Web browsers are sophisticated and must be compatible with all web pages and functions while protecting user data and blocking cybersecurity threats. The Chromium browser is an open-source project created by Google and is the software upon which many of our favorite browsers like Chrome, Opera, and Microsoft Edge are built. The Chrome browser was first introduced in 2008, providing Chromium as a base for companies and users to develop browsers with customized features via open-source software. Other web browsers include the Gecko browser engine, another open-source engine developed by Mozilla, and notably used in the Firefox browser, and Gnome, a simple user interface that goes by its code name Epiphany. WebKit is the web browser engine behind Safari and other macOS, iOS, and Linus applications. Previous browsers include Trident and EdgeHTML, which powered Internet Explorer but have since become obsolete.
Following reports that some ad blockers will be disabled as Google welcomes version 3 of its extensions Manifest, some users are looking for an alternative to Chromium-based browsers. Here are our top picks of the best non-chromium browsers for Windows.
1. Firefox
Gecko is a free, open-source software from Mozilla, and shares some UI components with Firefox for Desktop, Firefox for Android, and Thunderbird. It is the layout engine created by the Mozilla Project and includes a networking stack, a graphics stack, a layout engine, and a JavaScript virtual machine. Gecko offers a thorough Application Programming Interface (API) and is suitable for applications like web browsers and content presentation.
Firefox is a popular browser with around 156 million users worldwide. It offers fast browsing while blocking trackers automatically, protecting users from prying eyes. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux machines and available in over 90 languages, making it accessible for all. Firefox works well with Google products, and includes a built-in screenshot tool, a bookmark manager, and smart search suggestions for an enhanced user experience. Users can customize their browser with a range of themes, and protect their privacy by using private browsing mode.
2. LibreWolf
LibreWolf is also powered by Gecko and is described as a custom but independent version of Firefox. Its goals are to provide privacy, security, and user freedom while offering enhanced protection against tracking and fingerprinting techniques. LibreWolf uses privacy-conscious search providers like DuckDuckGo and includes a content blocker. The self-proclaimed community-driven project holds privacy at its core, providing the latest security features for users.
3. Mullvad
Mullvad is a free, open-source browser from Gecko that is designed to minimize tracking and fingerprints. Its creators are conscious that masking an IP address does not necessarily prevent data collection from third parties, as users can be tracked and identified through third-party cookies, scripts, and browser fingerprints. As such, Mullvad developers coupled with the Tor Project to create the Mullvad Browser, a web browser with outstanding levels of privacy.
4. WaterFox
WaterFox is another Gecko-powered web browser offering web browsing with additional privacy protection. The browser comes with built-in tracking protection as standard, offering enhanced protection against potential privacy breaches. Users can launch private tabs to browse anonymously without opening a separate private window, while organizing their searches into color-coded container tabs. Switching to WaterFox is a breeze, as aspiring users can easily import their bookmarks and passwords from other browsers.
5. Ladybird
Ladybird is an independent web browser supported by a non-profit organization. Still in the development phase, the brand-new browser and web engine runs on SerenityOS and aims to provide high performance and security over multiple platforms. Ladybird is independent and does not use code from other browsers, remaining focused on offering a top-quality web browser. Its developers are asking for community support to help build this new browser engine, creating a truly unique browser developed by real users.
6. SeaMonkey
SeaMonkey is a community effort from Gecko. It is built on the Mozilla Gecko engine and offers features from other Gecko-powered browsers. SeaMonkey includes tabbed browsing, allowing users to simultaneously open several pages with one click. Multiple add-ons let users extend their browsing experience while providing them to the wider SeaMonkey community. SeaMonkey has a unique data manager interface for site-specific data such as cookies, permissions including image blocking, preferences, passwords, and various privacy measures to keep users safe while browsing.
7. Pale Moon
Pale Moon is an open-source browser from Goanna, a fork of Gecko. It is an independent browser forked from Firefox code, including features and optimizations for an enhanced user experience. Users can customize the browser with themes and extensions while enjoying additional security features and security-aware development. Pale Moon is non-profit, free to download, and fully supported by its user community.
8. Basilisk
Basilisk is powered by Goanna, a fork of Gecko, and offers a familiar interface similar to that of Firefox. However, it is not associated with Mozilla as it is a fully independent fork of the Mozilla/Firefox code. Basilisk was created by the Pale Moon team but is now developed and maintained by independent developers. It is a stable piece of software and does not often change its interface or features, offering users a reliable browsing experience.
9. Floorp
Floorp is a Firefox-based browser from Gecko, boasting outstanding privacy options for users. It features strong tracking protection and a robust tracking blocker, safeguarding against various malicious trackers. Its flexible layout offers limitless customization possibilities like vertical tabs or hidden title bar, letting users create their own Floorp. The browser does not collect personal information from users, and it does not track or sell user data.
10. Safari
Safari is a Webkit-based browser for Apple devices, offering lightning-fast browsing for users. With advanced privacy protection technology as standard, Safari includes Intelligent Tracking Prevention which identifies and stops trackers from following users across the web. It also hides IP addresses from known trackers and does not share location information with search engines, helping to maintain user privacy. Safari is developed to run on Apple devices and is not compatible with Windows PCs. It also includes various customization options including Safari Profiles, allowing users to separate and switch between history, extensions, tab groups, favorites, and cookies with ease.
Conclusion
Surfing the web is not possible without a web browser. Chromium is a popular choice, however there are many other excellent options to choose from. Each of the browsers mentioned in this article offers its unique take on the browsing experience, giving users flexible and customizable browsing options. Alongside this, many browsers offer enhanced privacy features to help prevent tracking and potential cyber-attacks from data leaks. Those looking to switch browsers can consider some of the non-Chromium browsers from this list.
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Jeni is a translator and writer based in Taiwan. She is passionate about business development and loves helping companies enter international markets. She is fluent in English, German, and Mandarin Chinese, and combines these with her industry experience to provide practical market entry solutions.
