
Chrome and Firefox are the two most popular cross-platform browsers in the world. A good reason to compare them directly. This content compares Firefox and Chrome in the following categories: features, security, data protection, performance, stability, and usability. For a general overview of the browsers currently available, see our overview of the best browsers.
Chrome vs Firefox: comparison of the main criteria
To answer some questions, we compare Google Chrome and Firefox web browsers in different areas. What functions do they allow? What about security and data protection? Do browsers differ in performance? What should I know about their stability and usability?
Functions
Chrome and Firefox offer many features that users will find difficult to master. In addition, it is possible to add additional modules (add-ons and extensions) and to fill missing functions with extension libraries present in the relevant webshop.
In Firefox, we can point out, in particular, the screen capture function, which allows you to save as a graphic file the screen currently displayed, an extract from it or an image of the entire site. Reading mode is also a special feature of Firefox. With it, the site can be displayed in a format that makes it easier to read, where all content unrelated to the main article is hidden.
Both browsers have a PDF reading function. Firefox also offers a function for reading QR codes (very practical for mobile devices) and a night mode that rests the eyes. On mobile, Firefox also allows you to display any website in desktop format if the mobile version does not work.
Google Chrome extension libraries are more extensive than competitors. In addition, Chrome is particularly well integrated with common Google services, such as Google Search, Gmail, Google Docs and Google Translate. Google Chrome allows the creation of several profiles, for example, for work and leisure.
Users of the mobile version of Chrome can save sites to a reading list on their device and read it later on another device (even offline). In Chrome, a right-click on any image is enough to launch a Google image search. Since version 74, Chrome has also had an eye-resting dark mode.
Security
Both browsers are adapted to the National Information Security Agency regulations relating to the protection of information systems. Firefox blocks pop-ups by default, but not ads. Nevertheless, there are ad and pop-up blockers in the form of add-ons. Like Google Chrome, Firefox automatically queries a database of dangerous websites to protect users from scam attempts, spam and malware. Passwords managed by Firefox for websites can be protected by a master password.
Google Chrome also blocks pop-up windows and offers extensions to block advertisements. However, it should be noted that Google's publisher lives from advertising. For this reason, consumer defense associations fear that Google will restrict the possibilities of masking advertising in the short or long term. Device login credentials protect Chrome-managed passwords for websites.
Both navigators update their browsers regularly to close security vulnerabilities. Chrome and Firefox warn users before opening websites that are not secured using the HTTPS protocol, which is not encrypted with SSL/TLS.
Data protection
When it comes to data protection, many users place great trust in the publisher of Firefox, namely the Mozilla Foundation. This non-profit organization does not seek to profit through advertising or the use/transfer of data. Firefox also offers effective functions to control or prevent tracking on websites and social networks.
Conversely, Google finances itself mainly through advertising and large-scale data exploitation. Many of the services enabled by default in Chrome, such as URL and keyword suggestions, collect user data. Google Chrome's privacy policy is very comprehensive and detailed, making it difficult for users to assert their data protection ambits; that is to say, Google Chrome also offers a host of setting options for tracking, data collection, and cookies to power users to control their data.
Performances
Firefox is known to be one of the fastest browsers, whether on desktop or mobile. The memory consumed depends on the number of open tabs. On mobile, it is possible to disable the display of site images, which saves bandwidth and, therefore, volume and data traffic costs. Download, video and hardware acceleration tools are also supposed to optimize the performance of Firefox. Google Chrome is also very fast but consumes more memory and does not offer options to save bandwidth on mobile devices.
Stability
Firefox and Chrome require website tabs to be opened separately; they are separate processes with no influence on each other. The different pages take place in a “sandbox”. Even if one tab fails, the others are not affected. Both browsers employ an internal task manager to close an individual tab if necessary.
Usability
Browsers organize visited websites into tabs, allowing you to view as many sites as you want simultaneously. In Chrome, the more tabs you have open, the more they shrink, while in Firefox, they keep a minimum size and have to be scrolled horizontally. Consequently, in Firefox, part of the title of the sites always remains visible, whereas, in Chrome, it is necessary to be satisfied with a small icon (“favicon”). When tabs are too small in Chrome, you risk inadvertently closing them by double-clicking them.
In both search engines, open tabs can be blocked and muted. It is also possible in both cases to synchronize open websites and other settings across multiple devices. Similarly, both browsers allow automatic form filling.
The latest beta version of Firefox on Android has managed to provide various improvements, and it is better to use it for a while and maybe become a regular user of this browser.
Final Thought
In conclusion, comparing Firefox and Chrome is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs. Both browsers have their strengths and weaknesses, making it important to consider various factors when choosing between them.
Firefox, known for its emphasis on privacy and customization, offers a range of extensions and features that enhance user control and security. It is strongly committed to open-source development and supports the web standards community. Firefox's performance and rendering capabilities have improved significantly, making it a reliable and fast browser option.
On the other hand, Chrome, developed by Google, excels in speed and integration with Google services. It offers seamless synchronization across devices and platforms, making it convenient for users relying heavily on Google's ecosystem. Chrome also boasts a vast library of extensions and enjoys widespread compatibility with websites and web applications.
Ultimately, the choice between Firefox and Chrome depends on individual preferences, priorities, and specific use cases. When deciding, it is recommended to consider factors such as privacy, customization options, performance, integration with other services, and compatibility. Both browsers continue to evolve and innovate, aiming to provide users with the best possible web browsing experience.
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