With the wide array of devices, operating systems, and hardware configurations everyone is using these days, it’s hard to pick a specific browser to label as “the best”. The truth is, different browsers are going to work better for some than others, it all comes down to your current setup and personal preferences. Here is a quick overview of the 3 most popular browsers:
Google Chrome
Besides it speed and overall impressive performance, chrome has many features that help it to stand out from the pack. Chrome has a very unique look and feel, from its minimalist look to its layered tabs, there’s little room for confusion when it comes to the user interface. Chrome also allows users to search via the address bar instead of in a specified search box or from a search engine page. Google’s browser also comes with PDF support built in, meaning you are able to view documents in the browser window instead of having to take the time to open the document through another program. Chrome is a simple, clean looking browser with wonderful performance and you can be sure that Google is working hard to keep up to date with the newest technologies.
Mozilla Firefox
In recent updates, Firefox has continued to migrate towards the minimal user interface look the Google Chrome has started. One small feature that may or may not be a big deal to some people is Firefox’s download notification area. When downloading files in Firefox, an always present “Arrow” icon will pulse until turning green to indicate a download has finished. There are no annoying pop-ups or messages during the download process. Past and present downloads are always available to view in the easily accessible downloads area shown by clicking the “Arrow” download icon. Another great improvement for Firefox is their recent addition of PDF viewing support, similar to the features the Chrome includes. Firefox’s standout feature is its support of a wide array of “Add-ons” (or “Extensions”). These “Add-ons” allow the user to heavily customize the look and feel of their browser interface. While other browsers have similar support, Firefox has the most extensive variety.
Internet Explorer
Windows has made huge improvements to its IE browser in both performance and look. Internet Explorer has also adopted the minimal user interface design approach similar to its competitors. One of IE’s main features that sets it apart from other browsers is the ability to “pin” a site. For users using Windows 7 or 8, Internet Explorer allows you to pin specific sites to your Windows task bar similar to the way you pin frequently accessed programs. Internet Explorer also supports the “all-in-one” search box similar to Google Chrome. What makes IE’s search box unique however, is the fact that once it has returned your search results, your search terms remain in the address box, instead of showing a Google URL like Chrome does. IE also has a large variety of “Add-ons” available in order to customize your browser experience.
It’s all up to you!
In the end, it all comes down to what works for you. All three of these browsers have similar performance and speed, while still having some subtle differences that you may or may not notice depending on your device. It never hurts to have multiple browsers installed for different purposes so don’t be afraid to try them all!
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