Epiphany as a Linux alternative to Google Chrome

Updated October 18, 2026

Our verdict

Epiphany is a solid, lightweight alternative if you prioritize privacy and simplicity over feature density. It handles everyday browsing, news reading, and basic web apps well, thanks to its WebKit engine. However, it is not a direct drop-in replacement for power users who rely heavily on Chrome extensions, complex tab management, or specific enterprise features. If you use Chrome mostly for email, social media, and general browsing, Epiphany works fine. If you depend on a large extension ecosystem or advanced developer tools, you will find it lacking. It is best for users who want a clean, distraction-free browser that integrates tightly with the GNOME desktop environment.

Feature parity65%

License: GPL-3.0
Price: Free
Latest version: —
Rating: —

Install Epiphany

What works the same

Both are modern web browsers supporting HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript
Both offer private/incognito browsing modes
Both manage passwords and saved logins
Both support tabbed browsing

What is different

Epiphany uses the WebKit engine, while Chrome uses Blink (Chromium)
Epiphany has a much smaller extension ecosystem compared to Chrome's vast Web Store
Chrome offers more advanced developer tools and debugging features
Epiphany is lighter on system resources but lacks some advanced customization options

Opening your Google Chrome files

Epiphany cannot directly open Chrome's profile folder or binary files. You must manually export bookmarks and passwords from Chrome (usually as HTML or CSV) and import them into Epiphany. Cookies and site data are not directly transferable between the two due to different storage formats and engines.

Switching from Google Chrome to Epiphany, step by step

Export bookmarks from Chrome as an HTML file via the menu
Export passwords from Chrome as a CSV file if needed
Install Epiphany (GNOME Web) via your package manager
Launch Epiphany and use the import wizard to select the HTML bookmark file
Manually re-enter any critical passwords or sync settings if automatic import fails

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. It has its own limited add-on system, but the selection is very small compared to Chrome.

Is Epiphany faster than Chrome?

Epiphany is generally lighter on RAM and CPU usage, which can make it feel snappier on older hardware. However, Chrome may load complex, JavaScript-heavy sites slightly faster due to its more aggressive optimization.

Does Epiphany sync data across devices?

Epiphany integrates with GNOME Online Accounts for some services, but it does not have a built-in, comprehensive sync feature for bookmarks and passwords across different browsers like Chrome Sync does.