find an excellent array of extensions that make your browser more powerful.

If you're wary of the resources Chrome consumes on your system, Firefox is worth a new look.

Download: Firefox (Free)

Opera is the vinyl record of web browsers. Its fans are deep and devoted, but a little outside of the mainstream. Opera was never the dominant browser on the web. Yet it was usually first to market with features that are now standards in other web browsers.

After a decade of putting Opera on everything with a CPU, the browser has a renewed focus on the desktop. It certainly has some interesting features.

The first is that there is an Opera-branded free VPN you can add as an extension. There's also support for embedding social chat apps into the sidebar. Whatsapp and Facebook Messenger are standard, but you can add others as extensions. There's a built-in RSS reader included as well.

There's even a battery-saving feature included for laptops, which works by tweaking options on the page as it loads.

Opera is a great, lightweight Mac browser if you like features. Beyond its built-in ecosystem, there's an extension that allows you to Chrome Extensions. It's a solid browser, fixing many of the issues that plague Chrome.

Download: Opera (Free)

Vivaldi is meant to be a reboot of Opera, stripping everything down to a bare-bones browser. That bare-bones approach to the browser is not to say that Vivaldi is generic.

Vivaldi has a good balance of features without getting in the way. You can move the tab bar to any side of the window. There are many color themes you can use, which can change based on the time of day. You can even adjust the browser theme based on your Hue light bulb settings.

Vivaldi also has built-in compatibility with Chrome plugins. Web history has in-depth analysis, allowing you to do a deep dive into your browsing habits. The Vivaldi Sync feature lets you access your data elsewhere . There's a notebook included, and you can take notes that include screenshots and attachments.

There are just a few of the reasons to consider Vivaldi as your new web browser for Mac. Considering it only launched officially in 2016, it's come a long way in a short few years.

Download: Vivaldi (Free)

Having been the dominant player in the browser market for so long, it's kind of weird to see Microsoft so far behind now. Sure, it's the second-most used web browser in the world, but its userbase is nowhere near Chrome's.

The good news is it's a great web browser for Mac users. Having replaced Internet Explorer, Edge is fast and easy to use. But like many modern browsers, it owes a huge debt to Google, because it's based on the open-source Chromium browser.

Edge offers plenty of extensibility through the Microsoft Edge add-ons store, but it also supports Chrome extensions. Plus it has features like PDF support, themes, and online tracker blocking.

All things considered, it's an impressive alternative to Safari.

Download: Edge (Free)

6. Tor Browser

The Tor network is a unique way of disguising traffic by routing it through several nodes. For a long time, it was tricky to set up, but the project now offers a browser bundle as a standalone install.

The app is essentially Firefox but with the strictest privacy settings. Your history erases between sessions. Also included are the No Script and HTTPS Everywhere plugins. These add-ons increase security even further. It's not bulletproof, but it should provide some sense of security.

The Tor bundle is an excellent ancillary browser. Using it ensures that your sensitive traffic is not tracked during normal browsing. If you worry about privacy, the Tor browser bundle is for you.

Download: Tor Browser (Free)

Created with the mission of making web browsing safer and faster, Brave's team includes the inventor of JavaScript and the co-founder of Mozilla.

It promises to load pages three to six times quicker than Chrome and Firefox. But that's not the big selling point here, privacy is.

Brave doesn't see or store your browsing data, and it will never be sold to a third party. Brave also includes ad-blocking and private browsing via Tor.

If you need add-ons with your Mac browser, then you'll be pleased to know Brave can use most Chrome extensions. You also sync across different devices, as you would with browsers like Chrome and Firefox.

Download: Brave (Free)

If you remember the late 90s or early 00s, browser suites were all the rage. Even Opera took the form of a suite for a while there. Maxthon combines a notebook app, mail program, a screenshot app, a password manager, and a browser. It is one of the only alternative browsers on the Mac App Store.

Beyond the range of apps built in, there isn't anything that makes Maxthon stand out. The newest version for Mac doesn't even support extensions.

Yet, if you live in your web browser, having everything in one window might be helpful. You have a notebook that you can keep everything in, even your bookmarks. Rather than a sidebar app like Vivaldi, this is a full tab in the browser. Everything is passable here; it's just not distinctive beyond all being in one place.

Download: Maxthon (Free)

One of Your Most Important Apps

Browsers are probably the most-used apps on any modern Mac. Each of these options offers something unique to each user. Give each of them a spin and find out which works best for you. You'll likely find that one of these browsers fits your workflow better than others.

You might find that Safari does fine most of the time—it is designed with Mac users in mind, after all. In that case, you might use one of these Safari alternatives only for supplemental browsing. Plus it never hurts to have a few options installed and ready to go, especially if you experience any problems with Safari.

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The Top 10 Internet Browsers for 2024

Get peace of mind and ease of use with our list of the safest, fastest, and most-secure web browsers for PC, Mac, and mobile users

• Western Sydney University

While most devices come with an internet browser, a variety of free browsers offer a more secure user experience, better function, and increased privacy than standard issue browsers.

Here's our ultimate web browser list featuring 10 of the best internet browsers for all platforms, including Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac, and Linux computers to Android devices and iPhones.

Best All-Around Web Browser: Firefox

Massive library of extensions.

Available on all major operating systems.

Full support for Windows Hello authentication.

Frustrating update process.

Scrolling not smooth.

Limited direct support.

Mozilla's Firefox is one of the most popular alternatives to Chrome , Edge, and Safari browsers in part because it's been around since 2002, but mostly because of its frequent updates.

The Firefox internet browser updates regularly with bug fixes, speed improvements, security enhancements, and new features. However, these updates can be frustrating when they automatically start installing when you open the app. Then you have to wait several minutes for the new version to download and install.

Firefox is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android and lets you sync your data between each version through the use of a free Firefox account. The Android, Linux, Mac, and Windows versions of the Firefox browser support a vast library of extensions. The Windows version also supports Windows Hello authentication for enhanced security on compatible websites.

Best Private Browser: DuckDuckGo

Strong security and privacy.

Quickly erase all app data.

Simple settings screen.

Limited cloud sync features.

Lack of history can be inconvenient.

DuckDuckGo is a private internet browser with both mobile and desktop apps. By default, it blocks all forms of online tracking and doesn't upload your search history to anyone's servers. If you're still concerned about your privacy, you can clear all your tabs and data by tapping the flame icon in the main menu.

One particular feature that privacy-conscious folks will appreciate is the security rating that appears next to the current website's address at the top of the screen. Sites are rated from D to A on their encryption levels and the number of trackers detected. Tapping on this rating opens a full-screen report card, which features an impressive amount of information on how they reached the score.

The browser has light and dark themes and a lock setting that requires Touch ID , Face ID, or passcode to use the app.

Best Browser for Windows 10 or 11: Microsoft Edge

Built-in Cortana integration.

Bookmarks and browsing history sync between devices.

Windows Timeline support.

Browser can freeze on ad-heavy pages.

Slow to load embedded videos.

Needs a powerful computer to open many tabs.

Microsoft Edge is the successor to the classic Internet Explorer browser and comes pre-installed on all new on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. This browser is heavily integrated into the operating system and is the default app for opening not only web pages but ebooks and PDF files as well.

This web browser also features built-in inking tools for taking screenshots of pages and Cortana for looking up words and phrases. You can also use its voice dictation to have Edge read articles and other web content to you.

Microsoft Edge also saves your bookmarks and browsing history to the cloud. This data can sync to the iOS and Android app versions for consistent user experience and is compatible with Windows Timeline.

Best Internet Browser for Apple Users: Safari

Built-in support for ApplePay and Touch ID.

Available on all Macs and iOS devices.

Syncs bookmarks and browsing history.

Unavailable for modern Windows computers.

No app on Android smartphones and tablets.

Limited customization.

Safari is Apple's first-party web browser for all of its hardware, from Mac computers and laptops to its iPhones, iPads, iPod touches, and Apple Watches . The browser comes pre-installed on all of Apple's devices and is the default app for opening web pages.

Much like Edge on Windows 10 devices, Safari works well on Apple devices because the same company makes it, and it's designed from the ground up to run on a specific set of hardware. Safari supports all major Apple features, such as Apple Pay and AirDrop , and can also perform Touch ID and Face ID tasks on compatible Apple devices.

By using iCloud, Apple's Safari browser can sync browsing history, bookmarks, and passwords between devices. This feature is only useful if you have a lot of Apple devices, though, as there's no Safari browser for Windows or Android devices.

Most-Functional Browser: Google Chrome

Loads Google services quickly.

Massive library of browser extensions.

Available on a variety of devices.

Incognito mode doesn't completely hide your activity.

Browser updates have a history of raising privacy concerns.

Some extensions collect data.

Google Chrome launched on Windows in 2008 but has since expanded to Mac and Linux computers as well as iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

One of Chrome's strongest points is its availability on a multitude of platforms because you can sync your browsing history and other data across different devices. All you have to do is log into your Google account.

This internet browser is also extremely fast, especially when it comes to loading websites owned by Google such as Gmail and YouTube . While other browsers may take a while to load a YouTube video, Chrome usually starts playing the video almost immediately when on a good internet connection.

Most Secure Web Browser: Brave

Robust privacy and security features.

Alternative way to support online creators.

Beginner-friendly introduction to cryptocurrencies.

Affects websites' revenue models.

Inconvenient update methods.

Limited extensions.

Brave is a web browser with a strong focus on privacy and security. By default, this internet browser blocks advertising, cookies, phishing, and malware and provides you with advanced options for enabling HTTPS Everywhere and preventing browser fingerprinting.

All of these security options should help give you peace of mind if you're the type of person to worry about online privacy. These security measures also make web pages load much faster than on other browsers.

What sets Brave apart from other web browsers is its cryptocurrency , the Basic Attention Token (BAT). The Brave browser has an integrated software wallet for storing BAT tokens. You can use these tokens to financially support website owners or online creators when you view their content in the browser. Users can also earn BAT by enabling Brave-run ads during a browsing session.

Brave is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers in addition to iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

Best VPN Web Browser for Mobile: Aloha

Optional integrated VPN functionality.

Built-in support for VR videos.

Uses less traffic than other browsers.

In-browser ads.

VPN isn't automatically on.

Lacks iOS password integration.

Aloha is a free web browser designed for iOS and Android tablets and smartphones. It has a built-in VPN service in addition to its own Incognito Mode , both of which provide enhanced security and privacy protection. This VPN service also compresses traffic, which means your smart device uses less data while surfing the web.

This mobile internet browser features a fresh visual design with clear, easy-to-understand icons and settings with the option to customize the app's appearance with a variety of free themes. Aloha also has built-in ad-blocking that stops banner ads and popups from loading on websites.

A couple of VPN settings, such as the ability to use the feature in other apps as well, are hidden behind a paid upgrade, which costs $24.99 annually. The app has ads for the Aloha Premium service; you can remove them by signing up. The ads don't detract too much from the user experience, though.

Best Internet Browser for Multitasking: Vivaldi

Add any website to the toolbar.

Numerous customization options.

Supports Google Chrome Extensions.

Not available for iOS.

Not always user-friendly.

Inconsistent window sizes when selecting links.

Vivaldi is a free web browser that was created in 2016 by some of the minds behind the Opera browser. The program is built on the same Chromium-based technology that powers Google Chrome, which allows you to install almost any extension from the Chrome web store.

The main appeal of Vivaldi is its comprehensive options that let you customize its look and functionality to a degree not seen in rival browsers. First, you can change the browser's UI colors anytime you want. You can also move the toolbar can to the top, bottom, or sides, and pin web pages to the side for simultaneous browsing. The latter feature is particularly useful if you like to watch YouTube videos or check a social media site while browsing the web.

Vivaldi is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux computers.

Best Browser for Saving YouTube Videos on iPhone: Documents by Readdle

Allows files usually blocked on iOS.

Manages local and cloud files.

Supports PDF and ZIP files.

UI can be confusing.

Some functionality requires upgrade.

Can run slow on older iPhone and iPad models.

Documents by Readdle is a powerhouse of an iOS app designed for both iPhone and iPad users. In addition to featuring web browser functionality, Documents by Readdle also works as a PDF reader, a ZIP file unzipper, a file manager, a media player, an ebook reader, and a one-stop-shop for all of your various cloud storage accounts.

What makes Documents by Readdle a must-download for any iOS user is its ability to download files from the web that other iOS browser apps would block. Documents by Readdle is the perfect app for downloading video files and other media. You can even use it to save YouTube videos to your Camera Roll .

Something advanced users may appreciate is the option to select the browser agent when using the web browser. This setting lets you tell websites which version of a web browser you're using. Then, if you ever need to test a website in one of those browsers, you don't have to switch between apps manually.

Most Diverse Web Browser: Opera

Opera USB is a unique idea.

Extensive library of add-ons.

Custom wallpapers.

Can load slowly.

Many extra features feel redundant.

The Opera web browser launched on Windows in 1996 and is now available on Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and even Java phones.

The desktop versions of Opera support a wide range of add-ons that bring extra functionality to the browser beyond browsing the web. Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp can run within a pinned taskbar on the left side of the screen, and the browser features built-in screen capture functionality as well. How much you use these functions depends on your operating system and preferred apps. If you usually check Facebook Messenger using its app or on your phone, for example, you likely won't find this feature in Opera very useful.

Of particular note is Opera USB, a fully functional version of the web browser that can be run off of a USB drive on any Windows computer running Windows 7 and up. This rather ingenious creation is perfect if you have access to a computer at work or while traveling that doesn't allow for the installation of extra programs.

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David Nield

It’s Time to Switch to a Privacy Browser

Google's admission that, yes, it does track you while you're in Chrome's Incognito mode , is just the latest in a long line of unsettling revelations about just how keenly Big Tech keeps an eye on our movements every time we connect to the internet. Billions of data records will now be deleted as part of a settlement to a class action lawsuit brought against Google.

As we've written before , Incognito mode and the equivalent modes offered by other browsers aren't as secure as you might think, particularly if you start signing into accounts like Google or Facebook. Your activities and searches as a logged-in user on large platforms can still be recorded, primarily to create advertising that's more accurately targeted toward your demographic.

Google, for its part, says it’s transparent about what data it’s storing and why—and in recent years it has made it easier for users to see and delete the information held about them. To really lock down your privacy and security, though, it’s best to switch to a browser not made by a company that earns billions of dollars selling ads.

And there are alternatives: Below we recommend several browsers built with user privacy and security as a priority. Even better, in many cases they can import data such as bookmarks and passwords from your current browser—Google Chrome, for example.

DuckDuckGo ( Android , iOS , Windows , macOS )

The DuckDuckGo browser blocks trackers at their source.

You might know DuckDuckGo as the anti-Google search engine, but the parent company has branched out to make its own browsers too. They keep you well protected online and at the same time give you plenty of information about the tracking technologies being proactively blocked.

DuckDuckGo starts by enforcing encrypted HTTPS connections when websites offer them, and gives each page you visit a grade based on how aggressively it's trying to mine your data. It'll even scan and rank site privacy policies for you.

When it comes to browsing data, this can be cleared automatically at the end of each session or after a certain period of time. Pop-ups and ads are snuffed out, and of course the DuckDuckGo search engine is built in, free of the Google trappings.

Lauren Goode

Charlie Wood

You also get extras like throwaway email aliases you can use in place of your real email address to protect your privacy, and everything about the browser and its features is simple to use: You don't really need to do anything except install them, so you're getting maximum protection with minimal effort.

Ghostery ( Android , iOS , Windows , macOS )

Ghostery comes with a range of tools to protect your privacy.

