Browsers are the medium that connects you with the outer world. A web browser is what takes you anywhere on the internet, allowing you to read text, view images, and see video from anywhere in the world. All best browsers for Mac focus on ease of use and faster rendering of texts, images, videos, and other consumable content. However, they differ on the basis of why.
That is, some web browsers for Mac intervene with your data to make ad revenues, some sell it to the ad agencies, and some ask you to pay a monthly subscription. Basically, a way to make you pay for utilizing their resources. Still, some browsers understand that the internet is a global, public resource accessible to all.
But you will find all types of web browsers for Mac in this list. Some browsers track users’ data. Some take users’ safety seriously. Some compromise performance for exceptional utility. So, you can evaluate them one by one and choose the most suitable web browser for you.
On a Windows PC? Also Read: Best Lightweight Web Browser for Windows
Top 10 Best Web Browsers for Mac in 2024
Listed here are the 10 best web browsers for Mac in 2024. The order is not an indication of greatness against others. This list intends to inform you about the various browser types available for typical Mac users. Read the post carefully and decide the best web browser for you.
1. Brave
A browser known for its privacy features, Brave is suitable for users who want to minimize their footprints on the web.
To start the count of its cool feature-set, the Import functions — which has nothing to do with old users — lets you import all settings and bookmarks from other browsers, making it super simple to switch from your browser. Once you have the old settings and bookmarks, you can sign in via your account and choose the preferred search engine.
While some privacy settings require your permission, like allowing only HTTPS-backed websites and preventing browser fingerprinting, Brave blocks all creepy ads from every website by default, be its banner ads on a website or roll-in ads on YouTube — the sophisticated, in-built ad-blocker of Brave deals with all of them. And while you may think that an extension on other browsers could do the same, Brave also disables third-party trackers, thus, loading the pages 3X to 6X faster than Chrome and Firefox.
And since the ads are blocked — a monetization system adapted by some sites — Brave allows you to pay them via Brave Rewards, a flyer-like token system introduced by Brave. You can also sync your settings and browsers across all iDevices.
All things considered, there is no other browser on the internet that could come close to Brave. There are some premium plans for iOS users. Being entirely free for Mac users, there’s no denying that Brave is not only the fastest browser for Mac but also one of the best browsers for Mac.
- Privacy features like Ad blocking, Fingerprinting prevention, cookie control, HTTPS upgrading, block scripts, per-site shield settings, and Configurable global shield defaults.
- The fully-featured Address bar lets you add Bookmark, autosuggest URLs, search from the address bar, autosuggest search terms, how/hide bookmarks toolbar, and show secure or insecure sites.
- Brave supports most extensions and plug-ins available in the Chrome Web Store.
- Advanced security options like clearing browsing data, built-in password manager, form autofill, control content access to full-screen presentation, control site access to autoplay media, and send “Do not track” with browsing requests.
- Private Window, Pinned Tabs, Auto-unload, Drag and drop, Duplicate, Close Options, Find on page, Print page, and more!
- Better privacy and less tracking
- Brave Rewards Program awards you BAT (a crypto-asset) to view first-party, privacy-protecting ads while you browse
- Independent search, free video conferencing, offline playlists, and even a customizable news feed
- Limited extensions than Chrome
2. Safari
Safari is the native web browser for browsing the internet effortlessly. Without a doubt, Safari is one of the best web browsers for Mac. Reason: it is fast with a minimalist GUI and a fast web rendering engine.
Made specifically for Apple devices, the blazing-fast JavaScript engine is geared to make the most of the Mac’s battery life and consume as few resources as possible. However, its true potential is shown on the macOS with Silicon chips.
Like other web browsers, Safari supports in-browser 4K HDR video playback for YouTube, Netflix, and Apple TV+. Plus, Safari works seamlessly across all Apple devices and syncs your passwords, bookmarks, and other settings for the user’s convenience. And while it is not a unique feature — the Apple Pay function — that lets you complete transactions made on Safari via a Touch ID, Face ID or double-clicking the side button of your synced Apple watch. Needless to say, security protection traits are state-of-the-art like with other Apple merchandise.
