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E

Edge

3.7(177 reviews)

1 comparison available

About Edge

Microsoft Edge is a web browser developed by Microsoft, released in its current Chromium-based form in January 2020 (replacing the original EdgeHTML-based Edge). Built on Chromium, Edge is compatible with Chrome extensions and has inherited Chrome's web standards support. Edge holds approximately 5% global market share but is notably higher on Windows (where it's the default browser), with an estimated 13-15% share on desktop. Edge differentiates from Chrome through: lower memory usage (Memory Saver is more aggressive), better Windows integration, Copilot AI sidebar (Microsoft's AI assistant built in), vertical tabs, immersive reader, PDF tools, and Collections (visual bookmarking). Edge includes built-in tracking prevention and a free VPN (5 GB/month). Edge syncs via Microsoft account. On Windows 11, Edge is deeply integrated — it's used for Windows Search previews, PDF viewer, and Microsoft 365 web apps.

Built on Chromium — Chrome extension compatibilityLower RAM usage than Chrome — more aggressive Memory SaverCopilot AI sidebar — Microsoft's AI assistant built-in5% global share; default Windows browser — 13-15% desktop share

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsoft Edge better than Chrome?

Edge is a legitimate Chrome alternative that many users prefer, particularly on Windows. Edge uses significantly less memory than Chrome (important for lower-RAM machines), includes Copilot AI built-in, has excellent PDF tools, and syncs with Microsoft account. It's compatible with all Chrome extensions. For Windows users in the Microsoft ecosystem, Edge is worth trying — it's often faster and lighter than Chrome for everyday browsing. Chrome remains better for Google services integration and larger extension ecosystem.

Is Edge safe and private?

Edge's default tracking prevention is moderate — three levels (Basic, Balanced, Strict). Balanced mode is the default and blocks trackers from sites you haven't visited. Edge does collect some telemetry for Microsoft. It's more private than Chrome's defaults but less private than Firefox with uBlock Origin. Edge also includes a free VPN (5 GB/month via Microsoft's network). For serious privacy needs, Firefox or Brave are better options.