Install Ghostery on your mobile device or your computer, and straight away it gets to work blocking adverts and tracking cookies that will attempt to keep tabs on what you're up to on the web. There are no complicated setup screens or configurations to manage.

Like DuckDuckGo, Ghostery tells you exactly which trackers and ads it's blocking and how many monitoring tools each website has installed. If you do come across certain sites that are well behaved, you can mark them as trusted with a tap.

Or, if you find a site that's packed full of tracking systems, you can block every single bit of cookie technology on it (for commenting systems, media players, and so on), even if the site ends up breaking. A simple, private search engine is built in to replace Google too.

Ghostery's tools are a little more in-depth and advanced than the ones offered by DuckDuckGo, so you might consider it if you want to take extra control over which trackers are blocked on which sites—but it's simple enough for anyone to use.

Tor Browser ( Android , Windows , macOS )

Tor connects you to the Tor network, to keep your online activities more private.

Tor Browser markets itself as a browsing option "without tracking, surveillance, or censorship." It is worth a look if you want the ultimate in anonymized, tracker-free browsing—unless you're on iOS, where it isn't available (Tor recommends the Onion Browser instead).

The browser is part of a bigger project to keep internet browsing anonymous: Use Tor and you use the Tor Project network, a complex, encrypted relay system managed by the Tor community, making it much harder for anyone else to follow your activities online.

As well as this additional layer of anonymity, Tor Browser is super-strict on the background scripts and tracking tech that sites can run. It also blocks fingerprinting, a method where advertisers attempt to recognize the unique characteristics of your device.

At the end of each browsing session, everything gets wiped, including cookies left behind by sites and the browsing history inside the Tor Browser app itself. In other words, private browsing that leaves no trace is the default—and indeed the only option.

Brave ( Android , iOS , Windows , macOS )

Brave gives you a clean, speedy browsing experience.

Brave comes with all the tracking protection features you would expect: Ads are completely blocked, there are tight restrictions on the data that sites can gather through cookies and tracking scripts, and you're always kept informed about what's happening.

The browser comes with an optional built-in VPN, though it costs extra ($10 a month). You can also, if you want, use Brave to access the Tor network we mentioned with the Tor browser and take advantage of its anonymizing relay service that hides your location and browsing data.

There's no doubt about the effectiveness of Brave's tracker-blocking technologies, and getting around the web in Brave is quick and snappy. It's a comprehensive package and one that strikes a well-judged balance between simplicity and power for the majority of users.

Brave has regularly pioneered features related to innovative web technologies, including cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and (most recently) artificial intelligence; there's actually a new AI assistant built into it. In other words, it's not exclusively focused on security and privacy.

Firefox ( Android , iOS , Windows , macOS )

Firefox is part of a suite of privacy products from Mozilla.

Firefox has long been at the forefront of online privacy—blocking tracking cookies across sites by default, for example—and it continues to be one of the best options for making sure you're giving away as little data as possible as you make your way across the web.

Firefox also gives you a ton of information on each website you visit regarding the trackers and cookies that pages have attempted to leave, and which ones Firefox has blocked. Permissions for access to your location and microphone can be easily managed as well.

Aside from looking after the interests of its users, Firefox also scores highly for user customization. You can change the look and behavior of the browser in a variety of ways, and there are useful integrations like the built-in Pocket utility that saves web stories on your device so you can read them later.

Firefox developer Mozilla offers plenty of extras, including a free data-breach monitor that tells you when your usernames and passwords may have been exposed somewhere online, a free email alias system to keep your actual email address protected, and a VPN that costs $10 per month. It all adds up to a comprehensive package for keeping you safe online.

Safari (iOS, macOS)

Safari has been blocking tracking cookies for some time.

Apple continues to add privacy tech to Safari with each release on iOS and macOS—like requiring user authentication (such as a Face ID scan) when returning to a browsing session—though it's obviously not a browsing option if you're on Android or Windows.

Safari has long been blocking third-party tracking cookies that try to connect the dots on your web activity across multiple sites. It also blocks device fingerprinting techniques that try to identify your devices, and it reports back on the trackers it has disabled.

The browser can now also warn you when you try to use a password that's too weak on a new website or service, and it will make a suggestion of a stronger password if needed. Recent browser updates added support for logging in with passkeys too.

Safari operates against the backdrop of Apple's commitment to collect as little information about you as possible and to keep most of that information locked away locally on your device rather than on Apple's servers.

Update: April 6, 2024, 8:30 am: This guide was updated to include new guidance for DuckDuckGo and Ghostery, as well as to bring some descriptions of browser providers' data collection policies up to date.

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If You Care About Privacy, It’s Time to Try a New Web Browser

A new crop of internet browsers from Brave, DuckDuckGo and others offer stronger privacy protections than what you might be used to.

By Brian X. Chen

Most of us use web browsers out of habit.

If you surf the web with Microsoft Edge, that may be because you use Windows. If you use Safari, that’s probably because you are an Apple customer. If you are a Chrome user, that could be because you have a Google phone or laptop, or you downloaded the Google browser on your personal device after using it on computers at school or work.

In other words, we turn to the browsers that are readily available and familiar. It’s easy to fall into browser inertia because these apps are all fast, capable and serve the same purpose: visiting a website.

So if the differences are minimal, why bother looking for something else?

By the end of this column, I hope to persuade you to at least try something else: a new type of internet navigator called a private browser. This kind of browser, from less-known brands like DuckDuckGo and Brave, has emerged over the last three years. What stands out is that they minimize the data gathered about us by blocking the technologies used to track us.

That’s generally better than what most mainstream browsers, especially Chrome, do. While some browsers like Safari and Firefox also include tracking prevention, the smaller brands have been focused on even more privacy protections.

We have also reached an inflection point in digital privacy. The online advertising industry is on the brink of ceasing to use web cookies, pieces of code planted in browsers that follow us from site to site and help target us with ads. Google, whose Chrome browser is the world’s most popular, has been trying to develop a new way to target us with ads without the cookie.

Let’s not wait for that. You can decide now that you don’t want to be tracked.

“We’re at a fork in the road,” said Gennie Gebhart, a director at the digital rights nonprofit Electronic Frontier Foundation, who follows privacy issues. “Companies that keep the lights on by advertising to users, Google included, are scrambling to see what’s the next play. It’s also a time for users to be informed and make a choice.”

Unlike mainstream web browsers, private browsers come in many forms that serve different purposes. For about a week, I tested three of the most popular options — DuckDuckGo, Brave and Firefox Focus. Even I was surprised that I eventually switched to Brave as the default browser on my iPhone. Here’s how it happened.

What is a private browser?

It’s important to know what private browsers do, and what they don’t. So let’s look under the hood.

Private browsers generally incorporate web technologies that have been around for years:

They rely on something called private mode, also known as incognito mode, which is a browsing session that does not record a history of the websites you have visited. This is useful if you don’t want people with physical access to your device to snoop on you.

Private browsers also use tracker blockers, which can often be downloaded as an add-on for a browser. The blockers depend on a list of known trackers that grab information about your identity. Whenever you load a website, the software then detects those trackers and restricts them from following you from site to site. The big downside of this approach is that blocking them can sometimes break parts of websites, like shopping carts and videos.

Privacy-focused browsers typically turn private mode on by default, or automatically purge browsing history when you quit the browser. The browsers also have tracking prevention baked in, which lets them aggressively block trackers using approaches that minimize website breakage.

But private browsers do not prevent your internet provider from seeing what websites you visit. So if you are on vacation and using a hotel’s Wi-Fi connection, a private browser will not keep your browsing information private from the hotel’s internet provider. For that type of protection, you still need to connect to a virtual private network , a technology that creates a virtual tunnel that shields your browsing information.

Meet the private browsers

Firefox Focus, DuckDuckGo and Brave are all similar, but with some important differences.

Firefox Focus, available only for mobile devices like iPhones and Android smartphones, is bare-bones. You punch in a web address and, when done browsing, hit the trash icon to erase the session. Quitting the app automatically purges the history. When you load a website, the browser relies on a database of trackers to determine which to block.

The DuckDuckGo browser, also available only for mobile devices, is more like a traditional browser. That means you can bookmark your favorite sites and open multiple browser tabs.

When you use the search bar, the browser returns results from the DuckDuckGo search engine, which the company says is more focused on privacy because its ads do not track people’s online behavior. DuckDuckGo also prevents ad trackers from loading. When done browsing, you can hit the flame icon at the bottom to erase the session.

Brave is also more like a traditional web browser, with anti-tracking technology and features like bookmarks and tabs. It includes a private mode that must be turned on if you don’t want people scrutinizing your web history.

Brave is also so aggressive about blocking trackers that in the process, it almost always blocks ads entirely. The other private browsers blocked ads less frequently.

For most people, not seeing ads is a benefit. But for those who want to give back to a publisher whose ads are blocked, Brave hosts its own ad network that you can opt into. In exchange for viewing ads that do not track your behavior, you earn a cut of revenue in the form of a token. You can then choose to give tokens to websites that you like. (Only web publishers that have a partnership with Brave can receive tokens.)

Battle of the browsers

I tested all three browsers on my iPhone, setting each as my default browser for a few days.

All have a button to see how many trackers they blocked when loading a website. To test that, I visited nypost.com, the website of The New York Post, which loaded 83 trackers without any tracking prevention. With DuckDuckGo, 15 of the nypost.com trackers were blocked. With Brave, it was 22. And Firefox Focus blocked 47.

But numbers don’t tell the whole story. Firefox Focus sometimes broke elements of websites. On some sites, videos failed to load and ad windows could not be closed.

Selena Deckelmann, an executive at Mozilla, which makes Firefox, said that the strict privacy protections in Firefox Focus could sometimes cause websites to break and that the company worked with web publishers so their sites could load properly.

I didn’t experience major issues when using Brave or DuckDuckGo, though there was an occasional hiccup. In one case, when using DuckDuckGo to scroll through Wirecutter , our sister publication that tests and recommends products, the names of some products did not fully load. While the site was still functional, it looked odd.

In the end, though, you probably would be happy using any of the private browsers. Even if you don’t make one your default browser, it is useful for certain situations, like a sensitive web search on a health condition.

For me, Brave won by a hair. My favorite websites loaded flawlessly, and I enjoyed the clean look of ad-free sites, along with the flexibility of opting in to see ads whenever I felt like it. Brendan Eich, the chief executive of Brave, said the company’s browser blocked tracking cookies “without mercy.”

“If everybody used Brave, it would wipe out the tracking-based ad economy,” he said.

Count me in.

Brian X. Chen is the lead consumer technology writer. He reviews products and writes Tech Fix , a column about solving tech-related problems. Before joining The Times in 2011, he reported on Apple and the wireless industry for Wired. More about Brian X. Chen

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10 Best Browsers for Privacy That Aren’t Google Chrome

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In this era of hacking, identity theft, data privacy violations, and Facebook watching your every move, the best browser for privacy can be your greatest weapon. The internet can be the place to be completely anonymous, but it’s also where you can be the most vulnerable.

Data is one of the most monetized assets right now. And where do you get most of the people’s data? On the internet— unguarded and sometimes given voluntarily. Google Chrome is one of the major tech companies that sell their user’s data, and it’s the most used browser in the world.

So, if you want to keep your data private and still want to continue your internet browsing, it’s time to make the move, and choose a secure browser. In this quick guide, we have compiled the best browsers for privacy that are perfect Google Chrome alternatives.

Opera is one of the oldest web browsers available, and it has stayed in the game for providing its users a more private browsing experience. It can be your default web browser on all devices with Windows, Linux operating systems, iOs, and Android.

Opera has its own tracker and ad-blocker that can shield users from tracking websites and advertisers. Opera also has a security feature wherein you can delete your private data, including your cache, HTTP cookies, browsing history, and passwords in one click of a button. This makes it the best browser for privacy compared to Google.

When you go to a website, a security badge will show beside the address, which contains the safety certificates of the website. Opera’s malware and fraud screen is enabled by default so, it proactively warns you about suspicious web pages. Opera also cross-checks recommended pages with blacklists containing several databases of malware and phishing websites.

Download the Opera browser

The creator of JavaScript and former head of Mozilla Firefox created Brave in 2016 with the aim of giving back users control over their data when surfing the web. It has now made waves with internet users calling it the best browser for privacy.

Brave has a security feature called Shields that blocks all kinds of trackers that follow you when you go online. With Shields, all your cookies are cleared when you close the app, and you can be sure that ads and malicious websites and code are blocked. You can also prevent fingerprinting attempts and prohibit scripts from loading when using Brave as your browser.

The best private browser allows people to customize their browser’s security settings, and that’s exactly what Brave offers its users. There are several functions you can enable to secure your browsing the way you want it. You can even pre-set the data you want to delete every time you close Brave.

Brave’s version of Chromium has removed a lot of code from Google to promote user privacy. Brave has also strongly opposed Google’s Federal Learning of Cohorts ID proposal, which will begin rollout to Chrome users but will not push through in Brave.

Download Brave browser

Safari is the default web browser for Apple, which makes it the best browser for privacy for iOS users.

It has a built-in pop-up blocker with a JavaScript blocker that you can turn on and off. The browser runs web pages in a sandbox that isolates each site to prevent any suspicious code from infecting the other tabs open in Safari.

Safari is the best browser for privacy with its Intelligent Tracking Prevention system that can block embedded trackers from websites your IP address visited. The ITP also prevents digital fingerprinting and clears cache from third-party sites. This helps you remain anonymous when browsing on your Apple devices.

Get the latest version of Safari from the Apple Store

4. Tor Browser

Short for The Onion Router, Tor has set its sights on being the best browser for privacy since its inception in 2002. The Tor browser is Mozilla Firefox but better and more secure. It has developed a secure network that allows users to remain completely anonymous online through the Tor Network.

The Tor Network masks your identity and internet footprint by encrypting your traffic three times. This increases your privacy protection as it will be extremely difficult for anyone to trace you and even impossible for Tor to keep any records of you.

Tor also does not track your browsing history and deletes all your cookies and cache after every session. When you use Tor, your fingerprint browsing records from visited websites are also automatically blocked.

Download the Tor Browser

Vivaldi is one of the best browsers out there with privacy at the forefront. Vivaldi has been a staunch defender of people’s data when browsing the web and has provided its browser as a safe haven for people who want to go online without being bombarded with ads and trackers.

Like the best private browsers we have on this list, Vivaldi has a built-in ad blocker. It offers protection from all sites that track your internet activity and steal data from you. According to Vivaldi, they are developing a new code so they themselves don’t get any unique information from you.

Aside from being a total privacy-nerd, Vivaldi also offers unique features that can make your browsing more enjoyable with their customizable templates and tab organizations.

Download the Vivaldi private browser

6. LibreWolf

LibreWolf is a Firefox fork that focuses on privacy. It is the best browser for privacy for those who want no-frills and unproblematic secure web browsing.

LibreWolf is preferred by many as the browser gives them more freedom with their privacy in check. This web browser features absolutely no telemetry, which means you can say goodbye to adware and unnecessary data collection. LibreWolf also has uBlock Origin integrated into its system with private search engines like Qwant, DuckDuckGo, and Searx.

Download the LibreWolf browser

Iridium takes the Chromium base code and adds enhanced privacy protection and fast browsing to the mix. It might sound too good to be true, but Iridium is serious about providing its users the web browsing experience that they deserve— private and efficient.

It’s the best browser for privacy with its lack of telemetry. Iridium’s default features include blocking third-party cookies and disabling password storage and autofill. Your website data is also purged after every session.

Download the latest Iridium browser

8. Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is the best private browser as it allows its users to customize their browsing settings. You can optimize your privacy and security as much as you can. If you don’t know how to customize, Mozilla’s default settings can already provide robust privacy security.

