What is the best browser for privacy?

The best browsers for privacy combine strong tracking protection, minimal data collection, and effective cookie management — without compromising usability. Most web browsers connect you to the internet, but often do so while tracking your activity and collecting your data.

If you’re looking for a browser that prioritizes your privacy, you’re already taking a step in the right direction. Read on to discover which browser best protects your data.

Best browsers: quick overview

Browser	Open-source	Privacy features
Brave	Yes	Built-in ad and tracker blocking
Firefox	Yes	Customizable tracking protection
Tor	Yes	Traffic routed through Tor network
DuckDuckGo	Yes	Built-in tracker blocking
Vivaldi	Partial	User-controlled privacy tools
Epic	No	Always-on private browsing mode
Waterfox	Yes	Reduced telemetry and data sharing
Iridium	Yes	Limited background data connections
Pale Moon	Yes	Minimal data collection by default
LibreWolf	Yes	Hardened Firefox with no telemetry
Puffin	No	Cloud-based page rendering
Startpage	No	Private search with proxy viewing
Ungoogled Chromium	Yes	Chromium without Google services

What makes a browser secure?

The key features that contribute to browser security include:

• Secure connections: protecting data as it travels between the browser and websites;
• Tracking prevention: limiting how websites monitor browsing activity;
• Malicious code protection: reducing the risk of harmful scripts running in the browser;
• Privacy-focused design: minimizing data collection and unnecessary data sharing;
• Safe downloads: checking files for known threats before downloading;
• Open-source transparency: allowing code to be reviewed by independent researchers;
• Automatic data clearing: removing browsing data to reduce long-term exposure;
• Extension warnings: alerting users to add-ons that may pose security or privacy risks.

Together, these features form the foundation of a secure browser, helping limit exposure to common online risks.

Browser security and its limits

Browser security features are an important foundation for online privacy. Modern browsers can block known trackers, isolate malicious scripts, enforce secure connections, and limit how much data websites store locally. These protections help reduce common risks like cross-site tracking, malicious downloads, and intrusive advertising.

However, browser-based protections have clear limits. A browser can’t fully hide a user’s IP address, prevent tracking at the network level, or stop internet service providers, public Wi-Fi operators, or websites from seeing where traffic comes from. Even privacy-focused browsers struggle to fully prevent advanced fingerprinting techniques or tracking that happens outside the browser itself.

To help address these limits, a layered approach to privacy works best. Instead of relying on a browser alone, combining multiple tools allows each layer to cover gaps the others can’t. In practice, this means using a privacy-focused browser to reduce tracking and control site behavior, while a VPN encrypts internet traffic and masks IP addresses beyond the browser.

Privacy-respecting extensions add another layer by blocking trackers, ads, and malicious scripts that slip through, and a private search engine helps prevent search queries from being logged, profiled, or tied to a long-term user history.

Together, these layers provide broader protection than any single tool can offer on its own.

Best web browsers for privacy

If you’re wondering which browser is best for privacy, the answer depends on how much tracking protection, customization, and control you want.

Some browsers focus on limiting data collection by default, while others offer stronger privacy only after adjusting settings or adding extensions. Below are browsers that are commonly recommended for privacy-conscious users.

Brave

Brave is an open-source browser based on Chromium that focuses on blocking trackers and reducing data sharing by default.

Its built-in system, Brave Shields, blocks ads and known trackers, limits cross-site cookies, and includes protections that help reduce browser fingerprinting. Brave also automatically upgrades connections to HTTPS where available.

Brave offers private browsing modes, including an option that routes traffic through the Tor network for added privacy. Other built-in protections help limit social media tracking, reduce intrusive cookie prompts, and minimize data shared through page redirects.

Limitations: Brave cannot fully prevent advanced fingerprinting, its aggressive blocking may cause website compatibility issues, and it inherits some architectural constraints from its Chromium base.

Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is developed by Mozilla Corporation, a subsidiary of the nonprofit Mozilla Foundation, which promotes an open and user-focused web.

