ChromiumLinux
vs
OperaWindows
Chromium as a Linux alternative to Opera
Updated
Our verdict
Chromium is a good replacement for Opera if you value speed, open-source transparency, and extension support over built-in extras. It handles modern web content efficiently and runs Chrome extensions without issue. However, you’ll need to add extensions for ad blocking and use third-party tools for a VPN, as Chromium lacks those features out of the box. The UI is less customizable than Opera’s by default, but themes and flags can help. Best for users who prefer minimalism and control, and don’t mind configuring privacy tools manually.
- License
- BSD-3-Clause and LGPL-2.1+ and…
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 156.0.8078.79 (October 29, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both use the Chromium engine, ensuring near-identical rendering and JavaScript performance
- Full support for Chrome Web Store extensions
- Fast page loading and responsive multi-process architecture
- Regular security updates and stable release cycles
- Available across Linux distributions via multiple package formats
What is different
- Chromium lacks Opera’s built-in ad blocker and free VPN; these must be added separately
- Opera offers more UI customization out of the box, including layouts and sidebar modules
- Chromium does not include Opera’s integrated messaging panels or battery saver mode
- No built-in torrent or video pop-out features in Chromium
- Chromium does not bundle telemetry but also provides fewer user-facing tools
Opening your Opera files
Chromium can import bookmarks, history, passwords, and settings from Opera since both support standard browser data formats. You can export bookmarks as HTML from Opera and import them into Chromium. Passwords and cookies may require manual transfer via browser profiles or sync tools. Session and tab group data do not transfer directly. Extensions and custom settings must be reinstalled and reconfigured.
Switching from Opera to Chromium, step by step
- Export bookmarks from Opera as an HTML file
- Install Chromium via your distro’s package manager or Flathub
- Import the bookmarks HTML file into Chromium
- Install ad blocker and privacy extensions from the Chrome Web Store
- Set up a third-party DNS-based ad blocker or firewall for network-level filtering
- Optionally switch to ungoogled-chromium for reduced Google service reliance
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 install flathub org.chromium.Chromiumsudo apt install chromium-browsersudo apt install chromiumsudo dnf install chromiumsudo pacman -S chromiumsudo zypper install chromiumFrequently asked questions
Can I use Chrome extensions in Chromium?
Yes, Chromium fully supports extensions from the Chrome Web Store.
Does Chromium have a built-in ad blocker like Opera?
No, but you can install strong ad blockers like uBlock Origin from the Chrome Web Store.
Is there a privacy-focused version of Chromium?
Yes, ungoogled-chromium removes Google dependencies and tracking, offering a more private browsing experience.
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