One of Firefox’s most powerful privacy features is Enhanced Tracking Protection. It obstructs social media trackers, site tracking cookies, blocks crypto miners, and fingerprinting scripts. Firefox developers are consistent in improving their security features that go beyond stored cookies and target complex caches.

If you prefer to use your mobile device to access the internet, Mozilla has developed a private browser for Android and iOs users called Firefox Focus. The Focus browser has an automated ad-blocker that can protect you from numerous tracking.

Download Mozilla Firefox

9. GNU IceCat

GNU IceCat is an open-sourced and free version of the Mozilla Firefox browser. It is one of the best browsers for privacy as it’s compatible with Linux, iOS, Windows, and Android.

The IceCat web browser has integrated HTTPS Everywhere that protects your data from website trackers. It also features an ad-blocker based on Adblock Plus with fingerprinting countermeasures in place to give you extra protection. And did we mention it’s free?

Download the GNU IceCat browser

10. DuckDuckGo

Among this list of the best browsers for privacy, DuckDuckGo is the only one that doesn’t have its standalone browser. It isn’t technically a browser, but it provides the best security setting you can plug into Firefox and Chrome.

You can set DuckDuckGo as your default search engine to block all hidden trackers on web pages. You can be sure your browsing history never leaves your device as you can clear it with just one click of a button. It also has an automatic ad blocker and makes sure HTTPS encryption is on all websites if possible.

DuckDuckGo gives a privacy grade to each web page you visit. This makes it easier for you to evaluate how a particular site gathers data from you.

Add DuckDuckGo to your web browser

Why You Need to Care About Your Privacy When Browsing

Privacy is a weird thing today. You have people ranting about their online privacy, but there they are— sharing everything they can on the very same platform where privacy is a problem. It’s something we don’t fully understand due to the technicalities, but we have to.

Security when browsing is vital, and one of the best things you can do to protect yourself is having the best browser for privacy, that’s why we made this list. Your data is your greatest asset in this day and age. It’s only appropriate you get the say on how it’s being used and when.

Without online privacy, hackers will run amok and steal your sensitive data like your credit card information and drag your credit score to the depths of credit hell. Without online privacy, ads for the massage gun you were curious about one time will follow you the rest of your digital life. And without online privacy, your whole identity can be forged and be made irrelevant or worse— be aired out for the public to scrutinize without giving you a chance to explain. A lot of bad things can happen when you don’t care about your security online, especially now that people’s lives mostly happen on the world wide web.

Equipping yourself with the best private browser and adding security extensions can make all the difference in your data usage online. Information security can provide physical security as well. Remember, what people don’t know can’t hurt them.

Why You Should Replace Google Chrome: Privacy Risks

Google Chrome is the most used web browser in the world now, with 2.65 billion online users preferring the Google-colored icon over any other browser. However, unbeknownst to most, Google Chrome has been taking advantage of their data.

Google is one of the biggest tech companies that has been on the frontlines of innovation for so long. That’s why most people don’t second-guess when using Google Chrome and other Google products for their everyday tasks.

However, for years, Google has faced a lot of scandals due to its privacy settings and data collection of its browser users. It utilizes a window to look into every action you make online. Google tracks every web page you visit to study your online activity and feed you targeted ads. It also doesn’t try very hard in blocking third-party trackers that monitor you with cookies and do digital fingerprinting.

Google Chrome Privacy Extensions You Can Add for Better Security

It’s understandable if you find it hard to depart from your Google Chrome because it’s hard to move away from something familiar and easy. So, if that’s the case, the least you can do is add extensions to Chrome so you can be sure your privacy is still protected when browsing with Google.

You can add these extensions to any browser for added security and privacy protection.

uBlock Origin

Adding uBlock Origin to your web browser will enable an efficient ad blocker that doesn’t demand much on your CPU and memory. This browser extension can work with Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. uBlock is also open-sourced, so transparency won’t be a problem.

uBlock Origin not only prevents ads from loading but also stops the tracking code from being loaded.

Add uBlock Origin to your web browser extensions

HTTPS Everywhere

HTTPS Everywhere is a browser extension developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the Tor Project. It automatically converts thousands of websites from unprotected “http” to secure “https.”

Adding HTTPS Everywhere to your browser extensions can shield you from a variety of surveillance and account hacking techniques, as well as some methods of censorship. This extension is supported by the most popular web browsers available now, including Google Chrome, Safari, and Firefox.

Add HTTPS Everywhere to your web browser

Cookie Autodelete

Cookie Autodelete is a web extension for Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Chrome. It deletes cookies and other website data from closed tabs and clears your cookie cache every time you close your browser .

Cookie Autodelete aims to give you more control over your cookies by letting you choose the cookies to keep in a whitelist and greylist. You can also enable Automatic Cleaning if you simply want to delete all cookies every time you close your browser.

Add Cookie Autodelete to your browser

Privacy Badger

Another product from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Privacy Badger, is a browser add-on that has it all. It studies the web pages you visit and detects trackers that violate your privacy, and stops them automatically.

Privacy Badger conducts a thorough sweep of the websites you visit and blocks third-party trackers and ads and stops them from loading into your browser.

Add Privacy Badger to your browser

Click&Clean

When you add Click&Clean to your browser extensions, it will clear all your URLs, cookies and cache, browsing, and download history in just one click. This extension is completely free, and will also scan your device for malware.

Add Click&Clean to your browser

If you think your browser is the only place spies and malware lurks, think again. Your email is also a cesspool of trackers.

When you open an email, it contains invisible pixels that notify the sender. Add PixelBlock to your Chrome extension, and it will block email trackers from loading. A red-eye icon will appear in your inbox every time PixelBlock detects a tracker.

Add PixelBlock to your Chrome browser

Another tracker that lurks in your emails is tracking links. Tracking links inside emails inform the sender of the URLs you visit and track you from website to website. You can add the extension ClearURLs to automatically remove the tracking code in the URL.

Add ClearURL to your browser

Also Read:  20 Best Google Chrome Extensions to Stay Organized

Privacy is your right. In this world where it seems that we don’t have control over anything, it’s imperative that we take the reins ourselves and take back what is ours. Taking the steps to move back from oversharing and simply having the best private browser can give you the control that big corporations have been exploiting. That is why we’ve listed the best browsers for privacy, so you know you have a lot of options for Google Chrome alternatives.

We’re not saying that you should resort to hiding in the caves of your own secrecy, but take shelter in your private digital home. You can still have your friends over, of course, but this time, you don’t have to worry about uninvited guests and intruders.

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11 Best Google Chrome Alternatives | Most Private Web Browsers In 2021

Google Chrome dominates the browser market worldwide with a massive 63% share, leaving the rest to other web browsers . To be honest, Chrome provides an excellent web browsing experience with seamless functioning across multiple devices. However, such a smooth experience comes at a cost, that is, our personal data.

We know that Google tracks us relentlessly, and the onslaught of personalized ads gets really annoying at some point. Even if we keep it aside, there are serious problems like heavy RAM usage that makes your device sluggish. So whatever may be your reason to leave Chrome and seek other options, here is a list of the best Google Chrome alternatives in 2021 for you.

• Google Alternatives: Best Search Engines
• Best Free YouTube Alternatives
• Best Privacy-Focused WhatsApp Alternatives

Top 10 Google Chrome Alternatives For Browsing Privately (2021)

1. brave – best open source browser, 2. vivaldi – most customizable browser, 3. firefox – best non-chromium browser, 4. safari – best browser for mac, 5. opera – similar browser like chrome, 6. tor browser – best private browser with vpn, 7. avast secure browser – best malware protection, 8. torch browser – best browser for entertainment, 9. maxthon cloud browser – feature packed browser, 10. microsoft edge – windows 10 solution, 11. epic – best feature packed privacy-focused browser.

If you are looking for the best alternatives to Chrome in 2021, Brave is the best open-source web browser to go for. Made by the co-founders of the Mozilla project, it blocks ads and trackers that slow you down and invade your privacy. But here is the best part — the browser has a feature called Brave Rewards.

It allows you to earn blockchain tokens and reward the sites that you visit frequently. You regularly get tokens from the browser which you can donate to a publisher to compensate for the ads that get blocked while browsing.

Even though other browsers claim to have a “private mode,” that only hides your history from others using your browser. Brave lets you use Tor right in a tab that not only hides your history but also masks your location.

Other features include Tab Previews that give quick glances at what you’re browsing, whereas Tab Pages lets you decide how many tabs per page to view. You can also pin tabs whenever you need them. For managing multiple social accounts, you can use the Session Tabs.

Available for:  Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS

Why use Brave?

• Loads pages faster
• Blocks ads and user tracking
• Password management
• Compatible with Chrome extensions

If you need a browser with a customizable UI, Vivaldi is a perfect option for you. This Chrome alternative lets you play with its unique themes that include different shades and, of course, a dark one too.

The best part is these themes can be changed throughout the day if you create a schedule. Vivaldi also offers an editable sidebar that can be placed anywhere as you deem fit. You can add your favorite chat apps, social feeds, or news sites, or any other website to this bar for quick access.

What I really like is about Vivaldi is its adaptive interface. The browser picks up the primary color of the website you are viewing to use it as an accent color. Another useful feature is the ability to stack tabs and save them as sessions that can be viewed later. As far as security is concerned, Vivaldi does not collect user data and encrypts your personal information while syncing across devices. Moreover, you can also have a look at sites like tumblr here!

With Vivaldi, you will not miss Google Chrome because it uses the same Chromium base code. It’s easy to import your settings, histories, and bookmarked pages from your Chrome account. In fact, it offers more security than Chrome. Plus Google Drive is still accessible from the browser, and almost all Chrome extensions work with Vivaldi which makes it one of the best Chrome alternatives in 2021.

Available for:  Windows, macOS, Linux, Android

Why use Vivaldi?

• Customizable UI which includes changing themes, effects, and sidebar
• Mouse gestures, Notes feature within the browser
• Superior tab-management than Chrome with built-in Tab Tiling feature

Mozilla’s Firefox is the best alternative to Chrome in terms of speed and privacy in 2021. It allows far more control over privacy and lets you control the data you share on the web. There is a dedicated “Tracking Protection” feature that prevents websites from tracking you. Mozilla released the “ Firefox Monitor ” feature, which alerts you immediately in case your email ID or password is involved in a data breach.

The best part is that Firefox comes with several Chrome-like features which makes it the best Chrome alternative. It bookmarks pages, stacks tabs, and resumes the last pages you opened the last time you opened the browser. Firefox also offers a large collection of add-ons and extensions that you could use. So if you switch browsers, you won’t be missing Google anytime soon. Also, check out our blog on the best alternatives to tab suspenders in chrome here!

Firefox can handle a large number of open tabs without getting lousy because it doesn’t hog your RAM like Chrome. It is also the best browser for both stopping malicious downloads and blocking dangerous websites with just its default security settings enabled. By tweaking these settings, you can ensure more privacy and security.

Available for:  Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Why use Firefox?

• Fast, secure, and easily customizable
• Features like Tracking Protection, Firefox Monitor, etc.
• Pleasing UI

In addition, you can read our article on the best apps like houseparty that are good enough to compete with Facetime and WhatsApp.

If you are an iOS or macOS user, you already have Safari installed on your device. It is undoubtedly one of the best alternatives to Chrome as it is fast and secure. Apple has worked hard on user privacy features of Safari. It automatically blocks ad trackers from following your footprints on the internet and even offers a Privacy Report on how it protects you.

This browser also prevents videos from auto-playing on websites and for those who would like to read content on the web without any distractions; it provides a clean user interface in its ‘reading mode.’

You can save articles for offline reading, and it comes in handy, especially on the iPhone. As far as speed is concerned, Safari performs well, and it syncs really well across all the Apple devices you use. Also, check out our article on the list of the best browser for iPhone here!

Available for:  iOS, macOS

Why use Safari?

• One of the best Chrome alternatives for Apple users
• Offers speed, privacy, clean UI, and syncing capabilities
• Good password management

Opera browser has been around for a very long time now and stands as one of the best Chrome alternatives to surf the web in 2021. It introduced cool features like speed dial and tabbed browsing to us. This Chromium-based browser feels similar to Chrome in terms of usage, and it packs some great features like the built-in ad-blocker that lets you surf the internet minus the ads.

Another useful feature is the Opera Turbo Mode that compresses data to open web pages more quickly. But my personal favorite is the built-in unlimited free VPN tool that comes in really handy while unlocking geo-restricted content and protecting your privacy. Besides these, there is a bunch of other useful features like battery saver mode, and you should try Opera yourself to find how good this Chrome alternative is.

Available for:  Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Why use Opera?

• Bunch of useful built-in features like VPN tool, Ad-Blocker, Turbo Mode, Battery Saver, etc
• Good UI that comes in a dark theme as well

In the meantime, you can check out our article on alternatives to Google Play Store here!

Tor is quite a popular choice among those who regularly use privacy-focused browsers. In fact, Tor has become a synonym for the anti-surveillance movement as it is built on a network of ‘hidden’ relay servers. This browser can obscure your public IP address by bouncing your connection through a number of distributed nodes.

Tor Browser also blocks trackers by isolating each website you visit so third-party trackers can’t follow you. Any cookies or browsing history created while browsing is automatically cleared once you’re done.

This means it not only protects your browsing history but also hides your physical location to let you access region-specific content on the internet. For those who seek access to Deep Web or Dark Web, can also do achieve it through Tor. However, it should be done at one’s own risk.

Talking about downsides, the Tor browser works slower than Google or Firefox. But if privacy is all that you care about, there is no better Chrome alternative than this one in 2021.

Why use Tor?

• Best privacy-focused browser
• Guarantees anonymity via VPN, Multi-layer encryption, blocking trackers

This browser comes from the software security solution firm Avast. It is the best Google Chrome alternative that offers both privacy and speed. Avast Secure Browser can automatically block/hide online ads to drastically improve website load time. Its advanced built-in security lets you browse, shop, and bank safely on any website.

Other benefits include the prevention of user fingerprinting and notification alerts in case of leaked passwords. Apart from security, the browser is feature-packed in terms of usability too. It is fast, fast, automatically transfers your bookmarks, history, and settings from Chrome.

Available for:  Windows, macOS, Android

Why use Avast Secure Browser?

• Built-in adblocker, Avast internet security extension
• Automatically force websites to use encryption
• Block malicious websites and downloads

Torch browser is another alternative to Google that comes loaded with multimedia-based features. This browser has a built-in Media Grabber that lets you download audio or video from any site in a single click. So you don’t have to download extra software, converters, or extensions.

In fact, you can play videos in the Torch Player even before they have finished downloading. For easy and quick downloading, it has a built-in torrent client, so you can manage torrents straight from the browser.

The browser comes with a music extension called “Torch Music” that lets you play music for free. For further entertainment, it has a gaming extension named “Torch Games,” where you can play tons of free games right on the browser.

Overall, I’d say Torch is the best Google Chrome alternative in 2021 if you are someone who likes to download lots of media from the internet.

Available for: Windows only

Why use the Torch Browser?

• Multimedia-focused features like built-in media downloader, torrent, audio/video player
• Great for entertainment
• Inbuilt extensions for Gaming, Music, Social Media

The next Chrome alternative on our list takes a different approach than most of the browsers in 2021. While other browsers strip down their features to provide a speedy and minimalistic experience, Maxthon does the opposite by adding as many helpful features as possible.

Some of these extra and useful features are media downloader, screen-capture tool, Reader mode , etc. Apart from these, you get the usual features to synchronize bookmarks, tabs, options, the address bar, new-tab links, notes sync, and password sync.

