All I can say about Microsoft Edge is that it has hit differently for me since 2020. And the reason I write about this is just based on my own opinion of how I have been using it personally. You don't need to try out the Edge browser, but you can give it a try for yourself; on your desktop, laptop, tablet or phone. Especially PC.
Microsoft Edge is the alternative browser for Windows after Internet Explorer. (RIP Internet Explorer). Back then, we all discovered other browsers like Google Chrome. Mozilla Firefox and Safari (for Mac users) and there is no doubt Google Chrome keeps topping up the list...until that changed.
In recent years, Chrome has dominated the web browser market, but that does not mean it is the best option out there. As a user who was loyal to Chrome for years, I recently made the switch to Microsoft Edge. In this article, I will discuss the reasons behind my decision and why you might want to consider switching too.
 |
| Logo evolution of Microsoft Edge. Source: 1000 Logos |
The Design Language
One of the most noticeable features of Microsoft Edge is its user interface. Previously, the old Edge browser's user interface was a bit plain, blending with the Metro UI of Windows 10. Now the browser has a clean and modern design that is easy on the eyes. Tabs are located at the top of the window, and a search bar is conveniently located at the top of the page. Additionally, Edge supports dark mode, which can be easier on the eyes and more energy-efficient.
 |
| Left: The current version of Edge. Right: the older version of Edge. |
The Performance + Compatibility
Microsoft Edge is built on the same engine as Google Chrome called Chromium open source, which means it has a fast browsing experience. The browser is designed to use less memory than Chrome, which can make a difference if you have multiple tabs open. Microsoft has also made improvements to Edge's battery life compared to Chrome, which is particularly useful for laptop users who want to maximize battery life.
Other performance features that Edge offers are:
- Sleeping Tabs for putting tabs to sleep when not in use.
- Startup boost for a quick startup of Microsoft Edge by running in the background and reducing minimal resources.
- Clarity boost for improving video and game graphics to look sharper and clearer.
- PC Gaming Boost for improving PC gaming performance.
- Efficiency mode for extending the PC's battery life.
 |
| Different task balances of Google Chrome, (Old) Microsoft Edge and (New) Microsoft Edge. |
Microsoft Edge is the default web browser on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, which means it is tightly integrated with the operating systems. This integration includes some features like Cortana integration, which allows you to search the web using voice commands. With the new Bing-powered by AI, you can ask questions and get comprehensive results. Additionally, Edge includes support for touch gestures and pen input, which can be useful for touchscreen devices.
If you are a Microsoft user, Edge integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products. This includes features such as syncing your browsing history, passwords, and bookmarks across devices, as well as easy access to Office Online and other Microsoft services. Basically, Microsoft's own browser is optimized for Microsoft's own Operating System and I think it is better as the default browser.
Extensions + Productivity features
Microsoft Edge supports a wide range of extensions, allowing you to customize the browser to your needs. You can add extensions to block ads, improve productivity, or enhance your browsing experience in other ways. The browser also has an extensions store where you can browse and download extensions. For example, I was able to import my extensions from Chrome when I decided to make the switch to Edge and it was easy.
Edge comes with several built-in features that can help improve productivity. For example, you can take web page screenshots, make web notes, and even annotate PDFs without the need for third-party tools. Edge also has a built-in reading mode that strips out ads and distractions, making it easier to focus on the content.
Privacy and Security
When it comes to privacy and security, these two are the most important considerations when choosing a web browser. Microsoft Edge offers several features to protect your online privacy. One of these features is the Tracking Prevention setting, which blocks third-party trackers from tracking your online activity. The browser also includes an InPrivate browsing mode that does not save your browsing history, cookies, or temporary files. Another security feature is Password health which checks passwords that you use across multiple websites and sees if the password might be leaked.
 |
| Safety and privacy in Microsoft Edge. Source: Microsoft. |
Conclusion
Microsoft Edge is a fast, secure, and feature-rich web browser that is a good alternative to other popular browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. The browser's clean design, performance, and privacy features make it a compelling choice for users who want a modern and efficient browsing experience. If you're looking for a new web browser, Microsoft Edge is worth considering.
While Chrome is an excellent browser, there are several reasons why you might want to consider switching to Edge. Edge offers better privacy protection, comparable performance, and compatibility with most Chrome extensions and web apps. Additionally, Edge comes with several built-in features that can help improve productivity and integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products. So, if you are looking for an alternative to Chrome, Edge might be worth considering.
Check out Microsoft Edge Features & Tips here