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Best free browsers for privacy and security in 2024

Unfortunately, we live in an era when the words "free" and "secure" rarely go together. Add to these the word "browser" and you've got yourself a solid puzzle. Luckily, we're here to solve it!

Choosing a private and secure internet browser is something to really get your teeth into, especially if you're looking for a free one. There are too many options and mainstream options like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are out of the question. Hopefully, this article can help!

Below, you can see the list of the best free internet browsers that are protective of your privacy and security. Keep scrolling to see which VPN providers go well with them to make you nearly untraceable online.

Free browsers to avoid

Browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Opera, developed by large tech companies, show little to no concern for users' privacy. They track your browsing habits and collect data on websites visited, search history, user interactions, and more. They use this data to create detailed profiles of users for targeted advertising and other purposes. Or worse, they sometimes sell it to third parties, putting your online privacy and security in danger.

What is the best free and secure browser?

With internet browsers, it's nearly impossible to find the ones that don't abuse your data, especially among the free options. After all, they have unlimited access to your online activities. The browsers listed below, however, employ rigorous measures to minimize online tracking, such as concealing your IP address and encrypting your traffic. 

  1. Brave - The best overall free internet browser for privacy and security. An open-source Chromium-based browser that enables you to block annoying pop-ups and more.
  2. Tor Browser - The most anonymous internet browser. Run by a wide web of volunteers and is entirely free. Provides multi-layered protection and access to the deep web.
  3. DuckDuckGo - Very private search engine for mobile devices and macOS. It comes with advanced features such as Cookie Pop-up Management and a free email forwarding service.
  4. Firefox - The only private free browser that entered the mainstream. It's super efficient and comes with features such as Private Browsing and Enhanced Tracking Protection.
  5. Mullvad Browser - A beginner-friendly free web browser that's great for privacy. It efficiently blocks trackers and ads and it earns money from its VPN services exclusively.

Below, we analyze these browsers in more depth. However, due to a variety of user-specific needs, we leave the final choice to you. That being said, we still recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added online protection. They are perfect for concealing your online activities, protecting your identity, and keeping snoopers at bay.

Best free browsers for privacy and security, in-depth analysis

The above are the best free online browsers having considered the most important aspects of privacy and security. Still, individual user needs can differ tremendously. We hope this detailed analysis of each service provider can help you make an informed choice for yourself.

1. Brave
Editor's Choice | October 2024

Brave browser is our #1 recommendation for anyone who wants to experience private online browsing for free. A highly customizable, efficient, and secure search engine.

  • Pros

    • Blocks most ads and trackers by default
    • Plenty of customizations
    • Super efficient
    • Integrates well with Tor products
    • Proprietary search engine
  • Cons

    • Can take time to get accustomed
    • Built-in VPN is not the greatest

Brave Browser


Brave is a privacy-focused web browser from San Francisco, California, developed by Brave Software, Inc. This browser prioritizes user privacy and security by blocking trackers, ads, and other web elements that may compromise you. It has recently introduced its "HTTPS by Default" which increases HTTPS use and improves overall Web security. On top of that, it offers fingerprinting protection to enhance user privacy.


Performance


Brave browser is an excellent choice if you're looking for speed and performance. Thanks to its effective blocking of resource-intensive elements like ads and trackers, it offers a streamlined browsing experience with faster page load times.


This browser integrates image and video inspection directly into Brave Search, making it one of the most efficient browsers on the market. The company has been independently built and based on open-source Chromium, which further adds to its great reputation.


Important features


Here listed are some of the most important Brave browser features. They add to your privacy and some of them can help you further customize your browsing experience.



Revenue model


Brave has created its own ad-based revenue model. Brave Rewards is an opt-in program that allows users to earn Basic Attention Tokens (BAT) by viewing ads. The ads are created and distributed in a manner that respects user privacy – no tracking and no spamming.


Users can also contribute BAT to their favorite content creators and publishers as a way of extending financial support to them.


Cross-platform compatibility


Brave browser is available for all platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. Plus, it is free of charge, making it accessible to everyone.


Overall, Brave browser offers a compelling option for users seeking a privacy-focused yet fast alternative to mainstream browsers. Its emphasis on user control makes it a popular choice among privacy-conscious individuals.