However, Maxthon lags behind Chrome and Firefox in important aspects of UI and performance. Also, if privacy is a bigger concern for you than features, I would suggest that you skip this browser. Also check out our detailed guide on best Twitter alternatives that you can use in 2022.

Available for:  Windows, iOS, Android

Why use the Maxthon?

• Built-in blockchain identity manager-VBox
• Ad-blocker, media downloader, reading mode

Microsoft has replaced its legacy Edge with a Chromium-based Edge browser that is also a good option from a privacy perspective. If you still haven’t tried Microsoft Edge because the image of Internet Explorer is stuck in your mind, I will urge you to think twice. The new Microsoft Edge looks nothing like its predecessor and offers a faster browsing experience than IE.

In fact, this browser comes with unique features that aren’t present on Chrome. You can even choose to draw, write, and highlight parts of a web page without installing any extensions or plugins. It also lets you read both PDF files and eBooks natively and comes with a built-in Cortana integration.

For Windows 10 users, their desktop comes with access to Microsoft Edge. Edge has a clean look and is easy to navigate. It taps into Windows Defender to help ensure your computer doesn’t become infected, plus it loads webpages quickly. Overall, it deserves to be called one of the best Chrome alternatives in 2021.

Available for:  Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

Why use Microsoft Edge?

• Only Windows browser to support Netflix in 4K
• Reading list for articles
• Annotations for web pages and PDFs

The next alternative to Chrome also focuses on user privacy. Even though Epic browser does not use a specialized onion network like Tor, it can protect your privacy from the common tracking methods. It has built-in protection against tracking, crypto-mining, ultrasound signaling, fingerprinting, and malware.

Another significant feature is its one-click encryption tool that can hide your IP address on activation and encrypt your traffic. It hides your footprints on the web and avoids surveillance.

Epic Browser doesn’t save your history, and there is no DNS pre-fetching, third-party cookies, or autofill feature. On closing a browsing session, the browser automatically deletes any database, preference, cookies associated with your account.

Why use Epic?

• Always-On Private Browsing mode, Ultrasound Signaling, Free VPN & Proxy
• Blocks ads, trackers, cryptocurrency mining scripts, and malware.
• One-click encryption tool, built-in video downloader

Available for:  Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Browse safely and anonymously with these Chrome alternatives

This brings us to the end of this list. All the browsers mentioned here are the best alternatives to Chrome in 2021. Be it the terms of speed, privacy, security, or ease of use. I’d recommend users to pick any of the above based on their requirements.

So feel free to try these options, and in case there is some other good browser like Google that deserves a place in this list of best Google Chrome alternatives, feel free to drop suggestions in the comment box below!

Best Chrome Alternatives FAQ

Brave browser is the best alternative to Google Chrome in 2021. Other considerable options for browsers other than Google Chrome are Firefox, Safari, Vivaldi, etc.

The biggest reasons to not use Google Chrome are privacy concerns and RAM hogging nature. Google tracks all your online activity via Chrome browser and bombards you with ads wherever you go on the internet. Plus it consumes more RAM than other browsers which makes your device sluggish.

Brave is definitely better than Chrome if privacy is your biggest concern.

The difference between Google and Google Chrome is that Google is a search engine that helps you find stuff on the internet. Whereas Google Chrome is a web browser which is basically an application where the results of your queries or a web page can be displayed.

An Editor and a Tech Journalist with a software development background. I am a big fan of technology and memes. At Fossbytes, I cover all aspects of tech but my specific area of interest is Programming and Development.

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Best web browsers 2024

Here are all the best web browsers for seamless surfing, privacy, features, and more

The best web browsers ensure the internet is a breeze to use. They offer an easy route for accessing the internet's limitless content and information, without ever feeling overwhelming.  

Some browsers focus on privacy so your data is kept away from advertising firms, while others offer a varied ecosystem of extensions so you can customize your experience extensively. The best combines all of these elements and more.

For many, Google Chrome is the most popular choice, but we've given the number one spot to Microsoft's Edge browser. Both are built on Chromium, but Edge is ever so slightly faster than Google's browser. They share many of the same features so you won't miss out on anything here, but you will benefit from some enhanced efficiency.

Ultimately though, the decision is down to you. There are a wealth of web browser options out there, each suiting different tastes. Mozilla's Firefox may look outdated, for instance, but it's fantastic at keeping your search data away from prying eyes. Alternatively, the power user will adore Vivaldi as they can control their browsing experience down to the most minute of details. If you're that way inclined, you may want to pair it up with the best VPN service too. There's always Safari too although that's best for Apple users though rather than Windows systems. 

If you've got the time to try out a few different options, that could be a good idea. For everyone else though, read on while we guide you through what we think are the best of the bunch. 

Whether you're looking for the best web browser for the best home computer , best laptop , smartphone , or best tablet , there's a great option for you here.  

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There are a wealth of options though, and many will surprise you. Mozilla’s Firefox may look a little outdated compared to its contemporaries, but it’ll keep prying eyes away from your search data. Vivaldi is for the power user, someone that wants to control their browsing experience down to the most granular of details. If that sounds like you, you may want to check out our guide to the best VPN service as well.

But whether you’re browsing on your home computer , laptop , smartphone, or tablet, here are our picks for the best web browsers in 2022.

1. Microsoft Edge: Best web browser overall

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Microsoft Edge

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Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

After years of fumbling the ball with Internet Explorer, and a rather inauspicious start for itself, Microsoft finally has a winning formula on its hands with Microsoft Edge. We could be condescending of the fact that it managed this by basing its new web browser off Google Chrome, which used to be our favorite browser, but honestly, who cares?

Microsoft Edge takes the winning formula of Chrome and adds a few unique features to differentiate itself from its competitors, namely a lower resource drain that means it won’t set your computer ablaze if you open too many tabs. Edge also comes with a much more robust set of privacy features to help keep snooping websites out of your personal data, and it hasn't signed up to FLOC like Chrome.

Microsoft Edge used to be below Chrome in the rankings, but with each update it's getting better and now, for us, it sits at the top of the pile. It's easy to switch to Edge from Chrome, and you can do so in a matter of seconds.

2. Google Chrome: Best browser for Gmail users

Google Chrome

Google Chrome has reigned supreme in the world of web browsers for some time now, but it has since slipped to the second spot in our list. Chrome features an extensive library of extensions to help you customize your browser experience and has a sleek, minimalist style that carries all the information and functionality you need without getting in the way or looking ugly.

It’s also compatible with just about every device under the sun, and you can carry your preferred settings between devices using your Google account. That means, for example, that your smartphone will remember the bookmarks you saved on your laptop.

It has become a little resource-hungry though, devouring your system RAM if you have too many web pages open at once. It’s also not great when it comes to privacy settings, and uses a highly controversial method of sorting users, called FLOC, so if you’re concerned about big tech snooping on you, maybe try Edge or Firefox instead.

3. Mozilla Firefox: Best web browser for privacy

Mozilla Firefox

After a few years in a bit of slump due to its addiction to eating all your computer’s RAM, Mozilla Firefox is back in the big leagues. This revitalized version of Firefox now has a lighter impact on your system while still offering all the functionality you’d expect from a web browser.

Firefox also offers one of the most comprehensive security and privacy feature sets of any web browser, which means it’s the safest web browser to use if you want to keep your personal information secure when you’re online.

The only thing letting Firefox down at the moment is the lack of extensions when compared to Chrome and Edge, which share the same vast library. Firefox’s unique architecture means it needs bespoke extensions, so the library isn’t quite as deep as we’d like.

4. Vivaldi: Best browser for customization

Download Vivaldi and you've got a quick, versatile web browser with some excellent built-in features. While it doesn't technically do anything that you can't do with Chrome or Edge and a bunch of extensions, Vivaldi bakes a wide range of features into a single browser, and is all the better for it.

Among the boons in Vivaldi are the options to post to Instagram from a desktop computer or laptop, the ability to auto-fill cookie pop-ups (so they never appear), and the ability to take full-page screenshots of web pages with a single button press. This is just scratching the surface of everything that Vivaldi offers, and it comes with a huge number of customization options.

It's quick, too, and it doesn't have sinister data collection practices either. The only real downside is that it can be tougher to use if you're not technically-minded, and you won't use a decent suite of the features it offers.

5. Safari: Best web browser for casual Mac users

Apple Safari

Safari is the default browser that comes preinstalled on Apple devices, including both MacOS laptops and home computers, along with its smartphones in the iPhone range. It has all the basic features that you’d expect from a web browser and will do a serviceable job if you’re a casual user. It runs quickly and doesn’t drain your PC’s performance much, but the lack of customization options and poor range of extensions mean that it struggles to stack up against other options like Chrome or Firefox. 

There’s also no Windows version, which is an issue when it comes to keeping all your preferences and settings unified across multiple devices. With chrome you can share settings between your Windows PC and iOS iPhone, but you can’t do that with Safari. It’s fine, but there are better options out there.

6. Opera: Good all-rounder

Opera feels similar to Google Chrome because it uses the same base program. But Opera is unique because it features a sidebar where you can pin links to your favorite websites, sort of like a bookmark, or shortcuts to email and chat windows.

You can adjust the settings to hide the sidebar and use more traditional menus and toolbars like other internet browser programs. 

Opera is decently fast, about on par with Firefox and Chrome when it comes to initial startup, site navigation and page loading. It’s compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, and works on iOS and Android mobile devices. The URL bar doubles as a search bar, and it has stacking, which means you can drag and drop open tabs in the order you want them. 

Opera is blocked by several websites that aren’t familiar with this web browser, especially very old and out-of-date websites that haven’t been updated to the most recent browser standards. Also, Opera doesn’t have any form of web blocking or parental controls by default, but you can add these via add-ons.

7. Maxthon: Best for drag-and-drop

Maxthon is a good choice if you like the feel and user experience of Internet Explorer but have a Windows 10 operating system where Explorer isn’t an option. Maxthon has some unique features, most notably its drag-and-drop content feature.

 This allows you to grab any image or content on any website and drop into a personal message or email message to share or send, eliminating completely the need to clip, copy or save content. 

Maxthon also includes parental controls to block specific content based on security levels and site ratings. URLs and information you’ve typed into online forms is automatically saved and autofilled the next time you start to fill out a form. However, you can adjust the settings to stop the autofill of personal information. 

This internet browser isn’t very effective at stopping malware downloads or blocking phishing schemes, so we strongly suggest using a third-party antivirus program alongside Maxthon.

8. Avast Secure Browser Pro: Good for privacy

Avast Secure Browser Pro

Avast Secure Browser Pro is a premium browser that needs to be paid for but justifies that cost with the inclusion of a VPN. This means your browsing is kept private and secure. But you also have the antivirus specialist's other areas of support. This means you have protection from malware, phishing scams and even ad blocking.

Avast is quick at starting up and navigating between pages. And compared to more popular browsers, Avast loaded more quickly. This works with the Chrome system meaning you have a host of apps available specifically for this but you can also access all the many apps Chrome has on offer too.

The use of color-coded tabs to help organize groups of open windows is a really useful way of working. It's this attention to detail that runs throughout the browser and makes it a superb option for those that want the best security and privacy without sacrificing speed.

9. Avant: Best IE compatibility

Avant Browser

The Avant Browser feels very similar to older versions of Internet Explorer, which isn’t surprising because it uses the same primary source code. Avant can be used as either a standalone browser or as an add-on to Internet Explorer, giving IE users updated tools and functions no longer supported by Microsoft.

This internet browser has session restore automatically enabled, which means your tabs and activities are saved each time you close the browser and will be there the next time it is opened. It also automatically updates itself. In our tests, Avant Browser did a decent job protecting against phishing schemes and malicious downloads. It isn’t very fast, though, coming well behind several more popular options in both navigation and page loading times.

It comes in useful if you still need to use Internet Explorer to access certain secure apps that won't allow another web browser. 

10. Seamonkey: One to avoid

SeaMonkey is an open source browser, so you have access to the code and can customize its features.

Users in the SeaMonkey community share ideas and code for features they want to add, and you can join the discussion, even if you don’t write code. There isn’t a central management team that oversees these add-ons or version updates, so you have to be vigilant about exactly what’s being added. It is possible that a version release will be buggy, include tools that you don’t want, or be insecure. In these cases the SeaMonkey community works together to provide patches or new versions to fix these issues. 

The current version of SeaMonkey includes a password manager, customizable tools and session restore. It isn’t compatible with smartphones or tablets, and it feels clunky and outdated. Plus, it is much slower than other web browsers we tested. It also does a poor job of identifying phishing schemes and other harmful websites, and it doesn’t stop malware from being downloaded to your computer.

We like the open source community of SeaMonkey, but it's not a browser we recommend you use.

Do you need to use a VPN when browsing the web?

You don't need a VPN to use a web browser, but it's a great way to stay secure and anonymous when you’re online. VPNs use encrypted tunnels for your web activity, which prevent anyone else from accessing the data you're sending or seeing what you're reading or downloading – including your internet service provider . 

VPNs are so easy to use that they've become increasingly popular over the last few years, with growing numbers of people using them in addition to traditional online security, like antivirus software .

When might you need one? If you’re on public Wi-Fi (at a hotel, cafe or airport, say) it's a very good idea to use a VPN. Want to browse anonymously? A VPN will let you hide your IP address. And if you're abroad on holiday and want to watch your favorite sports or entertainment shows – you'll likely need a VPN that can allow you to use the internet as if you're still in the US. 

We think the best VPN service is ExpressVPN . It's fast, offers superb security, and it's very easy to use. But if you're not sure which one is right for you, take a look at our best VPN service guide, where you'll find more advice.

ExpressVPN: Save 49% | $6.67/month (was $12.95/month) ExpressVPN is the best VPN service there is. It'll keep your computer, cell phone or tablet secure while you browse online – and with this exclusive offer you can get it almost half price, at just $6.67/month. That's amazing value. (Plus there’s a 30-day money back guarantee if you don't like it.)

How we tested Internet browsers

We downloaded each internet browser to as many devices we could to check the compatibility. Even when a device or operating system wasn’t listed on the browser’s homepage, we still attempted to locate it in the Google Play and Apple store just to make sure we didn’t miss it. And if we couldn’t find an official app, we attempted to download the program from each browser’s homepage.

After downloading the browsers to our test computers, laptops and mobile devices, we recorded the time it took for the browser to navigate from one page to another, and the time it took to completely load the page. As part of this test we navigated to a variety of sites including search engines and content-heavy pages like news sites. We repeated this several times so we could get a good average time for each browser to compare against all the others we tested. Of course, load times can affected by the time of day, type of internet connection and the number of devices connected at once. Still we got a good idea of how reliable each browser is. For the most part there isn’t a lot of difference between the more well-known internet browsers: Firefox, Chrome, Edge and Safari.

The biggest difference we saw, and one that is important to consider when choosing an internet browser, is how well each recognized and blocked malware. This includes virus downloads, phishing schemes and untrusted websites that are known to harbor malicious files. We tested internet browsers for security using live malware samples.

For our security tests, we didn’t change any browser settings, using only the default security setup. While we know adjusting some settings will result in better protection, many users are not tech savvy enough to do this effectively. We feel it is better to test the default security settings since this is what the majority of users will use.

After testing how well the internet browsers detect and stop malware on their own, we installed antivirus software programs and performed these tests again. This allowed us to see how well each internet browser works alongside these programs to provide optimum online security to you and your family. It also let us see how each browser behaves with browser extensions.

Web Browser FAQ

How do I install a new web browser?

