Windows · Internet
Best Linux alternatives to Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a Chromium-based web browser from Microsoft, now the default on Windows 11, offering standard browsing and developer tools.
Updated
Quick answer
The best Linux alternative to Microsoft Edge is Chromium. Other strong options: Firefox, Brave, Vivaldi.
5 Linux alternatives to Microsoft Edge
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Chromium is the open-source browser project behind Chrome and Edge, offering a fast, modern web experience on Linux.
Chromium is a solid replacement for Microsoft Edge on Linux. It shares the same rendering engine, so web pages load the same. It supports tab management, session restore, DevTools, extensions from the Chrome Web Store, and hardware‑accelerated rendering. The main gaps are the lack of a built‑in…
Feature parity85% -
Firefox is a fast, private web browser developed by Mozilla.
Firefox is a strong replacement for Microsoft Edge if you prioritize privacy and independence over deep Windows integration. It handles standard browsing, tab management, and extension support well. The main trade-off is that Firefox uses its own Gecko engine, not Chromium, so some Edge-specific…
Feature parity85% -
Brave is a fast, privacy‑focused web browser that blocks ads and trackers by default and offers an optional rewards system.
Brave is a solid replacement for Microsoft Edge for most Linux users who want a Chromium-based browser with stronger privacy by default. It handles modern websites well, blocks ads and trackers out of the box, and supports Chrome extensions. Power users and developers will find DevTools and sync…
Feature parity88% -
Vivaldi is a highly customizable, feature-rich web browser built for power users who want deep control over their browsing experience.
Vivaldi can replace Microsoft Edge for users who want a Chromium‑based browser with deep customization and advanced tab handling. It covers all the core functions Edge offers—fast rendering, DevTools, extension support, password management, ad blocking, and cross‑device sync—while adding features…
Feature parity85% -
LibreWolf is a privacy-focused, independent fork of Firefox designed to eliminate telemetry and enhance security by default.
LibreWolf is a good replacement for Microsoft Edge if your priority is privacy and you don’t rely on Microsoft account sync. It handles tab management, session restore, and ad blocking well, with strong default security. However, it’s based on Firefox, not Chromium, so some web compatibility edge…
Feature parity75%
What is Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge serves as the primary web browser for millions of Windows users, handling everything from email and streaming to complex web applications. It is a general-purpose tool for browsing the internet, managing tabs, and using built-in features like password managers and tracking prevention. Professionals and casual users alike rely on it for daily online tasks.
The browser is proprietary and free to download and use. Microsoft monetizes it indirectly through data collection, advertising integrations, and by driving users toward other Microsoft services. There are no paid tiers for the browser itself, though some enterprise features may be tied to Microsoft 365 or Azure subscriptions.
People seek Linux alternatives because Edge is tightly integrated with Windows and does not run natively on Linux. While it works via Wine or Proton, performance and compatibility can be inconsistent. Users switching to Linux often prefer open-source or privacy-focused browsers that integrate better with the Linux desktop environment and offer more control over data.
What a replacement for Microsoft Edge must do
- Chromium-based rendering for compatibility
- Tab management and session restore
- Built-in password manager
- Ad and tracker blocking
- Developer tools (DevTools)
- Sync across devices
- Extension support
Can you run Microsoft Edge on Linux?
There is no official native Linux version of Microsoft Edge. It can run on Linux using Wine, Proton, or Bottles, but this requires manual setup and may encounter issues with updates or specific features. It is not as stable or integrated as a native Linux application, so most users prefer native alternatives.
Which alternative should you choose?
Chromium is the closest match if you want the exact same engine and interface as Edge without Microsoft's branding. Firefox is the best choice for users who prioritize privacy and want a non-Chromium engine. Brave is ideal for those who want built-in ad blocking and speed. Vivaldi suits power users who need deep customization. LibreWolf is for privacy-focused users who want a hardened Firefox build. Tor Browser Launcher is for anonymity, not general browsing.
Moving your Microsoft Edge files and habits
You can export bookmarks, history, and passwords from Edge to a CSV file, which most Linux browsers can import. Extensions may not transfer directly if they are Microsoft-specific, but most popular extensions are available on the Firefox or Chrome Web Store. Saved sessions and autofill data will need to be re-entered or synced via a password manager.
Side-by-side comparison
Microsoft Edge: frequently asked questions
Does Edge run on Linux?
No, there is no native Linux version. It can run via Wine or Proton, but it is not officially supported and may have compatibility issues.
Is Edge based on Chromium?
Yes, Microsoft Edge has been based on the open-source Chromium project since 2019.
Can I sync my Edge profile to a Linux browser?
Not directly. You can export bookmarks and passwords to CSV and import them, but full profile sync is not supported across different browser engines.
Which Linux browser is closest to Edge?
Chromium is the closest in terms of engine and functionality. Brave and Vivaldi are also Chromium-based but add different features.
How important is Microsoft Edge to you?
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