Open-source privacy oriented browser

Many well-known web browsers come with inherent security vulnerabilities by default. By implementing cookies and serving ads, various corporations and governmental entities can track your online searches and compromise user privacy. Secure browsers adopt various strategies to enhance safety; they incorporate features such as third-party ad blocking, encryption protocols, and URL filtering to facilitate a safer browsing experience. In this review, we will look at an open-source privacy oriented browser with many built-in security features, including its built-in ad blocker, which efficiently reduces ads.

Additionally, this browser is capable of upgrading HTTP connections to HTTPS, providing an extra layer of security, although users have the option to disable this function in their settings. We will also examine its memory usage compared to other browsers based on the Chromium framework and assess whether it consistently outperforms others in speed and resource management.

Chromium-based with many extensions

Brave is a Chromium-based browser released in 2016. While it is by far not the most popular one, with over 50 million downloads by the close of 2021, its popularity is increasing rapidly. At this time of writing (latest update: end of July 2025), it boasts over 90 million monthly active users, but this statement requires further verification. Built upon the core of Google Chrome, most of the Chromium extensions will function, adding a load of extra features. But Brave has revised the foundational code to remove specific references to Google Web services, and the browser will notify you whenever you attempt to install an extension that is deemed unreliable.

Ad blocker built-in

As a privacy-oriented browser, Brave comes with a built-in ad blocker to enhance user privacy and security while browsing. As such, this releases you from installing any other third-party extension to block ads. The defaults configured in the Shields panel are reasonably solid to ensure your online privacy protection already. However, you have the option to further adjust them by blocking all cookies and scripts, for instance. Just keep in mind that excessive fine-tuning may lead to some websites becoming non-functional. Unless you have a valid reason and understand the adjustments you are making, it is advisable to stick with the preset parameters.

Forcing to use secure connections

If a site supports secure HTTPS connections, Brave will automatically force to use HTTPS to ensure any information sent to a server is encrypted, although users have the option to disable this functionality through the settings menu. And whenever a website has not enabled HTTPS, a clear message stating the connection is not secure will be shown. On mobile devices, fingerprinting is also standard disabled; this stops third parties from cross-tracking your online activity.

Option to block social media content

Worth mentioning is that you can block social media content as well. You have the option to enable or disable Facebook and Google login buttons, as well as embedded content from platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and LinkedIn. And on desktop or laptop, though you can add any search engine you like, the default one is DuckDuckGo`s private search engine. On mobile versions, you will only have a choice between DuckDuckGo, StartPage, Qwant, Bing, and Google.

Own private search engine

In 2021 Brave made significant strides in privacy protection by launching a Beta version of its own search engine. Brave Search became the default search engine for Brave browser users in 2022. It uses an independent index instead of relying upon popular search indexes and ensures anonymous searching. There is no tracking or profiling of users and no algorithms running in the background, leading to biased results. While Brave Search is integrated into the Brave browser, other browsers can make use of search.brave.com.

Fast page loading through blocking ads and trackers

In terms of performance, Brave`s privacy oriented browser may utilize more memory than Chrome during light usage, but it can be more resource-efficient during medium-to-heavy usage by blocking ads and third-party trackers. Though pop-ups, cross-site cookies, and ad banners are disabled by default, it is important to note that Brave’s overall memory consumption and page loading speed compared to other Chromium-based browsers may vary. Consequently, with reduced resource consumption, the battery life of your device profits as well.

Option to join the Brave Rewards program

To compensate for the loss of ad-based revenue to protect your online privacy, Brave collaborates with the Brave Ads network. The methodology involves users aiding content creators via donations using the Basic Attention Token (BAT) cryptocurrency. Only by opting into the Brave Rewards program users can earn BAT. Participants can then tip or support their preferred content creators. Rather than appearing on the websites being visited, these advertisements are displayed in the notification area of the device. The income generated from viewing these ads is shared among the advertiser, the user, and Brave.

Ads turned off unless you join

To some people, this will sound like an intrusion of Brave`s zero ad policy. The significant difference with ads served on other browsers though, is that in this case, there are no tracking cookies.  Furthermore, it is essential to note that you must actively enroll in the Brave Rewards program to receive them. By default, all ads to users are turned off in Brave, allowing you to surf the web ad-free.

Easy navigation in Brave

Brave is straightforward to install and navigate; it is compatible with Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms. After installing this privacy oriented browser, a wizard guides you in importing your bookmarks and your browsing history. Syncing your bookmarks across devices is possible too. And after choosing your default search engine, you are ready to go.  The user interface (UI) resembles any other Chromium-based browser, and navigating is seamless, responsive, and intuitive. Additionally, personalizing its appearance is a breeze.

No personal data collection

With its focus on your online privacy and security, Brave, in comparison to other standard browsers, offers outstanding performance. Protection from trackers and third-party cookies is enabled by default. As explained in its privacy statement, Brave does not gather any personal information from its users. And when you decide to join the Brave Rewards program, all aspects of ad personalization are processed locally on your device.