What is a web browser?
Web browser definition
A web browser is a software program that retrieves information from a web server and turns raw website code into a visible web page you can interact with. It lets users open websites through an address bar, follow links, use tabs, save bookmarks, manage browsing history, and access online services across desktop and mobile devices.
Modern browsers rely on a rendering engine to interpret HTML code, process scripts, and display content correctly on screen. Different browsers also include their own security features, private browsing modes, syncing tools, and approaches to handling internet traffic and user data.
Most widely used browsers include Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Tor Browser. While many modern browsers offer similar core features, they differ in speed, privacy protections, customization options, and integration with ecosystems like Google services or Apple devices.
Comparison of web browsers
No single browser is best for everyone. Some prioritize speed, others focus on privacy, customization, battery efficiency, or AI-powered features. The comparison below highlights how the most popular browsers perform across the factors users care about most.
| Browser | Speed | Privacy | Customization | Resource use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Google Chrome | Very good | Mediocre | Unrivaled | Bad |
Apple Safari | Very good | Good | Mediocre | Unrivaled |
Microsoft Edge | Very good | Good | Good | Good |
Mozilla Firefox | Good | Very good | Very good | Good |
Opera | Good | Good | Very good | Good |
Brave | Very good | Unrivaled | Good | Good |
Tor Browser | Bad | Unrivaled | Mediocre | Mediocre |
Vivaldi | Good | Good | Unrivaled | Mediocre |
DuckDuckGo | Good | Very good | Bad | Very good |
Samsung Internet | Good | Good | Good | Very good |
ChatGPT Atlas | Good | Mediocre | Very good | Mediocre |
Arc / Dia | Good | Good | Unrivaled | Mediocre |
Browser comparisons are based on vendor documentation, publicly available browser features, market-share data, and independent browser performance testing [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8]
How do web browsers work?
A web browser works by retrieving resources from a web server and displaying them on your computer screen. These resources, mostly web pages, are identified by URLs and include text, images, videos, and other content. Web browsers use the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) to request these web pages and display them to you.
Web browsers function by translating Hypertext markup language (HTML) and Extensible Markup Language (XML) code into a viewable web page. The browser fetches this code from a web server, interprets it, and creates a visible web page on the screen of your device.
Behind the scenes, every browser relies on a rendering engine to translate website code into a visible webpage. Most Chromium-based browsers — including Chrome, Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi — use the Blink rendering engine. Safari uses WebKit, while Firefox relies on Gecko. These engines help explain why websites may load, display, or perform slightly differently across browsers.
Browser vs. search engine: What’s the difference?
Browsers and search engines serve different purposes. A web browser, such as Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, or Firefox, is the software you use to access and view websites. A search engine, such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo, is a website that helps you find information online.
You can enter a website address directly into the browser’s address bar to visit a specific page. Alternatively, you can type a search query, which the browser sends to a search engine. The search engine then returns a list of relevant results, and the browser displays them so you can choose which page to visit.
12 most popular web browsers in 2026
There are mainstream web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Apple Safari, and privacy-focused ones like the Tor browser. There are also mobile browsers, such as Mobile Safari for iOS devices and Chrome for Android devices. If you are still wondering which type is best for you, check out the details about each of the most popular web browsers below.
1. Google Chrome
Google Chrome is a free web browser developed by Google and first released in 2008 for Windows before expanding to macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It uses the Blink rendering engine and serves as the foundation for many other Chromium-based browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi. Chrome's popularity has also helped drive products such as Chromebooks and Chromecast devices.
Developer: Google LLC
Released: 2008
Market share: Approximately 68% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Fast page loading and strong performance across devices | Higher RAM and CPU usage than many competitors |
Safe Browsing helps detect malicious websites and downloads | Google collects browsing and usage data |
Largest extension ecosystem of any browser | Default settings prioritize convenience over privacy |
Seamless syncing across devices through a Google account | Some users may prefer more privacy-focused alternatives |
2. Apple Safari
Apple Safari is a free web browser developed by Apple and first released in 2003. It uses the WebKit rendering engine and comes preinstalled on Macs, iPhones, and iPads. Safari is designed to balance speed, privacy, and energy efficiency, making it a popular choice for users who primarily rely on Apple devices.