Your new computer or smartphone should have come with a web browser already installed. On most Windows desktops, this will be Microsoft Edge; Safari is the default browser on Macs. You can search for the browser you want to use in any other web browser. For example, you can search for Google Chrome in the Edge search bar. Once you find the site for the browser you want to use, click the download button and give the permissions for the download and installation when prompted. The web browser will download and install itself on your device.

You can download, install and use multiple web browsers at once. Just know that each browser takes up a lot of memory on your device and requires still more to operate correctly. Chrome tends to use the most resources.

If your computer doesn’t already have a web browser, there are a couple of ways to get one installed. If your computer has a disk drive, you can order an installation disk for your preferred browser. However, since most computers are now made without a disk drive, it is a challenge to find an available installation disk.

The other option is to download the web browser program to an external drive. Most web browsers will fit on a flash (or thumb) drive. This will have to be done from a computer that already has a browser installed since you’ll need to browser to download the program file. Once the file is saved to your external drive, you can connect it to your computer to upload and install your preferred web browser.

Whichever method you choose, just be certain you are visiting the legitimate web browser’s web page in order to avoid accidentally downloading a malicious file. Several of the best antivirus programs, like Trend Micro Antivirus Plus Security , use web detection technology to ensure you are visiting a safe site.

Can I have more than one web browser on my computer?

Yes, you can have more than one web browser installed on your computer. We have found that some websites and programs work best in a particular browser. And there are some software programs that won’t download from certain web browsers. But keep in mind that you need enough hard drive space to house more than one browser on any device. 

Chrome is a 30MB program, but Google suggests having at least 100MB of hard disk space available for its browser to install and operate properly. Mozilla doesn’t disclose exactly how big the Firefox download is, but several users have reported needing at least 50MB of available space in order to download it, and Mozilla does suggest allotting 200MB for Firefox to run.

What are browser extensions, and do I need to pay for them?

Browser extensions are program shortcuts that are designed to work alongside your browser to enhance your online experience, much like the apps you download to your smartphone. In the past these extensions cost about $5 per year, but most are now free. We had a hard time finding any paid extensions. We did notice that the most popular browser extensions Firefox users downloaded were adblockers and expense trackers, while most Chrome and Edge users downloaded educational apps, like Grammarly, and games. 

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Ian Stokes is the Tech Editor here at Top Ten Reviews. He has extensive experience in tech and games journalism, with work published on IGN, Kotaku UK, Waypoint, GamesRadar, Trusted Reviews, and many more. You'll find him covering everything from smartphones and home computers to 3D printers and headphones. He's also our resident cocktail expert.

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How to Get Online Without Using a Browser

Last Updated: January 9, 2024

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 19 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 204,383 times. Learn more...

Although it is much more difficult and cumbersome, it is still possible to connect to certain sections of websites without using a browser. However, since browsers are responsible for interpreting, understanding, and ultimately transforming the code in websites to a graphical interface, your functionality will be limited. You will still be able to connect and communicate with websites, but you will have to operate using text commands. You will not be able to watch videos, see images, or play games without using a browser. This guide will show you how to download Firefox if you do not have any sort of browser installed.

Using File Transfer Protocol

• Make sure that Internet Explorer is your primary browser. This is the only way that you can use FTP to download a browser. [1] X Research source

• In order to reach the Mozilla FTP server from Windows Explorer: type ftp://ftp.mozilla.org into the address bar of Windows Explorer, then press Enter. Next, copy the Firefox Setup .exe file to your computer. Simply drag and drop the file, right-click and "Copy To Folder,", or copy and paste it to your desktop. [2] X Research source

• Username: anonymous. Enter in anonymous and press ↵ Enter . You will then be prompted to enter in a password.
• Password: anonymous. Enter in anonymous and press ↵ Enter . You will not actually see the letters appear as you type them. Don't worry, this is normal and to be expected.
• After entering in the log-in credentials, multiple lines of text will be generated explaining a bit about the directory you have connected to. If successful, the last line of text generated will say Login successful.

• When you use FTP, everything is contained within folders or directories. Just like you access documents on your own computer by opening folders within folders, you can connect to and access information on remote servers and websites in a similar fashion with FTP commands.
• The cd command stands for change directories. It is the command which tells the host that you would like to change the directory you are connected to.

• You may be prompted by a pop-up dialog box to give permission to the server host to send a file directly to your computer. Give permission.
• After waiting a little while, a line of text should appear saying Transfer Complete .

Checking Email With a Mailbox Program

• If you use Windows, try activating Microsoft Outlook. This program comes automatically installed on Windows.
• Try Mozilla Thunderbird. It's a free mail program that works on all known operating systems. Plus, it's open source – so it will be safer than many proprietary "backdoored" programs.

• If you have any trouble, find the "Help" section of the mailbox program, or run a web search for "how to set up a mail account in [so-and-so mailbox program]."

• Open the email using your non-browser mailbox program. Look for the attached browser file, then click it to download.
• Open the file, and click "Install". Follow the steps to install the browser of your choice onto your computer.
• Browse the Internet using your new browser. Keep the install file saved on your computer, just in case.

Downloading Files with Other Applications

• wget: https://download.mozilla.org/?product=firefox-40.0-SSL&os=linux64&lang=en-US
• curl: https://download.mozilla.org/?product=firefox-40.0-SSL&os=linux64&lang=en-US

• This doesn't apply to people who use an operating system earlier than Windows 8. Pre-8 Windows users are out of luck. In fairness, 8+ users are too – the Windows store doesn't have much content.

Using the News App (Only Works for Apple Devices)

• Videos work the same way they always do.
• Username and password data will not be transferred or saved.
• Restrictions on sites are removed.
• There is a back button, but there is no forward button.
• You can send webpages to anywhere but the IBooks app.
• You can save images.

Expert Q&A

• If you get caught your parents may just ban you from the computer all together. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Modern browsers often have built-in security checks to warn you of dangerous files. Be careful when downloading files without a browser, as many of these alternates will not be designed to flag or sandbox malicious and potentially malicious files. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.howtogeek.com/125447/stupid-geek-tricks-how-to-download-firefox-on-a-new-computer-without-using-internet-explorer/
• ↑ https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/questions/964240
• ↑ http://superuser.com/questions/50427/if-the-only-browser-in-windows-is-dead-how-to-connect-to-the-internet
• ↑ http://daniel.haxx.se/docs/curl-vs-wget.html

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VPNoverview.com Privacy Anonymous Browsing Best Internet Browser for Privacy: Top 10 Picks for 2024

Best Internet Browser for Privacy: Top 10 Picks for 2024

Using a private internet browser is paramount given the threats to your data on the web today. Your data can be sold to third-party advertisers, be used by hackers and criminals, or be spied upon by the government.

While most modern browsers have some privacy and security features, we shortlisted the 10 best browsers for privacy. These are:

• Tor Browser : The best anonymous browser
• Mullvad Browser : An alternative to Tor Browser
• Brave : The best browser for privacy for existing Chrome users
• Mozilla Firefox : The most customizable anonymous browser
• Safari : The best browser for privacy for Mac
• Chromium : A minimalist anonymous browser
• Vivaldi : The best browser for privacy with an in-built suite of security tools
• Epic Privacy Browser : The top browser for privacy with an in-built proxy
• Freenet : The best anonymous browser for free sites
• LibreWolf : A great browser for privacy for Firefox users

All the browsers mentioned above have features that will keep the information during your browsing sessions safe.

However, for complete online privacy, you should consider using a VPN in conjunction with a private browser . NordVPN offers premium security features, like the ability to hide your IP for example, at a fair price and is an ideal candidate to pair up with the browsers mentioned above.

Read the rest of the article for a detailed breakdown of each of these browsers and their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Having a private browser in today’s high-tech world is a must. From keeping your details hidden from prying eyes to stopping big tech from tracking your every move, switching to a browser built for privacy is one of the first steps you should take to improve your online anonymity.

In this article, we will explore the best browsers for privacy , their unique features, and how they can help protect your sensitive information from prying eyes. Whether you’re a casual internet user or a tech-savvy individual, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about which privacy browser is right for you.

Why You Need a Private Browser

You need a private browser because the websites you visit store a lot of personal information about you , otherwise called a browser fingerprint . Sites can still gather this information even if you turn off your cookies! In most cases, the information that websites collect includes:

• IP address : An ID number for your device on the internet
• Type of browser : The kind of browser you’re using to connect to the internet, like Google Chrome
• Operating system : The type of operating system you’re using, such as Windows or macOS
• Screen resolution : The number of pixels on your screen
• Fonts : The type of font, like Times New Roman or Arial

This information is used to create a unique profile about you, which in turn is used to track you online. For instance, have you come across an ad for a product you previously abandoned in a cart on an e-commerce website while you’re visiting another unrelated website? If yes, it is because your browser stored that information.

However, you can protect your data while using your favorite browser, such as Google Chrome, or add a layer of security on top of your private browser by using the industry-leading NordVPN.

Save big with up to 58% off a two-year subscription!

• Fast and large worldwide network of VPN servers
• Perfect for privacy and streaming
• Trusted by many, with over 14 million users

Best Browser for Privacy: The Definitive List

In search for the top private browsers, our team of experts thoroughly ran tests on different options available and compiled a list of the best browser for privacy based on the following:

• Transparent privacy policies
• Solid security and encryption features
• Previous breaches and security incidents
• Overall performance and utility

So, let’s take a deep dive into the best browsers for your privacy online.

1. Tor Browser: The Best Anonymous Browser

• Source code is publicly available
• Auto deletes cookies that track you
• Bypasses censorship
• Can be slow
• Allows access to potentially harmful sites

The Tor browser is a non-profit project that hides your identity, preferences, and any form of personal data by sending your traffic through at least three nodes in the Tor network. Your data is encrypted at every Tor node (server) it goes through, hence making it very difficult for anyone to decipher that information.

For instance, if you search for a query on Google, the query, together with your personal details, is sent to Google. As you can imagine, this is detrimental to your privacy.

To enhance your security, the Tor browser redirects your request through encrypted servers before finally delivering it to Google.

This process masks your personal details and ensures that Google doesn’t know where the request came from therefore making you anonymous. As noted in our Tor Browser review , Tor’s privacy and security features, such as NoScript, block scripts intended to track you online or infect your device with malware.

However, during our tests, we noticed connection speeds drag while using the Tor browser.

Tor anonymous browser is a necessity if you would like to access the dark web , which speaks volumes to just how anonymous it is and why it is our best browser for privacy.

Why we picked Tor as a top privacy browser

• Tor uses a decentralized network , which means that no single entity controls, monitors, or logs your internet traffic.
• This encrypted browser allows you to access the internet anonymously without revealing your IP address or other identifying information.
• Tor is open-source software , which means its source code is available for anyone to review and audit for privacy and security concerns.
• It offers a range of privacy-focused features , such as disabling browser plugins, blocking third-party cookies, and preventing browser fingerprinting.
• The secure browser allows you to use the internet without leaving any traceable browsing data on your computer, which can help protect your privacy and enhance tracking protection from advertisers and data brokers.
• Frequent updates further add to its overall security.

2. Mullvad Browser: An Alternative to Tor Browser

• Implements Tor Browser security
• Browsing activity encrypted with Mullvad VPN
• Firefox-based browser
• Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Snappy website rendering

In 2023, one of the best privacy partnerships was solidified. Mullvad VPN and the Tor Project partnered and released the Mullvad browser. The secure browser is based on Mozilla Firefox, which means they took Firefox’s code, which is publicly available, and created the Mullvad privacy browser from it.

We fired up this exciting, secure browser and took it for a spin. First, we visited websites loaded with ads to see how well the built-in ad blocker , UBlock Origin, would perform. It successfully blocked ads, and we enjoyed an ad-free experience. Mullvad also comes pre-installed with NoScript, which blocks malicious code from infecting your device.

However, we couldn’t help but notice how long the websites took to load . Unfortunately, they took twice as long to load on Mullvad compared to Firefox or Brave.

Another thing we noticed during our tests was how the Mullvad browser didn’t render some web pages as well as on other browsers. For instance, in some cases, a webpage didn’t fill the window of the browser .

Additionally, Mullvad doesn’t come with a built-in VPN. Instead, users need to purchase the secure Mullvad VPN separately. You can read our in-depth Mullvad VPN review to learn more about this acclaimed VPN.

Why we picked Mullvad Browser as a top privacy browser

• Based on Tor security features but not the Tor network.
• This secure browser does not collect telemetry . Cookies, search bar entries, cached browsing data, and pages you visit are not saved.
• Mullvad privacy browser is pre-installed with privacy-friendly extensions such as UBlock Origin and NoScript.
• Offers different security levels from standard to safest. Safest is super secure but impeeds on the browsing experience.
• Blocks browser fingerprinting by default.

3. Brave Browser: The Best Browser for Privacy for Existing Chrome Users

• Pre-installed with ad blocker
• Sleek and intuitive interface
• Publicly available source code
• Loaded with privacy and security features
• Brave's ad program has led to privacy concerns
• Performance issues such as slow loading times and crashes

Brave is an aesthetic option for your private and secure browsing. We are impressed with Brave’s arsenal of security features. For example, in our tests, we attempted to access unsecured websites using Brave. To our relief, its HTTPS Everywhere feature ensured that the connections were secure and encrypted, protecting us from eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks .

However, there are some privacy concerns with Brave privacy browser. In April 2019, Brave launched its ad program. On the one hand, it blocked ads from third parties, but on the other, it showed its own ads to users, which was suspicious to us. Although, it later changed this and started paying users for viewing ads.

In addition, a user also found that Brave was autocompleting URLs related to certain crypto websites that it had partnerships with. This also casts some doubt over the browser’s transparency practices.

If you are worried about the privacy of your personal information while using Brave, we recommend purchasing and downloading a VPN . NordVPN is our number one VPN provider, which comes with a Threat Protection feature that will block unwanted ads and will offer you top-notch security by encrypting your data.

Why we picked Brave as a top privacy browser

• Brave allows private windows with Tor that leave no trace of your activities online.
• The secure browser blocks Facebook and other social media sites from tracking your activity on other websites.
• Spoofs data sent to Google web services and blocks features such as FLoC and Google Reporting, which are not privacy-friendly.
• Brave offers a feature called “ Brave Shields ” that allows you to control what information websites can access, including blocking scripts, fingerprinting, and other tracking technologies.

4. Mozilla Firefox: The Most Customizable Anonymous Browser

• Customize it to your needs
• Robust security measures such as tracking blockers and data deletion
• Source code is available to the public
• Regular updates and patches
• Earns majority of its revenue from Google partnership
• Setting up security features and customizations can be daunting
• Can affect system performance on older computers

Firefox is a private and anonymous browser run by the Mozilla Foundation. It is a great privacy browser as you can customize it based on your needs, and it comes with some excellent security features, such as tracking blockers and malware protection. Moreover, it frequently updates its software and fixes any glitches quickly and effectively.

However, it’s important to note Mozilla secured an annual deal with Google in return for pushing Google as the default search engine with Firefox. This means the intrusive tracking by Google doesn’t stop even while using Mozilla Firefox, despite its commitment to privacy.

But while testing Firefox, our privacy team liked the fact that we could adjust it to our preferences easily and to the extent we preferred. By playing around with its plethora of settings, you can make it ultra-private and secure. Take a look at our Firefox set-up guide to learn how to configure the browser for the best privacy results.

Moreover, if you want to keep Google from logging your data but still continue using Mozilla Firefox, there is an extra step you can take. You can use NordVPN . It will spoof your details, such as your IP address, that Google uses to target you with ads. And the best part? You can use NordVPN for free to try out its features!

