In macOS, the default browser Safari is the most commonly used web browser. However, there are many alternatives available that have multiple functions.
Some of the best internet browsers for macOS are Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Brave, Opera, etc. These browsers are free to download from official sites and fully compatible with Mac computers with Intel and M-series processors.
In this guide, I've put together a list of the best browsers for macOS that you can download for free.
These are the 8+ best browsers for Mac
Google Chrome
To start, I recommend Google Chrome. Chrome is used by almost 70% of all internet users and for good reason. Chrome has a simple appearance, is very fast when loading websites and using them and supports many functions.
Chrome has a large arsenal of extensions that expand the functionality of Google Chrome. It also allows you to synchronize your browser data and works seamlessly with other Google functions such as the search engine and the Gmail mail service. In terms of security, Chrome is one of the most secure browsers you can use. Google Chrome has a “Sandbox” function that makes it virtually impossible for attackers to access the operating system.
Read more about Google Chrome for Mac.
Firefox
If you have a Mac that is a bit slower, Firefox may be your best choice. Firefox uses less memory than Chrome and offers the same functions.
Where Chrome focuses more on the Google ecosystem, Firefox focuses on their own Mozilla services in combination with many options to improve your privacy online.
If you value privacy, Firefox may be the best choice. Firefox offers various services such as blocking online trackers by default, a system that sends notifications of known data leaks and a VPN to protect your internet privacy.
Read more about Firefox for Mac.
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is an improved version of Internet Explorer Edge. It is pre-installed in Windows OS. The Edge browser is built with the same Chromium engine as Chrome, which speeds up usage. Moreover, it is now available for Mac users and offers many features and security.
Because Edge is built on the Chromium engine, Chrome users will quickly become familiar with it. It also offers almost the same functions, although Edge is more focused on privacy. For example, there is standard functionality for ad blockers and it blocks online ad trackers to build a profile of you.
If you also use other devices in your environment that have Windows installed, for example, you can seamlessly synchronize your browser data to your Mac via a Microsoft account. If you like working with AI, you can also use Bing AI directly via the Edge browser.
Read more about Microsoft Edge for Mac.
Opera browser
Opera is a lesser-known browser, but one of the most innovative browsers. It contains a lot of useful features that can help you.
For example, there is a built-in VPN that helps you improve your online privacy. There is also a standard ad blocker available to block advertisements.
In terms of speed, it is one of the fastest browsers. Opera has been completely adapted to use as little memory as possible and compresses websites via Web 3.0 technology to load a website as quickly as possible. The mobile version also supports a “turbo mode” for devices with a slow internet connection.
Read more about Opera for Mac.
Brave browser
The Brave browser has gained enormous popularity in recent years. This is partly due to the many options that the Brave browser offers users to fully customize the browser to their wishes.
Brave also has an innovative rewards system where users can earn BAT by watching privacy-oriented ads and then donate those tokens to their favorite websites or content creators. This is something we do not see with other browsers and is therefore innovative.
The Brave browser also attaches great importance to privacy. There are many features available to improve online privacy. This includes an ad blocker, a fingerprint blocker, “Shields” a management platform to manage tracking and advertisements based on each website you visit and much more.
Read more about Brave browser for Mac.
Vivaldi Browser
Vivaldi is a browser developed by a team led by the former CEO of Opera Software. It is designed with an emphasis on flexibility, personalization and features.
Vivaldi is known for its extensive customization options, allowing users to change the browser interface according to their preferences. In addition, users can create sidebars for quick access to favorite websites, tools or extensions without having to open a new tab.
Vivaldi's approach to browsing is thus unique and focuses on providing a browser that is fully customizable to the user's individual needs. It is especially beneficial for users who prefer a browser that they can tweak and customize to their specific workflow and style.
Read more about Vivaldi browser for Mac.
Puffin browser
Puffin Browser is a lesser known browser compared to giants such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari. Still, Puffin offers some unique features and benefits.
The focus at Puffin browser is on online privacy and protection. This browser supports many features that protect your computer against online attacks, for example browser isolation and “exploit” protection. This is done by loading all websites you visit via their own Cloud server.
If you are concerned about possible attacks, Puffin browser may be the most suitable browser for you.
Read more about Puffin browser for Mac.
Avast Secure Browser
Avast Secure Browser is a free web browser developed by Avast, a company mainly known for its antivirus software. The browser is designed with an emphasis on security and privacy as the name suggests.
Avast Secure Browser is designed to protect users from tracking, phishing, malware and other online threats. It includes the usual ad blocker functionality, an anti-tracker module, and also a special banking function. This is a secure mode specifically designed for online banking and shopping, protecting users from potentially malicious scripts and keyloggers.
The emphasis of Avast Secure Browser is therefore clearly on security and privacy. Users who prioritize these aspects and are already familiar with Avast products may find this browser a good choice.
Read more about Avast Secure browser.
I hope this has helped you decide which browser is most suitable for you. Also read how to use the can change the default browser on your Mac. Thank you for reading!