EpiphanyLinux
vs
Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode)Windows
Epiphany as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode)
Updated
Our verdict
Epiphany is not a good replacement for Microsoft Edge with Legacy Collections and IE mode, especially for enterprise or internal site access. It lacks IE compatibility, enterprise management tools, and collection syncing. It’s suited only for basic browsing in GNOME environments where legacy site support isn’t needed. Users relying on IE mode for old corporate sites will find Epiphany non-functional. However, for general web use with a clean, lightweight interface and GNOME integration, it’s acceptable if legacy features aren’t required.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- —
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both are web browsers accessing HTML5/CSS3/JavaScript sites
- Support tabbed browsing
- Include private browsing mode
- Handle modern web standards
- Integrate with their respective desktop environments
What is different
- Epiphany lacks IE mode or any backward compatibility for legacy internal sites
- No support for Collections or content grouping like Edge
- No sync or cloud integration across devices
- Does not support enterprise policies or management features
- Missing password sync and advanced dev tools
Opening your Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode) files
Epiphany does not support importing Microsoft Edge Legacy Collections or IE mode settings directly. Bookmark import may be possible via HTML export from Edge and import into Epiphany, but Collections, grouped tabs, and IE-specific configurations are lost. Passwords stored in Edge do not transfer automatically. GNOME Keyring handles passwords locally, but no migration tool exists. File compatibility is limited to standard bookmarks; proprietary Edge data cannot be opened.
Switching from Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode) to Epiphany, step by step
- Export bookmarks from Microsoft Edge as HTML
- Import the HTML file into Epiphany via the bookmark manager
- Manually re-create any saved collections as folders or notes
- Set up GNOME Keyring for password storage if not already active
- Use a separate browser like Firefox ESR or Wine-based IE if IE mode sites are required
- Enable reader mode in Epiphany for article simplification
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 Epiphany run old internal websites that require IE mode?
No. Epiphany does not include an IE compatibility layer or legacy rendering engine. Sites requiring ActiveX, old JavaScript, or IE-specific behavior will not work.
Does Epiphany support Microsoft Edge Collections?
No. Collections cannot be imported or synchronized. You can save links manually in bookmarks or external tools.
Is Epiphany suitable for enterprise use?
No. It lacks centralized management, domain integration, and legacy support needed in corporate environments.
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