Pick Chrome if
You live in Gmail and Docs, rely on a Chrome-only extension, or want one browser on every device.
The catch. It is heavier on memory and battery than Safari, and it blocks only intrusive ads.
Chrome vs Arc
Chrome is best for Google apps and extensions. Arc is best for people who already love it.
Pick Arc if
You already use it and it still does everything you need.
The catch. It gets no new features: its makers moved to Dia in May 2025.
Chrome vs Arc, feature by feature
| Chrome | Arc | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Chromium | Chromium |
| Vertical tabs | Yes, since 2026 | On by default |
| Sites on screen at once | Two, in Split View | Up to four, in Split View |
| Separate workspaces | Profiles and tab groups | Spaces and Profiles |
| Ad and tracker blocking | Only intrusive ads; an extension does the rest | Through an extension |
| Extensions | Chrome Web Store | Chrome Web Store |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android | macOS, Windows, iPhone |
| Open source | No (Chromium is) | No |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Development | Active | Maintenance only since May 2025 |
Questions
Is Chrome better than Arc?
Neither wins everywhere. Chrome is best for Google apps and extensions; Arc is best for people who already love it. Pick Chrome if you live in Gmail and Docs, rely on a Chrome-only extension, or want one browser on every device. Pick Arc if you already use it and it still does everything you need.
Do Chrome and Arc block ads?
Chrome: Only intrusive ads; an extension does the rest. Arc: Through an extension.
Which extensions do Chrome and Arc run?
Both install extensions from the Chrome Web Store.
Where do Chrome and Arc run?
Chrome: macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android. Arc: macOS, Windows, iPhone.
Are Chrome and Arc free?
Both are free.