On the whole, Safari is an unparalleled web browser for any Apple device! And the robust customization options, powerful privacy protections, and industry-leading battery life — prove it.
- Reading List side panel lets you save the URLs that you may want to revisit or save for later
- Launches web pages within seconds because of the Nitro JavaScript and hardware acceleration technology
- Interact with text in any image on the web using functions like copy and paste, lookup, and translate
- Upgrades sites from HTTP to more secure HTTPS automatically (if available)
- The user interface and built-in tools help you surf the web in an immersive, intuitive, and immediate way
- Use dedicated Mac extensions to increase the capability of Safari
- One of the fastest browsers for Mac
- Privacy and safety features will impress you
- The new version comes only via Apple’s software updates
- No application for Android — so you cannot sync the data with devices other than Apple’s
- Lacks customization options
3. Chrome
A browser from the tech-giant Google, Chrome was launched in 2008 for Microsoft Windows with the free components from Apple’s WebKit and Mozilla’s Firefox. While Brave is our favorite, Chrome still dominates the internet in terms of popularity. And for a reason: be it portability or utility — Google Chrome will not disappoint you. The robust feature set, full Google Account integration, and a thriving extension ecosystem (accessible to the Chrome Web Store) all explain why you should get this browser.
Additionally, in a world where data security is the biggest threat — Google’s Password Manager can help you generate secure passwords and remember them for you. You can also lock sensitive data like home addresses and credit/debit card numbers to make easy transactions with a button click. Furthermore, users can sync all their devices by signing via a single Google Account and access the same settings, bookmarks, and saved data.
Although an exceptional browser, catering to every need of the user, Chrome does have drawbacks. One major flaw of Chrome is that it looks like surveillance software by default. Yes, Chrome allows trackers from sites you wouldn’t expect, all in the name of targeting ads and making revenue. So, if you are okay with cookies following you around — instead, you care about functionality and personalization — Chrome is the browser for you!
- Sync Chrome Across devices — from your Mac Laptop to your iPad —Chrome has a fully-featured browser for all OS, allowing you to easily sync all your devices with the same settings.
- Dark mode or any other theme, Chrome allows you to choose a skin for every mood.
- Password Manager to relieve yourself from the burden of remembering passwords
- More control over your media — manage the audio and videos playing effortlessly; plus, play picture-in-picture mode.
- Chrome allows you to create multiple profiles — letting numerous people use the same browser with their personalized settings.
- Add any functionality by choosing from the unlimited extensions available in the Chrome Web Store.
- The Incognito mode does not hide your activity; the trackers will still follow you.
- A few extensions collect data in exchange for services.
- Privacy-concerned users should stay away — a hell of a lot of cookies and third-party trackers that will trace your digital footprint.
4. Opera
Launched in 1996, the Opera web browser brings tons of add-ons that help you do numerous things besides surfing the web. For instance, Opera lets you chat with friends via WhatsApp and Telegram. It empowers you to integrate your mobile with the browser and share files easily. And while this is possible via other browsers, too — you will need tens of extensions to attain the similar functionality of Opera.
But its capabilities do not end there — you will also find a built-in VPN, ad-blocker, and battery-saving mode incorporated within the browser. And while this may seem like a marketing scheme — its VPN is as fast as some premium services, the ad-blocker is capable of blocking all ads from YouTube and other websites, and the turbo-compression scheme really loads up the web pages faster. Even with great functionality, a new version of Opera occupies only 136MB of your space — which is sumptuous compared to Chrome’s 406MB.
To sum up, Opera is a diverse web browser! Unlike any other tool, its functionality is not limited to surfing the web alone. So if you are looking for a browser with the built-in integration of WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, a VPN, ad-blocker, and more features, Opera is just for you.
- Built-in adblocker, VPN, and battery saver.
- Integrated with social media platforms like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram.
- The Speed Dial start page lets you jump to a website with a single click.
- Turbo mode reduces data usage making the pages load faster when dealing with a slow internet connection.
