Brave is a Chromium-based browser that blocks ads, fingerprinting, and ad-trackers by default, and is one of my favorite browsers overall.
Why we like it: Brave has millions of users worldwide. The company removed Google code from its Chromium version to improve user privacy, including some account integration, background sync, and inline extensions.
Brave also has several privacy-enhancing settings, including blocking third-party ad trackers, upgrading unsecured HTTPS connections, and blocking cookies and fingerprinting. The company says disabling invasive ads and trackers improves loading times on desktop and mobile.
Brave operates a “Tor mode” that provides anonymized onion network routing. The browser developer offers a VPN and firewall service that protects sessions, even outside the browser, and an AI-based search engine.
The company’s business model relies on privacy-protecting ads that pay publishers and users when users pay attention to ads. Brave is transparent about this revenue stream, wherein users are rewarded in crypto tokens only if they opt into ad viewing.
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As of version 1.68, Brave became the first iOS browser to automatically attempt to upgrade all sites to HTTPS by default. In version 1.75 on desktop, users can add their own scriptlets to a page, which Brave says “allows for better control over [their] browsing experience.” You can also block annoying elements with a tap on Android.
Who it’s for: Many users say the browser exceeds their expectations, although others find some functionality, such as VPN connectivity, could be improved. I enjoy using Brave, but it takes some time to get used to, especially if you’re using Chrome or Edge. It’s one of the better secure browser options on the market.
If you don’t mind a small learning curve, Brave is for you.
Brave also offers a feature called “Off the Record” (OTR) for users who may be victims of intimate partner violence. The browser developer says the feature “aims to help people who need to hide their browsing behavior from others who have access to their computer or phone.”
Who should look elsewhere: As Brave has recently updated its virtual private network (VPN) with more device support and server selections, it will be interesting to see if users report a more positive experience. But if VPN usage is important, you’ll need to find a different browser or sign up for a standalone VPN.
Also: Best VPN services: I’ve tested countless VPNs to find the fastest and most secure services for your security, streaming, and travel needs
Brave features: Chromium-based | Blocks third-party ad trackers | Private search | Blocks cookies | Incognito windows | Onion routing | VPN | Off the Record browsing | AI assistant | iOS HTTPS by default | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.8
