FREE Browser vs Opera

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.

Opera is a free web browser for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and the web, with extension support and cross-device sync. Tab Islands group related tabs for collapsing or expanding. Built-in tools include an ad blocker that can also block cryptocurrency-mining scripts, plus a free VPN with no data cap and three general locations. Opera AI can use open-tab context, generate images, summarize PDFs, and translate or summarize YouTube videos. ChatGPT and Gemini are available from the sidebar, and Opera says its AI tools do not require sign-up. The sidebar also offers WhatsApp, Slack, Discord, Messenger, and Telegram, while Music Player supports Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, and Deezer. Users can set browsing data—including history, cookies, passwords, and autofill data—to clear on exit. Opera browser costs nothing. VPN Pro is separate: plans cost $4 per month billed $48 yearly, $5 per month billed $30 every six months, or $8 per month billed monthly.