Brave
Beginner RecommendedBrave is one of the best Google Chrome alternatives. Chrome without the trackers. Ads blocked by default, switching takes two minutes.
Information verified on July 22, 2026
Description
Brave blocks ads and trackers right from installation, with no extensions needed. Based on Chromium (Chrome's engine), all your Chrome extensions work. Created by Brendan Eich, Mozilla co-founder. The optional ad model (Brave Rewards) remains controversial but can be turned off.
My take
It's my browser on my phone, where uBlock Origin doesn't exist: the protection just works, no setup. Brave Rewards, though, I passed. I explain why in chapter 2.
Key features
- Built-in ad blocker
- Based on Chromium (Chrome compatible)
- Optional Brave Rewards
- Integrated Tor
- Built-in crypto wallet
- Encrypted sync
Strengths
- + Built-in ad and tracker blocking
- + Interface similar to Chrome
- + Strong performance
Weaknesses
- − Based on Chromium (some dependency on Google's ecosystem)
- − BAT reward model controversial for some users
Recommended for
- Replacing Chrome without changing habits
- Starting to reduce ad tracking
Brave vs Google Chrome: the comparison
| Criterion | Brave | Google Chrome |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free. | Free |
| Targeted ads on your data | No | Yes (feeds Google ad targeting) |
| Source code | Open (auditable) | Proprietary |
| Migration difficulty | Easy (1/5) | — |
Comparison
Brave is the easiest transition from Chrome (same engine, same extensions). Firefox is independent from Google. Tor Browser is for total anonymity.
This topic is chapter 2 of my book
It answers these questions, among others:
- which settings actually make a difference once the browser is installed?
- how do you handle the work computer where Chrome is required?
- and how do Safari and Edge hold up, the ones nobody ever compares?
Forthcoming 22/10/2026 from Éditions Eyrolles
Frequently asked questions
How much does Brave cost?
Free.
How do you switch from Google Chrome to Brave?
Estimated difficulty: Easy (1/5). Direct import from Chrome: bookmarks, extensions, passwords. Identical interface, immediate transition.
Who is Brave for?
Chrome users seeking maximum privacy protection without changing habits. Suitable for beginners thanks to its familiarity.
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Similar alternatives
Firefox
BeginnerThe open source browser that doesn't track you. Twenty years strong, millions of extensions.
Tor Browser
AdvancedThe browser for total anonymity. Your traffic passes through three encrypted relays.
Mullvad Browser
IntermediateAnti-fingerprinting browser developed with the Tor Project, designed to minimize tracking without using Tor.