EpiphanyLinux
vs
ChromeWindows
Epiphany as a Linux alternative to Chrome
Updated
Our verdict
Epiphany is a decent replacement for Chrome only if you prioritize simplicity, privacy, and GNOME integration over features and compatibility. It handles basic browsing well and stays out of your way, but lacks Chrome extensions, syncing, and consistent performance on complex sites. If you rely on Google services, web apps, or need multiple profiles, Epiphany will frustrate you. It’s best suited for lightweight, privacy-focused browsing on GNOME systems where minimalism matters more than functionality.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- —
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both render modern web content using WebKit (Epiphany) vs. Blink (Chrome), supporting HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript
- Support for private browsing and basic tab management
- Integrated password saving via GNOME Keyring (similar to Chrome's OS-level integration)
- Native Linux apps with clean, minimalist interfaces
- Support for dark mode and system theme consistency in GNOME
What is different
- No Chrome extension ecosystem or add-ons
- No syncing of bookmarks, history, or passwords across devices
- No built-in PDF viewer or media plugins
- Limited developer tools compared to Chrome's DevTools
- No support for multiple user profiles or Google account integration
Opening your Chrome files
Epiphany does not directly open Chrome bookmarks or settings files. However, you can export bookmarks from Chrome as an HTML file and import it into Epiphany via its bookmark manager. Cookies, history, and passwords aren't transferable due to different backends. GNOME Keyring can store passwords manually entered in Epiphany, but won't pull them from Chrome's database.
Switching from Chrome to Epiphany, step by step
- Export Chrome bookmarks as HTML from chrome://bookmarks
- In Epiphany, open the menu and import the HTML file
- Manually re-enter important passwords into Epiphany to save in GNOME Keyring
- Enable reader mode and private browsing as needed
- Install GNOME Web updates through your package manager regularly
- Test frequently visited sites for compatibility
Key features of Epiphany
- WebKit rendering engine
- GNOME integration (menus, dark mode)
- Simple tab management
- Built‑in reader mode
- Support for HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript
- Private browsing window
- Password manager integration with GNOME Keyring
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Chrome extensions in Epiphany?
No, Epiphany does not support Chrome extensions or any third-party add-ons. It focuses on a minimal, secure browsing experience without extension APIs.
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