- Gestures allow you to navigate the web effortlessly.
- Opera comes with lots of built-in features
- VPN lets you access the websites blocked due to geo-restrictions and see the web like it is meant to be seen.
- Anonymous & easy device sync
- Some websites do not recognize the browser
- Privacy and security concerns
- No reading mode
5. Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is one of few browsers that has kept itself popular for the last 20 years. Yes, it does not have the exact count of add-ons as Chrome. And yes, it is heavy on physical resources. Still, the reason it is one of the best web browsers for Mac: it has many tricks up its sleeves.
Firstly let’s start with its privacy features; Mozilla Firefox does not collect as much data as the infamous Chrome mentioned above. Secondly, it disassociates the user’s activities from the user’s data. By default, it blocks third-party trackers and fingerprinting — unlike most web browsers for Mac.
But there are good reasons why Mozilla is put fifth in the best browsers for Mac list, next to Google Chrome. Because all the three web browsers mentioned above, i.e., Brave, Chrome, and Opera, are faster than Mozilla. Plus, two of the browsers mentioned above also outmatch Mozilla’s compatibility with add-ons.
Nonetheless, if the battle is against — privacy and data safety — Mozilla does beat Chrome and Opera. On the other hand, Brave has the shady past of pasting their links in place of affiliate links. But after the concerns from users and vendors, Brave did renounce its activities.
- The private mode deleted cookies data and browsing history as soon as you close the window
- In-built Picture-in-Picture to binge-watch youtube while surfing the web
- Translate the web page into over 100 languages
- Firefox automatically blocks 2000+ ad trackers from following you around the internet
- Stronger malware and phishing protection, making it suitable for people who are less tech-aware
- More intuitive interface overall
- Download manager
- Streamlined “Remember password” handling
- Smart Location Bar learns how you browse
- Limited direct support
- Scrolling the web pages is not as smooth as Chrome and Safari
- Frustrating update
6. Maxthon
Where other titans are busy making their browsers faster and more seamless, Maxthon continues to add the attributes to its already-cumbersome web browser. Of course, users do not choose Maxthon because of its ability to load faster or not; instead, the browsing helpers are incorporated in the browser.
One of the infallible advantages of Maxthon is its cross-platform support like Firefox, Chrome, and Brave. So, regardless of whether you are using Android instead of iPhone — the Cloud sync functions will allow you to access the web seamlessly from all your devices while remembering the passwords, bookmarks, settings, and other credentials.
Again, unlike other web browsers for Mac — the Maxthon user interface presents the toolbar trail on the left, where you will find essential tools like Favorite, Downloads, RSS feed, and more features. On the top of the toolbar, you will find a smiley face which you can change to a photo of your liking (even your own picture). The smiley face feature lets you add an access path to social media sites directly.
But all the distinctive functions aside, Maxthon’s Tab implementation is not worthy of any praise. Many practical operations are inaccessible on Maxthon when it comes to Tab, like the Tab pinning and ripping a tab to create a new window on Chrome and Brave.
On the whole, Maxthon certainly is not the fastest browser for Mac. Nor Maxthon can be listed as the best web browser for Mac. Still, some reasons to consider Maxthon on Mac are its cross-platform cloud integration, Resource Sniffer (to download any media directly), and Magic Fill (advance password manager).
- Built-in blockchain identity manager-VBox — manage your crypto investments
- Compatible with Chrome data — extensions and themes are similar
- Cloud syncing of passwords, settings, and bookmarks
- Block ads on YouTube and other websites
- Applicable features like Night Mode, Reading Mode, built-in PDF reader, and more
- Cloud Web Browser provides many sharing options
- A novel interface makes for a unique browsing experience
- Slow loading of the web pages
- Tabs handling is not as flexible as Chrome and other browsers
- Most tech critics doubt Maxthon in terms of the privacy
7. Microsoft Edge
Default Web Browser on Windows OS, Microsoft’s Edge is another handy web browser for Mac. Although it is designed for Windows users, Microsoft also includes a dedicated web browser for Mac users.