The Tor Browser is the most private and secure internet browser on this list. You get several layers of encryption and multiple IP addresses for free. It's entirely run by privacy-conscious volunteers at the Tor project.

  • Pros

    • Anonymous browsing
    • Enables access to the dark web
    • Open-source software
  • Cons

    • Slower than other browsers on this list
    • Not great for data-intensive tasks
    • Lacks protection at the entry and exit nodes

Tor Browser


Tor Browser is a powerful browsing tool carefully designed to prioritize anonymity and privacy for users navigating the complexities of the internet. This layered web browser offers unique features ideal for privacy-conscious individuals and those seeking protection from online surveillance.


Performance


At the core of Tor Browser's functionality is its ability to route internet traffic through the Tor network, comprising thousands of volunteer-operated servers worldwide. This process encrypts user data and obscures their IP address, making it incredibly challenging for websites, advertisers, and even governments to track their online activities.


However, such a robust network is not without drawbacks. Users may experience slower browsing speeds compared to conventional web browsers due to a number of reasons, including:



Users who prioritize privacy and anonymity over speed and performance may find Tor to be a valuable tool for protecting their online activities from tracking. However, it's essential to manage expectations regarding browsing speeds when using the Tor Browser and understand that its privacy advantages sometimes come with trade-offs in terms of performance.


Important features


With the Tor Browser, you get these advanced privacy features, and more:



  • Vast network – By leveraging the diversified Tor network, users can bypass censorship filters and connect to websites and services that may otherwise be inaccessible. You get to circumvent internet censorship and access restricted content in regions with little or no online freedom.

  • Built-in privacy tools – Tor Browser includes built-in features such as "HTTPS Everywhere", which automatically encrypts connections to websites whenever possible, mitigating the risk of data interception and surveillance. It also blocks third-party trackers, ads, and other invasive pop-ups by default, ensuring that users can browse the web without sacrificing their privacy.

  • Open source code – Its source code is publicly available for review and scrutiny, allowing security experts and developers to identify vulnerabilities, suggest improvements, and contribute to its ongoing development.


Despite its advanced privacy and security features, Tor Browser offers a user-friendly interface that's suitable for users of all technical levels.


Revenue model


Tor Browser was developed by the US Naval Research Lab and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), following the highest privacy standards. Tor is currently run by the Tor Project, an entirely non-profit organization, and its volunteers.


The project is supported by considerable donations from various sources, including federal entities, such as The National Science Foundation, philanthropic foundations, research organizations, individual contributors, and others.


Cross-platform compatibility


Tor Browser is available across most operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Mac, and Android, ensuring broad accessibility and compatibility across different devices and platforms. The iOS version of Tor Browser is not available yet though, so if you're looking to safeguard the privacy of your iPhone when browsing, consider some of the other service providers from this article.


In summary, Tor Browser may not be the fastest free browser out there, however, its commitment to anonymity and accessibility makes it a valuable resource for individuals seeking to regain online freedom and safeguard their digital rights.

DuckDuckGo is an excellent all-around browser option for Mac, iOS, and Android devices. The Windows version is still in beta. You get a very private search experience paired with some of the most advanced browsing functionalities and customizations on the market.

  • Pros

    • Quite fast and efficient search engine
    • Email forwarding option
    • A built-in YouTube player
  • Cons

    • Windows version still in beta
    • Doesn't support browser extensions
    • Instances of shady behavior in the past

DuckDuckGo browser


DuckDuckGo is an efficient search engine that offers superb mobile browser applications for both iOS and Android devices. It comes with some very advanced browsing solutions. Plus, it integrates its privacy features directly into the browsing experience. Below, you can see some other key aspects of DuckDuckGo's browser.


Performance


DuckDuckGo's performance is primarily focused on providing users with a secure and private browsing experience, rather than prioritizing the search speed. While it may not be as optimized for speed as some more popular browsers, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, DuckDuckGo still offers a satisfactory level of performance for most users.


Furthermore, DuckDuckGo's browser is quite lightweight and efficient, minimizing resource usage to provide a smooth browsing experience. It does not consume excessive system resources or memory, which helps maintain overall performance, especially on devices with limited processing power.


The browser's encryption features, such as HTTPS encryption and tracker blocking, may introduce some additional overhead that could impact page load times. However, this trade-off is essential for ensuring user privacy and security while browsing the web.


