Microsoft Edge is built on the same open-source Chromium engine that powers Google Chrome. But don’t let that fool you into thinking Edge is just another Chrome clone.
While sharing the same foundation ensures compatibility across most websites, Microsoft has infused Edge with unique features that set it apart from its competitor.
Tracking Protection: Your Privacy, Enhanced
In an age where personalized ads seem to follow us everywhere, Edge offers a breath of fresh air with its Tracking Protection feature. Unlike Chrome, which relies heavily on personalized advertising, Edge’s Tracking Protection is designed to keep your browsing private.
Turned on by default, this feature blocks trackers that monitor your online activity. For those who value their privacy, switching the setting from Balanced to Strict mode can significantly reduce unwanted ads without needing any third-party extensions. It’s Microsoft’s way of saying, “We’ve got your back.”
Vertical Tabs: Tame the Tab Chaos
Ever feel overwhelmed by the endless rows of tabs in your browser? Edge introduces Vertical Tabs to help you manage your browsing chaos. Instead of the traditional horizontal layout, Vertical Tabs place your open tabs in a resizable pane on the left side of the window.
This makes it much easier to navigate through dozens of open tabs, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects or research topics. Simply click the Tab Actions menu and toggle on Vertical Tabs to experience a more organized and efficient browsing session.
Immersive Reader: Simplify Your Reading
Nothing's more frustrating than trying to read a cluttered web page filled with ads and distracting elements. Enter Edge’s Immersive Reader, a feature that transforms messy pages into clean, readable formats.
With just a click, Immersive Reader strips away the clutter, adjusts text size, and offers customisable background colors for a comfortable reading experience.
Whether you’re skimming through an article or trying to bypass a pesky paywall, Immersive Reader makes your online reading smooth and enjoyable.
More Than Just a Browser Clone
While Edge leverages Chromium for seamless website compatibility, Microsoft has packed it with features that enhance usability and privacy.
From built-in ad blocking and vertical tabs to immersive reading modes, Edge provides tools that make browsing not only easier but also more secure.
These features demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to offering a browser that caters to modern users’ needs without compromising on performance or privacy.