Why we picked Mozzila Firefox as a top privacy browser

• Firefox offers a range of privacy settings that can be customized to your preferences. You can block cookies, prevent websites from tracking you, and even use add-ons to enhance your privacy.
• This secure web browser has built-in security features such as phishing and malware protection , which can help protect you from online threats.
• Firefox has implemented a new “ Total Cookie Protection ” feature that prevents cookies from being shared across different websites, which can help prevent cross-site tracking.
• Firefox supports a wide range of add-ons that can enhance your privacy and security. For example, you can use add-ons like uBlock Origin to block ads and trackers.

5. Safari: The Best Browser for Privacy for Mac

• Blocks malicious files
• Built-in tracking prevention boosts anonymity
• Numerous extensions to configure security preferences as required
• Infrequent updates can lead to security issues
• Lacks overall customization
• Owned by Apple and source code is private

Safari is Apple’s default browser and boasts a wide range of useful security and privacy features.

For instance, it blocks malicious code intended to steal your information, and it keeps your data secure in case you click on an insecure link. While testing Safari, we also noticed that when we enabled the “Fraudulent Website Warning” feature, it would notify us if a website potentially contained malicious software.

In keeping with Apple’s focus on privacy, a tracking prevention feature was added to Safari in the recent past. As a result, it doesn’t let advertisers use your information, and it helps you stay anonymous when browsing the web by hiding your digital fingerprint.

Moreover, we tested Safari’s “ Private Browsing ” feature and noticed that when this was enabled, Safari did not store the websites we visited, nor did it remember any information for AutoFill forms.

Thanks to Apple’s recent pivot toward privacy, Safari comes out as one of the more private and secure web browsers . If you use Apple devices, then Safari is a no-brainer, really. However, you may want to enable some of its safety-enhancing browser extensions to protect yourself completely.

Why we picked Safari as a top privacy browser

• Safari Reader removes ads and other distractions from web pages, making it easier to read content without being tracked by advertisers.
• The best privacy browser for Macs’ Intelligent Web Tracking Prevention blocks third-party trackers from collecting data about your online activities, making it difficult for advertisers to build a profile about you.
• Safari comes with a built-in password manager that securely stores your login credentials and autofill’s them for you when you revisit a site.
• Safari uses anti-fingerprinting technology to make it difficult for websites to track your device and gather information about your online activity.

6. Chromium: A Minimalist Anonymous Browser

• Doesn't share data with Google
• Regular updates and security patches enhances security
• Code is available to the public (open-source)
• Problems playing videos and viewing files
• Lacks plug-ins that can enhance privacy

Granted: Google Chrome loads fast, offers access to helpful browser extensions, and looks great. However, users are wary of Google’s data collection and sharing practices due to its sprawling ad-targeting business.

Chromium has all of the good parts of Google Chrome but without the infringement on personal data and security concerns . Despite being based on Google Chrome, it doesn’t send any data to Google, making it one of the best browsers for privacy.

Users looking for a minimalist but private Chrome alternative should look no further than Chromium. You can rest assured that your data isn’t being sold to ads services or to Google. Of course, the minimalist nature means that usability is compromised, but that’s just a tradeoff you have to make for privacy and security.

Why we picked Chromium as a top privacy browser

• The privacy-focused browser is available on a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android, which makes it a versatile choice for users who need to use the same browser across multiple devices.
• Compatible with a wide range of browser extensions to improve your privacy.
• It’s not bloated with software making it fast and responsive.
• Easy for Google Chrome users to transition due to a similar look and feel .

7. Vivaldi: The Best Private Browser With an In-Built Suite

• Rich set of privacy and usabillity features
• E-mail and calendar clients for improved productivity
• Pre-installed anti-tracker and ad blocker
• Not open-source

Vivaldi is a Chromium-based browser that combines security with flexibility and customization , and this is why it made our list of the best browser for privacy. The increasingly popular privacy browser combines some essential security features with a strong focus on privacy , which makes Vivaldi a safe browser to use.

During our tests, Vivaldi was straightforward to set up , and we were able to disable all third-party cookies. We also noticed that our browsing history was stored on our device only and not on the Vivaldi browser. Moreover, we could customize Vivaldi to our preferences and create quick commands and keyboard shortcuts.

In a comment to VPNOverview for this article, Jon von Tetzchner, the Founder of Vivaldi, stated:

We are also unique in that we are not an ad company and we do not collect user data, not in the cloud and not locally either. Some may argue that as long as the data does not leave your computer, it is OK, but we do not agree. The damage from user profiling and surveillance based ads is still there and in some ways it is even worse as the amount of data collected can be more extensive. Jon von Tetzchner Founder of Vivaldi

The in-built Calendar and Mail apps are also useful for users who prefer integrated apps and lack privacy-friendly substitutes for them.

Vivaldi’s integrated suite of tools makes it a unique browser. The fact that these tools are offered with little to no compromise when it comes to user privacy makes it one of the best private browsers in our books. That said, the inability to prevent browser fingerprinting is a significant drawback.

Why we picked Vivaldi as a top privacy browser

• Vivaldi does not collect any user data and stores all user data locally on the user’s device.
• Vivaldi’s sync feature is end-to-end encrypted , ensuring that users’ data is protected and cannot be accessed by third parties or hackers .
• Vivaldi allows users to customize their privacy settings , including blocking or allowing cookies, blocking ads, and disabling location tracking.
• This private browser uses the privacy-focused search engine called DuckDuckGo by default, which does not track users or store personal information.

8. Epic Privacy Browser: The Best Browser for Privacy With an In-Built Proxy

• Extreme privacy protection features
• In-built Proxy
• Auto deletion of data, passwords, and history after each session
• Limited functionality
• Does not block Yahoo! Search from tracking you

Epic Privacy Browser is another Chromium-based browser that maximizes user privacy and security . It makes a whole host of changes found in regular browsers to augment user privacy.

The private browser also provides comprehensive protection against tracking and fingerprinting . This means it protects you from advertisers that create a profile about you to target you with ads.

The in-built proxy is another helpful feature to facilitate anonymous browsing. While reviewing The Epic Privacy Browser, we tested its eight servers in multiple regions , such as the Americas, France, and Germany.

To our pleasant surprise, we comfortably streamed some of the shows in our list of best Netflix shows . Also, platforms such as Disney Plus worked flawlessly and without buffering.

This extreme focus on privacy does come with some downsides, however. Since the web browser retains no data, this can affect the general ease of use. For instance, while testing Epic Browser, it was impossible to look up the web pages we had visited in previous browsing sessions.

Another downside is Epic Browser has a partnership with Yahoo! Search . This partnership mandates Epic Browser not to disguise users using the proxy or anti-tracker when they click an ad on Yahoo! Search or other Yahoo-affiliated websites.

According to Epic Browser, “Yahoo! Search does bypass both our proxy and ad blocker. Upon ad click in Yahoo! Search, the proxy and built-in ad blocker remain disabled for several seconds .”

Therefore, if you want to use Yahoo! Search but still want to remain anonymous, we recommend using NordVPN, which will mask your IP address and hide your data from prying eyes.

Why we picked Epic Browser as a top privacy browser

• The private browser has a built-in proxy that allows you to browse the web anonymously. This feature can help you bypass website restrictions and protect your online identity.
• Epic Browser also encrypts your DNS requests , which means that your internet service provider cannot see which websites you are visiting.
• It encrypts all connections by default, which means that your browsing activity is protected from snooping by third parties.
• Epic is one of our best privacy browsers because it  stores no history , keeps no logs , prevents third-party cookies , and retains no cache.

However, its overall usability is not on the level of browsers like Firefox and Safari, as it sacrifices certain important features, such as browsing history, to maintain privacy.

9. Freenet: The Best Anonymous Browser for Freesites

• Decentralized network blocks tracking
• Supports anonymous file sharing
• Can only access Freesites and not all websites

Freenet is a useful tool for a popular form of torrenting called peer-to-peer file sharing and anonymous communication between small groups. However, much like Tor, we noticed that speeds on Freenet are significantly slower.

Also, we don’t recommend Freenet for daily use because, through this browser, we could only access “Freesites” during our tests. This means you can’t visit normal sites like Facebook, Reddit, and regular news sites.

However, with Freenet, data is transmitted through a series of nodes/intermediaries which makes it difficult to determine where internet traffic is actually coming from. Its decentralized nature makes Freenet highly censorship-resistant .

You can also use the browser to share large files in an anonymous manner . It features two modes, i.e., OpenNet and darknet. OpenNet functions like any normal browser, where users can connect with all other individuals using the Freenet network.

However, when using the darknet, users can limit their range of communication to just family and friends, facilitating anonymous browsing and communication.

Why we picked Freenet as a top privacy browser

• Freenet is a decentralized network , which means that there is no central server or point of control. This makes it more difficult for third parties to monitor or censor content on the platform.
• Freenet uses strong encryption to protect files shared on the platform. This means that users can share sensitive information without worrying about it being intercepted or compromised.
• This private browser allows users to communicate anonymously through its built-in messaging system, so users can send and receive messages without revealing their identity or location.
• It uses a series of proxies to protect users’ IP addresses, which makes it difficult for third parties to track users or monitor their activity on the platform.
• Freenet doesn’t keep logs of user activity on the platform. Hence, there is no record of users’ browsing history or other activity.

10. LibreWolf: The Best Browser for Privacy for Firefox Users

• Blends privacy with Firefox’s utility and customization
• Limited utility for streaming content

LibreWolf is based on Firefox with a marked focus on user privacy and security. It comes with several security configurations enabled right out of the box.

For example, during our testing of LibreWolf, we noticed that it includes only private search engines like DuckDuckGo which keeps you anonymous online, and SearX. We also observed that it protected our IP address when WebRTC was being used. WebGL and IPv6, which can sometimes compromise privacy, were also disabled. Additionally, when we closed the app, it deleted cookies and history.

Regarding security, LibreWolf aims to keep pace with upstream Firefox updates that patch any new security issues. Moreover, LibreWolf enables HTTPS encryption by default , which means that your traffic is encrypted and secure even if you visit insecure websites or use public Wi-Fi.

LibreWolf’s utility for streaming and content consumption is questionable as it blocks digital rights management technology. Most streaming platforms will not work in browsers with DRM disabled/blocked. It also lacks additional security features offered by other browsers, such as a password manager.

Why we picked LibreWolf as a top privacy browser

• It comes pre-installed with a set of privacy-focused add-ons , including uBlock Origin, Decentraleyes, Privacy Badger, and HTTPS Everywhere. These add-ons help to block ads and trackers, prevent browser fingerprinting, and encrypt user traffic.
• LibreWolf has several security settings enabled by default, including disabling telemetry, disabling geolocation, and disabling WebRTC. These settings help to prevent data collection and protect user privacy.
• The private browser does not “ phone home “ to Mozilla or any other server, which prevents sharing user data with third parties.
• Librefox blocks tracking cookies by default, which helps to prevent third-party trackers from following users around the web.

How We Chose Our Best Privacy Browsers for This List

With so many browsers available in the market, choosing the best browser for privacy can be a daunting task. We considered several essential factors, including security features , privacy policies , private search , and encryption . We discuss them in more detail below.

1. Privacy and security features

The use of private browsers is particularly important for users who want to protect sensitive information such as financial data, health information, or personal communications.

Without privacy and security features, online activities can be monitored , and sensitive information can be intercepted, leading to identity theft, fraud, or other security breaches.

In addition to protecting personal data, privacy and security features in private browsers also protect you from online threats such as spyware and phishing attacks.

Many private browsers offer built-in protection against these threats, such as blocking malicious websites or warning users about potentially dangerous downloads.

2. Data collection

The best browser for privacy should not collect any data on your browsing habits or personal information. This includes data like your search history, cookies, location data, and IP address.

Some browsers like Google Chrome have been criticized for “phoning home,” which means they regularly send user data to their servers or other third-party servers without the user’s knowledge or consent.

To ensure privacy, it’s important to use browsers that do not collect data or that allow you to control what data is sent and how it is used. This can prevent the sharing of your data with third parties, such as advertisers or government agencies.

However, if you want to be extra safe and ensure your data is not up for grabs, you can use a VPN. NordVPN will safeguard your sensitive online information and encrypt your data with highly secure VPN protocols . One of these protocols is OpenVPN that has the best encryption algorithms and ability to bypass the toughest firewalls while keeping you safe online.

3. Tracking protection

Tracking protection is an important privacy and security feature in browsers that we consider. It helps to prevent third-party trackers from monitoring your online activity .

When you browse the web, websites often use various types of trackers to collect information about your behavior, such as your search history, online purchases, and interests.

These trackers are often used for targeted advertising, but they can also be used for more nefarious purposes , such as identity theft or fraud. Therefore, it’s important to use browsers that offer some form of tracking protection to minimize the risk of being tracked.

4. Private search

The best browser for privacy should also offer private search capabilities, allowing you to search the web without revealing your search queries or personal information.

When you perform a search on the web, search engines often record information about your search history, including your search queries, IP addresses, and other identifying information.

This information can be used to create targeted advertising or sold to third parties for data mining or other purposes.

Private search engines, such as DuckDuckGo or StartPage, offer an alternative to traditional search engines by providing a private and secure way to search the web.

These search engines do not track your searches or collect any identifying information, making it more difficult for third parties to monitor or profile you.

5. Encryption

Encryption is a critical privacy and security feature in browsers that we highly considered. It helps to protect your data from unauthorized access and interception. When data is encrypted, it is converted into a code that can only be deciphered by someone who has the key to decode it.

Browsers use encryption to protect user data in several ways. One common use of encryption is to secure user connections to websites using HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure).

When a user connects to a website using HTTPS, their data is encrypted as it is transmitted between their device and the website’s server. This helps to prevent third parties from intercepting and reading user data in transit, such as login credentials or financial information.

Encryption is also used in other browser features, such as virtual private network services. For instance, NordVPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a secure server, making it more difficult for third parties to monitor or intercept your data.

Best Private and Anonymous Browsers for Mobile

While some of the browsers listed above have mobile apps as well, the browsers listed below are by far the best private browsers for iOS and Android .

DuckDuckGo mobile slashes trackers, blocks ads, forces HTTPS connections when possible, and grades websites based on their security.

The browser can automatically clear your navigation data , and you can also delete it yourself by clicking the flame icon at the bottom of the browser. DuckDuckGo Mobile is an excellent choice for your mobile web surfing needs.

Bromite is a Chromium fork for Android that does away with privacy-invasive features found in other mobile browsers. It has an in-built ad-blocker , which has features of some of the best ad blockers , and also has an incognito mode, DNS over HTTPS, and anti-fingerprinting mechanisms.

It’s a clutter-free browser that will help preserve browser privacy on your Android device.

Browsers You Should Avoid

Most browsers we talked about are a good choice, though some are better than others. However, there are several browsers you should avoid , too, as they may compromise your personal data while on the internet. We have listed some of them in the table below.

Pairing the Best Browser for Privacy With a VPN

While a secure browser is an important first step towards online privacy, it’s not enough by itself. Indeed, even the most secure browsers, like Tor, can have some security vulnerabilities . An important additional step you can take to secure yourself while browsing is to use a VPN.

A VPN can be used to change your IP address and encrypt your data – which helps prevent your ISP or government from snooping on you. Moreover, since you will now be using the VPN’s IP address, your real location will be hidden , and you will have the opportunity to access online content that may be blocked in your country.

We highly recommend NordVPN, as it is affordable and provides a wide range of secuirty features . Based on our extensive NordVPN review , we have found this provider to offer an extensive server network, great speeds, and top-notch encryption protocols that protect users’ online privacy and sensitive information.

Why Should I Use a Private Browser?