Important features


The DuckDuckGo browser offers a range of privacy-enhancing features to protect users while browsing the web. You get a Tracker Protection option that prevents third-party trackers from loading, including those from major companies like Facebook and Google.



Smart Encryption improves security by identifying HTTPS-supported sites. Users can easily erase their browsing history and session information with the Fire Button, while the Fireproof option allows them to stay logged into specific sites securely. The browser's Cookie Pop-up Management tool automatically handles cookie pop-ups, maximizes privacy preferences, and minimizes cookies.


DuckDuckGo also provides access to a free email forwarding service, allowing users to create @duck.com email addresses that strip away any sort of profiling trackers before forwarding them to your other accounts. Additionally, a built-in YouTube player enables ad-free video streaming while, at the same time, preventing Google tracking.


Revenue model


As the DuckDuckGo management explains it in detail on their official website:


"We make money from private ads and affiliate partnerships on our search engine. On most other search engines, you are targeted with ads based on creepy profiles made up of your personal information, such as search, browsing, and purchase history."


They further clarify that, since DuckDuckGo doesn’t track users, they don’t have search histories. So, the search ads you see when browsing are just based on your current search results page and not on your entire search profile – like with most mainstream browsers. So, if you're currently researching cars, DuckDuckGo will simply show more cars.


Cross-platform compatibility


The DuckDuckGo browser is available for Mac, Windows (beta), iOS, and Android devices, allowing users to access its privacy features on their preferred mobile platform.


Overall, DuckDuckGo's browser is designed to prioritize user privacy and security while offering a seamless and intuitive browsing experience. It provides users with the tools and features they need to protect their online privacy and maintain control over their personal data.

Mozilla Firefox combines advanced privacy and security features with the speed and efficiency of mainstream search engines. It comes with a very transparent Privacy Notice.

  • Pros

    • Speedy service
    • Strong commitment to user privacy
    • Promptly patched past vulnerabilities
  • Cons

    • It uses a lot of RAM
    • Uses Google search engine
    • Sometimes freezes when opening multiple tabs

Firefox


Mozilla Firefox is an open-source web browser developed by the Mozilla Foundation and its subsidiary, the Mozilla Corporation. It was first launched in 2004 and it was an instant success, with over 100 million downloads within the first year of its release. It remains one of the most popular web browsers worldwide to this day.


Performance


Firefox uses a multi-process architecture that separates web content from the browser's user interface, resulting in smoother browsing and improved responsiveness.


It adheres to web standards and supports modern web technologies, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of websites and web applications. It regularly receives updates to incorporate new features, security patches, and performance enhancements.


Important features


Firefox offers advanced privacy features like Private Browsing and Enhanced Tracking Protection. Private Browsing keeps your browsing history and passwords private, especially on shared devices, while Enhanced Tracking Protection blocks trackers and defends against harmful scripts and malware.



With Firefox, users can monitor blocked content through the Protection Dashboard, accessible via the shield icon in the address bar. The browser employs sandboxing to isolate web tabs and offers SmartBlock to prevent cross-site tracking. It can also block cryptocurrency mining scripts and various fingerprinting scripts.


Firefox's Total Cookie Protection confines each cookie to its originating website, with the Standard mode activated by default. Users can also opt for the Strict mode, which enhances cookie clearing, especially for third-party cookies.


Revenue model


Firefox is developed by a global community of volunteers, developers, and contributors who collaborate to improve the browser and add new features. The Mozilla Foundation promotes open-source principles and encourages community participation in the development process.


On top of that, Mozilla Firefox maintains a transparent approach to user data and privacy. Its Privacy Notice and Data Collection Statement inspire user trust, thanks to clear information about how their data is collected and used.


Cross-platform compatibility


Firefox is available on all your platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Users can synchronize their browsing data, including bookmarks, history, and open tabs, across different devices using Firefox Sync, ensuring a seamless browsing experience across devices


Overall, Mozilla Firefox is a feature-rich, customizable, and privacy-focused web browser that offers a secure and enjoyable browsing experience for users across various platforms.

Mullvad Browser is very easy to use to stop trackers and fingerprinting. For added privacy, you can use Mullvad VPN, owned by the same company.

