When we default to a web browser, we don’t think much about how it can be better or worse. For the most part, we just want a web browser that lets us search the web and visit websites. But there is a lot happening in the background and the foreground that improves your browsing experience without you even noticing.
For example, there are many new features like vertical tabs and split windows that are on a lot of modern web browsers. While some browsers have remained the same for years, even then, there are subtle quality of life improvements in the background that have made them worth using. Their features and improvements differentiate these browsers and make them appealing to different user bases.
So we’ve decided to go through the best browsers and their differentiating factors for you.
Overview of the Best Browsers
| Browser | Best For | Best Feature | |
 | Chrome | Speed & Reliability | Google Integration |
 | Firefox | Privacy & Customisability | ETP & Containers |
 | Edge | Efficiency | Sleeping Tabs & Vertical Tabs |
 | Safari | Privacy for Apple Users | iCloud Private Relay |
 | Arc | Unique Features | Peek & Max |
 | Brave | Privacy & Ad Blocking | Built-in Ad Blocker & VPN |
 | DuckDuckGo | Privacy & Tracker Blocking | Private Search |
 | Tor | Privacy & Annonymity | Onion Network Encryption |
 | Opera | Features | Free VPN and Custom Versions |
 | Vivaldi | Customisability | Vertical Tabs |
Google Chrome – The Best Overall
More than 60% of the users all over the world use Google Chrome as their default web browser. It’s fast, reliable and safe. But it also has some unique features that set it apart.
Performance & Speed
Chrome is one of the fastest browsers. But it’s also known to be a memory hog. Which is why features like Memory Saver Mode reduces RAM usage and Energy Saver Mode extends battery life. There’s also Page Preloading. It speeds up browsing by predicting which sites you’ll visit next.
Customisation & UI
Chrome isn’t the most customisable browser but themes and dark mode offer some personalisation. Tab groups make things easier for power users. There’s also a side panel for bookmarks and reading lists and a distraction-free Reading Mode makes it more usable.
Extensions & Integrations
Chrome has thousands of extensions in the Chrome Web Store but with Manifest V3 upgrade, some popular ad blockers no longer work. The browser integrates seamlessly with Google Docs and Drive. And Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) makes web apps feel native.
Security & Privacy
Chrome keeps you safe with Enhanced Safe Browsing. Sandboxing helps with crash protection. And Security Checkup notifies you if there’s any compromised passwords. Incognito Mode prevents tracking but doesn’t fully anonymize browsing. Its built-in ad blocker only blocks some intrusive ads.
Who Is Chrome For?
Chrome is great for casual users, who want a fast and convenient browser that works well with Google services.
Mozilla Firefox – Best for Privacy
Firefox is an open-source browser by the Mozilla Foundation that has been a favorite option for privacy-focused users for a long time. Most of its features are there to make it more secure.
Privacy & Security
Firefox blocks trackers, fingerprinting scripts and cryptominers by default. Firefox Containers lets you separate work, personal and shopping sessions to prevent cross-site tracking. HTTPS-Only Mode forces secure connections whenever possible.
Lightweight & Fast
Firefox is lighter than Chrome on lower end devices. Fewer background processes and built-in tracker blocking means pages load faster with less clutter.
Customisation & UI
Firefox is one of the most customisable browsers. You can customize the toolbar, buttons and even add scripts to make it your own. Container Tabs, tab grouping and Picture-in-Picture mode makes multitasking easier.
Extensions & Productivity
Firefox has a huge add-on library, ad blockers that Chrome no longer supports. Pocket integration lets you save articles instantly. Built-in screenshot tool, offline reading mode and accessibility features makes browsing more efficient.
Who is Firefox For?
Firefox is an ideal choice for privacy conscious users, developers, and anyone who wants a browser without any big tech tie-in.
Microsoft Edge – Most Efficient
Microsoft Edge has come a long way from its Internet Explorer days. In Fact it has redeemed itself by being better than Chrome on memory efficiency, even though it’s built on Chromium.