Developer: Apple Inc.
Released: 2003
Market share: Approximately 17% globally
Available on: macOS, iOS, iPadOS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Optimized for speed and battery efficiency on Apple devices | Only available within the Apple ecosystem |
Strong privacy protections, including Intelligent Tracking Prevention | Smaller extension library than Chrome and Firefox |
Seamless integration with iPhone, iPad, and Mac features | Fewer customization options |
Lower RAM and CPU usage than many competing browsers | Some web features arrive later than on Chromium-based browsers |
3. Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a free web browser developed by Microsoft and introduced in 2015 as the successor to Internet Explorer. In 2020, Microsoft rebuilt Edge on the Chromium platform, improving compatibility with modern websites and extensions. Today, Edge combines Chrome-like performance with Microsoft-specific features such as Copilot integration, Collections, vertical tabs, and built-in productivity tools for Windows users.
Developer: Microsoft
Released: 2015 (rebuilt on Chromium in 2020)
Market share: Approximately 5% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Fast performance thanks to the Chromium engine | Collects usage and diagnostic data by default |
Works seamlessly with Windows and Microsoft 365 services | Some features promote Microsoft products and services |
Compatible with Chrome extensions | Privacy settings require manual adjustment for stronger protection |
Clean user interface with built-in productivity tools | Less customizable than browsers like Vivaldi or Firefox |
4. Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is a free and open-source browser first released in 2004. Unlike most modern browsers, Firefox uses its own Gecko rendering engine rather than Chromium, helping maintain diversity in the browser market. Firefox has built a reputation as a privacy-respecting alternative to Chrome and Edge, offering extensive customization options and advanced tracking protections. For additional tips, check out our team’s recommendations for Firefox security.
Developer: Mozilla Foundation / Mozilla Corporation
Released: 2004
Market share: Approximately 2–3% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Strong privacy features, including Enhanced Tracking Protection | Smaller extension library than Chrome |
Open-source and developed by a non-profit-backed organization | Can feel slower on some websites than Chromium-based browsers |
Highly customizable user interface and settings | Lower market share means some sites optimize for Chromium first |
Independent Gecko rendering engine | Fewer ecosystem integrations than Chrome or Edge |
5. Opera
Opera is one of the oldest web browsers still actively maintained, first released in 1995. Today, it uses the Blink rendering engine and shares much of its underlying technology with other Chromium-based browsers. Opera is known for bundling features directly into the browser, including an ad blocker, AI assistant integrations, battery-saving tools, and workspace management. Notably, Opera no longer uses the old "Turbo Mode" branding, having replaced it with modern performance and data-saving features over the years.
Developer: Opera Software
Released: 1995
Market share: Less than 3% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Built-in ad blocker, VPN proxy, and productivity tools | Smaller user base and extension ecosystem than Chrome |
Fast browsing thanks to the Chromium engine | Some privacy advocates question Opera's data practices |
Includes unique features such as workspaces and sidebar integrations | Many features may feel unnecessary for casual users |
Compatible with most Chrome extensions | Less widely supported and tested than mainstream browsers |
6. Brave
Brave is a free, open-source browser developed by Brave Software and first released in 2016. Built on Chromium and the Blink rendering engine, it combines Chrome compatibility with privacy-focused defaults, including tracker blocking, fingerprinting protections, and HTTPS upgrades. Brave also includes its own optional advertising and rewards ecosystem, allowing users to opt into privacy-preserving ads. If you're evaluating its privacy features, feel free to read our team’s insights on whether Brave Browser is safe.
Developer: Brave Software, Inc.
