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ChromiumLinux vs Microsoft Edge LegacyWindows

Chromium as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Edge Legacy

Updated

Our verdict

Chromium is a solid replacement for Microsoft Edge Legacy, especially for users who value performance, modern web standards, and extension support. It handles HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript well, with strong security and frequent updates. Since it shares the same core as the current Chromium-based Edge, most websites and workflows behave identically. It’s ideal for Linux users wanting a no-frills, open-source browser without telemetry. However, it lacks built-in sync with Microsoft accounts and Edge-specific services like Collections or vertical tabs.

Feature parity90%
License
BSD-3-Clause and LGPL-2.1+ and…
Price
Free
Latest version
156.0.8078.47 (October 20, 2026)
Rating
—
Chromium screenshot

What works the same

  • Uses the same Chromium engine, so rendering and JavaScript performance are nearly identical
  • Supports modern HTML5, CSS3, and fast JavaScript execution
  • Full access to Chrome Web Store extensions
  • Includes private browsing (Incognito mode) and tab management features
  • Receives regular security updates and stable releases

What is different

  • No built-in sync with Microsoft accounts or OneDrive integration
  • Lacks Edge-specific features like Collections, vertical tabs, or sidebar tools
  • Does not include Microsoft's proprietary tracking protection or password monitor
  • No default integration with Windows cloud services or Office 365 optimizations
  • Sync requires a Google account or manual setup via third-party tools

Opening your Microsoft Edge Legacy files

Chromium can open bookmarks and browsing history exported from Microsoft Edge Legacy as HTML or JSON files. Passwords and settings aren't directly transferable, but most data can be imported via standard browser export tools. If Edge Legacy was used to save passwords or bookmarks in Microsoft formats, they must first be exported to a neutral format like HTML (for bookmarks) before importing into Chromium. Session recovery or custom Edge profiles won't carry over.

Switching from Microsoft Edge Legacy to Chromium, step by step

  1. Export bookmarks from Microsoft Edge Legacy as an HTML file
  2. Install Chromium via your distro’s package manager or Flathub
  3. Import the bookmarks HTML file into Chromium under Bookmarks Manager
  4. Reinstall needed extensions from the Chrome Web Store
  5. Set up sync with a Google account if desired, or use local profiles

Key features of Chromium

  • Open-source core of Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge
  • Fast rendering engine with strong JavaScript performance
  • Full support for Chrome Web Store extensions
  • Regular security updates and stable release cycles
  • Available via Flathub, Snap, and native distro packages
  • No proprietary telemetry or forced Google account sign-in

How to install Chromium on Linux

Flatpak (Flathub)flatpak install flathub org.chromium.Chromium
Ubuntu / Mintsudo apt install chromium-browser
Debiansudo apt install chromium
Fedorasudo dnf install chromium
Arch / Manjarosudo pacman -S chromium
openSUSEsudo zypper install chromium

Frequently asked questions

Can I sync my Edge Legacy data directly to Chromium?

No, direct sync isn't possible. You must manually export bookmarks and passwords from Edge Legacy and import them into Chromium.

Does Chromium support Chrome extensions?

Yes, Chromium fully supports extensions from the Chrome Web Store.

Is Chromium less secure than Microsoft Edge Legacy?

No, Chromium receives regular security updates and is as secure as Edge Legacy for most use cases, though it lacks Microsoft-specific protections.

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