Performance & Optimisation
Edge is quick with Startup Boost preloading the browser in the background. Sleeping Tabs and Efficiency Mode reduce CPU and RAM usage, so you get longer battery life and a smoother system.
Privacy & Security
Edge has Tracking Prevention with 3 levels of control, to block trackers based on your choice. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen protects against phishing and malware, Password Monitor alerts you to data breaches and InPrivate Mode means your browsing never gets saved or cookies.
Extensions & Integrations
Edge supports both its own extensions and Chrome Web Store add-ons. Microsoft 365 integration makes it the best for Office and OneDrive users, Bing AI-powered features like Copilot add AI search, chat tools and image generation. And Web Capture lets you take and annotate full page screenshots without extra extensions.
UI & Productivity
Edge has unique UI elements like Vertical Tabs for better organisation and Sidebar for quick access to tools like search and messaging apps. Read Aloud, Immersive Reader and Split Screen Mode make it more accessible and multitasking friendly.
Who Is Edge for?
Edge is great for users who want a fast feature-packed browser that integrates with Microsoft services. It’s also for those who use AI tools and want better performance and battery life on their devices.
Safari – Best of Apple Users
If you own an iPhone or a MacBook, Safari comes pre-installed. But just because it’s a built in browser doesn’t mean it should be dismissed. Apple puts a lot of effort into Safari and it shows.
Performance & Optimisation
Safari is fast and well optimised for MacBooks and iPhones. The WebKit engine loads pages quickly and uses less memory and battery. It also reduces resource usage for inactive tabs, so background activity is minimal.
Privacy & Security
Safari’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) blocks cross-site trackers automatically, and Privacy Report shows which sites tried to track you. Fingerprinting Protection hides system details from advertisers, and automatic HTTPS upgrades secure your connections. For even more privacy iCloud Private Relay (Included with iCloud+) encrypts your browsing traffic.
Extensions & Integrations
Safari extensions are in the App Store, with a handpicked selection to keep things simple. It syncs bookmarks, tabs and passwords across Apple devices via iCloud, and Siri Suggestions autofills and recommends.
UI & Customisation
Safari has a clean and simple UI that puts content first. Tab Groups helps you manage multiple sessions, and Reader Mode strips away distractions for a clean read. Start Page Customisation is limited to backgrounds and widgets, not as much personalisation as other browsers.
Who is Safari For?
Well, it’s for Apple users. Because it’s not on any other devices. But it’s also a great option if you prioritise privacy and are willing to pay for iCloud+.
Arc Browser – The Most Innovative
In 2023, the Browser Company decided to completely reinvent the browser with Arc. It doesn’t look like a regular browser and it’s heavily focused on keyboard shortcuts. But once you get used to it, its features truly add to the experience.
Performance & Privacy
Arc is light and fast, with minimal background processes and a local-first approach. It stores more on your device to reduce cloud reliance. It also blocks trackers automatically, so you have more privacy without extra extensions.
User Interface
Arc replaces the tab bar with sidebar-based navigation and vertical tabs. Split View lets you work with two tabs side by side, and the default full-screen mode removes the distractions. Pinned tabs, folders and the Command Bar (like macOS Spotlight) make navigation effortless.
Customisation
Arc doesn’t have deep UI customisation, but Boosts let you modify websites by changing colours, fonts and layouts. Each Space in Arc can have its own colour theme, for different workflows.
Power Features
Arc has some unique tools to make browsing smoother. Peek lets you preview links without opening a new tab, and Easel is a built-in notepad to save sketches and clippings. Max Features takes it further with Tidy Tabs, Instant Links, 5-Second Previews and even ChatGPT in the Command Bar.
Who Is Arc For?
Arc is for power users and creatives who want a browser that breaks the mould. Not for those who like the conventional layout.
Brave – Best for Ad & Tracker Blocking
Brave is a privacy-first browser that blocks ads, trackers and fingerprinting scripts by default. It prioritises speed, security and a cleaner browsing experience without using third-party extensions.
Performance & Privacy
Brave is fast thanks to built-in ad and tracker blocking which reduces page load times and memory usage. It automatically upgrades connections to HTTPS. And Private Window with Tor adds an extra layer of anonymity.
