EpiphanyLinux
vs
OperaWindows
Epiphany as a Linux alternative to Opera
Updated
Our verdict
Epiphany can replace Opera for users who value speed, tight GNOME integration, and a minimal interface, but it falls short for those who rely on Opera's built‑in VPN, extensive ad‑blocking, and large extension ecosystem. If you mainly browse standard sites, need basic privacy features, and prefer a lightweight browser, Epiphany works well. Power users who depend on the VPN, custom UI tweaks, or a wide range of third‑party add‑ons will likely miss those capabilities and may need to keep Opera or choose a more feature‑rich Linux browser.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- —
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both are web browsers rendering modern HTML5/CSS3/JS
- Support private/incognito browsing
- Offer tabbed navigation
- Provide password storage integration (Opera via its vault, Epiphany via GNOME Keyring)
- Regular security updates from their respective projects
What is different
- Opera includes a built‑in VPN and ad blocker; Epiphany does not
- Opera has a large extension store; Epiphany only supports WebKit extensions and has very few
- Opera allows extensive UI customization; Epiphany follows GNOME's default layout
- Opera offers built‑in sync across devices; Epiphany lacks native sync
- Epiphany is lightweight and GNOME‑centric, while Opera is a full‑featured cross‑platform browser
Opening your Opera files
Opera does not use proprietary file formats beyond standard bookmarks (HTML) and session data. Epiphany can import bookmarks exported from Opera as an HTML file, but there is no direct way to open Opera's session or VPN configuration files. Export your bookmarks from Opera (Settings → Bookmarks → Export) and then import them in Epiphany via the Bookmarks menu.
Switching from Opera to Epiphany, step by step
- Export bookmarks from Opera as an HTML file.
- Install Epiphany from your distribution's repository (e.g., sudo apt install epiphany-browser).
- Import the exported bookmarks in Epiphany (Bookmarks → Import).
- Set Epiphany as the default browser (System Settings → Default Applications).
- If you need a VPN, install a separate Linux VPN client or use a browser extension.
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 Opera extensions in Epiphany?
No. Epiphany only supports WebKit extensions, which are not compatible with Opera's Chrome‑based extension format.
Does Epiphany have a built‑in ad blocker?
It does not. You can add a content‑blocking extension like uBlock Origin if you need one.
Will my saved passwords move automatically?
Passwords stored in Opera's vault are not transferred. Export them manually or re‑enter them; Epiphany will save new passwords in GNOME Keyring.
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