Released: 2016
Market share: Less than 1% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Blocks ads and trackers by default | Smaller extension and user ecosystem than Chrome |
Strong privacy protections with minimal setup required | Some built-in crypto and rewards features may not appeal to all users |
Fast performance thanks to the Chromium engine | Certain websites may not function correctly with aggressive blocking enabled |
Compatible with Chrome extensions | Less mainstream support and adoption |
7. Tor Browser
Tor Browser is a free, open-source web browser developed by The Tor Project and first released in 2008. It is based on Firefox and routes internet traffic through multiple volunteer-operated servers to help protect user anonymity across the World Wide Web. Unlike most browsers that prioritize speed and convenience, Tor focuses on privacy first, which is why page loads can be noticeably slower. It supports familiar features such as tabbed browsing, but many settings are locked down by default to reduce the risk of tracking and fingerprinting.
Developer: The Tor Project
Released: 2008
Market share: Less than 1% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Strong anonymity protections that help hide your IP address | Significantly slower than most other browsers |
Blocks many forms of tracking and fingerprinting by default | Some websites block or restrict Tor traffic |
Open source web browser with publicly auditable code | Limited compatibility with certain websites and services |
Helps protect against surveillance and online threats | Extensions and browser customization are intentionally restricted |
8. Vivaldi
Vivaldi is a free browser developed by Vivaldi Technologies and first released in 2016 by former Opera co-founder Jon Stephenson von Tetzchner. Built on Chromium and the Blink rendering engine, Vivaldi focuses on flexibility and productivity rather than simplicity. Features such as tab stacking, split-screen tab viewing, customizable keyboard shortcuts, and built-in productivity tools have made it a favorite among users who spend significant amounts of time in their browser and want more control than Chrome, Edge, or Safari typically provide.
Developer: Vivaldi Technologies
Released: 2016
Market share: Less than 1% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Highly customizable interface, layouts, and workflows | Can feel overwhelming for casual users |
Built-in tools including notes, calendar, mail, and task management | More complex setup than mainstream browsers |
Compatible with Chrome extensions | Some features may increase resource usage |
Strong tab management features for heavy browsing | Smaller user base and ecosystem |
9. DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo is best known for its privacy-focused search engine, but it expanded into browsers with the launch of its mobile browser and later desktop versions. The browser is designed around simplicity and privacy, offering tracker blocking, cookie pop-up management, and encrypted connection upgrades by default. Unlike many mainstream browsers, DuckDuckGo aims to reduce data collection without requiring extensive configuration. If you’re considering this browser, make sure you read our guide on DuckDuckGo is safe.
Developer: DuckDuckGo, Inc.
Released: 2022 (browser launch)
Market share: Less than 1% globally
Available on: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Strong privacy protections enabled by default | Fewer customization options than Chrome or Firefox |
Blocks many trackers and third-party cookies automatically | Smaller extension ecosystem |
Simple, lightweight interface that's easy to use | Fewer advanced features for power users |
Includes built-in privacy tools and tracking protection | Lower market adoption than mainstream browsers |
10. Samsung Internet
Samsung Internet is a mobile browser developed by Samsung Electronics and first released in 2012. Built on the Chromium project and Blink rendering engine, it has grown into the most widely used non-Google mobile browser worldwide. Samsung Internet includes features such as secret browsing mode, tracking protection, support for content blockers, and integration with Samsung's broader ecosystem of devices and services. It remains particularly popular among Android users looking for an alternative to Chrome without sacrificing speed or usability.
