The web browser market is dominated by two big names: Chrome, and Firefox. However, neither of them is perfect, which is why there are so many other browsers out there that use their architecture as a base.
Sure enough, everyone knows about Chromium and all the web browsers that are based on it. However, did you know that there are also web browsers out there based on Firefox and that some of them are worth checking out?
1. Firefox Developer Edition
There are currently four official versions of Firefox, and Firefox DE is the one aimed at developers. It includes tools that allow website creators to perfect their websites, perform routine tests, and practice debugging. However, it can be used just like any other regular web browser.
Firefox Developer Edition is considered a separate browser, so you can install it alongside Firefox and Firefox Beta on the same computer without any issues.
The advantage of using this web browser is that you get to be among the first to call and test the latest features that will be coming to Firefox's main browser. Unfortunately, this also means that you'll be among the first to encounter bugs and crashes.
All in all, if you're a developer, and your aim is to optimize your websites to look and feel perfect on Firefox, then Firefox Developer Edition is what you need.
Download: Firefox Developer Edition for Windows 32-bit | Windows 64-bit | macOS | Linux 32-bit | Linux 64-bit (Free)
2. Tor Browser
Many argue that one of the reasons why Tor Browser is regarded as the most private web browser out there is because it uses a Firefox architecture instead of a Chromium one.
Modified to use with the Tor Network, Tor Browser receives a constant flow of patches, especially after every Firefox Extended Support Release (ESR).
However, in the interest of maintaining Tor Browser's high level of security, there is one iconic Firefox feature that you'll need to forget about, and that is extension support. While you could technically use Firefox-compatible extensions in Tor Browser, the developers discourage it since it can compromise some of its privacy features.
With Tor Browser, being tracked and monitored will be a thing of the past. That is why it should be the go-to web browser for those interested in private browsing.
Download: Tor Browser for Windows | macOS | Linux | Android | iOS (Free)
3. Mullvad Browser
For those of you wondering what exactly is Mullvad Browser, it's the result of a collaboration between Mullvad VPN and the Tor Project, and its goal is to minimize your online footprint.
Just like Tor Browser, Mullvad Browser helps conceal your metadata and restricts the access of third-party trackers and cookies.
In essence, Mullvad Browser is almost identical to Tor Browser, the real difference being that one connects to the Mullvad VPN (or any other VPN service), and the other to the Tor Network. If you are already using a reliable VPN service, might as well pair it with a web browser that can take full advantage of all its capabilities.
Lastly, Mullvad Browser is very beginner-friendly since most of the security and privacy features are already enabled by default. Thus, all you need to do is download it, install it, and start browsing to your heart's content.
Download: Mullvad Browser for Windows | macOS | Linux (Free)
4. Waterfox
Imagine a lighter, faster, and more secure version of Firefox, and you'll get Waterfox. It doesn't collect any telemetry data and features an entire sub-menu named Enhanced Tracking Protection that allows you to set the level of security of your browser.
Another interesting feature is that, despite being a Firefox fork, Waterfox can run extensions for both Chrome and Opera. However, keep in mind that dedicated Firefox add-ons will work best.
Unfortunately, Waterfox does come with a few drawbacks. For starters, the default search engine is Bing, and the default search engine for private windows is Startpage. However, you can switch them to a much safer alternative, such as Google, or DuckDuckGo.
Secondly, Waterfox doesn't come with an ad blocker. Fortunately enough, this is something you can easily fix with an add-on.
Download: Waterfox for Windows | macOS | Linux (Free)
5. LibreWolf
The community-run successor to LibreFox, LibreWolf is described by many as how Firefox should be in the first place. That said, it should come as no surprise that it's one of the most popular privacy-focused Linux browsers out there.
Telemetry data collection is limited as much as possible thanks to the removal of any non-vital Firefox function that would end up collecting user data.
For example, LibreWolf limits the internet access of extensions to further reduce the risk of data leaks. Additionally, the browser prevents background connections or connections that aren't authorized.
The last reason why we think LibreWolf would make a great privacy-oriented browser is because all the privacy settings are already set by default. You won't have to modify any security settings. Just install the browser, and start browsing privately.
Download: Librewolf for Windows | macOS | Linux (Free)
6. Pale Moon
The first thing you'll probably notice about Pale Moon if you decide to give it a try is that the UI seems pretty dated. However, Pale Moon is a web browser that focuses on efficiency and customization.
This doesn't mean that browser customization isn't a thing. In fact, Pale Moon features some of the most extensive browser customization features we've ever had the chance to test.
Pale Moon adopts a practice of abandoning any modern features that don't directly contribute to a faster and more efficient browsing experience. Also, it doesn't collect any telemetry data.
However, its biggest drawback is that it's based on a very old Firefox build. This means that it doesn't support most modern Firefox add-ons, nor does it support some of the more modern browser features, such as sandbox security and web platform updates.
All in all, if you don't care whether your browser isn't and sleek and modern-looking, and all you care about is fast loading times and minimal resource use that can suit an older computer, then Pale Moon is the browser for you.
Download: Pale Moon for Windows 32-bit | Windows 64-bit | macOS | Linux 64-bit GTK2 | Linux 64-bit GTK3 (Free)
7. Floorp
One of the reasons why many prefer Chromium-based browsers is because of their modern-looking design, and Floorp takes full advantage of that. In simple terms, Floorp is a Firefox-based web browser that focuses on privacy, while sporting a modern-looking Chromium-like design.
Besides, it features extensive customization features, to the point where even the browser's overall layout can be adjusted to fit the user's needs. Not only that, but you gain access to five different interface designs that will allow Floorp to match any OS you may be running.
As far as security goes, Floorp features the typical privacy protection features, such as tracker blocking, fingerprint protection, and no user tracking. That said, if you're looking for a web browser that is fast, secure, and caters to your desire for great visuals, look no further than Floorp.
Download: Floorp for Windows | macOS | Linux (Free)
Your Next Browser Can Be a Firefox-Based One
Some of the Firefox-based browsers on our list claim to be more secure than regular Firefox, while others boast better performance or fewer system requirements.
Whichever the case, know that each of them shines in their own way, so we recommend that you give each of them a shot, and then decide which one you'll stick with.
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