Linux · Programming
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a Chromium-based web browser for Linux, offering standard web browsing with Microsoft account integration.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary
- Latest version
- 156.0.4314.58-1 (October 30, 2026)
- Developer
- Microsoft Corporation
- Installs
- 31,380 (Flathub, 30 days)
What is Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge is a web browser built on the Chromium engine, available on Linux via Flathub and major distributions. It shares the same codebase as Chrome, meaning it supports standard web technologies and extensions. The Linux version is a full-featured client, not a stripped-down port, and receives regular updates alongside other platforms.
This tool is intended for general web browsing, not programming. It is suitable for users who need a familiar browser interface, rely on Microsoft services like Bing or OneDrive, or want to sync tabs and passwords across Windows and Linux devices. It serves as a drop-in replacement for Chrome or Firefox if you prefer the Microsoft ecosystem.
Compared to Vim, which is a terminal-based text editor, Edge is a completely different category of software. There is no direct workflow overlap; Edge handles HTTP traffic and rendering, while Vim handles text files. If you are looking for a coding environment, Edge is the wrong tool. For web browsing, it feels very similar to Chrome, with a slightly different UI and integrated search.
Best for: Windows users moving to Linux who want a familiar browser with Microsoft account sync and do not mind proprietary software.
Key features of Microsoft Edge
- Chromium-based rendering engine
- Built-in AdBlock Plus
- Tracking prevention settings
- InPrivate browsing mode
- Sync with Microsoft account
- Extension support via Chrome Web Store
- Vertical tabs layout
- Collaborative editing with Microsoft 365
Pros
- Familiar interface for Windows users
- Good performance due to Chromium base
- Cross-platform sync with Windows devices
- Available on all major Linux distributions
Cons
- Proprietary and closed-source
- Collects telemetry data by default
- Not a programming tool despite category error
- Heavier resource usage than minimal browsers
How to install Microsoft Edge on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.microsoft.Edgesudo apt install microsudo apt install microsudo dnf install microsudo pacman -S microsudo zypper install micro-editorTips for Windows users
If you were using Vim for editing code, do not switch to Edge; use a text editor like VS Code or Neovim instead. If you are switching from Windows Edge to Linux Edge, your bookmarks and passwords can be imported if you sign in with the same Microsoft account. Note that some Windows-specific extensions may not work on Linux. Keyboard shortcuts are largely identical to Chrome, such as Ctrl+T for a new tab and Ctrl+W to close.
Recent releases
- 156.0.4314.58-1 —
- 156.0.4314.56-1 —
- 156.0.4314.50-1 —
- 156.0.4314.42-1 —
Microsoft Edge: frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Edge open source on Linux?
No, Microsoft Edge is proprietary software. While it uses the open-source Chromium engine, the Edge-specific features and branding are closed-source.
Can I use Chrome extensions in Edge on Linux?
Yes, Edge is Chromium-based and supports extensions from the Chrome Web Store, though some may have compatibility issues.
How do I install Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu?
You can install it via the official .deb package from Microsoft's website or through Flathub using flatpak install flathub com.microsoft.Edge.
Is Edge better than Firefox for privacy?
Edge offers tracking prevention and built-in ad blocking, but Firefox is generally considered more private by default due to its open-source nature and stricter data policies.
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