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.
Firefox vs Zen
Firefox is best for an independent, open-source engine. Zen is best for an Arc-style sidebar.
Pick Zen if
You miss Arc and want its layout in an open-source browser.
The catch. It runs Firefox add-ons, not Chrome extensions, and a few web apps work best in Chromium.
Firefox vs Zen, feature by feature
| Firefox | Zen | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Gecko | Firefox (Gecko) |
| Vertical tabs | Yes, in settings | On by default |
| Sites on screen at once | Two, in Split View | Up to four, in Split View |
| Separate workspaces | Profiles and tab groups | Workspaces and Container Tabs |
| Ad and tracker blocking | Trackers, not ads | Trackers built in; ads with an add-on |
| Extensions | Firefox add-ons | Firefox add-ons |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android | macOS, Windows, Linux |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Development | Active | Active |
Questions
Is Firefox better than Zen?
Neither wins everywhere. Firefox is best for an independent, open-source engine; Zen is best for an Arc-style sidebar. Pick Firefox if you want an open-source browser that is not built on Chrome’s engine. Pick Zen if you miss Arc and want its layout in an open-source browser.
Do Firefox and Zen block ads?
Firefox: Trackers, not ads. Zen: Trackers built in; ads with an add-on.
Which extensions do Firefox and Zen run?
Both install extensions from the Firefox add-ons.
Where do Firefox and Zen run?
Firefox: macOS, Windows, Linux, iPhone, Android. Zen: macOS, Windows, Linux.
Are Firefox and Zen free?
Both are free.