To start with the user interface, Microsoft’s Edge has a minimalist approach, so the browser is clean and flat; the tabs are squared off, and you will not find futile wanderers on the main page. And the right pane is dedicated to usable tools like opting for the dark-or-light theme. You will also locate Favorites, Reading List, History, e-books, and Downloads on the right side.
Coming to the user’s safety and protection — Microsoft Edge runs in a Sandbox environment and has demonstrated the highest protection against phishing attacks throughout our test, blocking an average of 92.3% of phishing URLs, which is higher than Chrome’s.
To sum up, Microsoft Edge still listed itself as a service (not a product). So, there is a lot to come. However, for the looks of today, Microsoft is far behind the successful Chrome, Firefox, and Brave — let alone the thought of competing against the no-frills browsers like Opera, Vivaldi, and Maxthon. Still, it is suitable for some Mac users due to the personalization options and valuable tools like an e-book reader, reading mode, and Cortana integration.
- Functions like Collections, Vertical Tabs, and Immersive Reader help you organize and get the most of your time while browsing, streaming, searching, sharing, and more!
- With no cookies chasing you, Edge is one of the best browsers for online shopping — it shows coupons, prices on different sites and gives you MS Rewards while surfing Bing and Rebates engines.
- SmartScreen, Password Monitor, InPrivate search, and Kids Mode
- Clean and flat browser — making it more spartan for novices to experience the online world
- Cool features like Reading mode, dark theme, PDF, and e-book viewer
- Great tab organization tools
- No history search — tracking past activities is difficult.
- Some sites don’t work — blocklisted and doubtful ones.
- Fewer extensions than competitors — about 700!
8. Yandex
Yandex browser comes from a Russian multinational company excelling in internet-related services and products. Yandex has more than 70 products and services, and its browser is one of them.
There are many characteristics to Yandex; that unquestionably make Yandex one of the best browsers for Mac. Take, for instance, the unlimited, high-speed in-built VPN. Ad-blocker gives you the best possible online experience by loading the pages faster and protecting you against data mining.
The security features, i.e., DNS spoofing protection, DNSCrypt, and auto HTTPS support on insecure networks, show that Yandex leaves no stone unturned correlating user security. Still, there are some claims about Yandex working with the Russian government and collecting your data — however, these are claims — which can be either factual or just big bold claims.
Nevertheless, if speculations don’t bother you, Yandex is worth considering. Yandex has unrivaled lines of utilities for project management and working via the internet with a team. Like Google’s G-Suite, you will find Yandex. Mail, Yandex.Disk, Yandex.Messanger and other tools to communicate, store knowledge, and work together on tasks.
Equally important, Yandex utilizes the Blink engine and Opera’s Turbo technology for faster browsing and has a sensible interface with some distinguished valuable integrations.
- The Tableau helps you bookmark the favorite sites on the main interface and appears in adjacent colors when you search for faster navigation.
- Quickline helps you access the most relevant data from a given web page.
- Fast performance — given the Turbo technology and Blink engine.
- A clean, simple-yet-pleasant interface
- Fast browsing experience
- Project management utilities
- Many users call Yandex: “Chrome in a different skin’, and yes, it is an inferior version of Chrome.
- Optimized for Russian users
9. Vivaldi
Vivaldi brings customizability and geekiness like no other browser. A fully loaded, full-stack web browser — Vivaldi brings out the best of technology and packs it into a functional web browser.
Many users call it a spin-off of Opera; in fact, Vivaldi’s CEO is a cofounder of Opera. Still, users prefer Vivaldi more than Opera because of its reliable security features. Yes, Vivaldi does not collect as much data as Chrome. Also, it has no third-party affiliation like it. So, it is not the engine that decides what you see next or which ads you see. Of course, there is a built-in Adblocker to block roll-in, banner, and pop-up ads.
Where other web browsers for Mac rely on extensions to promote them, Vivaldi doesn’t require you to install any extensions — as it includes features to serve any need. As soon as you install the browser, you will see options: essentials, classic, fully loaded. Choose the version that best suits your needs.