Firefox blocks many known trackers by default through Enhanced Tracking Protection and includes built-in measures that help limit browser fingerprinting. Private Browsing mode deletes cookies and browsing history when the session is closed.

Additional features include a built-in password manager, browser sync across devices, and a local translation tool that processes text directly in the browser without sending it to third-party services.

Limitations: Firefox does not provide full anonymity and cannot fully prevent advanced fingerprinting. It may also experience website compatibility or performance limitations, particularly on sites optimized for Chromium-based browsers.

Tor

Tor Browser is a free, open-source browser developed by the nonprofit Tor Project. It’s designed to improve online privacy and anonymity by making browsing activity harder to link to a specific user.

Instead of connecting directly to websites, Tor Browser routes traffic through the Tor network, encrypting it and relaying it through multiple volunteer-run servers. This helps conceal IP addresses and reduces exposure to network-level tracking. The browser also includes built-in protections against browser fingerprinting and enforces secure connections by default.

Tor Browser offers adjustable security levels — Standard, Safer, and Safest — which limit website features and scripting as protection increases. It also supports access to onion services and uses a privacy-focused default search engine.

Limitations: DuckDuckGo cannot fully prevent advanced fingerprinting, and may offer fewer customization options or extensions than some other browsers.

DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo is developed by DuckDuckGo, Inc., a private company best known for its privacy-focused search engine, which doesn’t track users or build personal profiles.

DuckDuckGo Browser blocks third-party trackers from companies like Google and Facebook and helps reduce tracking-based ads across the web. It also blocks cookie pop-ups and email trackers by default.

The browser uses private search automatically, plays YouTube videos without targeted ads, and offers optional privacy-focused AI chat. Additional features include a built-in password manager and one-button deletion of browsing data.

Limitations: DuckDuckGo cannot fully prevent advanced fingerprinting, and may offer fewer customization options or extensions than some other browsers.

Vivaldi

Vivaldi is developed by Vivaldi Technologies, a company founded by former Opera co-founder Jon von Tetzchner. Built on Chromium, the browser focuses on giving users extensive control over how it looks and works, with privacy features built in.

Vivaldi includes a built-in ad blocker, tracker blocker, cookie-banner handling, private window mode, and a password manager.

Additional features include optional Proton VPN integration, a built-in private translation tool, and sync across devices.

Limitations: Vivaldi cannot fully prevent advanced fingerprinting, and may feel overwhelming or less streamlined for users who prefer a simpler browsing experience.

Epic

Epic Privacy Browser, developed by Hidden Reflex, is designed to prioritize privacy by default. Built on Chromium, the browser focuses on limiting data collection and blocking tracking without requiring additional setup.

Epic blocks ads and trackers, including tracking scripts, cookies, and cryptomining. It also includes protections against browser fingerprinting, ultrasound tracking, and WebRTC IP leaks.

The browser sends an always-on Do Not Track signal, clears browsing data on close, and can run in an optional always-on private browsing mode.

Limitations: Epic uses a proprietary codebase, which limits independent auditing. Its aggressive default blocking can cause website compatibility issues, and it offers limited extension support and customization. 

Waterfox

Waterfox is developed by Waterfox Ltd. and is based on the Firefox platform. The browser focuses on privacy-first defaults, with reduced telemetry and data sharing.

Waterfox includes encrypted DNS support, automatic cookie banner handling, HTTPS-First enforcement, and Global Privacy Control enabled by default. It also offers Private Tabs to help isolate sensitive browsing and uses privacy-focused search engines by default.

Limitations: Waterfox has a smaller development team, which can delay security updates. It inherits some limitations from the Firefox codebase, and not all extensions work reliably. Some removed or disabled features may also reduce compatibility on certain websites.

Iridium

Iridium Browser is a privacy-focused browser developed by the Iridium team and based on Chromium. It aims to reduce background data sharing by limiting automatic connections to external services.

