EpiphanyLinux
vs
Mozilla FirefoxWindows
Epiphany as a Linux alternative to Mozilla Firefox
Updated
Our verdict
Epiphany can serve as a lightweight replacement for users who only need basic browsing and prefer tight GNOME integration. It handles HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and offers private mode, reader view, and password sync via GNOME Keyring. However, it lacks the extensive extension ecosystem, advanced sync across devices, and the performance tuning that Firefox provides. It is best suited for casual users on GNOME desktops who value simplicity over feature breadth.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- —
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both render modern web standards (HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript)
- Both support private browsing
- Both can import bookmarks and passwords
- Both have built‑in reader mode
- Both are free and open‑source
What is different
- Epiphany uses WebKit; Firefox uses Gecko, affecting rendering of some sites
- Epiphany has no extension/add‑on support, Firefox has a vast ecosystem
- Epiphany lacks cross‑device sync of tabs, history, and settings
- Epiphany’s performance is generally lighter but may be slower on complex pages
- Epiphany’s UI is minimalistic, Firefox offers more customization options
Opening your Mozilla Firefox files
Epiphany can import bookmarks and passwords from Firefox by accessing the profile folder, but it does not natively open Firefox’s profile files. Users must export bookmarks to HTML or use the import dialog. Passwords are stored in GNOME Keyring, so they are not directly transferable without re‑entering them.
Switching from Mozilla Firefox to Epiphany, step by step
- Open Firefox and export bookmarks to an HTML file via Bookmarks Manager.
- Export saved passwords to a CSV file using Firefox’s password manager (if needed).
- Launch Epiphany, go to Bookmarks > Import Bookmarks from HTML and select the exported file.
- In Epiphany, open Settings > Passwords and import the CSV or manually add passwords to GNOME Keyring.
- Restart Epiphany to apply changes.
- Verify that bookmarks and passwords appear correctly.
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
Does Epiphany support Firefox extensions?
No, Epiphany does not support Firefox extensions. It has no add‑on framework.
Will my Firefox sync data (tabs, history) appear in Epiphany?
No. Epiphany does not sync across devices; it only stores data locally.
Is Epiphany faster than Firefox on a low‑end machine?
Epiphany is lighter and may start faster, but performance on complex sites can lag behind Firefox’s optimized engine.
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