To summarize, it is not an exaggeration to call Vivaldi the best web browser for Mac. Vivaldi brings in a clean, modern user interface. It gives you flexibility in grouping two-level tabs, supports viewing multiple pages at once, and has numerous built-in tools to power up your browsing experience.
- Loaded with practical tools to avoid installing extensions to make the browser capable, like on Chrome and Firefox; for instance, the Mail allows you to sync data of multiple IDs and merge data into one.
- One of the most private web browsers for Mac; or at least substantial than Chrome
- A privacy-first approach like Brave’s and Safari
- A lot of customization options
- Low RAM consumption
- Suitable for power users
- Lacks syncing across devices features
10. Puffin
With over 150 million active subscribers, Puffin is another famous web browser among Mac users. All features aside, Puffin is a synonym for fast web browser for Mac. Using cloud computing technology and JavaScript engine, Puffin loads up the pages faster. The rendering rate is speedier than Chrome and Firefox. Puffin also claims to save 85% of bandwidth while browsing and streaming; however, they are only numbers and far from the truth.
Puffin is rather new compared to other best browsers for Mac mentioned here, released in 2019. Additionally, it comes with an annual subscription of US$ 2/mo. And it may seem a bit excessive to pay to use a browser, but given the excellent security and privacy features — it is reasonable.
Coming to the features, let’s start with the cloud-based rendering — providing you with exceptional privacy and security as well as noticeable higher performance on Mac. Another benefit of cloud-based service is you can save the downloads directly on cloud storage devices, such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. And where most web browsers provide you with multiple search engine options — you will find only four choices on Puffin, i.e., Yandex, NAVER, Bing, and Google.
Although comprehensible with its line of utilities and characteristics, Puffin is unavailable for users in some major countries, including China, Iran, Qatar, and the UAE — given its proxy server utilization.
- Surf the web without worrying about Zero-Day vulnerabilities, as Puffin protects users from cyber exploits on top of existing Chrome and Edge Browsers.
- Unparalleled security and privacy features
- Designed for users in mind with improved processing efficiency.
- One-of-a-kind technology for user’s safety and online protection
- The proxy server usages hide your activities from government agencies, ISP, and hackers
- Slow compared to Brave, Firefox, Vivaldi
- Subscription required
FAQs
1. Why do I need a web browser on Mac?
As mentioned earlier, a web browser is a gateway to the online world. You will need a web browser to access content on the internet and connect to the online world. They are a software program that translates the codes into human-digestible data.
2. Why do I need another browser besides Safari?
Safari is an exceptional browser. As you have read — we have listed Safari way ahead of any other browser. And for a reason: for most users, it is enough to browse the internet according to their needs. However, some users need other features — that may not be attainable on Safari — so an additional browser comes in handy.
3. How can I sync my settings, bookmarks, and passwords across all devices?
Firstly, not all browsers incorporate data sync features; Vivaldi is an example. Still, most do! However, the method to sync data across all devices differs. The initial steps are the same: installing the same web browser on all devices. Going to settings and logging via the same credentials. Nonetheless, the method can change.
For instance, on Brave — you have to go to Settings from the Menu (right-most) options. Choose Sync. And select the other devices after signing up on them via the same account.
4. How do I choose the best web browser for Mac?
Determine your browsing needs:
- If faster performance is your priority — you can rely on Brave or Chrome
- If privacy is your preference — Brave, Puffin, Safari, and Firefox should suit you
- If utility and power tools are what you are after — Vivaldi and Opera will be the best choices
Conclusion
That’s all the best web browsers for Mac available on the internet. You can review their features, read their ups and downs, as well as compare them against each other to decide the best browser for Mac. To summarize: a browser should have security and privacy features, utility tools for power users and must include portability features to provide a seamless experience across all devices. Of course, as you can see — almost all the browsers stand well — some higher than others — in terms of these three traits. So, it comes down to you to decide and choose the web browser for your Mac device, depending on your needs.