FREE Browser vs Google Chrome

FREE Browser is a free, open-source Android web browser focused on privacy controls. The project describes it as having no trackers and no unnecessary permissions. Its built-in blocker uses the StevenBlack host list; users can choose a list and add domains. Fingerprinting protection can be switched on or off. A cookie-banner blocker applies Mozilla Cookie Banner Rules, requiring JavaScript and not handling rules in child windows. Site controls let users set JavaScript, cookies, and DOM storage by domain or bookmark, and change ad blocking, fingerprinting protection, and desktop mode per tab. The browser supports simple Greasemonkey-style scripts, with @match required; @run-at and @name work, while @include, @exclude, and @grant do not. Navigation includes unlimited tabs, in-page search, selected-text web search, PDF saving, and opening links in other apps. It can back up and restore databases, bookmarks, and preferences to Documents/browser_backup. F-Droid lists version 3.5.0.159 for Android 10 or newer.

Google Chrome is a free web browser for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, with extensions available through the Chrome Web Store. It supports tab groups with labels and colors, plus Energy Saver and Memory Saver tools. Signing in provides access to bookmarks and saved passwords across devices, and Google Password Manager is built in. Safe Browsing warns about known dangerous websites, downloads, and extensions; Safety Check reviews passwords, extensions, settings, privacy, and security. Privacy Guide offers a step-by-step tour of privacy settings. Google says Chrome receives a new update every four weeks. Its AI features include AI Mode for follow-up questions and web links, and Gemini, which can use open tabs and browsing history to help users understand web content and complete tasks. Auto browse is limited to Google AI Ultra and Pro subscribers in the U.S. Chrome requires supported operating systems: Mac requires macOS 13 Ventura or later, Android requires version 10 or later, and iOS requires version 17 or later. Older Windows and macOS versions may no longer receive updates.