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 Firefox
Chrome is best for Google apps and extensions. Firefox is best for an independent, open-source engine.
Pick Firefox if
You want an open-source browser that is not built on Chrome’s engine.
The catch. A few web apps are tested in Chrome first, and it runs Firefox add-ons rather than Chrome extensions.
Chrome vs Firefox, feature by feature
| Chrome | Firefox | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Chromium | Gecko |
| Vertical tabs | Yes, since 2026 | Yes, in settings |
| Sites on screen at once | Two, in Split View | Two, in Split View |
| Separate workspaces | Profiles and tab groups | Profiles and tab groups |
| Ad and tracker blocking | Only intrusive ads; an extension does the rest | Trackers, not ads |
| Extensions | Chrome Web Store | Firefox add-ons |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android | macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android |
| Open source | No (Chromium is) | Yes |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Development | Active | Active |
Questions
Is Chrome better than Firefox?
Neither wins everywhere. Chrome is best for Google apps and extensions; Firefox is best for an independent, open-source engine. Pick Chrome if you live in Gmail and Docs, rely on a Chrome-only extension, or want one browser on every device. Pick Firefox if you want an open-source browser that is not built on Chrome’s engine.
Do Chrome and Firefox block ads?
Chrome: Only intrusive ads; an extension does the rest. Firefox: Trackers, not ads.
Which extensions do Chrome and Firefox run?
Chrome: Chrome Web Store. Firefox: Firefox add-ons.
Where do Chrome and Firefox run?
Both run on macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android.
Are Chrome and Firefox free?
Both are free.