Iridium blocks third-party cookies by default, limits link tracking, and clears site data on exit. Password storage and form autofill are disabled by default, and privacy-focused search engines such as DuckDuckGo and Qwant are used.

Limitations: Iridium’s update cadence may lag behind major browsers, which can delay security fixes. It does not include built-in anonymity features, and its smaller project size means fewer features and less community support.

Pale Moon

Pale Moon is developed by a small, community-driven team and uses its own Goanna rendering engine, based on older Mozilla technology. The browser focuses on privacy, with no ads and minimal data collection.

It supports classic XUL extensions and full themes, offering a high level of interface customization. Pale Moon also continues to support some legacy web technologies.

Limitations: Pale Moon can struggle with compatibility on modern websites due to limited support for newer web standards. It does not support mainstream extension ecosystems, receives updates less frequently, and is limited to desktop platforms, with no official mobile version.

LibreWolf

LibreWolf is developed by a community of privacy-focused contributors and is based on Firefox. The browser removes telemetry, data collection, and DRM, and applies privacy-hardened settings by default.

LibreWolf includes uBlock Origin out of the box and uses privacy-focused search engines such as DuckDuckGo and Searx. It enables Enhanced Tracking Protection in strict mode and is usually updated shortly after each Firefox stable release.

Limitations: LibreWolf’s strict default settings can cause issues on some websites, requiring manual whitelisting. It does not include automatic updates, so updates must be managed manually. As a Firefox-based browser, it also inherits upstream vulnerabilities until they are patched.

Puffin

Puffin is developed by CloudMosa, Inc. and uses a cloud-based browsing model. Web pages are rendered on remote servers rather than directly on the device, which helps isolate devices from some web-based threats.

This approach can improve performance on lower-powered hardware, but it also means browsing depends on Puffin’s server infrastructure.

Limitations: Puffin’s performance depends on server availability and network latency. The desktop version is subscription-based and offers limited customization, and some websites may restrict access to cloud-rendered traffic. Reliance on US-based servers may also raise privacy concerns for some users.

Startpage

Startpage is developed by Startpage BV, a Netherlands-based company focused on private search. The browser uses Startpage as its default search engine and avoids collecting or storing identifiable search data.

It delivers Google search results without exposing IP addresses and helps block price trackers and retargeting ads. Startpage also includes an Anonymous View feature, which allows pages to be opened through a proxy to reduce tracking, and serves unprofiled news content.

Limitations: Startpage does not offer personalized search results or a broad ecosystem of integrated services. Its protections focus mainly on search privacy and do not extend to full browser-level tracking prevention or device-level identity hiding.

Ungoogled Chromium

Ungoogled Chromium is a community-maintained, open-source browser based on Chromium that removes Google services and background connections to reduce data sharing.

The browser avoids automatic communication with Google servers and gives users more control over which features are enabled. It supports most Chromium-compatible websites but typically requires more manual setup than mainstream browsers.

Limitations: Ungoogled Chromium lacks built-in tracking and fingerprinting protection. Setup can be less convenient, and updates may arrive later than in standard Chromium builds.

Privacy limitations of popular web browsers

Popular web browsers are designed to be convenient and easy to use, but that convenience often comes with privacy trade-offs. Most mainstream browsers include basic protections, yet privacy isn’t always their top priority. Below are key limitations to keep in mind.

Chrome: extensive data integration

Google Chrome offers security features, but its approach to privacy has limitations. As a browser developed by an advertising-driven company, Chrome is closely integrated with Google services, which can lead to increased data collection and account-based tracking.

While Chrome includes protections like Safe Browsing and sandboxing, many privacy controls are optional and require manual configuration. As a result, Chrome may fall short for users looking for a browser designed to minimize data sharing by default.

For those who prefer using Chrome, some privacy risks can be reduced by logging out of a Google account while browsing and using a VPN Chrome extension to encrypt internet traffic.