Developer: Samsung Electronics
Released: 2012
Market share: Approximately 2–3% globally
Available on: Android, Wear OS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Optimized for Samsung smartphones and tablets | Not available on Windows, macOS, or iOS |
Built-in ad blocking support and privacy features | Smaller extension ecosystem than Chrome |
Smooth performance and low battery consumption | Primarily designed for Android users |
Supports dark mode, secret mode, and advanced customization | Less popular outside the Samsung ecosystem |
11. ChatGPT Atlas
ChatGPT Atlas is an AI agent browser developed by OpenAI. Unlike traditional browsers that focus primarily on displaying web pages, Atlas integrates ChatGPT directly into the browsing experience through a built-in side panel. Users can ask questions about the content on a page, generate summaries, compare information across multiple tabs, and use agent capabilities to complete tasks such as filling out forms, researching options, or carrying out multi-step workflows. Atlas reflects a broader shift toward AI-powered browsers that aim to combine browsing, search, and task execution in a single interface.
Developer: OpenAI
Released: 2025
Market share: Emerging product
Available on: Windows, macOS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Built-in AI assistant that can answer questions about the page you're viewing | Newer product with a smaller ecosystem than established browsers |
Can summarize articles, compare information, and help research topics | Some advanced AI features may require a subscription |
Supports multi-step tasks across websites and tabs | Users may have privacy concerns about AI-assisted browsing |
Reduces the need to switch between browser tabs and AI tools | Not yet as widely adopted as traditional browsers |
12. Arc / Dia
Arc was developed by The Browser Company as an alternative to the traditional browser tab model. Instead of relying on a crowded tab bar, Arc organizes browsing around sidebars, spaces, pinned tabs, and profiles, helping users manage projects and workflows more effectively. Dia builds on the same foundation but adds deeper AI capabilities, allowing users to ask questions about webpages, summarize content, search across tabs, and interact with information more naturally. Together, Arc and Dia represent a growing category of browsers that blend browsing, organization, and AI assistance into a single experience.
Developer: The Browser Company
Released: Arc (2023), Dia (2025)
Market share: Emerging products
Available on: macOS, Windows
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Innovative approach to tab and workspace management | Requires an adjustment period for users familiar with traditional browsers |
AI tools help summarize, search, and organize information | Smaller extension ecosystem and user base |
Clean, modern interface designed around productivity | Some features are still evolving |
Built on Chromium and compatible with many Chrome extensions | Less mainstream support than Chrome, Edge, or Firefox |
Where NordVPN fits in your browser setup
A web browser controls how you access and display websites, but it does not fully protect your privacy or encrypt all of your internet traffic on its own. Whether you use Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Tor Browser, or other browsers, your browser mainly handles web content, tabs, bookmarks, and other browsing features — not full network security.
A VPN adds another layer of protection by encrypting your connection and routing traffic through a remote server. This helps reduce tracking from networks, internet providers, and third parties while protecting sensitive browsing data on public Wi-Fi and unsecured networks. Unlike a browser’s built-in private browsing mode, a VPN helps secure traffic outside the browser itself.
NordVPN works alongside desktop browsers and mobile browsers on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices. Its next-gen antivirus can also help block malicious websites, trackers, intrusive ads, and some forms of cross-site tracking, adding extra protection beyond standard browser security features.
Online security starts with a click.
Stay safe with the world’s leading VPN
FAQ
References
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²PCMag. (2026, May 28). Brave, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari? We pick the best browser for 2026. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://www.pcmag.com/picks/brave-chrome-edge-firefox-or-safari-we-pick-the-best-browser
³PrivacyTests.org. (n.d.). Open-source tests of web browser privacy. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://privacytests.org/
⁴PCMag. (2026, May 18). The best private browsers we've tested for 2026. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://www.pcmag.com/picks/stop-trackers-dead-the-best-private-browsers
⁵ZDNET. (2026, May 14). The best secure browsers for privacy in 2026: Expert tested. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-browser-for-privacy/
⁶Browsers.to. (2026). Most customizable browsers in 2026. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://browsers.to/articles/most-customizable-browsers
⁷Cloudzy. (2025, July 30). Which browser uses the least memory in 2025? Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://cloudzy.com/blog/which-browsers-use-the-least-memory/
⁸StatCounter Global Stats. (2026). Browser market share worldwide. Retrieved June 18, 2026, from https://gs.statcounter.com/browser-market-share
