BraveLinux
vs
Google ChromeWindows
Brave as a Linux alternative to Google Chrome
Updated
Our verdict
Brave is a strong replacement for Google Chrome if you value privacy and speed over ecosystem integration. Since it is Chromium-based, it handles the same core browsing tasks, extensions, and rendering. You lose direct Google account sync and some Google-specific features, but gain built-in ad-blocking and tracker protection. It suits users who want a familiar interface without the data collection or bloat of standard Chrome, provided they are comfortable managing their own sync or using third-party services.
- License
- MPL-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.97.59 (October 16, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Uses the Chromium rendering engine
- Supports the same Chrome Web Store extensions
- Familiar tabbed interface and settings layout
- Cross-platform availability including Linux
What is different
- Built-in ad and tracker blocking by default
- No direct Google account sync; uses Brave Sync instead
- Includes an optional BAT rewards system
- HTTPS Everywhere is enabled by default
Opening your Google Chrome files
Brave can open standard web pages, PDFs, and HTML files directly. It supports importing bookmarks, history, and passwords from Google Chrome via the built-in import wizard. Saved sessions and cookies are not directly transferable, but you can export cookies from Chrome and import them manually if needed. Browser profiles and extension data generally transfer well due to shared architecture.
Switching from Google Chrome to Brave, step by step
- Install Brave via your package manager or Flathub
- Launch Brave and select 'Import from Chrome' during setup
- Choose which data types (bookmarks, history, passwords) to import
- Install necessary extensions from the Chrome Web Store
- Set up Brave Sync if you need cross-device synchronization
Key features of Brave
- Built‑in ad‑blocker and tracker protection
- Chromium‑based engine with fast rendering
- HTTPS Everywhere integration
- Token‑based rewards system
- Support for Chromium extensions
- Regular security updates
- Cross‑platform sync via Brave Sync
How to install Brave on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.brave.BrowserFrequently asked questions
Will my Chrome extensions work in Brave?
Yes, most Chrome extensions work in Brave because it is Chromium-based. You can install them directly from the Chrome Web Store.
Can I sync my bookmarks with Google?
Not directly. Brave uses its own Brave Sync system. You would need to manually export and import bookmarks to maintain a Google sync connection.
Is Brave free to use?
Yes, Brave is free and open-source under the MPL-2.0 license. The rewards system is optional and does not cost anything to use.
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