User Interface & Customisation
Brave has a simple, Chromium-based UI so it’s familiar to Chrome users. It has customisable start pages, themes and layouts but its biggest advantage is the privacy dashboard which shows you how many ads and trackers it has blocked.
Extensions & Features
Brave supports Chrome Web Store extensions. It has Brave Rewards where you can earn cryptocurrency for viewing privacy-respecting ads. Brave News is a personalised news feed that doesn’t track your reading habits.
Who Is Brave For?
Brave is for privacy-focused users who want ad and tracker blocking without extensions. It’s a great alternative for those who want Chrome’s performance without Google’s data collection.
DuckDuckGo – Anti-Tracking Browser
DuckDuckGo is a complete privacy-focused ecosystem. While famous for its private search engine, its browser extends that philosophy. It blocks trackers and keeps your browsing data off the cloud.
Privacy First Always
DuckDuckGo blocks third-party trackers, fingerprinting, and hidden scripts by default. Unlike other browsers that offer a private mode, DuckDuckGo is private by default. It clears history and cookies after each session. It also forces HTTPS for better security.
A Search Engine That Doesn’t Track You
The DuckDuckGo search engine is at the heart of this browser. Unlike Google, it doesn’t track you or create search profiles. Every search is anonymous. It also offers Bang shortcuts, where you can search directly within sites like Wikipedia or Amazon without tracking.
UI & Simplicity
DuckDuckGo keeps it simple. The UI is clean, familiar and Chromium based, so you can switch from Chrome or Edge easily. While it doesn’t have deep customisation, there’s a Fire Button. It’s a great feature that clears all tabs and browsing data with one tap.
Extensions & Features
DuckDuckGo supports all Chrome Web Store extensions as it is built on Chromium. Built in features include Tracker Radar, which shows you blocked trackers, and Email Protection, which removes hidden trackers from emails.
Who Should Use DuckDuckGo?
DuckDuckGo is for users who want to remain private with no effort. It’s perfect for those who don’t trust Big Tech search engines and want a private browsing without the hassle.
Tor Browser – The Anonymous Browser
Tor Browser takes your anonymity a bit too seriously. Built on the Tor network, it routes your traffic through multiple encrypted relays so it’s almost impossible to track your online activity.
How Tor Protects Your Privacy
Tor Browser hides your IP address, location and browsing activity by sending your data through a decentralised network of volunteer-run servers. It also blocks trackers, fingerprinting scripts and ads by default. Websites can’t see where you’re from and your internet provider can’t see what you’re doing.
Security at a cost
Because of the encryption routing, Tor is much slower than other browsers. Pages take longer to load and streaming or real-time browsing isn’t ideal. But the trade off is anonymity that other browsers can’t match.
User Interface & Features
Tor’s UI is simple and stripped back, based on Firefox, minus all the Mozilla stuff. NoScript integration blocks JavaScript by default so hidden tracking attempts are foiled.
Who should use Tor?
Tor is for users who need maximum anonymity, whether you’re a journalist, activist or just someone who wants to browse without being watched. It’s not for casual users due to the slower speeds and site compatibility issues, but for privacy enthusiasts, nothing else comes close.
Opera – The Feature-Packed Browser
Opera has always been a browser that tries new things. It’s got built-in tools that most browsers need extensions for and multiple versions for different types of users.
Performance & Built-In Features
Opera is fast and lightweight, with ad and tracker blocking to speed up browsing. It’s got a free VPN, battery saver mode and a sidebar with messaging apps, AI tools and music players.
Privacy & Security
Opera’s built-in VPN is an extra layer of privacy, but more for casual browsing than serious security needs. Tracker blocking is on by default to limit data collection.
User Interface & Customisation
Opera’s UI is modern and customisable, with Tab Islands for better tab management and workspace switching to keep different tasks separate. Whether you want a streamlined experience or a feature-rich environment, Opera has got options.
Personalised Browsing
Opera has multiple versions, each for different use cases:
- Opera: The flagship version, with modular design, AI integration and multitasking. It also comes with VPN, ad blocker and sidebar integrations.
