Which Web Browser is Best for You?

Google’s recently started pushing its Chrome browser on its search page. More than an advertisement, it’s making PC users question whether they need it and what benefits it would offer versus Internet Explorer.

There are four popular browsers that hold the majority of the web browser market: Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome and Opera. Apple’s Safari, the standard browser on Macs, is less common but showing up on more systems due to its bundling with iTunes.

The problem with PCs is that you can switch to another browser, but you will still need Internet Explorer on your system. Some sites will require it and although there are ways to remove it, it’s not easy.

Internet Explorer 8
Good: Faster than 7, more standardized, more secure.
Bad: Slower than others and still a sitting duck for hackers.
This browser is touted as being faster and safer than previous versions. This holds up pretty well, but other than its launch speed, it’s still a mixed bag. Update to 8 if you haven’t for the supposed security benefits.

Firefox 3
Good: Add-ons can be a godsend, themes are useful and its known for its security.
Bad: Can suck up RAM with multiple tabs, slower to launch, add-ons can weigh it down.
My daily browser of choice. Fast enough for daily tasks and more customizable than any other browser. It’s also become quite stable after some earlier glitches.

Google Chrome
Good: Really fast, clean interface and safe.
Bad: Not easy to tweak, pages don’t always render as they should and Google can be creepy.
I think Chrome is a great tool. I just wish that Google’s information usage wasn’t suspect.

Opera 9
Good: Unique features, safe, and well supported.
Bad: Slow on launch and certain functions, page rendering sometimes off.
This is a geek favorite. I use it on my smartphone. Its competition is catching up though, especially Firefox.