Safari: Apple ecosystem limits

Safari includes several built-in privacy features, but it also has limitations. As the default browser on Apple devices, Safari is closely tied to Apple’s ecosystem — which can restrict user control and customization when it comes to privacy settings.

While features like Intelligent Tracking Prevention help limit cross-site trafficking, Safari still allows data collection for services like iCloud and Apple Search, and many privacy decisions are handled at the system level rather than through the browser itself.

Microsoft Edge: system-level data sharing

Microsoft Edge includes modern security features, but its approach to privacy has limitations. As a browser developed by Microsoft, Edge is tightly integrated with Windows and other Microsoft services, which can result in additional data sharing across the ecosystem.

While Edge offers tracking prevention and security tools like Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, many privacy controls are enabled at the user’s discretion and require manual adjustment. As a result, Edge may not be ideal for those looking for a browser that limits data collection by default.

Some privacy risks associated with Edge can be reduced by reviewing tracking prevention settings, limiting Microsoft account sign-ins while browsing, and using an Edge VPN extension to encrypt internet traffic.

Opera: mixed privacy practices

Opera includes several built-in features that focus on convenience, but its approach to privacy has limitations. While Opera offers tools like an integrated ad blocker and a built-in VPN, the browser relies on Chromium and maintains its own data collection practices, which may not align with stricter privacy expectations.

Some privacy features in Opera are enabled by default, but others require manual configuration. In addition, Opera’s built-in VPN functions as a proxy rather than a full VPN service, which limits the level of protection it provides. As a result, Opera may fall short for those looking to minimize data sharing and encrypt all internet traffic by default.

Private browser vs. Incognito mode

Private or Incognito modes stop browsing data from being saved on a device, but they don’t hide online activity from websites, internet service providers, or network operators.

Private Browsing in Safari and Incognito mode in Chrome are designed to limit what’s stored locally. When enabled, the browser doesn’t save browsing history, cookies, or form data after the session ends, which can be useful on shared devices or public computers.

However, these modes don’t change how internet traffic is handled. Websites can still see incoming connections, and IP addresses remain visible. Internet service providers, workplace or school networks, and some third parties may still monitor activity, even during a private session.

Because Private and Incognito modes focus on what’s stored on the device, they don’t stop online tracking or data collection elsewhere. Tools like a VPN help fill this gap by encrypting internet traffic and masking IP addresses — something private browsing modes don’t do.

What is the best browser for privacy?

Short answer: there isn’t a single best private browser — the right choice depends on how much control, convenience, and protection is needed.

Privacy-focused browsers like Brave, Firefox, and Tor Browser offer stronger tracking protections and more customizable privacy settings than most mainstream browsers — but ultimately, even browsers designed with privacy in mind have limitations.

Whichever browser you choose, pairing it with a VPN helps extend privacy beyond the browser by encrypting internet traffic and masking IP addresses.

FAQ

Which browser gives the most privacy?

No browser offers complete privacy, but Firefox, LibreWolf, and Waterfox are often recommended because they block many trackers by default and offer stronger privacy controls. The Tor Browser provides higher anonymity but isn’t designed for everyday browsing.

Which browser is 100% untraceable?

No browser is 100% untraceable. Even privacy-focused browsers can’t fully prevent tracking through IP addresses and browser fingerprinting. For stronger privacy, combining a secure browser with tools like a VPN is best.

Is Firefox better than Google Chrome for privacy?

Firefox is generally considered better for privacy than Google Chrome because it blocks many trackers by default and offers more control over privacy settings. Chrome includes strong security features but is more closely integrated with data-driven services.

Is Incognito 100% private?

No, Incognito mode isn’t 100% private. It prevents browsing history, cookies, and site data from being saved on the device, but it doesn’t hide online activity from websites, internet service providers, employers, or network administrators.

What is the best browser to use with a VPN? 

A VPN works with all browsers by encrypting internet traffic at the network level. For stronger privacy, it’s best paired with a browser that includes built-in tracker protection. Additionally, many providers offer VPN browser extensions, convenient for quick location switching.