  • Pros

    • Fights fingerprinting
    • Nonprofit browser
    • Integrates great with Mullvad VPN
  • Cons

    • No mobile apps
    • No extensions

Mullvad Browser


The Mullvad Browser, a joint effort between Mullvad VPN and the Tor Project, is optimized for use with a VPN, but it offers admirable levels of privacy even when used alone. It's perfect for minimizing fingerprinting and tracking while eliminating ads. The browser's revenue model primarily relies on its VPN service, which is great news for privacy-conscious users.


Performance


As with most browsers on this list, Mullvad's main priority is user privacy, speed comes second. Still, this browser offers decent performance levels. Even though it utilizes the Tor-developed search engine, it's stripped of Tor's network, making it a somewhat faster browser option.


Important features


Mullvad Browser is very dedicated to user privacy, which is mirrored in the long list of its unique privacy features. For a start, the browser includes uBlock Origin for content filtering, particularly effective against ads and third-party trackers.



Mullvad even spoofs the time zone to thwart fingerprinting attempts and adds space around websites to prevent identification based on browser window size. The browser also logs users out of websites between sessions to further mitigate the risks of users being tracked.


Its default private mode prevents the storage of cookies, cache, or browsing history between sessions. A convenient reset button swiftly clears the browsing session. Moreover, all telemetry data, which is typically collected for browser performance enhancement, gets completely wiped.


Revenue model


As mentioned above, the browser's revenue model primarily relies on its VPN service, which is great because you don't have to fear your data will get monetized. Mullvad advises against installing additional extensions, as they could compromise user anonymity through fingerprinting techniques.


Cross-platform compatibility


Mullvad Browser is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux only. It's currently not available for your mobile devices. With its minimalist design, Mullvad Browser offers an easy-to-use no-hustle service.

Testing methodology – ProPrivacy ​​criteria for choosing the most secure and private free internet browsers

Similarly to their needs, users' criteria for choosing the best free internet browser can differ tremendously. And, while most other merits of a good browser are debatable, one thing is for sure – your search engine should be private and secure, but also capable of giving results swiftly. 

To ensure our recommended browsers both perform and protect, we established the following criteria:

How to switch to a more private browser?

This should not be a problem at all! To switch to a free browser that's good for your privacy and security, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.

  1. Choose a free browser according to your needs. We recommend Brave Browser for its privacy and efficiency. But check the other providers on this list too.
  2. Close all open windows or tabs on your existing browsers.
  3. Download your new browser directly from the vendor's official website. Refrain from using third-party sources, they come with a whole new set of dangers.
  4. Run the necessary installations.
  5. Customize your browser through the installation wizard. If you're opting for our recommended browsers, you'll be able to import bookmarks from your prior browser.
  6. Once installation is done, launch the browser and verify it works.
  7. Remove/uninstall your old browser.

FAQs: Best free browsers for privacy and security

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about free browsers that promise privacy and security.

Conclusion

By choosing a browser that prioritizes privacy, users can enjoy a safer and more secure online experience. There are many free and private search engine options out there. However, the best free private browser for you is the one that aligns with your privacy preferences, browsing habits, and security needs. 

It's advisable to explore different options, experiment with features, and compare the transparency of various browsers' privacy policies before you pick a service for yourself. Here are the free private browsers to consider once again: 

From $0.00/month

The best overall free internet browser for privacy and security. An open-source Chromium-based browser that enables you to block annoying pop-ups and more.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
10 out of 10

From $0.00/month

The most anonymous internet browser. Run by a wide web of volunteers and is entirely free. Provides multi-layered protection and access to the deep web.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.9 out of 10

From $0.00/month

Very private search engine for mobile devices and macOS. It comes with advanced features such as Cookie Pop-up Management and a free email forwarding service.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.8 out of 10

From $0.00/month

The only private free browser that entered the mainstream. It's super efficient and comes with features such as Private Browsing and Enhanced Tracking Protection.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.7 out of 10

From $0.00/month

A beginner-friendly free web browser that's great for privacy. It efficiently blocks trackers and ads and it earns money from its VPN services exclusively.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.6 out of 10

Written by: Danka Delić

With her BA in English Language and Literature, Private Pilot Licence, and passion for researching and writing, Danka brings further diversity to the team. As a former world traveler, she learned to appreciate cyber security and the necessity for digital privacy. Danka is a nature, animal, and written-word lover. She enjoys staying on the go, both mentally and physically, and spends most of her free time either reading or hiking with her dog.

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