- Opera GX: A gaming browser with RAM, CPU and network limiters to optimise system performance. It also has RGB customisation and gaming news feeds.
- Opera Air: A new minimalist browser with mindfulness tools for those who prefer a clean and distraction free experience with essential features.
Who Is Opera For?
Opera is for users who want an all-in-one browser with built-in tools, customisation and performance focused features. Opera Browser is for power users, Opera GX is for gamers and Opera Air is for those who prefer a lightweight experience.
Vivaldi – The Customisable Browser
Vivaldi is for users who want total control over their browser. It’s got lots of features, but unlike other browsers you can customise everything from the UI layout to tab behavior and keyboard shortcuts.
Customisation
Vivaldi lets you move toolbars, rearrange buttons and adjust tab position to fit your workflow. You can even stack and tile tabs for better multitasking. If you prefer keyboard shortcuts and mouse gestures you can customise those too.
Privacy & Security
Vivaldi has a built-in tracker and ad blocking, so private browsing is built in. Unlike Chrome it doesn’t collect user data and has end-to-end encrypted sync for bookmarks and settings.
Built-In Features & Extensions
Vivaldi has features that would require extensions on other browsers. Such as the built-in mail client, RSS reader and note-taking tool. It also supports Chrome Web Store extensions so you’re not limited in functionality.
Who is Vivaldi for?
Vivaldi is for power users, multitaskers and anyone who loves deep customization. If you like a browser that adapts to your workflow rather than the other way around, Vivaldi is one of the best out there.
Which Browser is Best for Privacy?
If privacy is your top priority, Brave and DuckDuckGo are your best bets.
Brave blocks ads, trackers, and fingerprinting scripts by default so it’s the easiest browser to use without extra privacy extensions. It also upgrades insecure connections to HTTPS and has Brave Shields which gives you control over your privacy settings. Brave even has an optional private browsing mode with Tor.
DuckDuckGo takes a different approach. It has always-on private browsing, clears history and cookies after each session. It blocks trackers and forces HTTPS but its biggest advantage is its private search engine which doesn’t store search history or create user profiles.
Then there’s Tor Browser which gives you the highest level of anonymity by routing your traffic through multiple encrypted relays. It’s the best option if you need to browse without leaving a trace but it comes with trade-offs. However, Tor is much slower than other browsers and many websites block Tor traffic or require CAPTCHAs. For everyday browsing it’s not the most practical choice but for activists, journalists or anyone who needs strong anonymity it’s unbeatable.
Among mainstream browsers Firefox and Safari have the best built-in privacy protections. Firefox blocks trackers, fingerprinting and cryptominers by default. Firefox Containers prevent cross-site tracking between different accounts. Safari uses Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) to stop advertisers from following you across websites. Safari also has iCloud Private Relay (for iCloud+ users) which hides your IP address and encrypts traffic.
So, which browser is best? If you want full anonymity Tor is the answer. But it’s not practical for everyday use. For private browsing without the slowdowns Brave and DuckDuckGo are the way to go.
Which Browser Is Fastest?
All modern browsers are fast. They’re all built on powerful engines that prioritise speed and efficiency. But if we had to pick one, Chrome is still the winner in most speed tests. Its V8 JavaScript engine and preloading give it a boost in loading web pages fast, especially for sites heavy on scripts and dynamic content.
That said, platform and device play a big role here. Safari may not always top the benchmarks overall, but it’s the fastest browser on macOS and iOS because it’s designed to work perfectly with Apple’s hardware and software. In general, browsers perform better on macOS than Windows, with Safari, Chrome and Edge all seeing a big improvement in responsiveness and power efficiency on MacBooks.
Wrapping Up
At the end of the day, the best browser heavily depends on what you need from a browser. Some are feature filled, some are simple. Some prioritise privacy, others speed or deep integration with an ecosystem. No one gets it all right but they all bring something to the table. If you’re stuck with what you know you might not even notice the small ways your browser impacts your daily browsing. It’s always a good idea to try a new browser first before you fully make the switch.