My favorite new browser for Mac and PC

For years, I stuck with Google Chrome because no other browser fully measured up. Some were fast but lacked essential features, while others offered customization but struggled with performance. Every time I tried something new, I ended up back on Chrome — until now. I’ve been testing Vivaldi on and off since its initial release, and I can confidently say it’s finally ready for prime time.

Speed and Performance

One of the biggest reasons I stayed with Chrome was its speed. Many alternative browsers felt sluggish or bogged down my system, but Vivaldi is different. It’s lightweight, efficient, and designed to handle multiple tabs without slowing things down. When I tested it side by side with Chrome, I noticed an immediate difference — pages loaded faster, videos streamed more smoothly, and even with dozens of tabs open, my system remained responsive.

Unlike Chrome, which is notorious for consuming excessive RAM and CPU power, Vivaldi is optimized to use resources more efficiently. My laptop, which used to sound like a jet engine when running Chrome, now runs much cooler and quieter. For someone like me who always has at least 20 tabs open, this was a game-changer. No more lagging, freezing, or slow page loads — just smooth, uninterrupted browsing.

Privacy Without Compromise

Another area where Vivaldi outshines Chrome is privacy. Out of the box, it blocks trackers, intrusive ads, and malware — without requiring additional extensions. This was a refreshing change from Chrome, where I had to rely on multiple third-party add-ons just to achieve a basic level of privacy.

I decided to put Vivaldi’s built-in privacy tools to the test by visiting some ad-heavy websites that usually bombard me with pop-ups and tracking cookies. To my surprise, Vivaldi blocked them all effortlessly. Unlike Chrome, which collects vast amounts of user data to feed Google’s advertising model, Vivaldi has a strict no-tracking policy. It doesn’t collect user data or sell browsing habits to third parties, making it an excellent choice for anyone who values online privacy.

Beyond just ad-blocking, Vivaldi also includes a built-in VPN, providing an extra layer of security without the need for an external service. Whether I’m working on sensitive projects or just want to browse without being tracked, Vivaldi gives me the peace of mind that my data is protected.

Customization and Productivity Features

What truly sets Vivaldi apart from Chrome — and every other browser I’ve tried — is its level of customization. While Chrome offers basic theme options and some extensions to tweak its interface, Vivaldi takes it much further. I can adjust virtually every aspect of the browser, from the way tabs behave to how the interface is laid out.

For someone who thrives on organization, Vivaldi’s tab management system is a dream. I can group tabs, stack them into compact clusters, or even tile them side by side for easier multitasking. This means I no longer have to dig through an endless row of tabs to find what I need. The built-in split-screen mode is another productivity booster — I can work on a document while referencing another page without constantly switching between tabs.

Vivaldi also includes a built-in note-taking feature, a screenshot editor, and the unique “Pause” feature, which allows me to suspend my session without closing tabs or draining system resources. This feature alone has been a lifesaver when I need to step away from work without losing my place.

A Browser That Listens to Its Users

One of the biggest reasons I’ve been drawn to Vivaldi is its approach to development. Unlike other browsers that push updates based on corporate interests, Vivaldi listens to its users. The developers are transparent, engaging directly with the community through forums and blog updates, and implementing features based on real feedback.

This user-focused approach means that Vivaldi isn’t just trying to maximize profits or push ad-driven content — it’s actually designed to be a useful tool. Every feature feels intentional, and nothing is added for the sake of monetization. After years of using Chrome, where decisions often feel disconnected from user needs, it’s refreshing to use a browser that genuinely prioritizes its community.

Final Thoughts: The Browser I’ve Been Waiting For

After years of searching for a true Chrome competitor, I’ve finally found it. Vivaldi isn’t just another browser — it’s a tool that adapts to my workflow, protects my privacy, and enhances my browsing experience without compromise. It’s fast, secure, and endlessly customizable, and it eliminates the frustrations that drove me away from other browsers in the past.

If you’ve tried Vivaldi before and weren’t convinced, now is the time to give it another shot. As of 2025, it’s finally ready for prime time. Whether you’re a power user who needs advanced tools or just someone looking for a browser that respects your privacy, Vivaldi delivers in every way. After testing it extensively, I can confidently say that I’m never going back to Chrome.