Using an untraceable web browser leads to a much safer online experience. Fortunately, it’s easy to start using a browser that prioritizes your privacy.
Here are the best private browsers that are (almost) completely anonymous.
1
Tor Browser
The Tor network has one simple goal: anonymous browsing. It’s the best private web browser available and the best browser for accessing the dark web. The network aims to protect a user’s location, browser history, personal data, and online messages from any person or bot performing network traffic analysis.
To access the Tor network, you need to use the Tor Browser. It’s so secure that the US Navy uses it for intelligence gathering. Tor is also used by law enforcement organizations who want to visit websites without leaving government IP addresses in the site’s log. It’s available for all major OS, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.
There are also some downsides to using the Tor Browser. For most users, the biggest issue is speed. Because your traffic is taking such a twisty route to get to its destination, your browsing experience will not be as fast. If you have a good connection, it might not be an issue, but if your internet speed is slow, Tor might become painful to use.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Strong anonymity and privacy features. |
Slower browsing speeds due to multiple relays. |
|
Layered encryption for enhanced security. |
Potential compatibility issues with certain websites. |
|
Ability to access the dark web and blocked websites. |
Download: Tor Browser for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (Free)
2
Epic Browser
Epic Browser doesn’t use a specialized onion network, but it immediately disables lots of the most common ways your privacy is compromised when surfing the web.
For example, this free private browser doesn’t save your history; there’s no DNS pre-fetching; it doesn’t allow third-party cookies; there are no web or DNS caches; and there’s no autofill feature.
The browser automatically deletes any associated databases, preferences, pepper data, and cookies from Flash and Silverlight when you close your session.
Epic Browser will also protect you against newer scams and malware, such as fingerprint scanners, crypto mining, ultrasound signaling, and more. It is available for all major operating systems.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Robust privacy features, including ad and tracker blocking. |
Limited support for extensions compared to mainstream browsers. |
|
Encrypted proxy for added anonymity. |
Smaller user base, potentially leading to less comprehensive support. |
|
User-friendly interface for a seamless browsing experience. |
Download: Epic Browser for Windows/Mac | Android | iOS (Free)
3
SRWare Iron Browser
If you’re a Google Chrome user, SRWare Iron will be familiar; it’s based on the open-source Chromium project, so a lot of the on-screen visuals look very similar.
The main difference between Chrome and SRWare Iron is data protection. Experts have criticized Chrome for its reliance on a “Unique User ID”; every time you start a session, Google is alerted to your data usage. SRWare strips out the usage of an ID along with other Chrome privacy issues, such as search suggestions. It makes SRWare Iron a great secret web browser.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Eliminates privacy-invasive features found in Google Chrome. |
Depends on Chromium updates for security patches. |
|
Offers a familiar browsing experience for Chrome users. |
Potential for data collection by third-party extensions. |
|
Supports Chrome extensions and apps. |
Download: SRWare Iron for Windows/Mac | Android (Free)
4
Comodo Dragon Browser
Comodo doesn’t come close to Tor Browser, but it does have some built-in tools that’ll make browsing the web a safer experience.
For starters, this private web browser will automatically block all tracking, cookies, and web spies. It comes with built-in domain validation technology that’ll instantly segregate strong and weak SSL certificates, and it uses the Comodo antivirus suite to protect you from ransomware, viruses, and other attack vectors.
Like SRWare Iron, it’s based on Chromium, so it’ll be an easy switch for many people. It has two versions—one that looks like Chrome and one that looks like Firefox. Choose whichever you are more used to.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Utilizes Comodo’s security technologies for enhanced protection. |
Limited customization options compared to some other browsers. |
|
Emphasizes SSL certificate verification for secure browsing. |
|
|
Supports Chrome extensions and apps. |
Download: Comodo Dragon Browser for Windows (Free)
5
Brave Browser
Brave Browser is another one of the best browsers with a simple interface. It stands out by focusing on both privacy and speed. Brave blocks unwanted ads and trackers by default, reducing how much data websites collect about users. It also offers features such as HTTPS Everywhere and script blocking to enhance privacy and security.
Additionally, the browser includes Brave Rewards, which allows you to opt into viewing privacy-respecting ads and earn cryptocurrency rewards. However, Brave’s approach to advertising has received mixed opinions from users and the industry.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Default ad and tracker blocking for improved privacy. |
Controversial approach to advertising and revenue generation. |
|
Enhanced privacy and security features, such as HTTPS Everywhere. |
Smaller user base compared to mainstream browsers. |
|
Brave Rewards program for earning cryptocurrency. |
Download: Brave Browser for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (Free)
6
DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo has cemented its reputation as one of the go-to browsers for privacy-conscious folks, as it comes loaded with a variety of privacy features.
The browser blocks third-party cookies, tracking ads, and cookie consent pop-ups and uses its privacy-friendly search engine to search for content on the web. It also provides a special email-forwarding service that blocks email trackers automatically. Like other browsers, there are pros and cons of using DuckDuckGo.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
|
Privacy features are set by default. |
Doesn’t support extensions. |
|
User-friendly interface. |
Had a deal with Microsoft in the past not to block the company’s trackers. |
|
Includes a service for blocking email trackers. |
Download: DuckDuckGo for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (Free)
As concerns about online privacy continue to grow, it’s surprisingly difficult to find a truly free, anonymous browser that focuses on your anonymity and security as primary features. The six browsers are some of the best private browsers. Each browser has its own unique advantages and potential drawbacks, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs.