You should use a private browser to enhance your online safety and security. There are several downsides to using the wrong browser. Some of the harms you make yourself susceptible to are discussed below.

Private companies regularly track your online activity to determine your tastes and preferences and create a unique profile. Cookies are a big part of why you’re not anonymous online.

When you browse a website that uses cookies, a small file is saved on your PC, Mac, or smartphone. This file stores details like your activity on the site and a unique ID. This ID is then used to track your activity and other personal information . That’s how marketers can show you targeted ads based on your online activity.

Data breaches

Breaches can happen anytime , anywhere on the web, so all the data you have stored on your browser can be accessed by hackers, compromising your saved passwords, bookmarked websites, personal information, and business details. Even Google Chrome, the web’s most popular browser had a breach on their extensions web store.

For this reason, we recommend using an independent password manager such as 1Password , which has no history of breaches. We have conducted a thorough 1Password review and found that this industry-leading password manager will help you create and store unique passwords safely . 1Password will relieve you of the burden of remembering passwords or reusing the same passwords so you don’t forget.

Unsecured browsers with no privacy focus can often lead you to websites that contain malware, without any prior warning. As a result, you may end up downloading different kinds of malware , such as ransomware and trojans , onto your device. With a private browser, you’re likely to receive a warning of the site being dangerous. Alternatively, some private browsers will simply not open websites that do not have HTTPS certification.

Final Thoughts on the Best Browser for Privacy

The best browser for privacy is definitely Tor . It’s got three-layered encryption, a well-oiled network to route your connection, and all the privacy customizations you’d want, most of them enabled by default. Just remember, without a strong internet connection, it might not work for all of your online needs.

We recommend using it in conjunction with Brave or Firefox for when you want to stream or download content, and bandwidth isn’t on your side. A few additional steps you can take to secure yourself while browsing are:

• Clear your data , cache , and history when you log off for the day.
• Favor sites with HTTPS connections and SSL certificates . If they don’t have that, don’t enter any sensitive information in their fields.
• Use an ad blocker .
• Start your chosen browser in incognito or private mode .
• Use a safe search engine like DuckDuckGo. Make it your browser’s default search engine.
• Use a VPN to browse the web anonymously. If you’re not sure where to begin, read our article on the best five VPNs of this moment .

If you want to learn more about how to browse the internet anonymously, check out our articles below:

• The Best Security Suites for Internet Privacy and Safety
• How Your Browser Knows Your Location (and How to Hide It)
• Online Anonymity Test: What Data Does Your Device Leak (Free Tool)

Check out the answers to our most commonly asked questions regarding private browsers. Let us know in the comments if there are any unanswered questions that you have, and we’ll get right back to you.

The browser that gives the most privacy is Tor. All data is encrypted at three different nodes, making it difficult to trace the origin of the internet traffic. For additional security, you can use Tor with a virtual private network (VPN) .

The best free private browser is Tor. It routes your internet traffic through an extensive network, which ensures a great level of anonymity. Plus, your data is secured with three layers of encryption. It ensures that you cannot be tracked online and even deletes any cookies you installed after any session.

Some of the best browsers that do not track you are Tor , Brave, and Firefox. These are focused on privacy and can help you browse securely. However, if you want to completely prevent tracking, it’s advisable to clear your cookies regularly and use a good VPN that can ensure anonymity and security online.

Yes, Firefox offers more privacy than Chrome. Some of its security measures include hiding your location, blocking tracking, and preventing advertisers from snatching your personal data. It also has a handy password manager, which includes some of the features of the best password managers .

Google Chrome, on the other hand, is notorious for tracking everything you do and gathering as much data as it can about your browsing activity.

Mozilla Firefox’s robust security protection tools make it the safest browser from hackers. It offers an in-built password manager and prevents unauthorized data sharing. It is also regularly updated, which helps patch new vulnerabilities.

Vivaldi is another great option for a safe browser. You can learn more about both browsers in our ranking of the best private browsers .

Yes, to a large extent, you can browse the web anonymously by using a browser like Tor or Freenet. Both browsers direct your traffic through a network of nodes, providing you with a layer of anonymity.

Moreover, by using a VPN, you’ll be adding an additional layer of privacy protection. Check out our list of the best browsers for your privacy to learn more.

Ian Hinga Author

Ian is a former VPNOverview content writer with expertise in researching and writing about cybersecurity, internet privacy, and online freedom. He’s a marketer and cybersecurity enthusiast who aims to educate others through his writing.

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What are the best private browsers to protect your online privacy?

Ever been browsing the Internet, seen an ad for some random product, then had ads for that same thing follow you to other sites? Of course you have—the Big Tech economy is totally reliant on watching and tracking your browsing habits so it can sell highly targeted ad space.

If that makes you uncomfortable, you’re not alone. More and more people are turning to private browsers to block this annoying—and invasive—fact of the modern Web. But there are so many options to choose from… What’s the best private browser?

Let’s explore.

Key considerations when choosing a private browser

Most often, you access websites through a Web browser (mobile apps being one notable exception). That makes privacy-first browsers one of the most effective ways to block tracking. In general, there are two main things to consider when picking a browser.

The first is how well your browser protects you from unwanted identification and cross-site tracking. These tools allow ad-tech companies to build a profile on you, and “personalize” their ads so they’re more likely to catch your attention.

The second thing to consider is what the browser itself does with your data. Most browsers are built by companies that earn huge profits from advertising; Google and Microsoft are two prime examples.

Common ways to browse more privately

Instead of using a truly private browser, many users turn to easy alternatives like their browser’s Incognito (or “private”) mode , or by installing privacy extensions . Unfortunately, these both fall short of expectations.

Incognito mode: how it works, and its limitations

Almost every browser has a native version of Chrome’s well-known Incognito (or “private”) mode. And most people assume their browsing activity is hidden when they use an Incognito tab. Unfortunately, this isn’t completely true.

Incognito mode does give you fresh storage, which can prevent most forms of cross site tracking (as long as you don’t use the same private window for a long period of time). But Incognito doesn’t completely hide your actions from online third-parties; Big Tech can still see what you’re browsing. With Incognito, the “privacy” is limited.

To be clear, Incognito mode has its place. Checking a hotel for a surprise getaway? Researching a controversial or sensitive topic? Incognito is great for those use cases. But not so much for true online privacy. You can still be tracked in Incognito mode, and your Internet service provider (ISP) will still have a good idea of what you did online.

Privacy extensions: helpful, but limited…and risky

To avoid switching browsers, many people install ad blockers and other privacy extensions to their existing browsers. And it’s true that most good ad blockers will also stop (or at least limit) the reach of third-party cookies and trackers . But it’s worth noting that extensions can introduce new problems .

For example, ad-blocking extensions can see everything displayed in your browser. If someone gains access to that extension—or if the person or company who made that extension has ulterior motives—you can still be tracked. Ironically, by installing an extension to your browser, you may be adding a potential vulnerability, rather than removing one.

It’s vitally important that you only add verified, reputable extensions from your browser’s official app store. Even then, there are risks; apps can be bought and sold, and an app that started secure could end up serving a more dubious purpose. Also note that these extensions can slow down your browser’s performance, or cause other unintended consequences.

Top private browsers: a comparison of the best privacy-focused options

Instead of settling for Incognito mode or third-party apps, you may want to consider a privacy-first browser. While there’s no strict definition of what makes a browser private, most will come with data protection built in by default.

Here’s a rundown of some of the most notable.

The Brave browser was built from the ground up with privacy in mind. The moment you open the Brave browser, the application aims to enhance security by sending the fewest requests possible to other websites. In addition, Brave blocks third-party trackers and unwanted ads automatically. Brave upgrades site security (to HTTPS whenever possible, and has a browser-native virtual private network (VPN) . In fact, Brave has dozens of privacy-preserving features built right into the source code.

But Brave, like other major browsers, is built on the open-source Chromium codebase. This means it works just like Chrome and other popular browsers, with easy use of extensions, bookmarks, saved passwords, tabs, and other familiar functionality. It also brings blazing fast browsing speed, and offers the best blend of both privacy and performance.

The Tor Browser uses an anonymous network of computers to connect to the Internet. Your connection is forwarded from one computer to the next, with each step only knowing the previous one. On the plus side, this method results in a highly private connection. On the downside, it can bring considerably slower page load than other browsers.

Although Tor is a highly private browser, it can require more patience and technical know-how than other options. To mitigate this, users can get Tor’s privacy inside of Brave, via Brave’s Private Window with Tor .

Because Firefox operates on a non-profit model, there’s less incentive to track your browsing habits; it’s not an advertising company like Google. However, Firefox isn’t entirely private. Firefox does use Google as its default search engine, and receives lucrative financial support from Google’s parent company.

Safari is the default browser for Mac and iOS devices, and offers fundamental security features like a pop-up blocker. However, the browser does not offer anything above and beyond standard privacy.

For example, Safari doesn’t block trackers, nor does it automatically upgrade website security from HTTP to HTTPS. One other drawback is that Safari is only officially available on Mac and iOS devices; the browser ceased cross-platform support several years ago. (If you find a Safari app for Android, Linux, or Windows, be wary—these aren’t made by Apple.)

5. DuckDuckGo

The privacy-based search engine, DuckDuckGo, also offers a privacy-first mobile browser. This browser blocks trackers and assigns each website a privacy score, providing a transparent view of what each site does or tries to do with your data.

The Vivaldi browser emphasizes customization, providing users with several tools that enable a more private browsing experience. For example, the browser allows users to block third-party trackers. Provided you take the time to configure the browser correctly, Vivaldi is a practical private browser.

The Opera browser offers several valuable features, including an integrated VPN that hides your IP address from prying eyes. However, Opera also has a couple of known privacy issues. For example, the browser sends requests to several sites known to track your activity—notably Yandex (the Russian search engine).

Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome: popular but not private

You may have noticed that two popular browsers—Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome—are missing from our list. There’s a reason for that: They’re not very private.

Independent studies have shown that Edge and Chrome send identifying hardware details and browsing data back to Microsoft and Google, respectively. And Google, as an advertising company, built Chrome to track as many of your online activities as possible. Google also tracks your search history, and any activity with affiliated sites like YouTube and Google Maps.

With both browsers, the main threats to your privacy come from the browser itself, rather than third parties.

Brave: a user-friendly private browser

Although you can improve the privacy of most browsers, it often requires adding a host of extensions, changing default settings, finding new search engines, and generally taking extra steps to keep your data safe.

However, fully integrated browsers like Brave do this work for you, empowering users on several fronts. Brave is a next-generation browser that puts user privacy over Big Tech profit. Download Brave and try it today.

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Iphone web browser choice gets one thing right, two things wrong, say developers.

Being prompted to make an iPhone web browser choice in Europe has seen an uptick in the use of third-party apps , but not everyone is happy about it.

The EU itself is investigating whether Apple’s implementation of the antitrust requirement goes far enough, and developers of third-party browsers say the process gets one thing right, and two things wrong …

iPhone web browser choice

While iPhone owners have been theoretically able to choose their preferred web browser since iOS 14, it wasn’t much of a choice, for a couple of reasons.

First, most people didn’t even know they could choose an alternative browser. The default is Safari, and you’d have to proactively install a third-party one and then manually set it as your default.

Second, Apple insisted that all browsers had to use its own WebKit API. That ensured that competing browsers couldn’t do anything to impact security of privacy, but it also meant that they couldn’t offer faster speeds, or features not available in Safari.

The EU required Apple to drop the WebKit requirement, and also to proactively present users with a choice of browser when they first use their device. These changes were introduced in iOS 17.4 , and only apply within EU countries.

Apple gets one thing right

Developers of third-party web browsers have seen an increase in usage following the implementation of the changes, and they say Apple did play fair in one important respect: browsers are listed in random order, and Safari doesn’t get any special position or prominence in the list.

But two things remain unfair, they say

Wired spoke to a number of developers of alternative iPhone web browsers, and found that they had two criticisms.

First, iPhone owners are not asked to make their choice during the initial iPhone setup process. Instead, they are only presented with the choice when they first open the Safari app. This means that Safari has already presented itself as the default.

“It starts from you clicking Safari,” says Jon von Tetzchner, CEO and cofounder of Vivaldi. “Which, I think all of us agree, that’s the wrong spot.” Tetzchner said he prefers Google’s implementation of its new browser choice screen that guides Android users to select a default while setting up their phone.

Second, users are given zero information about each browser – just a list of names, many of which will be unfamiliar to non-techy users. That reinforces the idea that they should select Safari unless they already know a reason to make a different choice.

“Giving people information about the choice, and also information about what they’re choosing is really, really important,” says Kush Amlani, a global competition and regulatory counsel at Mozilla, which makes the Firefox browser.

A fairer option would be to give each developer a few words to pitch their browser. DuckDuckGo, for example, might have something like “Uses our privacy-first search engine, which doesn’t track you or filter your results.”

We’ll need to wait for the EU’s conclusion to determine what changes might be needed to comply with the law.

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Apple’s Safari Browser May Let You Erase Ads Completely With New AI Makeover

Safari could look more like arc browser on ios 18 and macos 15 with new ai summaries handled on-device..

Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome are already being drowned in new AI features, so we suppose it was inevitable that Apple would also try to shove some AI activities into its default browser. With Apple reportedly jumping on the AI hype train for iOS 18 (though getting on at the caboose end rather than the passenger car) the company at the end of 1 Infinite Loop may try to shove AI summaries and browser assistants into Safari in a move that’s reminiscent of the existing Arc Browser . Unlike the competition, this time Apple could be powering it all from the device itself, rather than the cloud.

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More interestingly, the browser could let you highlight and erase whole sections of web pages. Tired of the banner ads on top of Gizmodo’s site? If the rumors are true, Safari might have the ability to mask that. It all comes from a report from Apple Insider based on the latest builds of Safari 18 . The controls hidden in the latest test models of the browser seem to indicate Safari would paper over sections of a site you don’t want to see. Better yet, it would remember your selections and re-erase the same parts of the page if you come back to it later. You would have the option of reverting the page to its original state.

That feature is akin to apps like 1Blocker on Safari with iPhone or uBlock Origin on other browsers, two apps that allow you to apply cosmetic filters on offending ads. 1Blocker in particular tells Safari what parts of the page to open, which also may help increase the speed at which the page loads.

Of course, advertisers and online publishers would not be happy about any built-in ad-blocking features. The click-centric publishing model is already flailing with the greater push for AI in Google Search .

But this is still extremely early, and code found inside Safari 18 does not necessarily point to how Apple plans to roll out these features, if at all. But AI upgrades to Safari feel inevitable. The so-called “Intelligent Search” would use a large language model to find key phrases and words in an article as the basis for its summary. AI summaries are already available in Edge through the Copilot feature, and Chrome’s Gemini-powered assistant can perform a similar task.

AI features may be Apple’s best bet if it wants to take a hammer to Google’s search and ad monopoly. That’s what Microsoft has been doing with its Edge browser and Bing search, but so far Google Search and Chrome remain dominant in their categories. Apple is also going all-in on AI with its upcoming releases. The M4 chip , expected to debut along with the new OLED iPad Pro , will reportedly have a better neural processor than its previous M-series CPUs. Similarly, the next iPhone 16 is said to have a bunch of AI capabilities with the promise of running some of these language models or art generators on-device.

We’ll likely hear more about this when WWDC rolls around on June 10 .

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Apple to unveil AI-enabled Safari browser alongside new operating systems

Safari getting new AI tools in iOS 18

The software — expected to debut as Safari 18 later in 2024 — is currently undergoing evaluation alongside internal builds of Apple's next-generation operating system updates, namely iOS 18 and macOS 15, according to people familiar with the matter. Should all of the new features make it to the release candidate stage, users will be treated to a new user interface (UI) for customizing popular page controls, a "Web eraser" feature, and AI-driven content summarization tools.

