Both Microsoft Edge and Brave Browser offer compelling features, with Edge providing a more integrated Microsoft experience and frequent updates, while Brave focuses on privacy, cryptocurrency integration, and performance. The choice depends on user priorities.
| Attribute | Microsoft Edge v135 | Brave Browser v2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium Engine Version | Based on the Chromium open-source project | Based on open-source Chromium; 22% faster page load time than Muon-based Brave |
| Default Search Engine | Bing (can be changed in settings) | Brave Search (default); users can select Google, DuckDuckGo, or Bing |
| Built-in Ad Blocker | Yes, blocks pop-ups, banners, and video ads | Enabled by default; blocks third-party ads on all websites |
| Built-in VPN | Yes, called 'Secure Network' operated through Cloudflare | Brave Firewall + VPN (subscription required); encrypts traffic and hides IP address; protects 5 or 10 devices |
| Cryptocurrency Wallet Integration | No | Built-in; supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other chains; integrates with DeFi and dApps |
| RAM Usage (Idle) | Not available | Tends to consume less RAM than Chrome |
| CPU Usage (Idle) | Not available | Efficient use of CPU resources; lower system impact compared to Chrome |
| Extension Availability | More than 9,000 extensions (add-ons) available as of December 2022 | Supports nearly all Chrome extensions |
| Cross-Platform Synchronization | Yes, syncs browsing history, favorites, settings, open tabs, autofill form entries, payment info, and other data types across devices | 'Sync Chain' feature; synchronizes data across devices without account sign-in |
| Privacy Features (e.g., anti-fingerprinting) | Built-in tracking prevention with Basic, Balanced, and Strict levels. InPrivate browsing. SmartScreen to protect against phishing and malware attacks. Known cryptomining and fingerprinting trackers are always blocked at all three levels. | Blocks third-party cookies, prevents cross-site tracking, 'HTTPS Everywhere', script blocking, anti-fingerprinting (disables data points, prevents fingerprinting scripts, uses 'farbling') |
| Security Updates Frequency | Security updates every couple of weeks. Feature updates approximately every 6 weeks. | Not available |
| User Interface Customization Options | Revamped Settings experience with shortcuts to frequently used features. Customizable sidebar. | Themes, new tab page customization, hide/remove icons; custom scriptlets for advanced users |