Intelligent Search - AI-enhanced browsing and text summarization

Engineers evaluating the latest builds of Safari 18 can find a toggle for the new page controls menu within the browser's address bar. The menu consolidates — and provides quick access to — old and new page control tools, among them being the browser's new "Intelligent Search" feature.

This feature is not automatically enabled in test builds of Safari 18 and instead requires manual activation from the page controls menu. Once enabled, it's believed the tool leverages Apple's on-device AI technology — specifically the Ajax language-learning model — to identify topics and key phrases within a webpage for which to base the summarization.

In selecting key phrases, Apple's LLM software identifies sentences that provide explanations or describe the structure of objects, depending on the text in question. Words repeated within a text and key sentences are recognized as text topics.

These early indications suggest Apple is striving to deliver text summarization alongside Safari 18 later this year, though the exact implementation of this feature remains fuzzy.

Apple's text summarization features could be a response to rival generative AI tools, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT. But Apple's on-device models and technologies like Private Relay could make the experience much more secure for users. Intelligent Search is also likely to be the same AI browser assistant that one X user hinted at a couple of weeks back.

Web Eraser for better content-blocking

Also accessible from the new page controls menu is a feature Apple is testing called "Web Eraser." As its name would imply, it's designed to allow users to remove, or erase, specific portions of web pages, according to people familiar with the feature.

The feature is expected to build upon existing privacy features within Safari and will allow users to erase unwanted content from any webpage of their choosing. Users will have the option to erase banner ads, images, text or even entire page sections, all with relative ease.

The erasure is said to be persistent, rather than limited to a browsing session. This means that Safari will remember the changes even after the original tab or window has been closed.

When visiting a web page with previously erased content, Safari will inform the user that the page has been modified to reflect their desired changes. The browser will also give the user the option to revert changes and restore the webpage to its initial, unaltered state.

As for where Apple got the inspiration for Web Eraser, the company could have Sherlocked the feature from the third-party app 1Blocker. The application features a similar way of erasing ads, where users would tap ads to make them disappear.

Updated UI will move key tools into one easy location

The new page controls menu referenced throughout this article will attempt to offer Safari 18 users quick and easy access to several options previously located across different menus and the Share Sheet. Running on pre-release versions of macOS 15, for instance, the menu also pulls in the "Aa" menu common on existing iPadOS versions of the browser. These include zoom options, webpage settings for privacy controls, content blocking options, extension shortcuts, and access to the new AI and erasure tools.

These various options existed previously on macOS, but were found by navigating through the Safari settings menu. Having all of these controls in one central location in the Address Bar will make these options more discoverable for end users. Other options like on-page text search and reader mode are also in this menu.

This all suggests Apple intends to unite the iPadOS and macOS Safari UI paradigms when it unveils its new OS releases during its Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

AI-enhanced Visual Lookup feature could be available in 2025

Simultaneously, Apple is also working on a much more powerful visual search feature scheduled for integration sometime in 2025 that will allow users to obtain information on consumer products when browsing through images. People familiar with the tool say it's similar to the Visual Lookup feature, through which Siri can identify plants, pets and landmarks from photos.

Visual Search could be implemented as a system-wide feature. So, instead of surfacing search results in the Photos app, the user may be able to use Visual Search directly in Safari by selecting an image.

Given development of this tool is in the earlier stages, it remains unclear how Apple will ultimately go about implementing it. It also remains to be seen whether or not the feature will make it through internal testing.

The iPhone maker has expressed significant interest in artificial intelligence and more recently published research related to on-device language learning models. This goes hand in hand with widespread rumors about several other AI-powered software features, many of which are expected to make their debut later this year with iOS 18.

Another big year for Safari

From its inception, Safari was always meant to rival existing web browsers.

Safari was originally added to macOS as a means of replacing Microsoft's Internet Explorer for Mac, which was the default browser. Over the years, the app made its way to the iPhone , and has since received various upgrades over the years.

More recent versions of Safari provide users with personalized web suggestions, and allow for greater privacy protection with features such as iCloud Private Relay.

This latest set of enhancements only serves to better position Safari against the competition, in an ever-increasing landscape of generative AI tools and third-party ad-blockers.

While Apple tests many such features during different development stages, it is important to remember that not all of them make it to release. Apple has been known to delay features or cancel them entirely, so there's always a chance we may not see these new Safari features after all.

Along with Safari 18 and its associated improvements, we should also see a revamped Calculator with Math Notes make its way to iPadOS 18. Freeform Scenes and Adaptive Voice Shortcuts are new OS features, which are also expected to debut later this year.

Apple is expected to introduce various AI-related enhancements as part of iOS 18 and macOS 15, both of which should be announced at the company's annual WWDC on June 10.

36 Comments

"As for where Apple got the inspiration for Web Eraser, the company could have Sherlocked the feature from the third-party app 1Blocker. The application features a similar way of erasing ads, where users would tap ads to make them disappear." They may also have been inspired by Simplified Page....

As long as I can turn it off/hide it they can knock themselves out. 

Will the web eraser feature remove pop up videos, such as the ones that appear on this site?

I use the 'Reader' function in Safari quite a bit, but sometimes it doesn't work very well. Seems like something that AI could help make better. 

Web ads suck but how else do you think your favorite websites will stay in business? Are you prepared to pay a subscription to every site? I doubt it…

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How To : Add Website Shortcuts to Your iPhone's Home Screen for Fast Access to Web Apps and Bookmarks

There's a way to get instant access to your most-used websites and webpages on your iPhone, and these shortcuts live directly on your Home Screen. Whatever you need fast, frequent, or more convenient access to, whether it's a vital web document or a web app without a native iOS app, your browser can make it happen.

The Difference Between Web Apps and Bookmarks

Since the earliest days of Apple's App Store, we've heard it time and time again: "There's an app for that." While that's not always true when it comes to native iOS apps, it hits the mark closer when you incorporate web apps, or progressive web apps, into the mix. You might want to use a web app when there's no native iOS app available. You also might prefer one over a native app to improve loading speed, decrease its storage consumption, avoid App Store updates, and so on.

These web apps can be turned into Home Screen web apps on your iPhone, which can look and even act, to a certain degree , like native iOS apps. For example, you'll get an app icon and — if the web app supports it — web push notifications and badging . Tapping on web app notifications will immediately launch you into the contained web app instance, not the default browser.

• Don't Miss: How to Turn Your Contacts into Apps on Your iPhone's Home Screen

When a web app isn't available, you can still install a website or webpage as a bookmark on your Home Screen. The process for adding standard websites and webpages to your Home Screen is the same as for web apps, so there's no need to know beforehand what type they are — you'll know when you use them.

How to Add Web Apps and Bookmarks to Your Home Screen

While Safari was the first iOS web browser to aid in making Home Screen web apps and bookmarks, any third-party web browser that implements the Add to Home Screen API can get the job done. Below, you'll see exactly how it works on all the known browsers with Add to Home Screen functionality. We demonstrate these browsers on iOS, but the process is the same for each browser on iPadOS, though the buttons may be positioned in a slightly different area.

• Don't Miss: 6 Home Screen Hacks for Your iPhone Apple Won't Tell You About

Jump to a Section

• Non-Browsers

App 1: Safari

In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the Share icon in the toolbar, and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Safari

App 2: Aloha

Aloha advertises itself as the ultimate private browser, one that lets you pick a VPN location to connect through for a more secure browsing experience. However, Aloha uses an outdated method for adding web apps and bookmarks to the Home Screen, so this only works on devices running software older than iOS 16.4.

In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the hamburger menu icon in the toolbar, select "Add to," hit "Add to iOS home screen" from the list, and then follow the directions given. This opens a link in Safari, where you follow Safari's instructions above for adding a web app or bookmark. Afterward, the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Aloha Private Browser - VPN

App 3: DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo is an alternative search engine to Google, but it also provides its own web browser for iOS, which promises a safer, more private browsing experience. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the Share icon next to the URL bar (or after tapping the ellipsis (•••) in the toolbar), and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: DuckDuckGo Private Browser

App 4: Firefox

Firefox is a well-known desktop browser from Mozilla, and its iOS version prioritizes privacy with built-in tracking blockers for a secure browsing experience. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the hamburger menu icon in the toolbar, select "Share," then choose "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Firefox: Private, Safe Browser

App 5: Chrome

With Google Chrome, the process for creating a web app or bookmark shortcut on your Home Screen is very similar to other browsers. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the Share icon in the URL bar, and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Google Chrome

App 6: Edge

Microsoft Edge is a web browser for iOS that incorporates some AI power into the web browser to aid in searching and reading data. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the hamburger menu icon in the toolbar, hit "Share," and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Microsoft Edge: AI Browser

App 7: Orion

Orion is a web browser from Kagi that promises speeding and anti-tracking protections built right in. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the Share icon in the toolbar, and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Orion Browser by Kagi

App 8: SPIN

The SPIN browser lets you easily customize your browsing experience and filter out malicious and unhelpful websites. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the Share icon next to the address bar, and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: SPIN Safe Browser

App 9: Yandex

Yandex Browser is a browser for iOS, developed by Russian technology corporation Yandex, that aims to help users strengthen their security while connected to public Wi-Fi hotspots. In the browser, navigate to the website or webpage, tap the More icon (•••) in the URL address bar, select "Add to Home" from the list, and choose "Add to Home Screen." A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

• App Store Link: Yandex Browser

App 10: Non-Browser Apps

Since iOS 17.0, Apple has had support for Add to Home Screen in the Safari View Controller . This means non-browser apps with in-app browsers, like Reddit , will also let you add web apps and bookmarks to your Home Screen.

In the app, open the website or webpage in-app. The Safari View Controller will open. Then, tap the Share icon in the toolbar and select "Add to Home Screen" from the list. A dialog lets you rename the web app or bookmark, but you cannot update the default icon. When satisfied, tap "Add, " and the shortcut will appear on your Home Screen.

Using Your New Web App/Bookmark Shortcut

To use your new shortcut, simply tap the new web app or bookmark icon on your iPhone's Home Screen.

If it's a web app, it should open in a separate instance, complete with its own card in the app switcher and without Safari's standard interface elements. Web apps are powered and rendered using WebKit regardless of which browser you have set as the default. However, when you tap a link from within the Safari View Controller, you can hit the icon next to the toolbar's Share button to open it in your default browser.

Website and webpage bookmarks open as new tabs in your default web browser. So, they're more or less like bookmarks in your browser, only on your Home Screen instead.

Changing Your Default Web Browser

If you wish to change your default browser so that tapping that web icon in a web app's Safari View Controller launches the link in the browser you prefer, simply open your iPhone's Settings app, open the preferences for the browser you want (or really, selecting any browser should work), select "Default Browser App," and choose your preferred browser.

• More Info: How to Change Your Default iOS Browser from Safari to Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Another App

Just updated your iPhone? You'll find new emoji, enhanced security, podcast transcripts, Apple Cash virtual numbers, and other useful features. There are even new additions hidden within Safari. Find out what's new and changed on your iPhone with the iOS 17.4 update.

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Apple Developing AI Enhanced Safari 18 for Improved Browsing Experience

A pple, according to recent reports, is in the final phase of bringing out Safari 18, the next-generation web browser that is fitted with more of the AI technologies. The thing next to Safari is the designated species of users who expect the ability to browse for iOS and Mac.

AI-powered features enhance user experience 

Safari 18 will be equipped with an array of AI-based advanced options catering to what can be described as an improved user experience. Examples such as Intelligent Search, Web Eraser, etc are given for this. Apple’s uniquely own on-device AI technology that was based on the model of Ajax was applied by the intelligent search tool to create personalized and AI-powered browsing as well as text summarization.  It operates by extracting the essential information including phrases and areas of interest on top of webpages and then provides users with summed-up interpretations.

Safari 18 does include a new UI, which is improved in several ways, including the unification of all important options into the single now page-controls menu in the address bar. Here menu is quite a collection of different options, for instance, zoom mode, reader mode, privacy controls, content blocking, extension shortcuts, Web Eraser, and the AI summary tool, that you can use with just one click.

The web eraser feature enables content customization 

The Sinful Web Eraser by Safari 18 is another important feature. Such a tool allows people to remove any stuff that they may not want from web pages among these banners, texts, photos, or different types of blocks. Precisely when content clears off Safari, after it closes the tab or window the edits remain in poise as the software has provided preset options. The editor thus enables the end-user to decide to revert the suggested changes and see the original, unedited format of the article.

The unprecedented comprehensiveness of Safari for iPad 18 is due to the smooth integration of Safari IOS 18 and Safari Mac 15 updates. The manufacturer browser performs the tests with operational systems on an internal level for assurance that all parts of the operating system have been accommodated and the web browser performs as expected.

Future outlook 

Safari 18, that is, the new browser Apple has just introduced a strong step in the field of web browsing but Apple’s AI applications are still evolving. The latest reports claim that Apple is likely to pour ten percent of its research & development R&D budget into the development of native AI features for the next iOS 18 to be unveiled later this year. Following on the heels of Safari 17 that Apple has just introduced.

The company remains dedicated to innovation for net browsing.  The browser company introduces AI-powered modules such as Intelligent Search and Web Eraser and these assist in a more fascinating and customized browsing experience for over a million users across the world. With the year ending and the tech giant preparing for the software releases this fall, it is time to start guessing which major innovations the company will introduce.

This article originally appeared in  Neowin

Google reportedly paid Apple $20 billion to be the default search option in Safari

Apple was reportedly been paid $20 billion to to ensure that google is the default search option in the safari web browser in 2022..

If you're a user of the Safari web browser from Apple and use Google when searching for websites and other information, you aren't alone. Google is the default option, although it can be changed, so it stands to reason that it's probably the search engine that many users are already making use of without even thinking about it. And that, it seems, is something that's worth a cool $20 billion.

That's how much Google paid Apple in 2022 in order to make sure that it remained the default web browser in Safari. The news came out as part of the release of antitrust court documentation that both Google and Apple had sought to keep out of the public eye. Instead, Bloomberg reports, the figures were made available as part of the Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against Google. It's alleged that Google holds a monopolistic position in the world of online search and advertising, although Google argues otherwise.

This trial began last fall with Apple execs confirming that Google paid it billions of dollars to remain the default option. However, nobody confirmed just how many billions were involved - although Google did say that it paid Apple 36% of the revenue it earns from search ads. That should perhaps have given us an indication of the kinds of figures that were changing hands.

We also learned just how important Google's money is to Apple's bottom line as part of the trial, too. As just one example, in 2020, Google's payments to Apple made up a whopping 17.5% of the iPhone maker's operating income.

It wasn't always this way, however. Google was the default Safari search engine back in 2002 but it didn't pay Apple a thing. That changes however, and by May 2021 Google was paying Apple more than $1 billion each month to maintain the default status across Apple's platforms.

Microsoft, the company behind the Bing search engine, had previously said that Apple holds outsized control over the market. Essentially, whichever company was the default search engine on the iPhone would be the dominant force, it was argued, and it's believed that Microsoft did want to make Bing the default option instead. However, no deal was struck and Google remains the default option. However, it's important to remember that users can chang the default search engine within Safari should they so wish, although it's a matter of debate as to how many know that's possible - and how many know that Google isn't the only option regardless.

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Oliver Haslam

Based in the UK, Oliver has been writing about technology, entertainment, and games for more than a decade. If there's something with a battery or a plug, he's interested. After spending too much money building gaming PCs, Oliver switched to Apple and the Mac - and now spends too much on those instead.

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